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50 Disneyland Tips For 2024 (Listed By Category)

A trip to the happiest place on earth is always exciting, but the anticipation of planning in the weeks leading up can also be an integral part of your Disneyland experience. Whether this is your first visit to Disneyland or your hundredth, we have plenty of tips that will make your park experience as smooth and convenient as possible.

We will focus on the 50 key Disneyland tips for making your experience amazing, breaking these down by category: preparedness, rides, food, kids, navigating the offerings of the park, and fun. If you just planned a Disneyland trip and want to do some research to make sure everything goes perfectly, be sure to read our top 50 crucial Disneyland tips below for everything you need to know!

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In this planning guide:

Preparedness Disneyland Tips

First, we will share some tips to prepare for your day at the park! Some of these are things that you might forget about or not consider when visiting Disneyland.

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1. Make sure you pack everything you need . From sunscreen to snacks, bandaids, and more, make sure that you account for everything that you might need for your trip. This doesn't need to take up much room, as there are several smaller items that will make your Disneyland trip run more smoothly. While packing needs may differ per party, you can check out our ultimate Disneyland packing list for a breakdown of everything that will be helpful for your day at the park.

2. Avoid the times of year when Disneyland is the most crowded . During school breaks, holidays, and three-day weekends, the park tends to be the busiest. If you want to avoid long lines and crowds, be sure consult our Disneyland crowd calendar . There are still certain months when you can enjoy seasonal offerings during summer, Halloween, and Christmas without falling victim to huge crowds, which we break down in our guide to the best months and specific dates to visit Disneyland .

3. Bring a charger for your phone . Especially if you're utilizing Genie+ and the Disneyland app in general to keep track of wait times, mobile ordering, park experiences, and more, you need to make sure your phone doesn't run out of battery. You can either bring a charger and plug it into an outlet or utilize a portable charger to carry with you as you wait in lines and explore the park. CLICK HERE for a link to our favorite portable charger we bring on every trip . If you forget your portable charger, don't worry, as these are available for purchase at Disneyland.

4. Know where to find the best discount Disneyland tickets. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance, and you can get the best prices through our travel partner and authorized ticket re-seller, Get Away Today. Get Away Today is committed to providing their customers with the best prices for Disneyland tickets out there. They price-match competitor prices through their Best Price, Best Service Guarantee and offer incredible customer service, on call to help you before and during your vacation. Be sure to buy your tickets and hotel nights through our exclusive Mickey Visit link ! They also have discounts on the best hotels near Disneyland .

5. Know the best airport to fly into. While LAX offers the most flight options, we recommend flying from John Wayne Airport (SNA) to Disneyland if you are able. This airport is smaller and easier to navigate than other options, and it's also the closest airport to Disneyland. From here, we recommend getting an Uber for a quick ride to Disneyland. You can read more about details for the best ways to get from John Wayne Airport (SNA) to Disneyland in our guide.

6. Wear comfortable clothes . While it's tempting to don the not-so-comfy photo-perfect outfit for your Disneyland day, keep in mind that you'll be wearing this through lots of walking and potentially warm weather. Clothes that are breathable and comfortable walking shoes are a must! Also, remember to bring layers like a light jacket, as it can get slightly chilly at nights when watching the shows or walking around.

7. Get to the Disneyland gate 30-45 minutes before opening. Getting up a little earlier than you'd like will pay off, as you'll be able to enjoy the quieter morning hours when waits for popular rides are shorter. Many days, the parks open before their scheduled opening time, so you'll be prepared for this if you arrive early. Be sure to use our Disneyland morning strategy and Disney California Adventure morning strategy .

8. Note where you parked your car! It's so easy to forget where you parked, so you can either take a picture, write down where you parked in your notes, or drop a pin in your car’s location so that you can remember where your car is at the end of the day. The Disneyland app (read our guide) also has an easy car locator feature that is easy to use.

9. Download games to play on your phone as you wait in lines. You can download the Play Disney Parks app (which has lots of great trivia and games designed for single-players or large groups), try our daily Mickeyrdle (a Wordle-inspired Disney game), or download any other mobile game to keep busy. Try to look at options ahead of time so that you don't have to worry about downloading apps while you're on the move! We love the Heads Up game.

10. Bring a poncho for water rides . These are also offered at the park, but if you'd like to get out ahead of things, you can buy one ahead of time. Our favorite ponchos linked here . I promise, it's no fun walking around in soaking clothes all day if you decide to ride Grizzly River Run in the morning. You won't walk away completely dry, but you'll definitely be more comfortable. Note – Splash Mountain is currently being transformed into Tiana's Bayou Adventure .

11. Do your research to see what seasonal offerings will be at Disneyland when you visit. From riding Soarin' Over California during the Food and Wine Festival at California Adventure in the spring to checking out the themed treats offered at Disneyland during Christmas , be sure to make a list of everything you want to see and experience so you don't miss anything. Read our full Disneyland calendar for happenings every month .

12. Have a plan for transportation to and from Disneyland . While Disneyland is designed as a pedestrian park, you'll want to account for the time it take for you to travel to and from your hotel. You can utilize the ART shuttle bus or account for the time it takes to walk to Disneyland from your hotel so that it doesn't bleed into the valuable morning hours right after park opening. You want to be at the parks at least 45 minutes before official park opening.

Tips for Rides at Disneyland

One of the best parts of any Disneyland experience is the moment when you're about to step on your first ride. We'll talk about some tips for making the most of Disneyland's iconic ride offerings!

13. Be sure that everyone in your party goes on the top attraction they want to ride . Plan ahead by asking everyone what they're looking forward to, and this will ensure your group is happy and satisfied during your park day. On a similar note, if someone doesn't want to ride a certain attraction, you can help make a plan for what they'll be doing during the time the rest of the group is riding. Perhaps another member of your party also isn't wild about a certain attraction, so they could spend that time together getting a treat or meeting characters, etc. Check out our Disneyland 1-day itinerary and Disney California Adventure 1-day itinerary .

14. Take advantage of Single Rider , which allows you to split from your party and fill in individual spaces on rides that aren't occupied by stand-by line guests. At Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, Single Rider is offered for several rides, which you can read more about in our guide to Disneyland Single Rider lines . We recommend this trick for Radiator Springs Racers in particular, as it can dramatically minimize your wait time.

15. Use Genie+ to skip long lines . Disneyland's Genie+, a paid service that replaced the old FastPass and MaxPass services, offers Lightning Lanes that allow you to skip the lines for select attractions in both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. Lightning Lanes are offered for the most popular attractions, and you can select return times that will allow you to bypass the long wait time once per ride each day of your visit. You can read more information about pricing and tips for making the most out of the Genie+ service in our guide to Disneyland Genie+ .

16. Know when to buy Individual Lightning Lanes for rides . Individual Lightning Lanes provide you with the option to skip long lines for an additional fee per person, offered at an a la carte rate for the most popular rides at the park, and they are not included with the purchase of Genie+. There are certain rides that we recommend buying Individual Lightning Lanes for, like Rise of the Resistance, while you can get away with a very short wait for rides like Radiator Springs Racers using Single Rider. You can read our guide to Disneyland Individual Lightning Lanes for a full breakdown of pros and cons of purchasing Individual Lightning Lanes per ride offered, costs, and more.

17. You can request specific rows for rides . You will need to wait slightly longer, and of course, be respectful to the Cast Member helping you. My favorite rows are the front of the Incredicoaster and Space Mountain (some people love the very back row too!) and Row 1 Concourse B (center section) of Soarin'. Personally, I really love the experience of an unobstructed ride view for these three attractions.

18. Be conscious of your battery while on underground rides . On underground rides, your phone battery will be drained more quickly while searching for a cellular signal, so putting it in Airplane Mode can help combat this. I'll often put my phone on Low-Power mode on rides in general or during periods when I know I won't be using it often.

19. Attractions don't close right when the park closes. When the park closes, the lines to these attractions will cut off new guests, but you can still join the queue before official park closing. This is helpful to keep in mind for riding popular attractions late at night with often shorter wait times. Pick an attraction to end your night with by hopping in line right before the cutoff. During this period, Disneyland Cast Members work hard to get everyone on the line quickly so everyone can go home. There is also minimal, if any, Genie Plus line at this hour so the standby line moves quickly.

20. Some of the attractions take on-ride photos, which will be shown on a screen as you are walking out. Know which rides offer these (currently Space Mountain at Disneyland and Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!, the Incredicoaster, and Radiator Springs Racers at Disney California Adventure). Be sure to strike a pose for these! They occur near the end of the ride. Grab the code from these an add them to your app. Currently, Disneyland is sharing complimentary digital downloads of these photos for guests at no charge.

Tips for Navigating Disneyland's Offerings

21. Know where the Disneyland parade starts. Watching from the point the show is starting from means that you'll be done viewing it before everyone else and at the actual start time. The first parade of the day will start back by “it's a Small World” and the second parade will start in Disneyland Town Square near the entrance of the park. The parade can take up to 20 minutes to reach your spot if you are sitting at the far end of the parade route from where the performance begins.

22. Don't be afraid to take a break during the day. One of the biggest rookie mistakes you can make at Disneyland is neglecting to take the time you need to rest for the second part of your day. You can stop by the hotel and take a nap, swim in the pool, start a Disney movie, or find a dining option outside of Disneyland to get a break from the park chaos. That way, everyone in your party will be well-rested and ready to tackle the nighttime offerings and attractions. We'll talk about a few of our favorite locations to take a break below!

23. Watch shows later in the day to escape the busier park crowds that form during peak hours . This applies to both parades and shows, as they provide you with a nice rest from the crowds while still soaking in all of the Disney magic. Right now, you can enjoy the new Marvel-themed Rogers: The Musical in Disney California Adventure .

