World of Color Superthread

[ArchOwl]

Well that's good at least! I think if I've read this thread correctly that CCR and WCT dinner should get us pretty good spots, yeah? Where we're you stationed with that meal, Arch?

On the map below, I stood very near the red dot. I also included my experience with this seating and copied it for you below. It probably will not completely apply to you, since most of my issues stemmed from the fact I was in an ECV due to a broken ankle. But, I will warn you that you still need to show up early to get a good view in the WCT and CCR sections (at least for the first show, which is what I saw).

If you look further upthread you will see some other maps that are under construction, but I don't think they have been finalized. They seem to change the preferred dining section a lot, so it has been difficult to pin down.

HTH!

[/QUOTE]

I wanted to update with my experience with the WOC Carthay experience, which was less than magical. We had lunch at Carthay and were given the preferred viewing passes to the 9pm show. On the FP it says to return by 8:45pm. We come early, about 8:25. First, no one knows where we should enter because I am on an ECV due to a broken ankle. We are direct to several different people until we are told to enter at the yellow section and head down the ramp to preferred.

When we arrive at preferred, 10 minutes later, it is pretty full. Definitely should have come earlier. Benches are packed and their is a taped off area on the ground in the preferred section where wheelchairs and ECVs are supposed to be. Only, they are not enforcing it and people are standing in the tape. I end up in the back of the section and can't really see. So I stand up during the parts I really want to see, since I brought my crutch.

Edited to add: this was Sunday, July 29th at 9 pm

I make the most of it, but it wasn't much of a preferred section and there were lots of people in the back like us, who couldn't really see. I would definitely get there much earlier, especially if you are in a wheelchair/ECV. I thought dining at Carthay would be a nice way to see the show with minimal wait, but I still needed to show up at least an hour before to secure the best seating.

The preferred section was also VERY chaotic and no one seemed to know where we were supposed to go or how to get us there. Which was strange because there were lots of handicapped folks in the preferred section. But I still loved the show and really enjoyed the Brave section. I just want to give people a heads up that the Carthay FPs don't guarantee you a good view.

 

[papamouse1]

Well that's good at least! I think if I've read this thread correctly that CCR and WCT dinner should get us pretty good spots, yeah? Where we're you stationed with that meal, Arch?

The revisions on this map are simply a compilation of different reports coming in from folks on where they were sent for their reserved (preferred) dining at CCR and WCT. Several people have mentioned being sent to the section in front of the circle when dining WCT dinner... most reports for CCR have been being sent to the upper left section that ArchOwl mentioned. Some have been told that the row just left of the circle (below ArchOwl's spot) are also reserved for preferred dining.

But as Arch Owl mentioned, this is certainly not official from Disney... but based on the different reports that are coming in over the last few weeks, it seems to be fairly accurate... but how does that old saying od? "The only thing that is constant is change"

 

[Rainforest_Elf]

The revisions on this map are simply a compilation of different reports coming in from folks on where they were sent for their reserved (preferred) dining at CCR and WCT. Several people have mentioned being sent to the section in front of the circle when dining WCT dinner... most reports for CCR have been being sent to the upper left section that ArchOwl mentioned. Some have been told that the row just left of the circle (below ArchOwl's spot) are also reserved for preferred dining.

But as Arch Owl mentioned, this is certainly not official from Disney... but based on the different reports that are coming in over the last few weeks, it seems to be fairly accurate... but how does that old saying od? "The only thing that is constant is change"

Man, that is frustrating. I'm willing to pay $$$ to get the best seats in the house, but it doesn't seem like there is really anything to guarentee that. Maybe I'll call disney dining and ask them, hey, we need to eat dinner, we're thinking either CCR or WCT Prix Fixe, which will get us the best spots? I sure as hell don't want to spent $60 per person for dinner at CCR and then be in the back viewing area, cause that would make me a very angry elf

 

[papamouse1]

