California Dreamin’: Top Theme Parks for Family Fun in the Golden State

By

-

June 27, 2024

California, the sunshine state, boasts a treasure trove of theme parks perfect for creating lasting family memories. From iconic characters and fantastical worlds to heart-pounding thrills and educational experiences, California caters to all ages and interests. Here’s a curated list of the top theme parks in California guaranteed to spark joy and ignite imaginations:

The Happiest Place on Earth: Disneyland Park in Anaheim is the crown jewel of family vacations. Immerse yourselves in beloved Disney stories – soar through the skies with Peter Pan in Fantasyland, explore the spooky delights of Haunted Mansion in New Orleans Square, and join Buzz Lightyear on a galactic adventure in Tomorrowland. Meet iconic characters like Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, and favorite superheroes, and experience dazzling nighttime fireworks that fill the sky with vibrant colors. Disneyland Resort also offers Disney California Adventure Park, a celebration of Disney and Pixar films, with thrilling rides like the Radiator Springs Racers and the exhilarating Incredicoaster.

Movie Magic Comes Alive: Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles transforms you into the heart of your favorite movies. Step into the fantastical world of witchcraft and wizardry at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Explore Hogwarts Castle, soar through the skies on a Hippogriff, and indulge in delectable treats like Butterbeer. Unleash your inner minion at Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, and feel the prehistoric power of a T-Rex encounter at Jurassic World – The Ride. Universal Studios Hollywood offers a thrilling mix of rides, shows, and movie-themed experiences that will leave you breathless.

A World Built on Imagination: LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad is a paradise for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages. Interactive rides like the Dragon Coaster and the thrilling Coastersaurus take families on a wild adventure through iconic LEGO creations. Explore intricate models of famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal and the White House, built entirely from millions of LEGO bricks. Unleash your creativity in hands-on building experiences, and experience the thrill of coasters designed for young adventurers. LEGOLAND California also features a water park, LEGOLAND Water Park, perfect for cooling off on a hot California day.

Sealife Spectacles and Aquatic Adventures: SeaWorld San Diego offers a unique blend of exhilarating rides and educational animal shows. Witness the majesty of orcas at the Orca Encounter, or get up close to playful dolphins and beluga whales during interactive presentations. Experience the heart-pounding thrills of the high-speed Manta roller coaster, or take a relaxing journey through the underwater world on the Explorer’s Reef acrylic tunnel. SeaWorld San Diego is dedicated to ocean conservation and education, offering families the opportunity to learn about marine life and its importance to our planet.

California’s Thrilling Escape: Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia caters to families seeking heart-stopping thrills. Renowned for its record-breaking roller coasters, Six Flags Magic Mountain offers rides like the colossal Full Throttle, which launches riders from 0 to 100 mph in a mere 2.2 seconds, and the twisted insanity of Twisted Colossus, a hybrid coaster combining wood and steel for an unforgettable experience. Thrill-seekers of all ages will find a coaster to conquer at Six Flags Magic Mountain, while younger children can enjoy tamer rides and interactive experiences in the Bugs Bunny World area.

For more information and to book your trip, visit Vacation Trip Guide and start planning your adventure.

Planning Your California Theme Park Adventure:

To maximize your California theme park experience, consider these tips:

Research: Each park offers unique experiences and attractions. Research the park’s layout, shows, and ride height restrictions beforehand. Utilize park apps to check wait times and plan your itinerary to avoid long lines.
Embrace the Seasons: California theme parks experience peak seasons with larger crowds. Consider visiting during off-peak seasons for shorter wait times and a more relaxed experience.
Hydration is Key: California sunshine can be intense. Pack water bottles and make frequent stops for drinks to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Prepare for Comfort: Comfortable shoes are essential for navigating the park. Sunscreen, hats, and a change of clothes are lifesavers, especially if visiting a water park.

California theme parks offer endless possibilities for creating lasting memories with your family. With this guide and a little planning, you can embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with laughter, excitement, and the magic of California.

