Welcome to the thrilling world of Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park, where you can experience high-octane fun for the entire family! This incredible attraction brings the beloved universe of the Cars movies to life right before your eyes, offering a range of exciting rides, dining experiences, and opportunities to meet your favorite characters.
During your visit, you’ll be swept away by the immersive Cars Land, which features exciting rides such as Radiator Springs Racers, Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, and Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters.
When it’s time to refuel, make pit stops at Flo’s V8 Café, the Cozy Cone Motel, or Fillmore’s Taste-In for some tasty treats. Don’t forget to indulge in some shopping at the unique stores. Get ready to embark on this incredible journey and make the most of your Cars Land adventure with some handy tips and tricks!
Planning your trip? We’ve got tons of helpful Disney planning guides from our awesome list of 40 essential tips, to how to get to Disneyland, where to stay near Disney, what to pack, what to wear, where to park, and what to eat in both Disneyland and California Adventure.
Cars Land Disneyland
Situated in Disney California Adventure Park, Cars Land is a delightful themed area that brings the 2006 Pixar Animation Studios film “Cars” to life. Offering three unique rides, a variety of enjoyable shops, and numerous dining options, Cars Land can be enjoyed by both fans of the movie and newcomers alike.
One of the main attractions at Cars Land is the thrilling Radiator Springs Racers ride. Since its grand opening in 2012, this immersive land has never ceased to captivate visitors of all ages. As you explore the area, you will find yourself immersed in the world of Lightning McQueen and other beloved Cars characters.
Over numerous visits, many enthusiasts have acquired valuable tips and tricks to make the most of their Cars Land experience. By following these insights, you and your family can have an unforgettable time enjoying the attractions and atmosphere of this vibrant part of the Disneyland Resort.
A Bit About Cars Land
Cars Land, opened in June 2012, covers 12 acres and stands out as one of the most beloved sections at Disney California Adventure theme park. Stepping into Radiator Springs transports you into the picturesque Southwest landscape of the Cars movie.
The impressive Cadillac Range, rising 125 feet tall, serves as a stunning backdrop and represents the largest rockwork ever created in a Disney park. During your visit, you’ll stroll down Route 66, where iconic locations such as Sally’s Cozy Cone Motel, Flo’s V8 Cafe, and Ramone’s House of Body Art await you.
While Cars Land is captivating during daytime hours, its nighttime transformation is truly breathtaking. The neon signs along Route 66, together with the illuminated Cadillac Range, create an enchanting atmosphere that further enhances the experience and makes it a favorite time for visitors to explore this picturesque land.
Cars Land Rides
Radiator Springs Racers
Radiator Springs Racers is the most popular attraction in Cars Land. On this thrilling ride, you get to join the characters from Cars and speed through Radiator Springs in a convertible. It combines classic Disney storytelling with a high-speed race as the grand finale.
The ride vehicles are designed to resemble the Cars characters and hold six riders each. As you start, you’ll take a scenic drive through Ornament Valley and Radiator Springs, and then participate in a side-by-side race with another car. The ride technology is similar to Epcot’s Test Track at Walt Disney World, offering varying speeds, bouncing around, and more entertaining movements.
Radiator Springs Racers is suitable for all ages, as long as children meet the 40-inch minimum height requirement. The attraction is engaging and rich in detail, making it a must-visit for both kids and adults.
Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
Located at the top of Route 66 in Cars Land, Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree is a swinging, spinning, tractor-pulling hoedown ride hosted by Mater. You’ll ride in trailers attached to baby tractors while Mater sings hilarious songs, and the tractors travel in overlapping figure-eight patterns.
The ride can accommodate up to two adults and one child, with a 32-inch minimum height requirement for kids. Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree offers an unexpected thrill for both children and adults, making it another enjoyable experience at Cars Land.
Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters
Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters brings a big Italian family celebration to Cars Land. In this ride, you’ll join Luigi’s cousins, colorful mini Italian roadsters from Carsoli, Italy, as they demonstrate their dance moves. The cars whirl and spin to catchy songs such as Mambo Italiano, using a trackless vehicle system.
Each ride experience can be different, with variations in the cars’ movements and formations depending on the song. Each car also has its unique moves, adding more excitement to the ride. The ride allows up to two adults and one child per car, with a minimum height requirement of 32 inches.
Where to Eat in Cars Land
Flo’s V8 Café
Flo’s V8 Café takes you back to the classic roadside diners that once populated Route 66. With quick-service dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s a popular choice not just in Cars Land but across Disneyland Resort.
The kitschy atmosphere and patio tables provide a perfect view of Monument Valley and Radiator Springs Racers. Enjoy American comfort foods like fried chicken and turkey sandwiches, or try the delicious Cobb de Ville salad. With its 60s-era car culture décor and memorabilia, you’ll feel immersed in the Cars Land experience.