Honestly RainforestElf, I am certainly not the expert. Truth be told, I got hooked into this thread because we are going to see WoC for the very first time over Thanksgiving week this year. I know it will be packed at the parks so looking for best way to see it just like you. But based on the photos and reports of folks who are telling us about where the CCR is placing them, I think you may be selling the "back rows" short. They actually sound like the reason they are putting them there is because of the great view. They are elevated, near the center, and not that far from the water. Personally, based on people's reoprt of that section, I will be fine getting that spot when we dine at CCR. Like you, I am willing to pay for nice meal to help guarantee better seats. We are used to Disney Signature dining at WDW, and CCR pricing doesn't seem outrageous to us

Anyway, I wouldn't worry if I was you about that particualr spot not being worth the CCR investment... besides, at least one person who went to CCR said they asked if they could go to the forward section in front of the circle, and they were told they could go if that is what they preferred ... so it sounds like there are options

 

[Rainforest_Elf]

Honestly RainforestElf, I am certainly not the expert. Truth be told, I got hooked into this thread because we are going to see WoC for the very first time over Thanksgiving week this year. I know it will be packed at the parks so looking for best way to see it just like you. But based on the photos and reports of folks who are telling us about where the CCR is placing them, I think you may be selling the "back rows" short. They actually sound like the reason they are putting them there is because of the great view. They are elevated, near the center, and not that far from the water. Personally, based on people's reoprt of that section, I will be fine getting that spot when we dine at CCR. Like you, I am willing to pay for nice meal to help guarantee better seats. We are used to Disney Signature dining at WDW, and CCR pricing doesn't seem outrageous to us

That's exactly what the CM I just got off the phone with said. She said that CCR gives the best spot in the house, unless I wanted to get wet (not particularly). She urged me towards CCR over WCT, so it's all set! I'll let you guys know how it works out in about 3 weeks! lol

 

[HydroGuy]

Man, that is frustrating. I'm willing to pay $$$ to get the best seats in the house, but it doesn't seem like there is really anything to guarentee that. Maybe I'll call disney dining and ask them, hey, we need to eat dinner, we're thinking either CCR or WCT Prix Fixe, which will get us the best spots? I sure as hell don't want to spent $60 per person for dinner at CCR and then be in the back viewing area, cause that would make me a very angry elf

Until Disney changes it then the viewing experience for WOC is indeed frustrating. I started this thread back in 2010 to give folks the best possible chance to get a viewing spot that worked best for them.

Unfortunately as you are finding out, you can't just pay money to get a guaranteed good view of WOC. Paying for WCT or CCR will not do it either. The best bet for a good view - by far - is still to show up early. Until I hear definitively otherwise, 90 minutes early still seems like the rule on most nights to have a guaranteed good view of the first show. It seems like 60 minutes is enough for second show. Do folks show up later and get good views? Yes. Sometimes. But they are chancing it.

 

[quantumottle]

Man, that is frustrating. I'm willing to pay $$$ to get the best seats in the house, but it doesn't seem like there is really anything to guarentee that. Maybe I'll call disney dining and ask them, hey, we need to eat dinner, we're thinking either CCR or WCT Prix Fixe, which will get us the best spots? I sure as hell don't want to spent $60 per person for dinner at CCR and then be in the back viewing area, cause that would make me a very angry elf

We enjoyed what I consider to be one of the best 10 spots in the park, without spending a dime. This thread provided all the info I needed. Don't worry, by knowing what you already know you're miles ahead of the regular visitor. I'm sure it will all be fine.

We're here at DL now, but I just had to stop by The Dis and say "Thank You" to HydroGuy for making a memory possible that would not have happened otherwise.

We watched the WOC show, and it was absolutely amazing! We got soaked, and laughed the whole time. Both my daughters were crying during the show (I may have got a little something in my eyes too). My girls gave me a couple of huge hugs that I may never forget.

We went to the first show. I got in line about 70 minuted early, and it was worth it. In HydroGuys pic below we stood between the green and yellow star at the front rail of what used to be the RED section (it's apparently BLUE now).

Without this Thread I would have had no idea where to go or what to do. Thanks for the special memory HydroGuy.

 

[LacyBelle]

We are going next week and have late lunch reservations (2pm) at CCR, as we want to eat the larger, heavy meal earlier in the day and have a snack for 'dinner' if we get hungry later.