For more information and to book your trip, visit Vacation Trip Guide and start planning your adventure.

Family Fun at Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa

By

Greg Aragon, Writer Greg's Getaway

-

June 27, 2024

Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa (www.lakearrowheadresort.com) has everything the family and I need for a memorable getaway. The place has a great lake-front location, a gourmet restaurant onsite, a game room for the kids, pool and jacuzzi, spa and fitness center, a bar and coffee house, its own private beach and much more. All we had to do on a recent visit to the resort was park the car, check into a comfortable room and let the fun begin.

Located at 5,174 feet above sea level in the San Bernardino Mountains, the 173-room Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa sits on the edge of one of California’s most beautiful bodies of water. The property resembles a modern alpine chalet and exudes a historic lake atmosphere.

Our deluxe room at the resort was perfect for the family. We had two queen beds, an office desk with complimentary WiFi, a large screen TV, a big bathroom with a tub and shower, mini-fridge and microwave, and lots of storage space for our clothes and supplies.

The best thing about our room was the balcony overlooking the lake and private beach. From here we could see birds playing in the tall pine trees, boats bobbing in the water, and beautiful lake-front mansions lining the rocky shores.

When not in our room, we were exploring the rest of the resort. One of our favorite spots was the grand lobby, which features timber walls, Native Serrano Indian art, and a large stone fireplace, crackling amidst cozy leather chairs and sofas.

The lobby is a great place for families because every night it offers special programs for kids. During our visit, a real-life “elf,” dressed in green clothes and long striped socks, read books, told stories and played games with the little ones. My kids loved it! Besides elfs and other characters reading books, the resort also shows kid-friendly movies nightly at 6pm and at 8pm.

Another fun spot is the resort’s private beach where guests can relax on deck chairs, play in the water, barbecue on the sand, and admire the lake. In winter guests can also frolic in the snow.

A five-minute walk from the resort is Lake Arrowhead Village, a charming little shopping area with numerous unique shops, a McDonalds and a Stater Brothers grocery store. A walking path surrounding the village lets you get close to the lake to see fish and feed ducks. I recommend bringing a piece of bread or a cracker for the ducks because there are lots of them and they are always hungry.

While strolling around the village, we got a good view of how big and beautiful the lake is. Located in the San Bernardino Mountains on Little Bear Creek, Lake Arrowhead is an artificial lake with a surface area of approximately 780 acres, a shoreline covering 14 miles and a maximum depth of about 185 feet. It is surrounded by the unincorporated community of Lake Arrowhead in San Bernardino County, California.

The lake was formed by the construction of Lake Arrowhead Dam in 1922 by the Arrowhead Lake Company, as part of a plan to develop the area into a resort. The private lake is operated by the Arrowhead Lake Association, which maintains the lake for the recreational use of its members.

The resort is surrounded by the lake, tall pine trees and rugged mountains — The Resort is surrounded by tall pines, rugged mountains and a beautiful lake

After touring the village we walked back to the resort for lunch at BIN189, the hotel’s award-winning gourmet restaurant, which serves creative “up-scale mountain cuisine,” accented with Mediterranean flavors. Led by Chef Krista Stone, the menus showcase locally sourced ingredients and expertly crafted dishes.

For lunch we enjoyed blackened shrimp tacos with avocado, garlic aïoli, marinated onions and jalapeños, on corn tortillas. We also experienced fish and chips, with pale ale battered halibut, fries, and lemon garlic tartar sauce; and a Bin 189 Burger with bacon jam, tomato aioli, and wisconsin cheddar on a brioche bun.

After lunch we relaxed in the resort’s outdoor pool and Jacuzzi, which both overlook the lake. We then discovered the game room, where we played ping pong, air hockey and foosball.

For dinner we were back at BIN189 for a delicious meal highlighted by boneless, braised short ribs with mashed potatoes; mushroom ravioli with fried basil; and seared miso salmon miso with honey garlic glaze, jasmine rice and asparagus.

