Mike_M
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Mar 8, 2008
@Baduist I really wonder if those people would get the magic if they went to WDW. I think for the majority of the population a visit to a Disney park is like going to any other theme park. They want a day out with fun for the family and roller coasters. I don't think they expect magic.
I grew up going to DL in California and as a result, I have wonderful childhood memories of the magic in action. Seeing Pirates and Disney characters right before my eyes. Experiencing Space adventures; A “real” haunted mansion. Those trips added fuel to my imagination and ensured that the park would always be a special place. For me, the magic as an adult is triggered through nostalgia of these childhood memories.
I’ve always wondered how adults that never experienced this as a child would see the magic for themselves. It’s easier to see the technology in use and the people behind the curtain as an adult. I think my nostalgic side lets me ignore the realities of the place that my experience, knowledge and my own eyes show me. I’m able to think back to that time when I would have still believed the magic at face value.
I think the definition of Magic to DisneyParks fans is different and unique for each of us. Many WDW fans don’t experience it at DLR or the other resorts and many DLR fans feel something similar about WDW. Again, I think it is fueled by nostalgia and familiarity. We get used to our home park. The layout, the amenities, and the problems. Visiting other Disney Parks throws us off some. We notice smaller details than the average guest because we know our home parks so well. This can interfere with that nostalgia which we interpret as a loss of the “Magic”.
For me, my favorite attractions at DL, were given a fresh take at DLP. That was the draw for me and why the magic was present on that trip. I loved Frontierland and the way all the attractions are tied together, especially Phantom Manor. POTC’s different order of things was such a cool reimagining. Hands down the best Space Mtn of the park’s I’ve been to. The castle is beautiful and one of a kind. In the end, I loved DLP and look forward to returning there someday.
Was it perfect? No.
Was it fun? Yes.
Was there magic? Absolutely!