We would also prefer to attend the second show. Can we request tickets for the second show while at lunch, or will passes only be offered for the early show?

Thanks.

 

[papamouse1]

We are going next week and have late lunch reservations (2pm) at CCR, as we want to eat the larger, heavy meal earlier in the day and have a snack for 'dinner' if we get hungry later.

We would also prefer to attend the second show. Can we request tickets for the second show while at lunch, or will passes only be offered for the early show?

Thanks.

Yes, you can "request" it. No guarantees, but many have reported success in asking. I plan on doing the same thing in November

 

[S. S. Columbia]

My recent experience matches ArchOwl's.

I had the "Carthay Circle Reserved Viewing" for the 9pm show (Monday, Aug. 13).

I arrived at #7 at 8:05pm; we were not using ECVs and the CM directed us to go to the "CCT -lunch ?" area. (Note: the references to #7, "CCT -lunch ?" and "WCT ?" are for the map that's posted below.)

During my lunch at CCR, I had two waitresses, and they both gave the official corporate-speak about arriving 15 minutes before show time (one was willing to say that arriving 30 minutes before would be better). When I arrived at 8:05pm, the large blue circle and the green "WCT ?" areas were completely full. This is just a wild guess, but I suspect that you should arrive for the "CC Reserved Viewing" about 90 to 120 minutes early.

I spoke to a knowledgeable CM named Kat at WOC's FP Distribution. Kat was really surprised that a CM directed us to the "CCT -lunch?" area. (Kat also confirmed that Red FPs for WOC are no longer distributed.)

My lunch time at CCR was 11:30am, and the waitress allowed us to choose "CC Reserved Viewing" for the 9:00pm or 10:15pm show.

I enjoyed the lunch at CCR.

During our visit, we watched WOC from three spots:
1) "CCT -lunch?" section
2) behind the Green Fire Hydrant
3) at the rail in the blue Wet Zone (very close to the Centerline)

JMHO, the BEST viewing spot for WOC is at the rail in a Wet Zone near the Centerline (IF you don't mind getting wet), or at the rail in the "WCT ?" section (30 feet from the waters of Paradise Bay).

HTH

I wanted to update with my experience with the WOC Carthay experience, which was less than magical. We had lunch at Carthay and were given the preferred viewing passes to the 9pm show. On the FP it says to return by 8:45pm. We come early, about 8:25. First, no one knows where we should enter because I am on an ECV due to a broken ankle. We are directed to several different people until we are told to enter at the yellow section and head down the ramp to preferred.

When we arrive at preferred, 10 minutes later, it is pretty full. Definitely should have come earlier. Benches are packed and there is a taped off area on the ground in the preferred section where wheelchairs and ECVs are supposed to be. Only, they are not enforcing it and people are standing in the tape. I end up in the back of the section and can't really see. So I stand up during the parts I really want to see, since I brought my crutch.

Edited to add: this was Sunday, July 29th at 9 pm

 

[LacyBelle]

Yes, you can "request" it. No guarantees, but many have reported success in asking. I plan on doing the same thing in November

Thanks, papamouse. Since the later show is generally less crowded, I'm not imagining it will be an issue to request it. Besides, we'll be sporting our anniversary buttons, so maybe a little pixie dust will assist us.

 

[Blue32]

My recent experience matches ArchOwl's.

I had the "Carthay Circle Reserved Viewing" for the 9pm show (Monday, Aug. 13).

I arrived at #7 at 8:05pm; we were not using ECVs and the CM directed us to go to the "CCT -lunch ?" area. (Note: the references to #7, "CCT -lunch ?" and "WCT ?" are for the map that's posted below.)

During my lunch at CCR, I had two waitresses, and they both gave the official corporate-speak about arriving 15 minutes before show time (one was willing to say that arriving 30 minutes before would be better). When I arrived at 8:05pm, the large blue circle and the green "WCT ?" areas were completely full. This is just a wild guess, but I suspect that you should arrive for the "CC Reserved Viewing" about 90 to 120 minutes early.