We concluded the day in the lobby with a live show called “Fun with Forest Friends,” that was led by a friendly elf, who read books and played games with all the kids staying at the resort.

Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa Renovation is located at 27984 Highway 189, Lake Arrowhead, 92352. For more info, current specials and reservations call (909) 336-1511 or visit: www.lakearrowheadresort.com

Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood Summon Ghostbusters

By

Robbie Bulus

-

June 27, 2024

If there’s something strange. If there’s something weird… An ancient artifact unleashes an evil force that threatens to destroy the world in all-new haunted houses, inspired by Sony Pictures’ latest film, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” debuting at Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort on Friday, August 30 and at Universal Studios Hollywood on Thursday, September 5.

The all-new “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” haunted houses at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort bring the latest installment of the global Ghostbusters franchise to life as well as iconic ghosts, creatures, and characters from the beloved classic series in authentic haunted houses that capture the horror and humor for which the films are known.

“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” will transport fans of the film franchise to New York City where the Spengler family teams up with the original Ghostbusters who are now at the helm of a top-secret research lab for their ghost-busting enterprise. With the daunting discovery of an old relic that has set free the vengeful spirit of Garraka, who threatens to freeze everyone to death, Ghostbusters new and old must join forces to protect their city and save the world from a second Ice Age.

As guests venture through the haunted houses, they will find themselves in the sinister world of the supernatural, from Ray’s Occult Books shop to the Ghostbuster’s new high-tech lab and containment facility to the dank New York City sewer system. Fans will embark on this petrifying journey alongside the Ghostbusters, encountering iconic ghosts who slime and nefarious villains who are out for revenge – all while trying to escape an army of ghastly creatures bent on cracking bones and turning their veins into rivers of ice. As they navigate their way through freezing and frightening conditions, the Ghostbusters will need their wit and humor to defend the city they love from a terror too chilling to believe.

Select tickets and special vacation packages for Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights are on sale now, including single-night tickets, Express Passes, the R.I.P Tour, which provides Priority V.I.P. entry to the haunted houses, and the Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour that offers a glimpse into how the scares are brought to life via a daytime, lights-on journey through select haunted house.

Tickets for Universal Orlando’s first-ever Premium Scream Night on Thursday, August 29 – an unprecedented, limited-capacity event that gives fans access to everything they love about Halloween Horror Nights before the event officially opens – are also now available. More information about all of Universal Orlando’s current Halloween Horror Nights offers and entitlements can be found at www.universalorlando.com/halloween.

A variety of Halloween Horror Nights ticket options for Universal Studios Hollywood are now available, including General Admission, Universal Express, After 2 P.M. Day/Night, the Early Access Ticket, which provides access to select haunted houses beginning at 5:30 p.m. (subject to change), in advance of the scheduled 7:00 p.m. event opening time, the premium R.I.P. Tour and popular passes, Frequent Fear Pass and Ultimate Fear Pass, which enable guests to experience the scares again and again. Click here to purchase tickets and for Terms and Conditions.

For fans interested in digging deeper into the terror at Halloween Horror Nights, check out the Discover Universal Blog, which unearths more details about the two original haunted houses – “Monstruos 2: The Nightmare of Latin America” and “Dead Exposure: Death Valley” – at Universal Studios Hollywood. New updates will be posted regularly for the events at both Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood.

Fans can get their Halloween Horror Nights gear now with an all-new merchandise collection available for purchase at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, as well as online at http://shop.universalorlando.com. New items include a t-shirt and hat for the “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” haunted house.

Additional details, including new haunted houses coming to both Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, will be revealed soon.

Sizzling Summer Menu Debuts at Calaca Mamas Cantina

By

Robbie Bulus

-

June 20, 2024

Get ready for a taste of summer at Calaca Mamas Cantina, the lively Día De Los Muertos eatery just outside Disneyland! They’ve unveiled a brand new limited-time menu featuring delectable tapas, sweet treats, and refreshing drinks – all available until August 30th.

