Ideas for DLR with two 10 year-old boys

[Aisling]

Hey everyone,
Okay, we are taking my son and a friend up to Disneyland for his birthday and I'm trying to think of ways to make the day more fun and special. We go all the time, but his friend hasn't been in a few years. Of course we are just going to let them jet from one ride to the next, but I was thinking of maybe doing a treasure hunt and hiding clues around the park to make it more fun for them while waiting in line. Do you think that would be possible? Or maybe a Hidden Mickey quest, or??? I'm a little stumped to do the 'boy' thing since we've done the princess thing a million times with our daughter. I don't think my son and his friend want to have tea with the princesses! Dang it, that's my favorite. Any ideas would be great!

[nmbullrdr]

Our son loved the Jedi Training Academy. You get to become a padawan and learn to use the lightsaber and in the end get to battle Darth Vader or Darth Maul!

[BrerGnat]

I was going to suggest the Jedi Training Academy as well. Even if they don't get to be in it (although, if they are SUPER enthusiastic/obnoxious, they have a better chance of being chosen), it's fun to watch. There are several shows per day. Just check the times guide.

[quest4dl]

Along the same theme as the Jedi Training, they could 'build their own light sabre' at the Trading Post (name?). I think it costs about $20 to build one.

Also, I have read that you get a better chance to be chosen for the Jedi Training Academy if they are wearing a costume, a shirt, or holding a sign (e.g. The Force is With Me).

[NotaGeek]

How about some free time on the Tom Sawyer's Island? I was there with 2 kids that had a BLAST running around and checking everything out.

[Aisling]

Thanks, thanks, and thanks! I had forgotten about the Jedi Training Academy and these boys will LOVE that! We've seen it a few times (never chosen) and it is great fun.

And the island is definitely on my agenda. That's where I think I'll have the treasure hunt (have husband go ahead and place the clues then keep a watch to make sure no one else 'discovers' them).

If you think of anything else, please post!

[BrerGnat]

And the island is definitely on my agenda. That's where I think I'll have the treasure hunt (have husband go ahead and place the clues then keep a watch to make sure no one else 'discovers' them).

If you think of anything else, please post!

Have you been to "Pirate's Lair" yet? There is already a treasure hunt type game on there. It's available to anyone. The boys will get a map and look for "treasure". It's pretty neat. You don't have to do any work beforehand!

[Mufasa]

Also this summer at Disneyland, you'll be able to explore the Indiana Jones "Summer of Hidden Mysteries" including interactive shows and activities.

"Indiana Jones™ and the Secret of the Stone Tiger"

Young Guests become archeologists as they solve clues, complete tasks and decipher codes, Indy style which leads to a hidden treasure. A friendly and helpful female archeologist, who may not be as innocent as she seems, will host the experience. However, if her intentions are found to be villainous, Indy will surely be on the scene to aid the youngsters.

Indiana Jones™ Adventure Map

Guests will be able to pick up a special map near the entrance to Aladdin's Oasis, leading them to a series of clues that, when deciphered, reveal a secret message. This message can be used online to obtain an exclusive download of desktop wallpaper, screen saver or other collateral. The map also has a section that highlights activities in the queue of Indiana Jones™ Adventure and the Jungle Cruise.

Adventure Photo Location

Guests can step into an action-packed sequence inspired by Raiders of the Lost Ark. They can also pick up their Indiana Jones™ Adventure Maps at this location.

Indiana Jones™ Adventure Queue

Using their Indiana Jones™ Adventure Maps as a guide, Guests will discover an exciting array of secrets hidden away in the queue of the attraction.

Jungle Cruise

The Jungle Cruise Skipper spiel has been enhanced to reflect the idea that Indy has been traveling through the jungle on his latest expedition – and we will signs of his exploits. Moreover, Guests with a keen eye can look for hidden icons from the first three films, which are described in their Adventure Maps.

Indiana Jones™ in Adventureland!

Indiana Jones™ and a male enemy agent run into each other in the street and pursue one another through Adventureland – pushing through the crowd, popping up here, there and everywhere! Seems one of them has a map to the Temple of the Forbidden Eye that the other wants. This results in a series of fun-filled, dramatic staged "moments" that include fights on balconies, pursuits and daring escapes!

[Magic Smiles]

Is the Summer of Hidden Mysteries still on for 2009? Sounds like fun.