24. Visit the Animation Building for a nice break . At the Animation Academy, you can draw Disney characters, chat with Crush in the Turtle Talk With Crush show, and explore The Beast's Library and test to see which Disney character you are. This is a great way to take a breath and relax before returning to the excitement of the rest of the park.

25. Go to the Grand Californian Hotel lobby to relax. The Hearthstone Lounge has a great atmosphere, and you can stop for a drink and a snack here. You can read more recommendations for quiet places to take a breather in our list of relaxing places at Disneyland.

26. Don't neglect the live shows offered at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure! From the mini-shows offered in Disney California Adventure's Avengers Campus to the Enchanted Tiki Room, make sure to explore all of these offerings. These shows always provide spectacularly high-quality entertainment! You can read more about the top 10 shows at the Disneyland Resort you shouldn’t miss in our guide.

Tips For Families With Kids at Disneyland

We'll cover some tips for visiting Disneyland with kids so that your family has the safest and most enjoyable experience possible!

27. Try not to promise your kids they'll see a certain character in case the one you promised doesn't show up in the park that day. To avoid disappointment, it's better to avoid any promises, as you never know for sure which characters will appear. Be sure to read our guide to character meet-and-greets at Disneyland to see the characters you can find at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure listed by land.

28. Be sure to check height restrictions before your trip . Look ahead of time to see if your child is tall enough for certain rides. On a similar note as the above, it will be disappointing for kids to anticipate going on a certain ride for the first time and then be turned away based the height requirement. You can read more about this in our guide to Disneyland height requirements and Rider Switch , the latter of which we will discuss more below.

29. Take advantage of Rider Switch . This allows an adult in the group to wait with a child who is not tall enough to ride while the other rides the attraction, then they switch. This way, the child is always supervised and both adults get to experience the ride. You can read our guide to Disneyland Rider Switch here .

30. Utilize the baby care centers at Disneyland. If your party has a baby with you on the trip, you can use the baby care centers at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure that are fully stocked with everything you may need, from nursing chairs to diapers and baby food from vending machines. There is also medicine available here. Read our guide to finding medicine at Disneyland for more specific tips on this.

31. Establish an emergency meeting point in case your party gets separated, and make sure it's very specific. This way, if your child gets lost, they will know exactly where to meet you with a Cast Member. For more information, be sure to check out our guide with tips to avoid losing kids at Disneyland .

32. Bring your own stroller if you can. The ones you rent from Disneyland can only be used in the park, so you can't use them to go back and forth between your hotel, which can make for some problems at the end of the day. Read our guide to Disneyland stroller rentals for a full breakdown of your options when visiting Disneyland!

Food Tips for Disneyland

Dining is an integral part of the Disneyland experience, and we have several tips to help you save money and make the most out of dining experiences while at the park.

33. Make dining reservations ahead of time . Not only is this extremely important in ensuring you have a spot at your preferred dining location, but it also gives you an extra thing to look forward to for your trip. Especially for very popular experiences, make sure you're ready at the 60 day mark to make reservations. You can read more in our top five tips for getting Disneyland dining reservations and Disneyland restaurant reviews and dining tips .

34. Know you can order kids menu items from Quick Service restaurants . Even though the kids menu items have recommended ages, you can order these at counter service restaurants in Disneyland. The smaller portion sizes are perfect for lighter eaters or those who get full easily and don't want a bigger meal.

35. Another option is to split meals with someone else in your party if you're a lighter eater. My family did this for the Food and Wine Festival, and it was definitely worth it to be able to try several of the foods without overeating!

36. You can bring your own food and snacks into Disneyland . There are certain conditions surrounding this, like no loose ice in coolers, so make sure you pack something like a sandwich that doesn't need to be reheated. You can read more about details in our guide to bringing food into Disneyland .

37. Bring a refillable water bottle . There are locations across Disneyland where you can refill these, which you can find on the Disneyland app under “Bottle-Filling Stations.” You can also find these locations on the Disneyland website . There are less stations in Disney California Adventure (one in Avengers Campus and one at Eureka Fitness Center in Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa).

38. We recommend not eating breakfast at the park. Because the morning time at the parks is so valuable with lower crowds and shorter wait times for popular rides, we recommend getting breakfast at your hotel (or if you're in the area, at home). For all other meals, we recommend eating in the park due to the amazing variety of options offered. For more tips on how to make the most of your mornings, be sure to read our Disneyland morning touring strategy .

39. Mobile order though the Disneyland app . You can see which locations offer mobile ordering through the Disneyland app, and this is an effective way to bypass long food lines. You can mobile order while waiting in line for a ride and then walk right up to the counter to get your food without the wait!

40. Try Character Dining, which can be a great guaranteed way to meet characters during your Disneyland visit. There are a few different options offered for character dining, with most in the Disney Resort Hotels and one in the park. Be sure to read our guide to Disneyland Character Dining for our reviews of the different experiences and tips!

41. Mix it up with your dining and try new food locations . While it's tempting to stick to the same routine, don't ignore the variety of options offered at the parks, from snacks to sit-down dining locations. If you've been wanting to try that Black Caf Cold Brew at Galaxy's Edge or have never enjoyed a Mickey cream cheese pretzel, go for it! You might find a new favorite.

42. Consider a dining package for shows.  If your priority is securing great viewing for shows like Fantasmic! or World of Color, you can get two birds with one stone by buying a dining package for these experiences. There are several dining package options offered for the shows at Disney California Adventure and Disneyland, which you can read about in our guide to Disneyland dining packages .

Fun Tips for Disneyland

Now that we've covered some of the major tips important for planning your Disneyland trip, we'll go through some fun tips that can enhance your experience!

43. Ride an outdoor attraction at night when the fireworks are going off . Big Thunder Mountain is a fan-favorite option for this, as you get a completely unique seat for the fireworks show as you go racing by. Especially for guests who have already experienced rides multiple times, this is a special and memorable way to experience them. Recently, Disney just started running the Incredicoaster during World of Color . Seeing the show from this angle enhances the ride and show.

44. Keep an eye out for the Disneyland cats ! There are about 200 feral cats, cared for by Cast Members, who roam around Disneyland and help keep the rodent population in check. Look for them during the day, as you may spot one emerge for a brief moment although many stay hidden.

45. Try a new ride or revisit and old one! It's easy to get into a routine where you ride the same attractions every visit to Disneyland. Branch out a bit and go on an underrated or nostalgic ride you've been passing up.

46. Accidentally popped Disney balloons can be replaced . If you bring evidence of your popped Disneyland balloon to a balloon vendor, they will provide you with a new one.

47. Look for Hidden Mickeys around the park . These are hidden Mickey Mouse heads that Disney Imagineers sprinkled throughout the park that are incorporated into the architecture. Be sure to read our guide to Hidden Mickeys at Disneyland for a full breakdown of what they are and where to find them. You can also spot the entrance to the exclusive Club 33 .

48. Don't let the rain get you down! Rainy days can make for excellent park experiences, as crowds tend to be smaller with Southern California locals deterred from visiting.

49. Try out pin trading.  You can buy a base set of pins in bulk for trading, then find Cast Members with pin lanyards or other guests willing to trade at the park. This is a fun activity that allows you to collect Disney-themed pins of attractions, characters, and parks! Be sure to read more about this activity in our guide to pin trading at Disneyland .

50. Be sure to leave room for spontaneity. While it is tempting to try to plan your Disneyland trip down to the minute, keep an open mind in case something unexpected pops up. If you're walking towards a ride and become captivated by the parade, you can always find a viewing spot out of the way of foot traffic and enjoy the show for a few minutes. Don't let your plan get in the way of what your interests might be in the moment!

Plan your Disneyland Vacation Today

To get started planning your Disney vacation, make sure you subscribe to our FREE Deals newsletter . Here, you will receive helpful information to plan your trip, including exclusive Disney deals, breaking Disney news, reviews of the best hotels, restaurants, and Disney experiences, and access to the lowest priced Disney tickets anywhere. Make sure to check out our other planning guides here:

• Discount Disneyland Ticket Deals 2024: Get Cheap Tickets Here!
• 60+ Best Walt Disney Quotes to Inspire You
• Best Hotels Near Disneyland 2024: Disneyland Hotel Reviews to Help Plan Your Stay

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About Emily Midgley

Emily Midgley is a writer from San Diego, California. She was introduced to Disneyland when she was two and has been in love with all things Disney ever since! At Mickey Visit, she will keep you updated with the latest news from the Disney Parks and provide helpful planning content for your vacation. Her favorite rides at Disneyland are Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout, Space Mountain, and Rise of the Resistance. She loves Marvel (especially Guardians of the Galaxy) and lives and breathes anything to do with Star Wars.

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2024 Disneyland Planning Guide

Our Disneyland vacation planning guide covers what’s new & next in 2024, when to visit to avoid crowds, best restaurants, hotels in Anaheim, money-saving ticket tips, Halloween & Christmas in the parks, and more. It’s a great resource for first-timers to Southern California or lifelong WDW fans. (Updated March 4, 2024.)

Let’s start with all of the latest updates. Disney has released the Full Seasonal Events Calendar for 2024 at Disneyland , which includes the following:

• DCA Food & Wine Festival (now through April 22, 2024)
• Star Wars Season of the Force (April 5 to June 2, 2024)
• Pixar Fest (April 26 to August 4, 2024)

Disney has also shared that Halloween 2024 at Disneyland will start early (August 23), which likely means Oogie Boogie Bash Party dates beginning earlier. Conversely, Christmas 2024 at Disneyland will start later than normal (November 15), which is unexpected given the popularity of the holiday season. Those are the big things for the 2024 calendar at Disneyland, but there’s a ton more to cover…

From a planning perspective, the big newish thing is Genie+ and Lightning Lanes, which are essentially paid FastPass, for those who were familiar with that. It’s important to understand how this works and whether you should buy Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lanes before you visit Disneyland.

