Waxing Nostalgia on Mainstreet USA

When you enter through the wrought iron gates of Disneyland, you are welcomed by the inviting and pristine area of the park called “Mainstreet USA”.  Unfortunately, most people rush through this part in order to get to the attractions and shows elsewhere in Disneyland.  The truth is, if you ignore Mainstreet USA, you are missing out on something pretty great.  Lining both sides of the street are a number of charming shops filled with Disneyland items from sweatshirts and stuffed animals to authentic original prints dating back to the opening of Disneyland over 50 years ago.  Mainstreet USA also houses several restaurants that host delicious treats such as delectable chocolates and to-die-for ice cream cones dripping goodness.  On Mainstreet USA you will find the Kodak shop that will sell you anything and everything related to camera equipment from batteries and flashes to disposable cameras in those “oops-I –forgot-my-camera” moments.  This is also where you can order all of your prints that cast members have taken of you all around the park with various Disney characters.  Nestled next to the Kodak shop is a shop full of high-priced but exquisite Disney glassware.  You can find a miniature Tinkerbell made of Swarovski crystals or a ceramic Mickey Mouse snow globe.  Do yourself a favor the next time you visit Disneyland and spend a little time on the attention-neglected Mainstreet USA…you’ll be happy you did!