On February 8th 2026 the Disneyland Resort celebrated the 25th anniversary of the opening of its second park, Disney California Adventure. Ironically I do not have many photos of the original version of the park. My decision to use the Disneyland Resort as my photography playground did not happen until Disney California Adventure was already transitioning into it's 2.0 version.

When the park first opened Disney eventually realized the original version needed significant rethinking. The souvenir park maps handed out for its anniversary included both a current map of the park and a map of the opening day version of the park. The maps also highlighted a surprisingly short list of opening day attractions that still exist in the park. While more opening day attractions technically remain many of them have been re themed and no longer resemble their original experiences.

I did not visit during opening year but I did visit a few months before the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror opened. That trip led me to convert my ticket into my very first annual pass because I wanted to return for the attraction opening. I have strong memories of that early era of the park but very little photographic proof to show for it as I was still using film then.

One element I truly miss from the original version is the large California letters that stood proudly out front. The original entrance was designed to feel like stepping into a living postcard. It was playful and bold. That entry eventually gave way to Buena Vista Street which now reflects Los Angeles as it looked when Walt Disney first arrived in California. While very different it tells a beautiful and more cohesive story.

Most of the changes over the years have made the park stronger. That said there are still a few things I miss. MuppetVision 3D will always have a place in my heart. I miss the original California Screamin' theme and I still prefer the exterior look of the Tower of Terror over the Guardians of the Galaxy version even though the ride itself is more energetic now. Thankfully I do have photos of those earlier versions to revisit when nostalgia hits.

Disney California Adventure has grown into an essential companion to Disneyland Park. Some of my favorite theme park photos were captured here. In fact the moment I first felt like a real photographer happened inside this park. Many of those memories involve California Screamin' now the Incredicoaster where I discovered my love of photographing on roller coasters.

Happy Anniversary Disney California Adventure. You have grown into a wonderful park and I cannot wait to see how you continue to evolve.

If you have ever visited Disney California Adventure I would love to see your photos. Come share them in the Fairy Tale Photo Academy Theme Park Photography community on Skool.