Everything you need to know, including ride priorities, where it’s NOT necessary to buy Genie+ or Lightning Lanes, and much more is covered in our Guide to Genie+ and Lightning Lanes at Disneyland and DCA . That’s regularly updated to include the latest price increases and additions to the Lightning Lane ride roster–both of which have changed in the last few months.

We’ve used Genie+ and Lightning Lanes many times, and cover our experiences and strategy there. If you’re a Walt Disney World regular, the good news is that Genie+ is much easier to use at Disneyland. We’d recommend definitely recommend that guide to get a sense for how to use it and priorities–and would also advise having savvy strategy for Early Entry (if eligible) and rope drop plans. Other than that, you don’t need to overthink things. Genie+ makes visiting Disneyland and DCA so much easier.

Regardless of whether you end up buying the Genie+ paid line-skipping, you’ll want to make the decision ahead of time, and plan your strategy accordingly to either get the most mileage out of Genie+ or have an efficient itinerary that finds alternatives for beating the crowds. (Our strong recommendation is to purchase Genie+ for at least one day. If cost is an issue, trim the ‘fat’ from your vacation budget somewhere else.)

Disneyland has been relatively busy in the last couple of years, which is precisely why we recommend buying the Genie+ service to save time waiting in line. It hasn’t been all bad–and it does appear that “revenge travel” is starting to exhaust itself. However, not nearly to the same degree as Walt Disney World. It’s still varying degrees of busy–just slightly less busy than last year.

Our expectation is that pent-up demand continues to die down in 2024. The holiday season hasn’t been bonkers busy across the board–there was a post-Thanksgiving and early December lull for pretty much the first time in the post-reopening period. It  feels like Disneyland is on the precipice of returning to a pre-2020 level of normal crowd dynamics, but we’ve thought this before only to have things get crazy again.

To that point, choosing less busy dates is incredibly important and that’ll continue to be the case even if pent-up demand fizzles out. Our totally free 2024 Disneyland Crowd Calendars offer day by day guides as to when the parks will be least busy and busiest. These crowd calendars are influenced by a variety of factors, including marketing, discounts, park hours, new attraction openings, special events, Anaheim Convention Center events, and even weather (good or bad). We strive to keep our Disneyland crowd calendars updated to reflect changes in attendance trends.

We’re able to keep on top of all the changing crowd patterns and additions because we are Magic Key Passholders who reside in Southern California. Typically, we visit Disneyland and DCA at least once per week to refine this guide and provide you the best info.

In addition to park visits, we do frequent hotel stays, lots of eating, and field testing of Genie+ and Lightning Lanes as well as other itineraries and strategy for beating lines at the parks. Emphasis on typically since this past year has been a bit atypical and slower-paced for us as we our family grew in size. Suffice to say, expect more posts like Baby Bricker’s First Visit to Disneyland in 2024!

But enough about us. Suffice to say, we’re at Disneyland and DCA frequently, and have planning updates and news to share on a regular basis. If you want to receive updates when discounts are released, new things are announced, etc., sign up to receive our free Disney email newsletter , which covers Disneyland plus Walt Disney World and the international parks.

Before we get to the nuts and bolts of Disneyland vacation planning, let’s start with quick background. Disneyland is “Walt Disney’s original magic kingdom.” It’s the castle park that debuted in 1955 and paved the way for other such theme parks around the globe. Disneyland is the only park that Walt Disney himself set foot in and had an active role developing. Beyond its historical legacy that makes it a California institution, Disneyland is incredibly attraction-dense, with enough rides to fill two full days or more (if you’re so inclined).

Directly across from Disneyland is Disney California Adventure (DCA), the second gate of Disneyland Resort. DCA is ostensibly inspired by the Golden State, but is more just a catch-all park with some attractions having a vague California connection and others being driven by Marvel, Pixar, and other Disney franchises.

In addition to the Disneyland and Disney California Adventure theme parks, Disneyland Resort is home to Downtown Disney and three official hotels. Downtown Disney is a shopping, dining and entertainment district just outside the two parks. The aforementioned resorts are Pixar Place Hotel, Disneyland Hotel, and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel–which is directly connected to DCA. The entirety of Disneyland Resort is walkable, with no transportation aside from your feet needed to get anywhere within the property.

Now let’s dig into planning, starting with what’s new and next at Disneyland Resort…

What’s New & Next at Disneyland

Beyond the aforementioned substantive additions, there are smaller ‘experience improvements’ at Disneyland. Specifically, the start of Park Hopping has been moved forward to 11 am; this makes it easier to switch parks for lunch.

There are also a handful of new on-site perks for hotel guests, the best of which is Early Entry. See our Guide to Early Entry at Disneyland for what you need to know about this pre-park opening access to Disneyland and DCA. (Note that Early Entry is now every other day for each park as of 2024; it was previously in both parks every day of the week.)

Additionally, PhotoPass digital photo downloads of on-ride photos are now free for all guests on the Disneyland app. This includes attraction photos captured on Radiator Springs Racers, Space Mountain, Incredicoaster, Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout, and more.

In terms of new rides, the biggest relatively recent addition is Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and its two attractions, Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. The latter is Disneyland’s biggest blockbuster addition since 1995, a modern masterpiece of Imagineering that is immensely popular and well-worth the multi-hour waits.

Over at Disney California Adventure, the most recent expansion is the Avengers Campus Marvel Land. This features one ride, one restaurant, meet & greets, and shopping. It’ll also showcases a Stuntronics Spider-Man, which is a sight to behold.

The Magic Happens daytime parade is also back, and not to be missed. We recommend catching the parade’s first performance from the end of Main Street on the back side of the flagpole. Alternatively, the west side of Main Street will offer shade; welcome reprieve from the sun and heat during the summer months.

Then there are the nighttime shows. Mickey’s Mix Magic is back, and has a couple of separate runs in the first half of the year. In between, fan-favorite Magic Journeys will be shown during the heart of the spring break season. In Summer 2024, Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular returns for Pixar Fest.

Also coming back from another year-plus hiatus is Fantasmic, which will be presented in modified form on the Rivers of America once again. See the 2024 Disneyland Entertainment Schedule for the dates of what’s returning and what’s missing.

Two of the biggest additions for 2024 at Disneyland are at the hotels. Late last year, the brand-new Discovery Tower opened at Disneyland Hotel. This is the new Disney Vacation Club wing, which can also be booked by cash-paying guests. Although they’re all technically part of the same resort, there’s a night-and-day difference between the DVC and hotel towers. See our Photo Tour of the Villas at Disneyland Hotel for more on the new tower.

In early 2024, Disney Imagineers completed an overhaul of Paradise Pier Hotel into Pixar Place Hotel. So here, it’s a matter of the same “bones” of the hotel, but with a fresh coat of paint ( and much more ). This project was truly transformative, breathing new life into the aging tower hotel. (In other hotel news, special offers are currently available:  2024 Discounts on Hotels of Disneyland Resort .)

If you’re curious about the specifics of other additions on the horizon, consult our What’s New & Next for Disneyland in 2024 . This gives you an idea of when you might want to visit if you’re still choosing dates, trying to find the best time in terms of special events, new rides, and more.

More is coming in 2024 and beyond, but those are the main things to know. Now, let’s get down to business: what you need to plan a Disneyland vacation…

When to Visit Disneyland

The single most important part of planning a trip to Disneyland is determining when to visit. As mentioned above, crowds are a big component of this, but should not be the sole determining factor. Weather, seasonal events, pricing, and other variables are all important.

To that point, our we also have the Best & Worst Months to Visit Disneyland list, which ranks every month of the year. Even more to the point, this covers our 3 favorite weeks of the year to take a Disneyland trip. That’s more qualitative, and thus can more useful than crowd calendars for many Disneyland planners.

Again, our crowd calendars and month by month ranking resources have been updated to take into account changing attendance patterns brought on by Magic Keys, make-up travel, discounted SoCal tickets, returning entertainment, and more. Crowds have already changed, and we will continue to monitor and update accordingly in the future. Just be warned that crowd calendars are less reliable right now due to pent-up demand, capacity limits, and everything else.

As for seasonal events, we have two favorite times to do Disneyland. We highly recommend Halloween, which is our #2 time of the year at Disneyland. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Disneyland at Halloween for reasons why, and assistance planning a trip during that specific timeframe.

We’re already looking forward to the return of Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party , which will be back for Fall 2024 ( and probably late summer! ). That’s a hard ticket event, meaning that tickets to it cost extra; you do not need  to attend Oogie Boogie Bash to have a great time during the Halloween season at Disneyland, but we recommend it to anyone who is willing and able to splurge–especially fans of rare characters ( and villains! ).

Our favorite time of year at Disneyland–by a wide margin–is the holiday season. Unlike Halloween, there is no Christmas hard ticket event, meaning that everything is included with the price of regular admission. This means holiday fireworks, special parades, decorations, attraction overlays, entertainment, and so much more.

You could literally spend multiple full days focused exclusively on the seasonal offerings at Disneyland during the holiday season. Read our Ultimate Guide to Disneyland at Christmas to learn more about what makes this time of year so special–and see photos of the parks in all of their Christmas glory!

Finally, before solidifying your travel dates, you’ll also want to check out our 2024 Disneyland Refurbishment Calendar to make sure any must-do attractions won’t be closed for renovations during your visit.

We typically do not recommend relying heavily on the refurbishment calendar. While Disneyland provides advance notice of most major multi-month closures, that’s not always the case. Some are scheduled last minute for necessary repairs or preventative maintenance. Short projects are sometimes scheduled at the last minute, and unannounced downtime (due to breakdowns or other issues) can also impact attractions.

