Rick, they decided not to blow up the buildings around New Orleans Square. Instead, they have two separate water blasters in the river that go off when they shoot the cannon. It's quite impressive, actually. Took me by surprise the first time I saw it.
One of my favourite passtimes, when the heat of the day begins to wear, is to sit on the jetty and watch Big Thunder rattle along the tracks across the river or watch as the Riverboat gracefully paddles by.
Can there be many better places to take a step back and view Disneyland or MK ?
I haven't been to the island in years. Not since my kids were little. I will give it another try soon. Any word on the reported New Orleans Square cannon shots? I seem to remember reading that they were planning a thematic cannon shot. Shoot a cannon on the island and bring down a tower in the Square. Thought it was a great idea.
Try the restaurant for breakfast or brunch. Good selection and great food.