Step right up to Pixar Pier, a colorful reimagining of the park’s former Paradise Pier. Here, beloved Pixar films take center stage along a whimsical seaside boardwalk filled with family-friendly attractions, themed dining, and nostalgic carnival energy.
From the iconic Incredicoaster to Toy Story Midway Mania, this land celebrates friendship, fun, and adventure—Pixar style.
Attractions
- Incredicoaster (H48) (LL Multi) – The land’s centerpiece attraction takes you on a high-speed race to catch Jack-Jack as the Parr family unleashes their superpowers. This reimagined roller coaster goes from 0 to 55 mph in under five seconds and includes drops, tunnels, and a full inversion.
- Toy Story Midway Mania! (LL Multi) – A 4D ride that combines screen-based gameplay with classic midway challenges. Compete for the highest score by tossing virtual rings, darts, and baseballs at moving targets in Toy Story–themed mini-games.
- Pixar Pal-A-Round – The towering Ferris wheel offers two experiences: stationary gondolas or swinging cars that slide along inner rails for a thrill. Each cabin features a different Pixar character, offering beautiful (and occasionally dizzying) views of the park.
- Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind – A gentle spinning balloon ride themed around the emotions from Inside Out. A great option for younger guests.
- Jessie’s Critter Carousel – Hop on for a rootin’ tootin’ spin with Jessie and her adorable woodland friends in this Toy Story–inspired carousel.
- Games of Pixar Pier – Classic midway games re-themed around Pixar favorites like Wall-E, La Luna, and Bullseye. Each game costs extra to play, and winners can take home plush prizes.
At night, the pier lights up with twinkling bulbs and reflections shimmering over Paradise Bay—a perfect backdrop for photos or a stroll after dark.
Dining
- Lamplight Lounge (L, D, $$) – Table Service. Pixar-themed gastropub serving creative dishes and cocktails. Upstairs, enjoy small plates like lobster nachos and carne asada rolls; downstairs, a sit-down dining room offers full entrées such as burgers, salads, and salmon PLTs. Reservations highly recommended.
- Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats (S, $) – Soft serve and frozen parfaits inspired by Monsters, Inc. Try the lemon-flavored “It’s Snow-Capped!” cone.
- Angry Dogs (S, $) – Hot dogs with varying levels of spice to match Inside Out’s Anger character.
- Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums (S, $) – Fresh-baked cookies (especially the warm chocolate chip version) served right by the Incredicoaster exit.
- Poultry Palace (S, $) – Grab-and-go turkey legs, chicken drumsticks, and corn on the cob.
- Señor Buzz Churros (S, $) – Colorful churros with themed sugar coatings and fun signage.
Shopping
- Knick’s Knacks – The main shop on the pier, offering Pixar apparel, collectibles, and art prints. Look for concept sketches and unique artwork from Pixar films.
- Midway Mercantile – Located near Toy Story Midway Mania, this store features Toy Story and Incredibles merchandise.
- Incredibles Park Characters Spot – A small kiosk with Incredibles- and Edna Mode–themed souvenirs.
- Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff – Everything sweet! Candy, pastries, and souvenirs.
Ambiance & History
Pixar Pier officially opened on June 23, 2018, replacing Paradise Pier, which dated back to Disney California Adventure’s opening in 2001. The transformation took the classic boardwalk aesthetic and infused it with the charm and humor of Pixar storytelling.
Where Paradise Pier once paid tribute to early 20th-century amusement parks, Pixar Pier now brings emotional depth and character-driven design. The pier is divided into themed neighborhoods—Incredibles Park, Toy Story Boardwalk, Pixar Promenade, and Inside Out Headquarters—each celebrating a different Pixar franchise.
The land’s giant Luxo Ball and Pixar Pier marquee instantly set the tone, while details like character banners, film quotes, and playful background music keep the energy high. It’s both nostalgic and modern, capturing the timeless joy that Pixar is known for.
Wrap-Up
Disney California Adventure Layout
Pixar Pier wraps along Paradise Bay and is one of the park’s key “waterfront” lands. Many guests enter Pixar Pier by crossing a bridge from the central walkway areas.
Pixar Pier is connected to:
- San Fransokyo Square along the Paradise Bay waterfront route
- Paradise Gardens Park as you continue around the bay toward World of Color viewing areas
- Grizzly Peak via the bridge paths that link the bay areas back to the park’s “natural” side
Pixar Pier is a love letter to Pixar fans, combining thrilling rides, interactive games, and playful dining in one lively waterfront setting. Whether you’re looping through the Incredicoaster, competing on Toy Story Midway Mania, or savoring a cookie fresh from Jack-Jack’s oven, this land brings pure happiness to guests of all ages.
This article was written by Steve Bell, founder of Military Disney Tips.
Steve is a retired U.S. military member who has been visiting the Disney Parks since 1971 and writing about Disney military discounts and vacations for the military community for over 18 years.
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