Our biggest piece of advice with regard to refurbishments is not to visit in January or February if a high number of ride closures will negatively impact your trip. Winter is typically Disneyland’s refurbishment season, with many attractions going down for annual maintenance after the holidays.

Where to Stay

There are a ton of options in terms of where to stay near Disneyland: Good Neighbor Hotels, official Disney resorts, nearby hotels within driving distance, sprawling resorts in nearby beach towns, and more. In  Best Hotels Near Disneyland , we cover our top 10 picks for hotels within walking distance of the parks, with 5 family-friendly budget options, 3 luxury resorts, and 2 Disney-owned hotels. That’s a concise resource if you don’t want to comb through our more comprehensive hotel info.

For most vacation planners, the decision comes down to choosing among Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa ( our favorite! ), Disneyland Hotel (second favorite), and Pixar Place Hotel, or one of the cheaper hotels on Harbor Boulevard. We cover the pros and cons of each choice in our Where to Stay at Disneyland: Off-Site v. On-Site Hotels post.

If you’re looking for something more thorough, we’ve stayed at every on-site Disneyland hotel and most of the Good Neighbor Disneyland hotels and other off-site hotels within walking distance of the Disneyland Esplanade.

All of these are covered in our Rankings & Reviews of the Best & Worst Hotels Near Disneyland . This post ranks ~60 hotels near Disneyland at which we have stayed, along with room photos, pros & cons, and other useful information. That also details how to score a good deal on a hotel that’s close to Disneyland.

Fair warning: those comprehensive rankings can be overwhelming. We do a lot of hotel stays in Anaheim and report on them; most of that’s overkill for planners–you just need to know which ones are the ‘hotel hell’ options (bottom of the list) to avoid at all costs and the best ones to book (top of the list). If you’ve already booked accommodations, you might also want to search the list to see where your selected hotel ranks!

Park Tickets

Our Money-Saving Guide to Disneyland Tickets is a huge resource with recommendations on what type of Disneyland tickets you should buy, including how many days, whether you should get Park Hopper, and where you can buy Disneyland tickets to save some money.

There are some great offers right now–we recommend bundling park tickets and your hotel stay to save even more, especially with the 3rd and 4th night free specials at hotels near Disneyland . These package deals can save you a lot of money.

For the vast majority of guests visiting Disneyland, we recommend the Park Hopper ticket option. This allows you to bounce back and forth between the two parks throughout the day, which is easy to do given that their about a football field apart.

The practical upsides of this is starting at the park that opens first and ending your night at the park open later (Disneyland is often open 2 hours later than Disney California Adventure). You can also eat in the park with the dining options you prefer, grab a beer in DCA (there’s no alcohol in Disneyland outside of Oga’s Cantina in Star Wars Land), and enjoy the nighttime spectaculars in both parks.

If you’re a local or just a big diehard Disney fan planning to make multiple trips in a single year, Magic Key Annual Passes are also an option. Some tiers of these APs have already sold out, but others remain available for purchase. See our Guide to Magic Keys at Disneyland: 2024 Prices, Perks, Blockout Dates & Discounts for more details.

Prior to moving to California, we were Disneyland AP holders while living in Indianapolis, Indiana followed by Orlando, Florida. We’d make several long weekend trips out to Disneyland each year, and the APs more than paid for themselves.

With that said, Annual Passes were  much  cheaper when we lived in the Midwest–a fraction of the current price–and we blogged about Disney by the time we moved to Central Florida. So our circumstances are a bit unique. Nevertheless, if you live in Nevada, Utah, or even Northern California…and can do a few long weekends each year, Magic Keys might make sense for you, too!

Disneyland Strategy & Itineraries

There are over 75 attractions between Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. On a normal day, the average guest will only experience 10-11 of those. It would thus take you at least 6 days to experience everything in the two theme parks, assuming you didn’t want to re-ride anything. Obviously, not many people are devoting over a week to their Disneyland vacation.

As such, we’ve developed a few step-by-step Disneyland touring plans, each of which will enable you to efficiently experience the parks, while also enjoying their leisurely offerings and atmosphere. More to the point, you’ll be able to do 20+ rides per day–and skip the ones not worth your time.

Here are our best and recommended itineraries:

• Disneyland 1-Day Itinerary – Only have one day to visit Disneyland? This is a step-by-step plan of attack for which attractions you should do, where you should eat, what to see, and more. This covers all of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including Rise of the Resistance.
• Disneyland 2-Day Itinerary – Same idea, but spread over two days. We recommend most guests allocate two full days to Disneyland.
• Disney California Adventure 1-Day Itinerary – Unlike Disneyland, DCA is easier to fully experience in a single day. This touring plan includes strategy for beating the crowds at Radiator Springs Racers, Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout, Web Slingers Spider-Man Adventure, and more!

We are currently working on additional multi-day itineraries for trips of 4+ days at Disneyland Resort. For now, if you plan on spending more time at DCA, consult our Disney California Adventure Ride Reviews & Guide . The article reviews every attraction at Disneyland, giving each a numerical score out of 10, plus highlights key attractions that we consider the best ones, which should be prioritized if you have limited time.

Our Disneyland Ride Reviews & Guide does the same thing for the castle park, in case you want to spend 3+ days there. (Which you totally could, especially now that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is open!)

Dining at Disneyland

Food is half the fun at Disneyland. Both parks have great restaurants, iconic snacks, decadent desserts, and great drinks. We typically go all-out when visiting the parks, doing breakfast at one of the hotels (or sometimes in the park), followed by a mid-morning snack, counter service lunch, and table service dinner.

The stereotype that all Disney food is unhealthy food like burgers and hot dogs is entirely false. Disneyland has inexpensive unique dining options as well as expensive fine dining. Good dining can help define a trip! To that end, we highly recommend checking out our List of the 23 Best Restaurants at Disneyland . Those are the places we dine the most, and recommend to friends visiting the parks. You’ll find several hidden gems on there, as well as explanations for why we’ve snubbed several hotspots.

If you want advice, food photos, and more about all restaurants, see our Disneyland Restaurant Reviews . (Honestly, we think that’s probably overkill for 95% of you. The ‘best of’ list above covers where you should do meals, and there are more lists below for bars, snacks, and desserts.)

Beyond full meals, we have a few resources that can help you plan memorable meals at Disneyland. If you have kids, we highly recommend consulting our Disneyland Character Dining Guide , which covers the best character buffets in the hotels and parks.

Looking for the best quick meals? Our Top 10 Disneyland Counter Service Restaurants list ranks the best meals in the castle park, while our Top 10 Disney California Adventure Counter Service Restaurants list offers the same for DCA.

Want to have fun with your food at Disneyland? Our Top 10 Delicious Desserts at Disneyland covers delicious treats, including some hidden gems, plus brand new items and recently-added restaurants in Downtown Disney!

If you’re into drinking, we also have posts about a few of our favorite lounges: Trader Sam’s , Lamplight Lounge , GCH Craftsman Bar , and Carthay Circle Restaurant . The last one is particularly noteworthy because–in addition to the lounge downstairs–the restaurant upstairs is the best in-park restaurant in either park.

Transportation

Should you fly or drive to Disneyland? Rent a car or use public transportation? What about getting around Southern California? There are a ton of questions you might have, and our Guide to Disneyland Transportation covers everything you need to know, answering these questions for you based on our first-hand experiences visiting Anaheim as tourists and living nearby as locals.

If you’ve already decided on flying to California but aren’t sure of the pros & cons of each option, check out our Guide to Airports Near Disneyland. That covers the strengths and weaknesses of the 5 airports in Southern California that are relatively convenient to Disneyland.

In a nutshell, our strong recommendation would be flying into SNA (or even LGB) over LAX. Even if the flight is a little more expensive, it’s worth it. Not only is SNA closer to Disneyland, but LAX has tons of chaos, construction, and crowds.

We like LAX and its eclectic energy, but it’s more than a little overwhelming for a first-timer. If you’ve never been to Southern California or a large city like Los Angeles, it can be a bit much and start your trip off on the wrong foot. Meanwhile, SNA is laid back and quiet. If there were a list ranking the best airports for napping, it would be near the top and LAX would be near the bottom.

In addition to this, SNA is much closer to Disneyland than LAX, which makes it easier to simply take an Uber or Lyft from the airport to wherever you’re staying near Disneyland. In most cases, we’d recommend rideshare over renting a car at the airport, as the vast majority of hotels near Disneyland now charge for parking. So not only will you be paying to rent the car, but also to park it.

The vast majority of hotels near Disneyland are within walking distance, so you won’t need a vehicle during the theme park portion of your trip to Southern California. If you’re staying at one of the hotels we recommend in Anaheim, it’s literally counterproductive to drive to Disneyland since the parking structures are all farther away than most of the nearby hotels.

If you’re venturing beyond Disneyland to one of the destinations discussed below–and we strongly recommend that you do–while visiting Southern California, our advice would be to book a rental car in Anaheim. There are numerous rental car companies within walking distance of Disneyland, and most offer one-way rentals to the nearby airports. Walk over to one of those on your checkout morning, pick up your rental car, and continue your California adventure!

We do not  recommend relying on rideshare if you’re heading to Los Angeles. However, if you’re doing Laguna Beach or another coastal community, a rental car may not be needed at all. Many coastal towns have free trolley service that is fantastic. Simply take an Uber or Lyft from Disneyland to wherever you’re staying in the beach cities.

Southern California BEYOND Disneyland

If you want to venture beyond theme parks, you’re in luck. Southern California is one of the best places in the world to visit! Thanks to Los Angeles, San Diego, and the beach cities in between, there’s a ton to do in the area.

