What Are the Games of Pixar Pier?
The Games of Pixar Pier are four carnival-style attractions located along Pixar Promenade in Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, California.
Inspired by the traditional midway games found at seaside amusement parks, each booth features colorful decorations, Pixar characters, and a different skill-based challenge.
Unlike most attractions at Disney California Adventure, the Games of Pixar Pier require an additional payment to play. In return, guests have the opportunity to win themed prizes, including plush toys inspired by their favorite Pixar characters.
The four games are:
- La Luna Star Catcher: A fishing-style game inspired by Pixar’s animated short La Luna.
- Heimlich’s Candy Corn Toss: A ring-toss challenge featuring Heimlich from A Bug’s Life.
- WALL-E Space Race: A water-racing game inspired by WALL-E.
- Bullseye Stallion Stampede: A horse-racing game featuring Bullseye from Toy Story.
Each game has its own theme, mechanics, and prizes, so it’s worth exploring the entire midway before deciding which one to play.
The Four Games of Pixar Pier
1. La Luna Star Catcher
Inspired by Pixar’s Academy Award-nominated animated short La Luna, this charming carnival game brings the film’s celestial setting to life.
In the original short, a young boy joins his father and grandfather on an unusual nighttime job involving the moon and the stars that cover its surface.
At La Luna Star Catcher, guests use a fishing pole to catch stars in a whimsical setting inspired by the film.
The game combines hand-eye coordination with a little patience. Rather than racing against other players, you’ll focus on catching the stars and completing the challenge.
The booth’s moonlit theme and colorful decorations make it particularly appealing to younger visitors and families who enjoy Pixar’s imaginative storytelling.
Best for: Younger children, families, and fans of Pixar’s animated shorts.
2. Heimlich’s Candy Corn Toss
Fans of A Bug’s Life will recognize Heimlich, the lovable caterpillar with an enormous appetite.
At Heimlich’s Candy Corn Toss, guests attempt to toss rings onto candy corn targets in a colorful carnival setting.
The challenge is straightforward, but landing a ring in the right spot takes more precision than you might expect.
It’s a familiar carnival concept with a playful Pixar makeover, making it easy for first-time players to understand.
The oversized candy corn decorations and cheerful character theme add to the experience, even if you don’t walk away with a prize.
Best for: Ring-toss fans, families, and visitors who enjoy traditional carnival games.
3. WALL-E Space Race
WALL-E Space Race brings the futuristic world of Pixar’s WALL-E to the boardwalk.
This competitive water game challenges players to aim a stream of water at a target. As you hit the target, your character advances along the racecourse.
The objective is to keep your aim steady and reach the finish line before your competitors.
Unlike some of the other midway games, WALL-E Space Race is especially entertaining when several people are playing at once.
Friends, siblings, and parents can compete against one another, making it a fun opportunity for a little family rivalry.
Even spectators can enjoy watching the race unfold as players try to keep their water streams on target.
Best for: Groups, competitive families, and WALL-E fans.
4. Bullseye Stallion Stampede
Bullseye Stallion Stampede brings the spirit of Toy Story to Pixar Pier with a horse-racing carnival game.
Inspired by Woody’s loyal horse, Bullseye, this attraction challenges players to move their horses along a racetrack by rolling balls into designated targets.
Successful rolls help advance your horse toward the finish line.
The faster and more accurately you play, the better your chances of winning the race.
The Western-inspired decorations and familiar Toy Story characters give this classic midway game plenty of personality.
It’s particularly fun for families who enjoy competing against one another, and the racing format creates an exciting finish.
Best for: Toy Story fans, friendly competition, and families with older children.
How Much Do the Games of Pixar Pier Cost?
The Games of Pixar Pier are separate from the attractions included with regular Disney California Adventure admission.
Guests must purchase game credits to participate. Each game requires a credit, and the cost may vary depending on current pricing and how credits are sold.
Before purchasing credits, take a walk along the midway and see which games interest your group. This can help you decide how much you want to spend.
If you’re visiting with several children, it’s also a good idea to establish a game budget ahead of time. The opportunity to win a stuffed animal can make it tempting to keep playing.
Check the current prices and payment options at the game booths during your visit.