This chef-created menu is a vibrant fusion of Calaca Mamas‘ playful take on Mexican cuisine and the freshest local, seasonal ingredients that Orange County boasts during this sunny season. Sisters Angela and Mariam El-Haj, second-generation restaurateurs, pride themselves on offering Anaheim locals and Disney visitors unique, seasonal experiences that showcase their culinary talent and creativity.

Calaca Mamas’ summer menu celebrates joyful gatherings with friends and family. Get ready for shareable plates that will brighten any occasion! Here’s a peek at some of the exciting options:

Rollin’ Birria: A handheld twist on Calaca Mamas’ beloved Quesabirria Tacos. Delicious shredded beef birria is wrapped in crispy Phyllo dough and served with mouthwatering birria salsa and creamy guacamole.

Guac ‘N Roll: This rockin’ take on guacamole features a vibrant avocado filling carefully wrapped in Phyllo dough, along with fresh tomato. A drizzle of tangy tamari arbol sauce and a squeeze of fresh lime complete this delightful bite.
Mini Chimi: Inspired by the iconic Chimichanga, this dish offers a fun twist. A cream cheese jalapeño popper gets nestled inside a crispy flour tortilla with rice, beans, and melted cheese – a perfect party appetizer!
Croquetillas: These Mexican-style croquettes feature a savory chicken tinga filling mixed with melty mozzarella cheese, all coated in a golden panko breadcrumb crust. Served with creamy cilantro and chipotle crema for dipping, they’re a delicious and unique starter.

Summer libations on the menu represent quintessential summer sips with nods to popular summer vacation hotspots. Standouts include the ‘Island Water Punch’ shaken with rum, watermelon agua fresca, lime juice, orgeat, and pineapple juice, and a Mexican spin on EuroSummer with ‘La Aperol Paloma,’ made with tequila blanco, lime juice, agave, grapefruit juice, Aperol, and soda water. Fruit-forward cocktails like the ‘MangoRita’ with tequila blanco, lime juice, Greenbar Distillery Orange Liqueur, and mango syrup, and the Peachy Caliente with tequila blanco, lime juice, Greenbar Distillery Orange Liqueur, and peach syrup, round out the libations.

“We’re grateful to tap into Orange County’s bounty of agriculture year-round by highlighting organic, non-GMO, and locally grown ingredients. Our seasonal menus allow us to explore our creativity, collaborate with our team on playful names and presentations, and surprise our guests with new reasons to fall in love with Calaca Mamas again and again,” Angela El Haj shares. “Due to the overwhelmingly positive response to our limited-time Birthday menu in May, we even brought back a few fan-favorite menu items to give guests another chance to get a taste!”

Returning dishes from Calaca Mamas’ Birthday Menu include the ‘Empanada Trip’ featuring picadillo, chorizo, and mushroom empanadas, ‘Sweet Trip’ featuring apple, tropical fruit, and rummed banana empanadas,‘Cinnamazing Sweet Nachos,’ and the ‘It’s Our Birthday 2 Margarita’ which is served with a candle and collectible cocktail floater.

Calaca Mamas is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. The restaurant located at 1550 S. Harbor Blvd is adjacent to the Disneyland Resort’s entrance. Reservations can be made by calling (714) 215-4226.

Set Sail with Disney! New Itineraries Announced for Fall 2025 to Spring 2026

By

Robbie Bulus

-

June 18, 2024

Calling all adventurers! Disney Cruise Line has revealed exciting new itineraries for sailings from Fall 2025 to Spring 2026. Get ready for unforgettable experiences filled with Disney magic!

Early Booking for Loyal Guests:

Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club members and other special groups can book early! Check your Castaway Club tier for your exclusive booking window.

Public Booking Opens June 28th, 2024!

For more information and to book your trip, visit Vacation Trip Guide and start planning your adventure.

