Golden Dreams Golden State Bay Area Disney’s California Adventure
INTRODUCTION
The Golden Dreams movie is narrated by Califia, the spirit of California. In a series of short scenes it presents a brief history of the state of California and the people who made it.
ATTRACTION
Golden Dreams is presented in a beautiful classic movie theater. On either side of the stage are statues of Califia, the spirit of California. Both before and after the film the statues “come to life” and Califia (portrayed by Whoopi Goldberg) speaks to the audience.
The 22-minute film chronicles some of the history of California in a series of live action sequences depicting short scenes from the lives of people who have come to California to pursue their “Golden Dreams”. Among them: A party of traveling Spanish friars experiences an earthquake, a down-on-his-luck miner pans for gold, a Japanese mail-order bride meets her new husband, William Mulholland constructs the L.A. Aqueduct, photographer Dorothea Lange photographs Dust Bowl migrants, and Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak demonstrate the first “personal” computer. Califia appears in most of these scenes, to nudge things along by offering some advice or an encouraging word.
At the end of the movie a photo and video montage, set to the attraction’s theme music, showcases many notable Californians.
TOURING TIPS
This attraction is rarely crowded, and it’s a comfortable place to relax and sit down for a while.
Take a look at the beautiful mural on the outside of the building – many of the characters from the movie are depicted there.
ECV or wheelchair users may remain in their chairs – there are designated rows in the theater for them.
Assistive Listening Devices from Guest Services can be used here. Reflective captioning is also available.
Restrooms are located around the corner towards Grizzly River Rapids.
KIDS AND CHARACTERS
Kids might find the movie boring, though there are some amusing scenes.
Mulan and Mushu make frequent appearances outside the theater. Check the Daily Times Guide for the times and locations of other Character Meet and Greet opportunities.
DINING
There’s a coffee and pastry cart near the entrance to Golden Dreams. The Pacific Wharf area, where there are several restaurants, is nearby.
SHOPPING
There are no shops in this area.
INTERESTING FACTS
Golden Dreams opened with Disney’s California Adventure on February 8, 2001.
The classic Roman rotunda at the entrance to Golden Dreams is modeled on San Francisco’s Palace of Fine Arts, which was built in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition.
The film “Golden Dreams” was directed by Polish director Agnieszka Holland (The Secret Garden).
If you have comments or tips to share with others about touring Disney’s California Adventure, please email us. Thank you.