What Prizes Can You Win at the Games of Pixar Pier?
One of the biggest attractions of the Games of Pixar Pier is the opportunity to win a souvenir that you can’t necessarily find in the regular gift shops.
The games feature Pixar-inspired prizes, with plush toys among the most popular rewards.
Prizes are themed to the different games and may include characters or designs associated with the featured Pixar films.
Prize availability, sizes, and winning requirements can change. Some games reward a winning player in a competitive round, while others depend on completing a particular challenge.
If your child has their heart set on a particular plush toy, check which game offers it and ask a Cast Member about the rules before purchasing credits.
Winning a prize can make the experience especially memorable, but the games are designed to be entertaining even when you don’t win.
Tips for Winning at the Games of Pixar Pier
While there are no guaranteed tricks for winning carnival games, a few simple strategies can help you enjoy the experience and improve your chances.
Watch a Round Before Playing
One of the easiest ways to understand a game is to watch someone else play first.
Pay attention to how the game works, how quickly it moves, and what successful players are doing.
This is especially helpful for the racing games, where accuracy and timing can make a difference.
Focus on Accuracy Instead of Speed
For games that involve aiming, throwing, or rolling, controlled movements can be more effective than rushing.
At WALL-E Space Race, for example, keeping your water stream consistently on the target is more important than making rapid adjustments.
For Bullseye Stallion Stampede, focus on getting each ball into the appropriate target rather than rolling as quickly as possible.
Choose Games That Match Your Child’s Abilities
Not every game will be equally easy for every age group.
Younger children may prefer a game that allows them to focus on their own challenge, while older kids might enjoy the excitement of racing against other players.
Consider your child’s coordination, patience, and comfort with competition when deciding where to play.
Ask About the Prize Rules
Before starting, find out what you need to do to win and which prizes are currently available.
Understanding the rules ahead of time can help prevent disappointment, especially for younger players.
Play for Fun, Not Just the Prize
It’s easy to get caught up in trying to win a particular stuffed animal, but the real appeal of the Games of Pixar Pier is the experience itself.
Enjoy the challenge, cheer on your family, and treat any prize as a bonus.
Are the Games of Pixar Pier Good for Young Kids?
Yes. The Games of Pixar Pier can be a fun experience for children, although the difficulty varies from one game to another.
Unlike roller coasters and other thrill attractions, the midway games don’t involve high speeds, drops, or ride vehicles.
However, some games require hand-eye coordination, accurate throwing, or the ability to hold and aim equipment.
Parents of younger children may want to watch a game before purchasing credits to determine whether their child will be able to participate comfortably.
It’s also worth preparing younger kids for the possibility that they won’t win a prize every time they play.
For many families, the most enjoyable part is playing together, watching the action, and celebrating everyone’s efforts.
Where Are the Games of Pixar Pier Located?
The Games of Pixar Pier are located in the Pixar Promenade area of Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure Park.
Pixar Pier is the colorful waterfront area of the park, home to several popular attractions inspired by Pixar films.
The midway games are situated near other Pixar-themed experiences, making them easy to incorporate into a visit to this part of the park.
Nearby attractions include:
- Incredicoaster: A high-speed roller coaster inspired by The Incredibles.
- Pixar Pal-A-Round: A towering Ferris wheel offering views of the park and surrounding area.
- Toy Story Midway Mania!: An interactive 4D attraction featuring carnival-style shooting games.
- Jessie’s Critter Carousel: A whimsical carousel featuring colorful creatures inspired by Toy Story.
- Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind: A spinning attraction inspired by the emotions from Inside Out.
With so much to experience in one area, Pixar Pier is worth setting aside time to explore rather than rushing from one major attraction to another.
Games of Pixar Pier vs. Toy Story Midway Mania!
Visitors sometimes confuse the Games of Pixar Pier with Toy Story Midway Mania!, but they are two different experiences.
Toy Story Midway Mania! is a ride where guests board moving vehicles and use spring-action shooters to compete in a series of virtual carnival games presented in 4D.
The Games of Pixar Pier, on the other hand, are traditional carnival-style booths where guests physically participate in individual games and have the opportunity to win prizes.