Unforgettable Voyages Await:

Explore the magic of Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay on voyages with Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and Disney Dream.
Embark on tropical escapes from the Pacific Coast and Gulf of Mexico in late 2025 and early 2026.
Experience the wonders of Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific on a special Disney Wonder itinerary (October 2025 – February 2026).
Celebrate the holidays with an unforgettable Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime sailings (September – December 2025).

Sydney Escapes with Adventures by Disney:

Enhance your Australian adventure! Guests on select cruises can add a pre-cruise Sydney Escape with Adventures by Disney. This 4-day/3-night adventure includes exciting activities like a jet boat tour, cultural walks, and a visit to Taronga Zoo (departs Oct 18, 2025 & Jan 30, 2026).

Don’t miss out! Start planning your magical Disney cruise adventure today! For more info click here.

Dine Under the Stars: 4th of July Fireworks Feast at Paseo

By

Robbie Bulus

-

June 17, 2024

Celebrate Independence Day with a touch of Mexican magic at Paseo, the newest gem in the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort! This isn’t your average fireworks viewing spot. Helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán, Paseo offers an upscale take on authentic Mexican cuisine, featuring vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. Paseo boasts some of the best fireworks viewing in Anaheim, offering a front-row seat to the dazzling night sky illuminations. Make your 4th of July unforgettable with a decadent prix-fixe menu showcasing Paseo’s signature dishes like the melt-in-your-mouth Melliones and the unique Tlayuda.

Choose from premiere terrace seating, perfect for an intimate celebration for up to four, or opt for the celebration seating with preferred indoor tables that can accommodate larger groups of up to eight. Premiere terrace seating starts at $250 for two, ensuring a truly special way to celebrate America’s birthday.

Tickets and additional details can be found here.

About Paseo

Craving a taste of Mexico with a touch of Disney magic? Look no further than Paseo, a recently opened restaurant in Downtown Disney District. Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán curates an upscale Mexican menu featuring vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable evening, Paseo offers a unique blend of culinary excellence.

Summer in SoCal: Your Guide to Riding the Pacific Surfliner

By

Socalthrills Staff

-

June 15, 2024

This summer, discover the beauty and excitement of Southern California aboard the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, one of the most scenic train routes in the country. With breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills, and rugged mountains, Amtrak Pacific Surfliner offers a unique and relaxing way to explore everything the region has to offer. From quiet towns and beach communities to bustling downtowns and historic sites, summer adventure awaits on the rails.

With the summer travel season being one of the busiest times of the year, Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is excited to welcome guests with top tips and tricks to ensure visits run smoothly:

Plan Your Route – Amtrak Pacific Surfliner travels from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, stopping at numerous picturesque and vibrant destinations along the way. Plan your trip by previewing stations to include stops at charming coastal towns, lively cities, and popular attractions. A full list can be found at PacificSurfliner.com/destinations.
Book in Advance – Summer is a popular time to travel, so be sure to book your tickets early to secure the best seats and travel times. Take advantage of available discounts and consider purchasing a multi-ride ticket if you plan to make multiple trips.
Pack Light and Smart – Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring in the sun. Keep your luggage manageable and be mindful of space during peak travel times, travelers are allowed two personal items like large purses, briefcases, and computer backpacks measuring up to 14” x 11” x 7” each and weighing up to 25 pounds each as well as two carry-on bags which can measure up to 28″ x 22″ x 11″ each and weigh up to 50 pounds each.
Take Advantage of Onboard Amenities – Relax on the journey with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets at your seat, and a café car offering snacks and beverages. Relax in spacious seating and take in the stunning views through large windows.
Stay Informed – Follow Amtrak Pacific Surfliner on social media and check the website for updates on schedules. Sign up for the newsletter on the homepage to stay informed about any changes or promotions and check the travel advisories at PacificSurfliner.com/alerts.

