AUTHOR: Tom Bell

Tom is the former host/producer of the Disneyland Edition podcast and is currently the co-host of the Connecting With Walt podcast, plus is also providing Disneyland content from the parks. He enjoys traveling with friends and spending time with family, including his son and grandson. In his spare time he volunteers with Scouts BSA and Cub Scouts, and helped found his son's former Cub Scout Pack. His favorite Disneyland attraction is Space Mountain.

SeaWorld San Diego to get new coaster

By Tom Bell | Published January 4, 2017

SeaWorld San Diego has begun its move away from Shamu and toward more thrills with the announcement of a new roller coaster coming in 2018. The Electric Eel includes loops, twists and a 150-foot ascent before sending guests into an inverted roll that will give them an upside-down view of Mission Bay.  The coaster will … SeaWorld San Diego to get new coaster

Disney animator Tyrus Wong passes away

By Tom Bell | Published December 31, 2016

Tyrus Wong, a Disney Legend whose artistic style heavily influenced the classic Disney animated feature “Bambi,” has passed away at age 106. As a child, Wong immigrated to America with his father, leaving behind his mother and sister.  Wong’s talent and interest in art emerged at an early age and his father encouraged it by … Disney animator Tyrus Wong passes away

Fan organizes lightsaber tribute to Carrie Fisher in Downtown Disney

By Tom Bell | Published December 29, 2016

Nearly 100 fans gathered in Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort on Wednesday night for a lightsaber tribute to Star Wars icon Carrie Fisher. After a similar event fell through Tuesday night, Anaheim resident Jeff Rowan took to social media and organized the event himself. Fans gathered near Tortilla Jo’s restaurant, then at 7pm all … Fan organizes lightsaber tribute to Carrie Fisher in Downtown Disney

Big Thunder Trail reopens giving Disneyland guests a look at Star Wars construction

By Tom Bell | Published December 28, 2016

During one of the busiest times of the year, Disneyland Park has reopened, at least temporarily, the Big Thunder Trail. These pictures from @ParksAndCons Twitter feed show that guests are getting a sneak peak at the construction happening inside the new Star Wars themed land as they walk the Trail. The Big Thunder Trail ran … Big Thunder Trail reopens giving Disneyland guests a look at Star Wars construction

2017 Rose Bowl teams to visit California Adventure

By Tom Bell | Published December 27, 2016

Coaches and players from the Penn State Nittany Lions and the University of Southern California Trojans will visit the Disneyland Resort today as part of the lead-up to their appearance in next week’s Rose Bowl Game. In their only joint appearance during bowl week, the teams will be welcomed to Cars Land in Disney California … 2017 Rose Bowl teams to visit California Adventure

Remember…Dreams Come True Fireworks Returning to Disneyland!

By Tom Bell | Published December 22, 2016

‘Remember…Dreams Come True’, the fireworks show created for Disneyland’s 50th birthday, will soon return to the Park. After the holidays, Fantasy in the Sky fireworks will be presented on the weekends, then on February 3, 2017, ‘Remember…Dreams Come True‘ will return to Disneyland. “‘Remember … Dreams Come True‘ features Tinker Bell’s flight, brilliant fireworks, soaring … Remember…Dreams Come True Fireworks Returning to Disneyland!

Special Entertainment at California Adventure for New Year’s Eve

By Tom Bell | Published December 20, 2016

Disney California Adventure has announced some special entertainment to help guests ring in 2017! A new stage will be installed at the end of the street in Hollywood Land and DJ Roueche will be providing music all night long.  The stage will also be used for special performances by Disney Channel star Olivia Holt (“Kickin’ … Special Entertainment at California Adventure for New Year’s Eve

Disneyland’s Heraldry Shoppe Set to Close

By Tom Bell | Published December 19, 2016

According to a recent post on its Facebook page, Disneyland Park’s Castle Heraldry Shoppe will close in January because the resort wants to use the space for a “new experience to be announced.” The shop is unable to relocate within Fantasyland, so their only option was to close. The Castle Heraldry Shoppe opened in 1994 … Disneyland’s Heraldry Shoppe Set to Close

New Disneyland security checkpoints to open Thursday

By Tom Bell | Published December 13, 2016

Several new security screening areas are set to open Thursday, replacing the current checkpoint on the west side of the Esplanade near La Brea Bakery. The new checkpoints include one at the Mickey & Friends Parking Structure, two at the west end of Downtown Disney and another at the Downtown Disney entrance to the Grand … New Disneyland security checkpoints to open Thursday

Special New Year’s Eve dining options at the Disneyland Resort

By Tom Bell | Published December 10, 2016

Disneyland has released several special menus from around the Resort that will make for a special way to ring in the New Year! Disney’s Grand California Hotel, Chef Andrew Sutton has created two New Year’s Eve options.  First is an elegant four-course dinner that will be served starting between 5:30pm and 6:30pm.  The Wine Country … Special New Year’s Eve dining options at the Disneyland Resort