I spoke to a knowledgeable CM named Kat at WOC's FP Distribution. Kat was really surprised that a CM directed us to the "CCT -lunch?" area. (Kat also confirmed that Red FPs for WOC are no longer distributed.)

My lunch time at CCR was 11:30am, and the waitress allowed us to choose "CC Reserved Viewing" for the 9:00pm or 10:15pm show.

I enjoyed the lunch at CCR.

During our visit, we watched WOC from three spots:
1) "CCT -lunch?" section
2) behind the Green Fire Hydrant
3) at the rail in the blue Wet Zone (very close to the Centerline)

JMHO, the BEST viewing spot for WOC is at the rail in a Wet Zone near the Centerline (IF you don't mind getting wet), or at the rail in the "WCT ?" section (30 feet from the waters of Paradise Bay).

HTH

Would you mind sharing what time you arrived to secure the spots behind the fire hydrant and at the rail in the blue section?

 

[JediMasterMatt]

I would be also interested in knowing what time you arrived for the fire hydrant spot.

 

[BayGirl22]

This is a bit frustrating because its hard to plan for, even if you are doing CCR. We changed to lunch at CCR so we're not rushed. But I'd still prefer not to have to wait 1.5 hours with two little kids to make sure they can see, that's one reason we're doing the meal. And some of the views I'm seeing above with CCR spots still don't seem that great, especially for shorter people.

We'll be there on a lower crowd day (Tues after Labor Day) and the only show is 8:15. I'd like to have dinner in Carsland and see the neon lights go on at dark. Sunset that day is around 7:15. Is it feasible, with CCR spots, to be in Carsland until 7:30 then make our way over to WOC and get decent, child friendly views for an 8:15 show? We don't mind being on the rail in the wet section.

Given that situation, what time does everyone suggest we get in line? And is it ok to have one adult secure the spots while the other adult does something else with the small children, or do we have to hold our ground? I'm still unclear what spots I should be trying to get so a 3yo can see. Upper level at the railing or lower level?

 

[HydroGuy]

This is a bit frustrating because its hard to plan for, even if you are doing CCR. We changed to lunch at CCR so we're not rushed. But I'd still prefer not to have to wait 1.5 hours with two little kids to make sure they can see, that's one reason we're doing the meal. And some of the views I'm seeing above with CCR spots still don't seem that great, especially for shorter people.

We'll be there on a lower crowd day (Tues after Labor Day) and the only show is 8:15. I'd like to have dinner in Carsland and see the neon lights go on at dark. Sunset that day is around 7:15. Is it feasible, with CCR spots, to be in Carsland until 7:30 then make our way over to WOC and get decent, child friendly views for an 8:15 show? We don't mind being on the rail in the wet section.

Given that situation, what time does everyone suggest we get in line? And is it ok to have one adult secure the spots while the other adult does something else with the small children, or do we have to hold our ground? I'm still unclear what spots I should be trying to get so a 3yo can see. Upper level at the railing or lower level?

It is very frustrating and you may want to reconsider CCR if you thought it would give you edge in seeing WOC. It really doesn't. WOC is an awesome show with a flawed viewing area.

Going to CL at 7:30 is not a good idea if you want a good viewing spot for WOC.

The thing is no one can say for sure what will happen on any given night. Some people do report coming in 15 minutes before the show and getting a good view. But that cannot be counted on every night. The advice in the OP still applies from everythin g I have heard lately -

1. Arrive 90 minutes before the show for a certain good view for folks of any height including kids

2. Arrive 60 minutes for a good shot at a good view

3. Arrive 30 minutes early for a low probability shot at a good view

 

[BayGirl22]

It is very frustrating and you may want to reconsider CCR if you thought it would give you edge in seeing WOC. It really doesn't. WOC is an awesome show with a flawed viewing area.

Going to CL at 7:30 is not a good idea if you want a good viewing spot for WOC.

