Disney California Adventure is a celebration of Pixar, Marvel, and a little bit of California charm, so getting in the spirit before you go is all part of the fun. Planning your park days is exciting, but we love filling the lead-up with a few movie nights that set the scene for all the adventures waiting inside. With these picks, you’ll find yourself spotting little details and connections in the park that make the experience even more special.
Toy Story
Pixar Pier is a wonderful part of the Disney California Adventure park where families can meet with their favorite characters from Toy Story, enjoy perfectly themed rides, and play games. We love the meet & greet experiences with Buzz, Jesse, and Woody, as well as the legendary Mr. Potato Head in front of Toy Story Midway Mania. Catch up on these Disney Pixar classics before you arrive for a more enjoyable experience.
Inside Out
Further along Pixar Pier, Inside Out fans can find characters, a ride, and merch with the beloved Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff shop. Make sure you don’t miss Inside Out and Inside Out 2 before you arrive to give the whole family a more authentic introduction to this colorful section of Pixar Pier.
Cars
The Disney Pixar film, Cars, has made its mark in Disney California Adventure with arguably the landmark area, Cars Land. Filled with rides, decor, and so much more, this land is like stepping into the first movie, where you can enjoy photo ops with your favorite Cars characters, eat at Flo’s Diner, and enjoy attractions like Radiator Springs Racers and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree.
The Little Mermaid
It’s time to Journey Under the Sea with this musical adventure that follows our favorite mermaid under the ocean. Be sure to screen The Little Mermaid before your big trip and reacquaint yourself with the music and characters we love. Don’t miss the dedicated mermaid shop across the way if you have a fan in your group!
Big Hero 6
San Fransokyo Square is alive and well in Disney California Adventure, where you can enjoy the architecture and scenery of Big Hero 6 as you take a break from the day. With lots of food options, some themed perfectly to the Baymax vibe we love, grab a bit to eat before you catch up with the characters from the movie.
Guardians of the Galaxy
Avengers Campus is the place to be if you are a Marvel fan. Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout is a heart-stopping thrill ride that will have you re-joining the line all day long. The best part about this attraction is the characters, the music, and the humour-filled commentary that seeing the first film can enhance your enjoyment of.
Spider-Man
Further around the bend, Web Slingers is a newer addition to the park, taking you inside the world of Spider-Man as you become part of the story. Character meet & greets, exceptional food and beverage options, and the exciting atmosphere make loving the Spider-Man movies even easier. Screen your favorite Spider-Man movie before you arrive for added thrills!
The Incredibles
Pixar Pier is also the home of one of my favorite attractions, The IncrediCoaster. Watch the movies before you leave so you can fully immerse yourself in the continuation of the storyline where you join the family on a new mission. While you are there, grab yourself one of the famous cookies and keep your eyes peeled for occasional special appearances by characters like Edna Mode!
Coco
Coco has already stepped into the Disney California Adventure park, where Plaza de la Familia has returned this year from August 22nd through November 2nd, 2025, celebrating the ‘Everlasting Bonds of Family and the Spirit of Día de Los Muertos’. Soon, Coco fans will be able to enjoy the first-ever attraction built for the story. Don’t miss this cultural discovery before you arrive to enjoy the festivities!
If you have a favorite movie that relates to the stories of Disney California Adventure, add it to the comments below and help your fellow DIS community prepare for their upcoming adventure!