Cozy Cone Motel
Visit the Cozy Cone Motel and enjoy various treats at each of the five large traffic cones. While it’s not an actual motel, its resemblance to Sally’s from the movie makes it the perfect place to grab a snack.
Each cone offers something different:
- Cone 1: Churros
- Cone 2: Ice Cream Cones
- Cone 3: Chili Cone Queso
- Cone 4: Cone-Coctions
- Cone 5: Popcone
Favorites include bacon mac ‘n’ cheese in a bread cone at Cone 3, frozen lemonade at Cone 4, and flavored popcorn at Cone 5. Be prepared for long lines due to the popularity of the snacks. If your family members want to try different items, expect to wait in multiple lines.
Fillmore’s Taste-In
For those seeking healthy options, Fillmore’s Taste-In offers a superb selection. Choose from fresh fruit, pickles, chips, bottled water, and juice. It’s the perfect spot to grab a quick, nutritious snack while exploring Cars Land.
Need a break? There are covered tables that are perfect for resting and people watching.
Character Meet & Greets
At the Cozy Cone Motel, you have the opportunity to meet Mater and Lightning McQueen. They take turns throughout the day, appearing near the motel’s lobby.
You can also find Red the Fire Truck greeting guests close to Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters. We found Red driving down the main street and followed him to the edge of Cars Land.
Shopping in Cars Land
While exploring Cars Land, don’t miss the opportunity to discover unique and exciting merchandise in the themed shops. Get ready to be immersed in the world of Cars at the following stores:
- Radiator Springs Curios: This store offers an array of exclusive items, such as Cars-themed pins, vinylmation, antenna toppers, window clings, license plate frames, and magnets.
- Sarge’s Surplus Hut: Find a variety of clothing, housewares, and Cars-inspired toys to remember your adventure.
- Ramone’s House of Body Art: For a more fashionable touch, check out the apparel and accessories available in this creative shop.
With these options, you’ll surely find the perfect memento from your Cars Land experience.
Holidays at Cars Land
During the festive seasons, Cars Land undergoes delightful transformations. In September, you’ll witness the enchanting Haul-O-Ween decorations throughout the Radiator Screams as you approach the Welcome sign. Experience the thrilling Halloween rides like Mater’s Graveyard JamBOORee and Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween, which are seasonal makeovers of Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree and Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters respectively.
When it’s Christmastime, Cars Land embraces the holiday spirit with enticing ride overhauls. Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters turns into Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree transforms into Mater’s Jingle Jamboree, complete with holiday decorations and festive tunes. The area is adorned with Christmas trees made out of traffic cones and hubcap ornaments, creating a unique holiday atmosphere.
As you stroll the streets, admire the beautifully decorated shops and restaurants in Cars Land during this magical time. So, don’t miss the chance to experience the captivating holiday ambiance only at Cars Land.
Cars Land Tips & Tricks
Make the most of your Cars Land experience by utilizing these helpful suggestions:
- Early Entry: If you’re staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel, take advantage of early admission to Disney’s California Adventure Park 30 minutes before the official opening to enjoy select attractions, including Cars Land. Make sure to check to app. Early entry for each park rotates now.
- Disneyland App: Use the Disneyland app to monitor wait times for rides and utilize mobile food ordering options like Flo’s V8 Café.
- Single Rider Lines: Radiator Springs Racers offers single rider lines, which can significantly reduce wait times. Note that children must be at least seven years old to use the single rider option.
- Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane Entrances: Purchase access to Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lane entrances to skip waiting in lines for rides, at Radiator Springs Racers.
- Rider Switch with Little Ones: If visiting with small children, use the Rider Switch feature offered on all three Cars Land rides to take turns without having to wait in line twice.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture memorable moments at locations like the Cars Land entrance, Flo’s V8 Café, Cozy Cone Motel, and alongside the Radiator Springs Racers ride.
- Hidden Mickeys: Keep your eyes peeled for Hidden Mickeys throughout Cars Land, including inside Ramone’s House of Body Art and the Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree queue.
- Cars Land Neon Lighting: Visit Cars Land just before sunset to witness the illumination of 16 neon signs throughout Radiator Springs, creating a stunning display. Go just a bit early and find a seat outside of Flo’s V8 Cafe or the Cozy Cone Motel to watch and listen to the Sh-Boom tune from the movie play.
- Embrace the Experience: Enjoy the immersive experience at Cars Land by taking the time to explore every detail, from the thematic rides to unique features like tail-light “flowers” at the Cozy Cone Motel.
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Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.