In addition to this site, we have non-Disney blog: TravelCaffeine with resources for on an eclectic mix of the places where we’ve lived or visited extensively. California is one such emphasis, as we’ve spent a ton of time exploring our home state. If you’re planning on heading to LA after Disneyland, be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Los Angeles .

While LA is one of the greatest cities in the world, we’re particularly partial to Laguna Beach. It’s home to the best stretch of coast in California, has small-town charm and personality, and tons of things to do. To that point, see our  Ultimate Guide to Laguna Beach, California for extensive advice. If you feel overwhelmed by the idea of visiting Los Angeles, then Laguna Beach is for you!

In addition to these planning resources, we also give away a free eBook, 101 Things to Do in Southern California over on TravelCaffeine, so be sure to download that totally free resource!

If you’re thinking of visiting other theme parks in Southern California, we also have guides to those…

Universal Studios Hollywood Trip Planning Guide – In just a few years, USH has transformed and improved dramatically. The opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter was what really put the park on the map as a vacation destination, but many other additions have made this a great park in the last few years. Our favorite new attraction is Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash, a new family-friendly dark ride. (Read our review of it in Universal’s New Dark Ride Rivals Disney’s Best! )

The blockbuster new addition is Super Nintendo World. We love this land, and rate two of its biggest components in our Ride Review: Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge and our Review of Toadstool Cafe in Super Nintendo World . For practical planning advice, check out our comprehensive  Strategy Guide for Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood . That offers tips & tricks, how to beat the crowds, and a ton of other advice for making the most of your time in this incredible new land.

Aside from that, the Studio Tour is our favorite attraction, which is a 45-minute plus tram tour through the working backlot of Universal’s studio. If you are only interested in this Studio Tour, you might broaden your potential options beyond just USH, and also consider the Warner Brothers Studio Tour and Sony Pictures Studio Tour as alternatives.

Guide to Knott’s Berry Farm – An Orange County institution that proudly proclaims itself as “America’s 1st Theme Park.” Really, Knott’s is a tale of two theme parks. It has modern roller coasters and other fare for thrill-seekers. Thematically, this leaves a lot to be desired.

Then there are the quainter areas, reminiscent of Frontierland at Disneyland. We love these areas–and the park’s annual Boysenberry Festival. All things considered, we love both Knott’s Berry Farm and Universal Studios Hollywood, and together with Disneyland Resort, these four gates make for a great theme park vacation in Southern California!

Other Disneyland Planning Resources

Now that we’ve covered the essentials to ensure you have a great trip to Disneyland, we have a bunch of other resources that will guide you through the planning process to make your visit to Disneyland more enjoyable, helping you save time and money. Armed with all of this knowledge, you will have a much better vacation.

What to Pack – Packing for Disneyland is comparable to packing for any vacation, but with a few twists. Here’s our list of “unordinary” items to pack that will help enhance your Disneyland trip!

Guide to Downtown Disney – We sort of gloss over it here, but Downtown Disney is a massive area within Disneyland Resort’s security perimeter. You can easily leave either park and get to one of these restaurants for a meal…or some of the best ice cream you’ll ever have…in under 10 minutes.

Our 101 Best Disneyland Tips – This is not nearly as structured as our other advice, but these tips offer great advice and sometimes obscure little things that will help you visit the parks like a local. This is more granular advice than what you’ll find in our other planning articles, but we’ve had a lot of positive feedback from readers who really got a lot more out of their trips because of those tips.

Renting DVC Points to Save Money on Accommodations – This is written from a WDW perspective, but there are also Disney Vacation Club villas at the Grand Californian. Booking there can be a challenge (it’s incredibly popular), but you can save a ton of money if your timing is right and you get lucky.

Best Credit Cards for Disney Travel – Leveraging credit card rewards can be a great way of getting free airfare or hotel rooms, and there are several options near Disneyland that you can book for free thanks to signup bonuses.

Tips for Buying Discount Disney Gift Cards – Want to save at least 5% on every single thing you buy at Disneyland? These hacks are for you. Some are relatively simple and straightforward (like using the Target RedCard) while others require a bit more effort.

In general, there are a variety of ways you can save money on a trip to Disneyland. If you’re looking for the best way to save on an entire vacation package, many of our favorite hotels near Disneyland can be booked via Get Away Today at a discount . If you bundle tickets into your hotel stay, you’ll get an even better deal. You can check package prices here .

Between this blog and TravelCaffeine.com , you should be totally covered with what you need to know if you’re thinking about visiting Disneyland Resort and Southern California sometime in 2024. We can’t encourage people enough to give Disneyland a try, especially Disney fans who are biased towards Walt Disney World as their “home” park. Disneyland is a totally different, much more relaxed experience. It’s intimate in both size and feel, and is oozing with history and incredible attractions.

I could go on for pages and pages about why I love Disneyland, and why everyone owes it to themselves to visit Disneyland, but hopefully this is a good-enough jumping off point. If you’ve never been to either Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort, it’s a good place to start as we attempt to weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each in an unbiased manner. If all of this is still overwhelming or you want personalized recommendations for Disneyland Resort, click here to get a vacation quote from a no fee Authorized Disney Vacation Planner .

Your Thoughts

Are you planning a Disneyland Resort visit in 2024? Debating between Halloween and Christmas? Have you already visited Galaxy’s Edge and done Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance? What about Avengers Campus? Are you excited for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway or the reimagined Toontown? Thoughts on Genie+ and Lightning Lanes, where to stay, best restaurants and snacks, or anything else covered here? Have you previously visited Disneyland? Have any tips of your own to add? Any questions you still have that this guide did not answer? We really appreciate reader feedback and your thoughts, so please share in the comments below! 🙂

Written by Tom Bricker

I have been going to the Disneyland Resort with my daughters since they were four and six and I have enjoyed reading your blog as a planning guide that entire time. Now they’re 17 and 15! My question is I’ve always wondered if you have an opinion about what park to start at if you have a Park hopper tickets, and now since we need to reserve what park we start at, is there a preference one over the other? Maybe depending which has early entry is? We are not staying at a hotel that will have early entry, so should we try to not go to the park that has early entry or just ignore that? Any other comments about where to start your day with a hopper? Thanks and congratulations on your new family! You’ll discover how wonderful Disneyland is in a whole new way and as the years go by it only gets better!

Early Entry doesn’t move the needle that much since it’s such a small pool of guests.

Personally, I’m a big fan of starting at Disneyland if you’re into the Fantasyland dark rides, because it’s so easy to knock out a half-dozen of those in an hour, which is such a satisfying feeling. I also think that, due to greater ride density, Disneyland wait times build slower over the course of the morning, whereas DCA can get busy quickly.

That’s my very subjective take, though. If you want to do Radiator Springs Racers, Avengers Campus, or other high-profile rides in DCA, maybe that’s a better option than Disneyland for you.

It looks like we have a chance to visit Disneyland for the first time (as hard core WDW people) in April. Unfortunately it’s a very busy weekend (Apr 5-8) but I’ll take what I can get. We will buy Genie+ of course.. we will skip Galaxy’s Edge as we’ve done that many times in FL. Do you have a 2 day Itinerary for DL + DCA for people who are used to WDW? In other words – what are all the OG and unique to DL rides, and top 3 snacks/dining experiences? I’m thinking Lamplight Lounge for one meal and some snacks. It’s weird to feel like a noob with Disney since we are so familiar w/ WDW.

We have visited WDW many times. Most recently first week of December 2022. It was fantastic!! Thanks for your recommendation on the week. Thinking about a first time trip to Disneyland this year. Would like to catch some other area sights as well. How many days should we plan as first timers to the parks? Best place to stay when we likely won’t be back for a while. Thanks!

Thanks for the updated guide. Full of lots of great information as usual, and it’s nice to see more pictures of Sarah and Megatron! (And Tom of course.) We’re planning to go around November 10-12. Do you think Dapper Days combined with the start of the holiday season plus Veteran’s day will make it extra crowded? If so, any touring tips besides rope drop? We’re hopefully staying at the Grand so will have early entry.

Thank you so much for all your help. Had a great Disney experience thanks to you!

I’m wondering if you have a 1 day itinerary article that covers both Disneyland and DCA with park hopper. We only have 1 day to visit during this trip and we’re traveling with an infant so it does cut out on a bunch of high priority rides. We’re also diehard WDW people and have rode those attractions SEVERAL times so we’re ok with cutting out things like Galaxys edge, Toy story mania… there are a few rides we want to do without the baby, ie radiator springs racers and can utilize single rider or rider swap for those, but are most interested in original dark rides for a more nostalgic experience. Thanks for being such a great resource for planning research, your blogs have been more then helpful!

Hello, My name is Jenna Taylor, and I’m a travel writer. I was simply conducting some research for content ideas when I came across your site.

What can I do to obtain a do-follow link on your site? Would you be willing to accept a guest post on your blog? If that’s the case, can you please let me know how much you would charge?

Please let me know what you think and please contact me if there are any additional specifics!

Tom, appreciate all your work to put these guides out. Your site was a big help when our family first started going to Disney World back in 2015.

We’re looking at our first visit to Disneyland sometime in summer 2023. I saw mentioned in a few different places that weekends are worse than weekdays. Looking back at summer 2022, Friday-Sunday showed significantly lower wait times than Monday- Thursday (per Thrilldata). I’m assuming that had to do with Magic Key blackouts – would that pattern be expected to repeat in June/July 2023?

Excellent information and orientation! Kind regards.

Hello! So, I am one of those people who hate to compose trip itineraries. I LOVE to go, but hate to plan the details. Do you offer this as a service? My husband and I are planning to take our oldest 2 granddaughters (ages 6 & 8) to Disneyland in July 2023. We will be arriving on a Sunday, leaving on a Thursday. Your information on lodging, flying, the airport, and transportation is fantastic.