The thing is no one can say for sure what will happen on any given night. Some people do report coming in 15 minutes before the show and getting a good view. But that cannot be counted on every night. The advice in the OP still applies from everythin g I have heard lately -

1. Arrive 90 minutes before the show for a certain good view for folks of any height including kids

2. Arrive 60 minutes for a good shot at a good view

3. Arrive 30 minutes early for a low probability shot at a good view

Thanks. We want to eat there anyway so we'll likely still go to CCR. But when I made the reservation 50+ days ago the early reports were that you could show up 15 minutes early and get a prime spot. This is why I hang around here, things keep changing.

I still feel like, from looking at the maps, the areas open to Reserved/Preferred appear to have the better viewing options so there's some value in the meal. Of course no one can predict DCA crowds that day either. I'm thinking my strategy will be to show up around 6:30 and see how the area looks, what the crowd level is like, if the reserved signs are even up, talk to the CMs there. If we need to grab a spot then we will. But either way we'll have to send one adult out with the kids, I just don't see a 3 year old standing for 90 minutes along a railing. If things appear really lite and I get good vibes, we'll carry on and return closer to the show to grab a spot.

 

[S. S. Columbia]

Would you mind sharing what time you arrived to secure the spots behind the fire hydrant ...?

I would be also interested in knowing what time you arrived for the fire hydrant spot.

For the green fire hydrant spot for the 10:15pm show (Thurs., August 16):

We got in the Blue FP line at 9:30pm. Here's a photo of our starting point (when we looked to the left we could see the Cocina Cucamonga restaurant across the way):

Around 9:45pm the Blue FP line started to move and everyone (except us) walked past the green fire hydrant and walked toward the front of the WOC viewing area. We
were standing in front of the green fire hydrant shortly after 9:45pm; no one else came to that area until 10:00pm. IMO it's an o.k. spot, and it's a good trick to know if
you happen to arrive late, but my personal preference is to watch the show closer toward the front of the show.

Here's a photo that was taken from the green fire hydrant spot:

August 16, 2012

HTH

 

[cari12]

So of you have kids and do not want to get wet, do you head to the green stars (in Hydroguy's map) on the second level at the rail for best viewing?

 

[S. S. Columbia]

Would you mind sharing what time you arrived to secure the spots ... at the rail in the blue section?

We watched the 9:00pm WOC show from the blue wet zone near the centerline on Saturday, August 18:

There's plenty of randomness, so this information is just for a general idea.

We walked toward the red tower at 7:55pm. At 7:55pm we were just about to get in the blue FP line when the blue FP line started to enter the WOC viewing
area. Yikes! There was nothing we could do except get in line at the back of the blue FP line. We entered behind everyone else, but we walked all the way
forward and walked to the blue wet zone and as close as we could get to the centerline. Because we arrived relatively late (7:55 for the 9:00 show), we were
actually in the second row from the blue wet zone rail.

Almost everyone was sitting in place until 15 minutes before the 9:00pm show. At 8:45pm we got the general idea that we needed to stand.

I've seen WOC six times; three time up close and three times farther back. And IMO watching it up close was much better. And when you're at (near) the rail
there are fewer ways that your view can be blocked. It helps that I'm 6' 0" tall. Up close, I liked how the fountain colors were so saturated, and you can see
some laser lights that you don't see from farther back. I also thought the projection viewing looked better up close.

It wasn't windy, but we still got fairly wet.

Here's a photo of the view from the blue wet zone near the centerline:

August 18, 2012

IMO another very good view is from the "Front Rail Elevated." If you don't want to get wet, this spot is about 30 feet back from the water. You might get a
little misted, but the one night that I stood there it wasn't too bad. I don't know if the map below is current, but the "Front Rail Elevated" is shown with the Red Line.
I think the "Front Rail Elevated" is some type of Preferred/Reserved viewing, but with all of the recent changes I'm not sure whether it's WCT and/or CCR...
or something else.

HTH

 

[HydroGuy]

So of you have kids and do not want to get wet, do you head to the green stars (in Hydroguy's map) on the second level at the rail for best viewing?

Absolutely. If you can get there because you arrived in line early enough.

As I said in the OP, for first timers it is worth scouting out Paradise Park in the day with your whole crew to get a sense of what to expect and what spots you want to try for.