Enjoy the top destinations of the season aboard Amtrak Pacific Surfliner with the following recommended itinerary stops for travelers:

Explore Coastal Towns – Stops like Oceanside, Ventura, Santa Barbara and Lompoc-Surf offer beautiful beaches, shopping and dining. Spend the day soaking up the sun, exploring local shops and enjoying fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants.
Visit Iconic Attractions – From the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano to the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego, there are plenty of landmarks and attractions to explore. Use the train as your base for day trips to these must-see destinations.

For more information and to book your trip, visit Vacation Trip Guide and start planning a summer adventure.

Young Jedi Adventures Season 2 Returns August 14th!

By

Socalthrills Staff

-

June 15, 2024

The second season of “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures,” Lucasfilm’s original animated series, will debut on Disney+ and Disney Jr. on Wednesday, August 14, with the second half of the season coming in early 2025. In addition, a series of shorts from “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” Season 2 will debut on Disney Jr. and Disney+ on August 2.

Set 200 years before “The Phantom Menace,” during the High Republic era, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” follows Jedi younglings Kai Brightstar, Lys Solay, and Nubs as they study the ways of the Force, explore the galaxy, help citizens and creatures in need and learn valuable skills needed to become Jedi along the way.

“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” Season 2 follows the younglings as they continue their training and embark on even bigger missions across the galaxy. Helping to lead the younglings on these missions is Master Zia’s new Padawan, Wes Vinik, and his astromech R0-M1. As they continue their training and grow in the ways of the Force, the young Jedi will travel to new planets with new and old friends and encounter adversaries like The Ganguls, who are growing in their pirate ranks…

Produced by Lucasfilm in collaboration with Wild Canary for Disney+ and Disney Jr., “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” is executive produced by Lucasfilm’s James Waugh, Jacqui Lopez, and Josh Rimes. Michael Olson is the showrunner and executive producer; Elliot M. Bour is the Supervising director and Co-Executive Producer; and Lamont Magee is the consulting producer. Production services by Icon Creative.

“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” stars JeCobi Swain as Kai Brightstar, Juliet Donenfeld as Lys Solay, Dee Bradley Baker as Nubs, Emma Berman as Nash Durango, Trey Murphy as Taborr/Cyrus Vuundir, Nasim Pedrad as Master Zia Zanna, Gunnar Sizemore as Wes Vinik, and Piotr Michael as Master Yoda.

Plus, a new 2D-animated digital series entitled “Fun with Nubs” is now available on StarWarsKids.com and Youtube.com/StarWarsKids. The series follows the comedic misadventures of Nubs and RJ-83, as they take on tasks across Tenoo.

New BoxLunch Inside Out Merch Now Available

By

Robbie Bulus

-

June 14, 2024

Disney and Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” is now in theaters nationwide, inviting moviegoers inside the mind of newly minted teenager Riley just as Headquarters undergoes a sudden demolition to make room for something entirely unexpected: new Emotions.

BoxLunch has unveiled an exciting new merchandise collection inspired by Pixar’s “Inside Out 2.” The collection features a variety of items that bring Riley’s emotions to life through apparel, accessories, and more. Highlights include exclusive items such as a Loungefly mini backpack and zip-around wallet featuring Joy and Bing Bong on a rocket, with the rocket being movable to add a playful touch.

Prices for the collection range from $9.90 to $69.90, making it accessible for a wide range of budgets. The emotive merchandise is designed to evoke beloved characters and memorable moments from the film, ensuring fans can carry a piece of “Inside Out” with them.

Check out the full collection below:

Theatre Review: Mrs. Doubtfire

By

Cori Graham

-

June 14, 2024

Having a rough week? Been a minute since you’ve been to the theater? Help is on the way, dearie! Mrs. Doubtfire is now at the Pantages in Hollywood!