You will have an amazing time! One tip I don’t see that often that we have found very helpful every time we go with our now 9 year-old is that we generally take a break from the parks sometime after lunch, go for a swim, relax a bit have a snack or get an early dinner and then head back to the parks a bit refreshed. Also, stay hydrated, sunscreen and i usually pack some lollipops for long lines;) Have a wonderful time!

If you’re looking for an itinerary planning service, check out Melanie B on Instagram (the_disney_rn). I’ve never needed an itinerary other than Tom and Sarah’s tips, but I know many people love them! Melanie always has amazing advice as a local Disneyland fan, so I’m sure her itineraries would be super helpful to you 🙂

If I buy a five day hopper with genie plus through getaway today does it include photo pass service for every day or for just one day or what?

The best plan is to purchase Disneyland tickets at Ralph’s, Smart and Final, Raleys, Target, Cardenas, Superior and Super A. The tickets are sold through ScanIt where you find the giftcards. Scan the QR code, select your tickets, enter your email and a barcode is generated for purchase at the register. Reservations are really open right now!!

Also, Target is offering a $20 instant rebate right now if you buy their current promo in their stores!!

A really good option is to purchase your Disneyland tickets at the grocery store – Ralph’s, Smart and Final, Raleys, Target, Cardenas, Superior and Super A. The tickets are sold through ScanIt where you find the giftcards. Scan the QR code, select your tickets, enter your email and a barcode is generated. Purchase in store. You get your credit card grocery points this way – I get cash back for grocery!!! Plus at Ralph’s you get FUEL rewards. Disneyland currently is running their $83/day through September. Get in the grocery store! Reservations are really open right now!!

Do you have any recommendations or information about parking options for day visitors? We will be in the Anaheim area visiting family and I am hoping to do a 1 day visit to Disneyland. We will be staying about 20 minutes away at the Hyatt House in Cypress, as that is the location that is near the people we are visiting.

If you are doing a 1 day visit to Disneyland, your best bet would be to park at at the Mickey and Friends parking structure. That’s the main structure for the parks and it’s the best option for park visitors.

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Disneyland ® Resort Theme Park

Excludes 1- and 2-day tickets and SoCal Resident tickets. Expires 11:59 p.m. EST 4/7/24. Valid for travel through January 12, 2026, plus all tickets covered by our 365-day refund guarantee. Please see ticket details for full information.

• Disney Genie+ and Universal Express

40 Tips to Maximize Your Time at Disneyland

The Disney Genie service is available in the Disneyland app. Disney Genie+ is a paid service that replaced MaxPass (and FASTPASS). As the Genie+ gurus, we're sharing what we know about this tool, as well as how to maximize your time at Disneyland.

Also, you'll see Fantasmic! and World of Color mentioned a few times in this post. Fantasmic! is on refurbishment and returns May 24, 2024. World of Color refurbishment takes place Jan. 8 through Feb. 29, returning on March 1, 2024.

40 Disneyland Tips to Maximize Your Time

1. Buy Tickets Online

As soon as you receive your ticket order, book your Disneyland Park reservations to secure your dates. You'll need to pick the park you want to visit when you make your reservations. If park hopping, you'll choose the park you want to visit first. You can now park hop as early as 11 a.m.!

Don't purchase tickets at the ticket booth because if there aren't any reservations left that day, you will not get in. Also, when you buy tickets in advance, you'll save a lot of time (in addition to money) by going straight to the entrance. You won't have to spend any time in ticket booth lines. This can save you an hour on a busy day! For now, you'll want to purchase well in advance (up to 180 days). Buy them as soon as you can to lock in the lowest rate. Keep an eye out for our ticket sales and promos! There are some great child ticket rates for early 2024 and California resident promo tickets that can save you hundreds of dollars!

2. Pick the Best Times to Visit

While it's always a good time to visit Disneyland, there are times during the year that are better than others. Holidays, school schedules and local visitors have a big impact on Disneyland's schedule. Use this guide to determine the best time to visit Disneyland . Our Disneyland events guide can also fill you in on fun festivals and entertainment so you can plan your trip to experience them.

Here are two additional links you may find hopful  when planning your visit:

• Disneyland Park Availability Calendar  — This calendar allows you to make sure the park you want to visit is available on the day you want to visit (before you buy or start to reserve).
• Disneyland 1-Day Ticket Tier Calendar — Disneyland 1-Day tickets vary in price by day (from $104 to $194)! There are seven price tiers. Popular days such as weekends and holiday periods are higher tiers and cost more than, say, Tuesdays and Wednesdays at a non-peak time. This calendar shows you the price per day. If you purchase multi-day tickets, you don't need to worry about this calendar.

3. Stay at a Disneyland Resort Hotel

For the most immersive Disneyland experience, stay on the property. The three on-site hotels — Disneyland Hotel , Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel   (Pixar Place Hotel as of Jan 30, 2024) — are creatively themed with great Disney touches (plus you can save money by booking your stay through us!).

If you want to be the first one at the park gates, staying on-site is a nice perk. Resort guests at the Grand Californian can use the dedicated resort entrance to Disney California Adventure from Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which is a nice perk to staying there. (Here are even more benefits to staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel .) You'll want to choose that park as your first park of the day if park hopping. Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel also has a dedicated entrance into Disney California Adventure. Any on-site hotel guest with a room key can use it.

A huge perk to staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel is Early Entry . Only hotel guests with room keys or reservations in the app may access select rides, restaurants and shops in either theme park (with ticket and reservation) 30 minutes before everyone else.

4. Can't Stay on Property? Stay Close by

Some of the off-site hotels near Disneyland are actually closer than the on-site hotels and less than a five-minute walk to the Esplanade that connects the entrances of Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. If you stay close by, you won't have to pay to park at Disneyland and you won't lose any time in the parking garage or waiting for transportation. There are other benefits of staying at hotels near Disneyland , too! Some hotels are a short walk to the free parking lot shuttles at the Toy Story Lot. ( Ribbit! We can save you $$$ if you book your hotel through Undercover Tourist !) People start to line up at Harbor Boulevard security before 7 a.m., but once the security line starts moving (about 45 minutes before the park opens), it goes quickly.

5. Ease Your Way Through the Security Line

The best way to get through the security line quickly is to be prepared. Only bring the items you will need for the day. Bring bags with the fewest zippers and compartments possible. Make sure all of your bags are out and open for the cast members to peek into. Have keys, cell phones, coins and any metal devices in your pockets in bags or ready to be placed on the table at the security scanners. Have something that you know will buzz, such as a belt? Take it off and shove it into a bag for a moment. At times, some security entrances have an expedited screening for people with no bags. If you have no bags to check, you may save yourself a long line there!

Remove all banned items from your bags before you visit such as selfie sticks, loose ice, whistles, pocket knives, balls or zip ties or restraining devices. It's a bummer to have to go all the way back to return an item you frogot was in your bag (or dispose of it). Make sure your stroller fits the guidelines so you don't get turned away. Read more in our post on using a stroller at Disneyland .

6. Get to the Parks Before They Open

The park turnstiles generally open 30 minutes earlier than posted. If you're early, you can usually enter up to the ropes and when the park officially opens, you will hear an announcement and the cast members will pull back the ropes. This is called "rope drop." Once the rope drops, you can enter the rest of the park and go straight to the rides. For the most popular ride, such as Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance , you'll head through Frontierland.

One of the best ways to maximize your time at Disneyland and get the most out of your day is to be one of the first people in the park.

On-site hotel guests have access to Early Entry to select attractions 30 minutes before park opening. To take advantage of this be at security an hour and 15 minutes before park opening.

7. Snag a Locker

Lockers can be a lifesaver (and a back saver). It's smart to travel light in the parks, but you want to bring sweatshirts, jackets and cameras. Make renting a locker your first priority of the day. This eliminates the need to haul all of your gear around, yet isn't out of the way for a quick stop for more sunscreen, layers and such. Plus you can safely store your souvenirs there.

8. Download the Disneyland Mobile App and Get Familiar With Its Features (Including Disney Genie)

Life. Save. Er. Download the Disneyland mobile app before you arrive. It has wait times, show listings, character locations, park maps, restaurant menus and so much more. You can show your barcode at the gate for admission when you first arrive at the park! Having the Disneyland mobile app is necessary for using Mobile Order for food. Order meals ahead of time so you don't get caught hungry, but be sure to cancel or modify if the pickup time doesn't work.

You can also use the app to access the virtual queue for World of Color (it opens at noon each day for guests who have entered a theme park).

Virtual queues are not in use for any rides at this time, but that could change. If the virtual queue is used for more than one ride in one day, you will need to enter these queues one at a time. However, you can enter a virtual queue for a ride and an entertainment experience (such as the World of Color — One) at the same time.

Since the attractions using virtual queues are subject to change in the future, check the Disneyland app just before your visit — and again before 7 a.m. on the day of your visit — to see which experiences will require a virtual queue.

Disney Genie is a new feature in the Disneyland app. It helps you plan and customize your day and itinerary based on your interests.

You can use the Disneyland app before you arrive. Set up your account ahead of time. You can link your park tickets so you will be ready to make your park reservations. You can link MagicBand+ ahead of time too.

Look ahead at restaurant menus to see what's available and plan dining (60 days in advance about 6 a.m.) and even make dining reservations through the app. If you miss getting dining reservations, you can use the app to join a walk-up waitlist in the park when available.

