My oldest son had just turned one year when my husband and I introduced him to the Disney/Pixar movie Cars. Matchbox cars and Fisher-Price Little People vehicles were among his favorite toys at the time, so we were pretty confident he would enjoy watching a film about cars coming to life. Little did we know how quickly he’d become captivated by it, and that he would pass along his obsession to his future siblings. Further fueling the kids’ shared passion for Cars were the subsequent releases of the Mater’s Tall Tales cartoon series and the Cars 2 and Cars 3 sequels. The movies and cartoons were on a regular rotation on our TV and for the better part of a decade, I watched my kids eat, breathe, and sleep the world of Cars. They happily spent hours recreating favorite scenes and interactions from the franchise with their ever-growing collection of Cars diecast vehicles, loved reading any books they could find featuring Cars characters, and enjoyed many dance parties powered by music from the movie soundtracks. There were certainly other interests that caught the kids’ attention along the way in their childhood years, but none that ever matched the staying power of Cars. It goes without saying that Cars will forever hold a very special place in my heart.
My kids are older now and have grown away from their Cars phase, but my husband and I recently got to rewind time and relive all of those precious memories when we visited Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park for the first time. And let me just tell you, what an absolute dream it was to be there! Inspired by the movie that started it all in 2006, Cars Land brings Radiator Springs to life. Imagineers absolutely outdid themselves recreating the fictional town featured in Cars, and the heart of this spectacularly themed land. Visiting Cars Land was like stepping right into the movie and instantly becoming a part of the hustle and bustle of everyday life in “the cutest little town in Carburetor County.” It was truly something else!
All of the Cars Land attractions, shops, and dining options are located in and amongst the businesses of Radiator Springs. And, of course, all of the fun begins with a walk down none other than the iconic Route 66!
You can shop for your favorite Cars Land souvenirs at Sarge’s Surplus Hut and Ramone’s House of Body Art.
If you’re suddenly hit with thirst or hunger pangs, look no further than Sally’s Cozy Cone Motel or Flo’s V8 Cafe. A variety of themed snacks and drinks are available at the five traffic cone-shaped buildings of the motel. Specialty popcorn, chimichangas, and soft-serve ice cream are just some of the many delicious treats you’ll find at Sally’s. For heartier fare, head on over to Flo’s V8 Cafe – home to the “finest fuel on Route 66!” American diner classics like cheeseburgers, club sandwiches, fried chicken, and frosty milkshakes are the name of the game at Flo’s.
Once you’ve fueled up, fun for everyone awaits at three unique attractions. Up first is Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree! Mater (everyone’s favorite tow truck, of course) has corralled and hitched up carts to his baby tractor friends, and they are ready to give you a ride while he serenades you with his favorite tunes.
Next is a visit to Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters at none other than Luigi’s Casa della Tires, home of The Leaning Tower of Tires! Luigi and Guido’s cousins are in town, and they are thrilled to have you join their family reunion. Hop into one of the classic mini convertible cars, and dance along with them while listening to lively Italian music.
And last, but most certainly not least, one of the neatest and most immersive attractions at any Disney theme park – Radiator Springs Racers! After boarding a convertible race car, your adventure here begins with a scenic tour of Ornament Valley and Radiator Springs. Enjoy visits with all of the beloved characters from Cars, including Mack, Sheriff, Mater, Red, Sarge, Fillmore, Sally, and Lightning McQueen. And then fasten your seatbelts as Guido, Luigi, Flo, Ramone, and Doc Hudson help you get revved up and looking your best for the ultimate finale – a road race with a nearby car!
The heartwarming nature of the Cars movies and cartoons easily lent themselves to this wonderful land that is every bit as charming and uplifting. And the attention to detail that is present everywhere in Cars Land is just so incredible! I could have easily skipped the attractions and spent all of my time simply wandering the land and taking it all in. We loved everything Cars Land had to offer and, though we would have loved to have taken the kids when they were younger, I am so thankful we finally got to experience it!