Based on the 1993 film, Mrs. Doubtfire is a hilarious and touching story of a father willing to do almost anything to see his children after a tumultuous divorce. Daniel Hillard is a voice actor, as well as a doting and loving father, but his priorities are not ideal in the eyes of his wife, Miranda. She files for divorce, and Daniel’s lack of job prospects and a furnished home results in the court only granting him occasional visitation with their three children: Lydia, Christopher, and Natalie.

With the help of his brother Frank and Frank’s partner Andre Mayhem, Daniel transforms himself into the nanny of Miranda’s dreams—Mrs. Doubtfire. While in character, Daniel gets closer to his family than ever before. He stumbles upon an amazing job opportunity that will give him everything he needs to obtain joint custody of his children legally, but how can he balance being both Daniel and Mrs. Doubtfire?

The show begins with “That’s Daniel”, a fun introductory number that not only showcases the characters, but the talent of Rob McClure (Daniel Hillard) who reprising his role from the original Broadway cast. “I Want to Be There” is heartbreaking, as Daniel sings about his children. “Make Me a Woman” is hilarious, a much-appreciated juxtaposition in the story so far.

“Easy Peasy” is absolutely hilarious, almost like a fever dream, the song and dance represent the process of searching the internet for easy dinner recipes and finding videos—very relatable in the most over-the-top way. The second act is somehow even more fun and heart wrenching than the first. “The Shape of Things to Come” received roaring laughs from the audience. “Playing With Fire” and “He Lied to Me” perfectly illustrate how precariously complicated Daniel’s lies have become.

McClure’s performances truly make the show, as his impressions and physical comedy are solidly funny. The topical jokes and jabs felt appropriate, and not over the top, as they sometimes can in musicals. Giselle Gutierrez (Lydia Hillard) and Sam Bird (Christopher Hillard) were certainly standouts in “What the Hell”, Gutierrez is a fantastic singer, and I look forward to seeing where her career spans after this tour. “Just Pretend” was a hauntingly beautiful performance.

Sam Bird is a great singer, but also had amazing comedic timing, seeming to inherit a familial trait of yelling when he’s lying, his performances made me laugh out loud a few times. Aaron Kaburick (Frank Dillard) and Nik Alexander (Andre Mayhem) were a fantastic comedic duo, and Alexander’s stage presence was always a treat.

David Korins’ set design was fairly simple and traditional, using various practical interiors against painted backdrops. Between the set design and lighting, it felt almost like watching the taping of a sitcom. It was perfect for the musical and was reminiscent of the 1993 film. Korins has an exceptional track record with Broadway shows that includes Hamilton, Beetlejuice, and Dear Evan Hansen—this show is no exception to nailing the vibe with the set.

I saw the movie, as most millennials have…so I was hesitant to see this one. It’s hard to go up against such a dynamic Robin Williams performance—but I was impressed by this adaptation. Despite knowing how it ended, I still found myself with tears in my eyes for probably the last 5 minutes of the show. It’s truly a warm and fuzzy show with exceptional music.

If you are considering seeing Mrs. Doubtfire, do it. It was a great show and might be one of my favorite shows I’ve seen at Pantages, well…ever. It has all the most famous one-liners from the film, and McClure truly honors the character the way you hope he would.

Mrs. Doubtfire is performing now until June 30, 2024 at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood.

Universal Studios Hollywood: Buy One Day, Get One FREE!

By

Robbie Bulus

-

June 13, 2024

Universal Studios Hollywood is offering a limited-time deal on General Admission tickets. Purchase a “Buy A Day, Get A 2nd Day Free” ticket and enjoy two days of theme park excitement! This offer is valid for purchases made now through October 9, 2024, with your second visit free on select dates. All visits must be completed by December 18, 2024. (Please note, blackout dates apply to the second visit, and some restrictions may apply.)

The fun starts as soon as you book!

Tickets can be purchased easily if you contact us. Explore the park’s signature attractions, including the world-famous Studio Tour, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at movie and TV production. Experience special effects shows like the reimagined “Earthquake—The Big One” and “King Kong 360-3D,” or get your adrenaline pumping on rides like “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.” Explore the sets from the horror film “Nope” in Jupiter’s Claim.

