Although Walt Disney's Dumbo took place in America (Florida, to be exact), the circus traces its origins to Europe, so its fitting that Dumbo occupy such a prominent place in Fantasyland at Disneyland Paris. Here the gaudy, gilded calliope of Dumbo the Flying Elephant rises above the gardens in the center of the land, amid lush landscaping and water features.
The attraction experience on Dumbo the Flying Elephant is very much the same as it is in the other Disney Parks, but there are some unique elements to the presentation in Paris. Along the queue are graphics reminding us of Dumbo's story and his ascent to greatness. Once on the platform, the operator control booth is dressed as an ornate circus wagon, touting "The 9th Wonder of the World!"
Dumbo received an expanded presence in the Disneyland Paris park in 1993 when, as part of an effort to boost capacity, small attractions were added to every land. In the case of Fantasyland, a tunnel was carved beneath the railroad tracks, opening up a cul de sac for the inclusion of Storybook Land and Casey Jr.
Guests travel below the trestle and through the woods, past banners touting the wonders of the circus, before arriving at the tiny station where they'll board the little train that could.
Casey Jr. - le Petit Train du Cirque is a powered coaster-type attraction (as opposed to a traditional, gravity coaster). Similar to its counterpart at Disneyland, Casey Jr. offers an opportunity to ride in a variety of circus train cars, from gilded chariots to animal cages. The designs have been updated a bit, of course, from the 1955 originals.
"All aboard! Let's go!"
Casey Jr. provides a zippy tour of the countryside around and above Storybook Land, where miniature versions of fairytale landmarks can be found. These have been updated for the Paris version, too, with inclusions such as the Beast's castle from Beauty and the Beast (below). Just as in California, though, you can get a much better look at all that from the comfort of a canal boat. We'll be taking that trip tomorrow!