9. Follow These Tips for the Shortest Wait Times

• Arrive early before park opening.
• At Disneyland, focus on Indiana Jones Adventure, Haunted Mansion and Pirates just after park opening or at the end of the night.
• Watch the Rise of the Resistance standby line wait times. Its line closes early, usually at 9 or 10 p.m., but it can vary. Parade time is a great time to ride.
• At Disney California Adventure, focus on rides without Genie+ at park opening.
• Follow a park plan .
• Check the Disneyland app for wait times.
• Focus on characters and shorter lines midday.
• Stay late to take advantage of shorter evening lines.
• Hop in a line before park closing.
• Keep in mind that wait times may be faster than posted times.
• Consider paying for Genie+ or individual Lightning Lane to use the Lightning Lane and skip the standby line.
• Use Single Rider lines when available (if your party can split up).
• Hotel guests should take advantage of Early Entry. Hotel guests can enter either theme park 30 minutes before park opening for select attractions, shopping and dining.

10. Use Genie+ to Schedule Ride Return Times and Use PhotoPass

Disney Genie+ is a paid option that allows you to skip the standby line to use a quicker Lightning Lane to shorten your wait for select attractions. PhotoPass downloads are included in Disney Genie+. Hop over to our PhotoPass post for the deets.

As for Disney Genie+, the ultimate way to maximize your time at Disneyland comes with a price tag. Disney Genie+ is an optional add-on service that starts at $30 per day, per person. The price can vary per day if you purchase in the park. You can only use the Lightning Lane one time per ride, per day.

Disneyland Park Disney Genie+ Attractions

You can start making Disney Genie+ Lightning Lane reservations once you have entered the park for the day. Here are the attractions that are available on Disney Genie+:

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
• Haunted Mansion / Haunted Mansion Holiday
• Indiana Jones Adventure
• "it's a small world" / “it’s a small world” Holiday
• Matterhorn Bobsleds
• Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway
• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
• Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin
• Space Mountain
• Star Tours — The Adventures Continue

Disney California Adventure Disney Genie+ Attractions

• Goofy's Sky School
• Grizzly River Run
• Guardians of the Galaxy — Misson: BREAKOUT! / Monsters After Dark
• Incredicoaster
• Monsters Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
• Soarin' Around the World
• The Little Mermaid
• Toy Story Midway Mania!
• WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure

There are some limitations to Disney Genie+. Many of the rides in the park are not on it. Certain high-demand attractions are not included, but you can pay to skip the lines for those rides through individual Lightning Lane selections. You may choose up to two of these attractions per day and may not book the same ride twice. Pricing varies per date, attraction and park. Hop over to our guide that outlines the ins and outs of Disney Genie at Disneyland . Standby lines remain available for free.

The following popular attractions are available for individual Lightning Lane selections:

• Radiator Springs Racers (standby line and Single Rider line remain open for no additional charge)
• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (standby line remains open for no additional charge)

The price can vary per ride and day (generally between $15 and $30 per person, per ride for front-of-the-line access). You may only purchase each ride once and a maximum of two different individual Lightning Lane selections per day. You may make these selections once you enter the park for the day.

11. Take Advantage of Early Entry for Disneyland Resort Hotel Guests

Disneyland Resort hotel guests with park tickets and a reservation can enter either theme park 30 minutes before it opens. People with Early Entry can access select rides, restaurants and stores during that time.

12. Consider a Show Dining Package

You can save time and score a great viewing area for the parade, Fantasmic! and World of Color with dining packages . After all, you need to eat, so this solves two problems — where to eat and where to watch the show. Plus, people camp out for over two hours for some shows, so you'll save some time there. If you cannot get a dining reservation, try to join the Walk-Up List in the Disneyland app for table-service dining locations and ask to upgrade to the dining package.

13. Do Not Head to the Most Popular Rides First

If you're set on riding Radiator Springs Racers first thing, for example, you won't be alone. You can hit this ride first after rope drop if you want to. However, many other people have the same idea and the line can be long right after park opening. Instead, head to Guardians of the Galaxy or WEB SLINGERS and then hit the other Cars Land rides with short waits before committing to Radiator Springs Racers. Use the Single Rider line in the morning to practically walk right on! The Pixar Pier area is the least crowded in the morning. You can also accomplish a lot by starting there before heading to Radiator Springs Racers.

14. Use Rider Switch if Needed

Rider Switch is available to families with small children — yay! If you have tadpoles who aren't tall enough to ride (or don’t want to ride), go to the entrance of the ride with the entire party and get a digital Rider Switch return window added to the supervising parent’s park ticket (along with one other person). One parent can supervise the tadpole(s) while the rest of the party rides; then, once the riders return, the supervising parent can have a turn to ride while skipping the line. A member of the first party can also be part of the second party and ride with the first supervising parent when they take their turn, but they have to scan their tickets in advance before their first ride because they can’t change their mind later. Hop over to our Disneyland height requirements and Rider Switch post to see how your tadpoles measure up.

15. Appoint One Genie+ Wizard

If you opt to pay for Disney Genie+, have one person make selections and keep track of everything that is happening in the park and set an itinerary. When the hard work of planning pays off, let the rest of the party think it all just magically worked out. It's easier to make ride selections for the whole party to ensure that you all get the same ride windows so you can ride together. You may find it easier to select rides for the entire party rather than individually.

16. Park Hop

To hop or not to hop ? It's much easier to hop at Disneyland than it is at Disney World. Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park are just a short hop , skip and jump away from each other. With the entrances maybe a one-minute walk apart, park hopping can be an effective way to maximize your time at Disneyland. At this time, you may hop after 11 a.m. and can hop back and forth between parks after that. Hopping is subject to park capacity, but it has not been a problem yet.

Double-check the calendar, but Disney California Adventure usually closes earlier than Disneyland. When Disney California Adventure Park closes, you can head to Disneyland for a final ride or two. We like to end our night with Gibson Girl ice cream (order ahead via Mobile Order). We recommend starting in Disney California Adventure and then hopping over to Disneyland. You can usually get through all the major rides in California Adventure before hop time, especially if you use Genie+ and Single Rider.

Allow at least 30 minutes from entering one park before entering the other park or you might get delayed at the gate for hopping too quickly. Here are more Disneyland tips on choosing the best ticket .

We do have some money-saving advice for park hopping. You'll pay $65 to add park hopping to a 1-Day or 2-Day ticket; $70 for a 3-Day or 4-Day ticket and $75 to add park hopping to a 5-Day ticket. So the more days on your ticket, the cheaper the price you'll be paying per day of park hopping. Fun! ( Psst ...  you can save even more when you buy a park hopper through your favorite froggy friends.)

17. Have a Plan and Prioritize Attractions

You want to visit the attractions with the longest waits when they have the lowest waits at park opening and closing. If you've got one day for each of the parks, follow our 1-Day Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure park plans.

18. Use MagicBand+

MagicBands have made their way to Disneyland. While all the capabilities of this magical bracelet are still in development at Disneyland, you can use it to save some time and get your head out of your phone. You can link the MagicBand+ to your park ticket or Magic Key pass. Use it to enter the theme park, redeem a Lightning Lane, quickly capture images from a PhotoPass photographer and so much more. It streamlines your day.

Besides helping you save time (and your phone battery), it's also fun. MagicBand+ interacts with nighttime entertainment, shows in Avengers Campus and attractions, and can be used to hunt bounty in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Learn more in our MagicBand at Disneyland post.

19. Buy Your Souvenirs Ahead of Time

Yes, who doesn't want a Disneyland hat, spirit jersey, set of ears, plush, pin, framed artwork and all the other tempting Disney trinkets? We all want a little something special from the parks, but we prefer to buy souvenirs online and at discount shops to give to Tad and Lily ahead of the trip. This saves us time spent in the shops and also money. Plus, if you arrive with your souvenir Disney clothes, you can wear them in the park! They look great in photos.

You can either stash items in a locker or you can have them held at select shops on the day of purchase with a receipt for free. Hotel guests can have items sent to their hotel gift shop for next-day pick-up.

20. Wait Until the End of the Evening to Shop

If you must shop, wait until the park closes. The shops on Main Street, U.S.A. and Buena Vista Street are open an hour after the parks close. Also, World of Disney in Downtown Disney is open after Disneyland closes.

21. Save the Shows or Sit-down Experiences for Later in the Day

The parks are the least busy during the first few hours of the day. You don't want to find yourself in a 30-minute show when Dumbo the Flying Elephant and Alice in Wonderland will see their lowest waits of the day! When lines peak in the afternoon, it’s showtime (and a good time to rest those legs).

Save certain sit-down experiences for the afternoon such as Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room or the Disneyland Railroad at Disneyland Park, or Turtle Talk with Crush or Mickey's PhilharMagic at Disney California Adventure. They give your flippers a little break. And in the case of the Disneyland Railroad, it also serves as transportation. Longer rides such as Pirates of the Caribbean and "it's a small world" make for nice air-conditioned breaks.

22. Make Use of the Single Rider Line or Buddy Pass

Single Rider is a great way to maximize your time at Disneyland. Ride operators use single riders to fill empty seats.

If you don't mind splitting your group up on the actual ride, you can experience the following attractions at super low waits on select attractions (Single Rider availability may vary per ride per day at this time):

Disneyland Single Rider Attractions

• Millennium Falcon : Smugglers Run

Disney California Adventure Single Rider Attractions

• Radiator Springs Racers

Buddy Pass is a similar option to reduce the wait for small parties. Monsters Inc. may offer Buddy Passes to parties of one or two (as well as up to two adults and a small child) at certain times. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh offers a Roo Pass. Buddy Pass and Roo Pass holders enter a separate line (usually the exit) and fill in empty rows as they come up. Buddy Pass is subject to availability.

23. Know When and Where to Find Your Favorite Characters

You'll also see characters playing in new locations. Look to the raised area across from "it's a small world." Pooh and friends are in Critter Country. Anna and Elsa in the Animation Building. Some characters wander freely in their lands.