Another important difference is the cost.
Toy Story Midway Mania! is included with regular park admission, while the Games of Pixar Pier require an additional payment.
If your family enjoys Toy Story Midway Mania!, the Games of Pixar Pier are worth considering as another interactive experience during your visit.
When Is the Best Time to Play the Games of Pixar Pier?
The Games of Pixar Pier can fit into your itinerary at different points throughout the day.
If you’re already visiting Pixar Pier for Incredicoaster, Toy Story Midway Mania!, or Pixar Pal-A-Round, stopping at the games while you’re in the area can save you from making an extra trip across the park.
Late afternoon and evening can also be enjoyable times to explore Pixar Pier, especially when the boardwalk lights create a colorful atmosphere.
Keep in mind that operating hours can vary, and the games may not always follow the same schedule as the park itself.
Check availability during your visit rather than assuming the booths will remain open until park closing.
Other Things to Do Around Pixar Pier
After you’ve finished playing, there are plenty of other experiences nearby.
Enjoy a Treat at Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff
Inspired by the imaginative world of Inside Out, Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff is a colorful shop filled with candy, treats, and Pixar-themed merchandise.
It’s a fun place to stop for a snack or browse for souvenirs.
Grab a Cookie at Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums
Located near Incredicoaster, Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums is known for its large, warm cookies.
It’s a convenient treat to enjoy while exploring the waterfront.
Take in the Views from Pixar Pal-A-Round
For a different perspective on Disney California Adventure, head to Pixar Pal-A-Round.
The Ferris wheel offers both swinging and non-swinging gondolas, allowing guests to choose the experience that suits them best.
Explore the Pixar-Themed Details
Pixar Pier is filled with colorful signs, character references, and design details inspired by Pixar’s animated films.
Even if you’re not planning to ride every attraction, walking along the waterfront and exploring the themed areas can be an enjoyable part of your day.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Games of Pixar Pier
How many games are at Pixar Pier?
There are four carnival games: La Luna Star Catcher, Heimlich’s Candy Corn Toss, WALL-E Space Race, and Bullseye Stallion Stampede.
Are the Games of Pixar Pier included with park admission?
No. The games require an additional payment, separate from admission to Disney California Adventure Park.
Can you win prizes at the Games of Pixar Pier?
Yes. Guests can win Pixar-themed prizes, including plush toys. The available prizes and winning requirements vary by game and may change over time.
Are the Games of Pixar Pier suitable for toddlers?
Young children can enjoy watching the games, but some challenges may be difficult for toddlers to complete independently. Parents should consider each child’s abilities before purchasing credits.
Where are the Games of Pixar Pier?
The games are located along Pixar Promenade in Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, California.
Do you need a Lightning Lane reservation for the Games of Pixar Pier?
No. The Games of Pixar Pier are individual pay-to-play carnival games and do not use the Lightning Lane reservation system.
Can you play all four games?
Yes, guests can try all four games when they are operating. Each game requires its own payment or game credit.
Make the Games of Pixar Pier Part of Your Disneyland Vacation
Between the thrilling attractions, colorful waterfront scenery, and beloved Pixar characters, Pixar Pier is one of the most entertaining areas of Disney California Adventure Park.
The Games of Pixar Pier add another dimension to the experience by giving visitors the opportunity to participate in classic carnival challenges with a Pixar twist.
Whether you’re racing against your family at WALL-E Space Race, testing your aim at Heimlich’s Candy Corn Toss, or trying to win a plush souvenir, the midway games offer a fun change of pace from the park’s larger attractions.
If you’re planning a Disneyland Resort vacation, staying close to the parks can make it easier to enjoy everything on your itinerary.
Best Western Plus Park Place Inn & Mini Suites is located directly across the street from the Disneyland Resort’s main pedestrian entrance, making it easy to walk to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.
With comfortable accommodations, spacious mini suites, and a convenient location, the hotel provides a great home base for families exploring the Disneyland Resort.
After a full day of rides, games, shows, and character encounters, you’ll appreciate having your hotel just a short walk away.
Explore rooms and plan your Disneyland vacation at Best Western Plus Park Place Inn & Mini Suites.
