On Saturday, February 8, 2025, the Red Car Trolley made its last trek from Buena Vista Street to the Hyperion Theater. After a quick pause to drop off Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, the trolley made its final trip backstage. The attraction is closing as Avengers Campus is expanding and Disney California Adventure sees other changes happening.
Droves of fans stopped by Disney California Adventure during the day for one final ride aboard the Red Car Trolley. As the evening wore on, the line continued to remain long. It was finally closed and the last guests made their trip from Buena Vista Street into the park shortly after 9:30 PM. One more return trip brought the final guests who would ride the Red Car Trolley back to Buena Vista Street.
The very last trip was reserved for Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, and a few cast members. The area around the Red Car Trolley was packed with fans eagerly trying to get one last look and one last moment with the attraction. The throng followed the Red Car Trolley all the way around the route. The stop that let off Mickey and Minnie at the Hyperion Theater allowed for a few more conductors to hop aboard for the trip backstage. Hundreds of fans followed them as they headed backstage through Avengers Campus.
As the trolley disappeared for the last time, some tears could be seen. Songs could also be heard being sung by different guests. After the big doors closed and the Red Car Trolley could no longer be seen, the crowd stood around for a minute before dispersing into the night.
The Red Car Trolley opened at Disney California Adventure in June 2012. It was inspired by the Pacific Electric Railway “Red Cars.” There were two trolleys that were in operation during the attraction’s run. Car 623 was inspired by the 600-series trolleys build by the St. Louis Car Company in 1922. Its paint scheme was similar to the “Hollywood” cars that were first delivered. The “23” in the car’s number referenced the year when Walt Disney arrived in California, in 1923. Car 717 was inspired by the 700-750 series trolleys that were built by the J.G. Brill Company in 1925. It had a paint scheme similar to Pacific Electric’s Art Deco “wings” design. The 717 number on the car is a reference to Disneyland’s opening date.
One car will remain on Buena Vista Street in the future as a photo operation. It isn’t known what the long-term future of the two trolleys is at this point. While they were in operation at Disney California Adventure, they added a wonderful sense of movement and of going somewhere to the park. This kinetic energy really added a lot to the experience of visiting Disney California Adventure and will be missed.
What did you think of the Red Car Trolleys? Did you ever ride them? Which one was your favorite? Share your thoughts, opinions, and memories in the comments below!
Final Red Car Trolley Trip Photos