Want more info or to purchase tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood? Make sure to fill out this FREE QUOTE FORM and a Travel agent will get in touch with you soon.

Celebrate 60 years of Studio Tour magic!

Until August 11, 2024, enjoy the Studio Tour’s 60th-anniversary celebration. Take a ride on a refurbished 1964 Glamor Tram, step onto a legendary movie set, and capture unforgettable photos with a giant King Kong backdrop or the park’s original Jaws shark.

Immerse yourself in your favorite stories!

From the iconic red carpet entrance to thrilling rides and captivating lands, Universal Studios Hollywood offers something for everyone. Explore the interactive SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ featuring the “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride. Step into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and visit Hogsmeade™ village, experience “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™” rides. Encounter dinosaurs on “Jurassic World—The Ride,” join the Minions on rides based on “The Secret Life of Pets” and “Despicable Me,” visit Springfield, U.S.A. and ride “The Simpsons Ride™,” or battle Decepticons on “TRANSFORMERS™: The Ride—3D.”

Universal Studios Hollywood Marks 4th of July with Spectacular Fireworks, Live Performances, and Festive Décor

By

Robbie Bulus

-

June 11, 2024

Universal Studios Hollywood is set to celebrate the 4th of July in grand style, offering an array of exciting festivities that promise to create unforgettable memories for all attendees. The celebration will feature a dazzling fireworks display, captivating live performances, vibrant themed décor, and much more.

Remarkably, all these festive activities are included in the standard theme park admission, ensuring guests get the best value for their visit.

Visitors are invited to bring their family and friends to commemorate Independence Day at Universal Studios Hollywood. The theme park offers an impressive slate of award-winning lands, rides, and attractions that cater to all ages and interests. Throughout the day, guests can immerse themselves in the thrilling experiences that Universal Studios Hollywood is renowned for.

As evening approaches, the celebration will crescendo with a rhythmic fife and drum band performance, enhancing the patriotic atmosphere. The park will be adorned with festive decorations that add to the holiday spirit.

The night’s highlight will be the spectacular fireworks display, set to light up the sky at 9:00 p.m. This visual extravaganza will be accompanied by synchronized music, creating a magical experience that guests won’t soon forget.

The 4th of July celebration at Universal Studios Hollywood promises to be a day and night filled with joy, excitement, and patriotic pride, making it the perfect destination for creating cherished holiday memories.

Want more info or to purchase tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood? Make sure to fill out this FREE QUOTE FORM and a Travel agent will get in touch with you soon.

Socalthrills.com

California Dreamin’: Top Theme Parks for Family Fun in the Golden State

Planning Your California Theme Park Adventure:

Family Fun at Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa

Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood Summon Ghostbusters

Sizzling Summer Menu Debuts at Calaca Mamas Cantina

Set Sail with Disney! New Itineraries Announced for Fall 2025 to Spring 2026

Dine Under the Stars: 4th of July Fireworks Feast at Paseo

Summer in SoCal: Your Guide to Riding the Pacific Surfliner

Young Jedi Adventures Season 2 Returns August 14th!

New BoxLunch Inside Out Merch Now Available

Theatre Review: Mrs. Doubtfire

Universal Studios Hollywood: Buy One Day, Get One FREE!

The fun starts as soon as you book!

Celebrate 60 years of Studio Tour magic!

Immerse yourself in your favorite stories!

Universal Studios Hollywood Marks 4th of July with Spectacular Fireworks, Live Performances, and Festive Décor

Latest Posts

Review “Legally Blonde: The Musical”

The Simpsons “Yellow Planet” Now on Disney+

Universal Studios Hollywood Hosts Virtual Studio Tour Auditions

Disney Unveils First Trailer for Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires

Spring Fun at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

Knott’s Soak City Opens on May 17th