Time for another SDL update!
Knowing that it will be crowded and chaotic for my visit, I'm starting to make a list of attractions to prioritise. Opening Day of course, I will be prioritising any ceremonies etc they have, and then possibly getting my hands on some merch before it all goes!
On the other days however, I will have more time for checking out the various attractions around the park. Although some may not be open (Disney are insisting that they will have all 'e-ticket' style attractions open), here's what I'm hoping to experience while I'm there (all pictures taken from the official SDL website). Here's my Tier 1 (if it's open, I must experience it!).
Roaring Rapids (Adventure Isle)
Plunge through dark chasms, outrace a ferocious beast and churn through raging, roiling currents on a thrilling raft adventure!
Alice in Wonderland Maze (Fantasyland)
Wind your way through the maze of Alice’s Wonderland world to attend this delightfully mad tea party. This is the first Disney attraction to be based on Tim Burton's version of Alice in Wonderland.
Voyage to the Crystal Grotto (Fantasyland)
Journey deep into a cavern where favorite Disney tales come alive in a dazzling display of music, light and wonder!
Garden of the 12 Friends (Gardens of Imagination)
Discover an oasis where the 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac are depicted by popular Disney and Disney•Pixar characters.
Tron Lightcycle Power Run (Tomorrowland)
Sync the pedal to moto-metal while twisting, turning and riding for your life in the cyber-fi world of TRON!
Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure (Treasure Cove)
Ahoy! Join Jack Sparrow’s swashbuckling band of buccaneers for a monster-meeting, treasure-seeking, high-seas adventure! This is a completely new version of POTC, using new technology specifically designed for this ride.
Tarzan: Call of the Jungle (Treasure Cove)
Hang on for an incredible live stage show that soars with music, comedy, romance and high-flying acrobatic action.
Golden Fairytale Fanfare (Gardens of Imagination)
Celebrate the songs and stories of beloved Disney Princesses in a breathtaking performance at Enchanted Storybook Castle.
Ignite the Dream (Gardens of Imagination)
See Enchanted Storybook Castle transformed when Disney magic lights up the night with stunning special effects!
And Tier 2 (if it's open, and I've achieved everything on my Tier 1 list, I'll prioritise these above other attractions).
Camp Discovery (Adventure Isle)
Traverse challenging rope courses, hike scenic trails and dig for ancient relics as you explore Adventure Isle.
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (Fantasyland)
Race around through the diamond mine from
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs on an adventurous family coaster. I realise I could also experience this at WDW, but I haven't been yet, so may as well do it in Shanghai!
Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue (Tomorrowland)
Blast away at Emperor Zurg’s abominable bot army in an all-out battle to save Planet Pepperonia! Same concept as other Buzz Lightyear rides, but a new storyline.
Eye of the Storm: Captain Jack's Stunt Spectacular (Treasure Cove)
Catch Captain Jack in action—with high-energy stunts, side-splitting comedy and a swashbuckling finale you’ve got to see to believe!
If by some miracle I still have time to spare, here is my Tier 3 (nice to experience if I have the time).
* Soarin' over the Horizon (Adventure Isle) - I enjoyed the original version of Soarin', but haven't felt a compelling need to do it again. I wouldn't mind seeing the new version though.
* Peter Pan's Flight (Fantasyland) - As far as I can tell, this is just a replica of DLR's version. However, I didn't get to experience the updated version in DLR yet, and I did very much enjoy the original version.
* Mickey's Storybook Express (Gardens of Imagination) - Shanghai's parade. Doesn't fill me with excitement, but I'll catch it if I can.
These attractions I have little interest in doing, and would prioritise re-doing some of the Tier 1 or Tier 2 attractions in favour of these.
* Hunny Pot Spin (Fantasyland) - This is just a differently themed version of the teacups. I only do the teacups for their iconic value.
* The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (Fantasyland) - The same fairly plain version that's in DLR.
* Dumbo the Flying Elephant (Gardens of Imagination) - The same the world over!
* Fantasia Carousel (Gardens of Imagination) - I'll enjoy looking at it, but won't waste my time riding it.
* Marvel Universe (Gardens of Imagination) - Absolutely zero interest.
* Jet Packs (Tomorrowland) - Apparently this is similar to Astro Orbitor, but has some new technology. It still doesn't appeal to me.
* Star Wars Launch Bay (Tomorrowland) - Absolutely zero interest.
* Stitch Encounter (Tomorrowland) - Absolutely zero interest.
* Explorer Canoes (Treasure Cove) - DH and I have tried kayaking a couple of times and haven't enjoyed it much. It makes me think I wouldn't enjoy this very much.
* Frozen Singalong (Fantasyland) - So over Frozen I will avoid this like the plague!
Of course, this list doesn't include characters, which is a whole different ballgame! I'm thinking I might have to concentrate on one aspect for each of my three days - opening related stuff on Day 1, maybe rides on Day 2 and shows on Day 3, and fit characters in around that. I'll be happy as long as I get to meet someone at some point. Perhaps I should consider doing a character breakfast on my last day, just in case!
It sounds like you've made the right decision for where you are now though. That's kind of why I didn't bother to venture more into China in the end (lack of time, would rather just go once and see all the places I'm interested in). And you'll have plenty of time to research further when you do go.