The Disneyland mobile app offers some character locations. Keep your eyes open and look for them in unusual spots. Also, character-helping cast members — usually in red vests and hanging out with the characters — will let you know if and when you can catch your favorite.

Character cavalcades travel through Disneyland Park in the afternoons. You can catch them on the parade route in Disneyland. Check the Disneyland app for cavalcade times.

Check out our tips on meeting your favorite Disneyland characters ! We've added some new tips for finding characters now that meet and greets have returned.

24. Cozy Up to Your Favorite Characters at Breakfast

A character meal is a great way to see a bunch of your favorite characters all at once. To really maximize your time at Disneyland, schedule a breakfast before the park opens or stop for brunch after a morning in the park. It's so nice to have the characters come to you while you dine. Talk about maximizing time! Hop over to our character dining post to choose the best one for you!

25. Have a Plan for a Lost Child

It's easy to get distracted in a theme park, for kids and adults as well. There are lots of people and lots to see. On more than one occasion, we stopped to shoot off a quick text message, looked up, and couldn't see the tadpoles among the sea of guests. Make sure you have a plan in place in case someone gets separated from your group. Here are the top 10 don'ts for getting lost in the theme park (this post is focused on Disney World but our tips remain the same elsewhere!).

26. Pack Your Own Snacks and Water (or Lunch)

This is always good advice. You'll save time, money and meltdowns by packing your own snacks and water (just no glass bottles). Fill stations and drinking fountains are open, plus you can usually ask for free ice water from a restaurant. Avoid the lines with instant snacks when the tadpoles start to crash.

If you really want to save time and money, bring your own lunch. Think picnic items such as sandwiches, raw veggies and fresh fruits. You may even bring a full picnic and store it in a locker outside of the park near the Picnic Area. No glass containers, loose ice or dry ice are allowed through security.

27. Make Dining Reservations or Check the Walk-up A vailability

Knowing when and where you're going to eat can be a timesaver. By eliminating the time it takes to consider your options, hopping right to your restaurant really speeds up your day. Visit the Disneyland website or the Disneyland mobile app to see your options and reserve. Our three favorite spots are the Blue Bayou Restaurant in New Orleans Square, Carthay Circle Restaurant on Buena Vista Street and Lamplight Lounge at Pixar Pier. Café Orleans has fun food too (such as the Monte Cristo and Pommes Frites). Disneyland dining reservations open 60 days in advance at 6 a.m. PT but keep checking back if you don't see any dining times that work for you.

Restaurant availability and menus still vary. If you don't get reservations, you can check the Disneyland app. When you're near the restaurant, open the restaurant page and tap Join Walk-Up List.  You might get lucky with this new feature and score a table.

28. Eat During Off-peak Hours or Dine on the Move

If you can't secure a reservation or would rather dine at a quick-service location, you'll save time waiting in line and finding a place to sit if you dine during the off-peak hours. This is from 10:30 a.m. to noon and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Here are some of our Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure quick-service favorites. Enjoy outdoor tables set up in new places around that park so you can enjoy the beautiful views.

You can save some time by dining on Disneyland eats that can be enjoyed on the move. Turkey legs, chimichangas, corn dogs, meat skewers and chili cone queso (in Cars Land) are all compact enough to be munched on while you're moving. Hop over for help in finding the best on-the-go Disneyland foods for when you need a light meal.

29. Plan Your Visit to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge

Disneyland Park's newest land takes a little planning if certain experiences are important to you. You can make advance reservations to build a lightsaber at Savi's Workshop,  visit Oga's Cantina or build a droid at Droid Depot . Learn more about how to make the most of your time in Batuu from our galactic guide to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge . You can maximize your time in the park by saving your visit to the land for later in the day when the lines may be shorter and the land will be less sunny or hot. If Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is a priority for you, hop over to our post for tips for riding Rise of Resistance .

30. Use the Mobile Order Service

The days of long food and Dole Whip lines are gone! With Disneyland's Mobile Order service , you can order food from anywhere. Make a food order while you're in line for a ride, at the back of the long restaurant line or even in your hotel room. Just stop by the Mobile Order window and pick up your food. Many restaurants inside Disneyland, Disney California Adventure and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa currently offer Mobile Order.

With more people using Mobile Order, even the mobile waits are bound to get long, especially for popular spots at mealtimes or near the parade route (such as Jolly Holiday Café). If you know where you want to eat and approximately when, order early. You can choose an order window that is several hours away. You can always cancel or change it to later if you can't make it until you tap " I'm here, Prepare my order. " But it's smart to plan ahead. We know you're supposed to wait until you arrive to say you're there, but it takes time to prepare the food, so we always tap ahead of time while we walk over. Order ahead for popular spots. You can now mobile order treats from the candy shops too!

Our new time-saving move at breakfast is to mobile order breakfast at Galactic Grill while we ride the monorail into the park. When we arrive in Tomorrowland, breakfast is served!

31. Plan an Extra Day for Holidays or Festivals

If you are visiting for the Disney 100, Lunar New Year, Food and Wine Festival, Halloween Time or Holiday Time, add an extra day to your visit. Disneyland has so much extra must-see entertainment during festivals and celebrations that you do not want to feel stressed to do and see it all. The daily projection shows usually only have fireworks added Friday through Sunday, except in summer and Holiday Time, when fireworks are nightly. You'll want to be sure to reserve a weekend night to see the full show.

Parades and nighttime shows take some time to get in place and watch, so allow time in your schedule to catch this amazing entertainment. And did we mention the food? All the festivals and celebrations offer many new foods and beverages to try.

32. Pack the Essentials

Don't froget sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, cell phone cords, chargers, battery packs and band-aids. Using the Disneyland app on your phone can drain your battery. It doesn't rain very much in Southern California, but if you don't want to get wet on the water rides or plan on being in the front row at World of Color, you should bring your own poncho. You'll save time and money when you need them. Speaking of getting wet at Disneyland, we have a post with eight essential rainy-day tips !

We also have a Disneyland weather post. It takes you month-by-month on what you need to pack to be prepared.

33. Know When the Different Park Areas Close

Mickey's Toontown — where you'll find Mickey, Minnie, other characters and more family rides — closes earlier than the rest of the park on nights with fireworks but reopens later on. The land will typically close from 8-10 p.m. for fireworks shows.

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance usually closes early, so check the hours. We like to hop in line right before it closes for a short wait.

At Disney California Adventure, Pixar Pal-A-Round and some food and merchandise locations close before World of Color performances. Keep in mind that Toy Story Midway Mania remains open during World of Color and has the shortest line of the night at that time!

If you want to ride the Incredicoaster at night (our favorite time to ride!), you can ride it during World of Color for a limited time! The park often closes just before or after the last World of Color show.

34. Plan Meals Around Parade Times, Showtimes or Restaurant Hours

Choosing a great spot for parades, Fantasmic!, World of Color or the fireworks is a rite of passage in our Frog Family. We make the most of this time waiting for the show to start by making it "dinner time," or "snack time" as well. We find our ideal viewing location, and then one family member sets out for burgers, hot dogs, corn dogs, fried chicken from Plaza Inn or other grab-and-go type foods for the rest of the family. While we wait for the show to start, we eat sitting down!

Check restaurant operating hours and plan ahead so you don't go hungry. Mobile Order in advance so you don't miss out!

35. See the Second Show

During the busiest times of the year, there are often two showings of the parades, World of Color and Fantasmic! The later you stay, the less time you need to stake out a viewing location for these shows. When there is a later World of Color show, the crowds tend to be much thinner for the second show, especially since it may take place after the park is officially closed. Even the virtual queue viewing areas are much less crowded, as people leave before the show. For Fantasmic! jump in place after the fireworks or the first show ends.

36. Plan for World of Color in Advance

World of Color uses a virtual queue for the main viewing areas. Although it's free, spaces go quickly. You can join the virtual queue at noon each day. Follow our World of Color post for tips on viewing this amazing show with colorful fountains, projection, music and special effects. There are dining packages and a dessert party that also provides a reserved area to stand. Wear your MagicBand+ and watch it light up with the show!

37. Save Attractions with Long Waits Until the End of the Night

Wait times drop off in the last couple of hours of park operation, which makes this a perfect time to hop in line at Indiana Jones Adventure, Peter Pan's Flight or Space Mountain. If you're already in line when the parks close, you can stay in line and ride. We enjoy riding Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance right before that ride closes. Check the ride's hours in the app since it closes early.

38. Ride During Showtimes

The wait times drop significantly for rides in New Orleans Square and Critter Country during Fantasmic!, making showtime the best time to ride Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion and Splash Mountain. You may also find shorter lines in Disneyland during fireworks and at available rides at Disney California Adventure during World of Color if the park is still open. Nobody seems to know that Toy Story Midway Mania! is open during the 9 p.m. World of Color showtime. You can often walk right on!

39. Make Sure You're in a Ride Line when the Park Closes

Once you're in a line, you will get to ride, even if it's already past the park's closing time. Just hop in line before the park closes. Keep in mind that some rides close early, such as Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. The only risk is if that ride breaks down you'll be out of luck.

40. Catch the Flag Retreat

In Town Square, the patriotic flag retreat is still hoppening each day. It's slightly modified, but it occurs at 4:30 p.m. daily. Grab a bench and enjoy!

We hope you've enjoyed our tips to maximize your time at Disneyland. Do you already follow any of these tips? Have a tip we haven't listed? Share in the comments below! If you're looking for Disneyland tickets, you can save on multi-day tickets through Undercover Tourist .

Related:  Best Time to Visit Disneyland

Related: The Ins and Outs of Disneyland Dining Reservations

Keep hopping!

Tags: Disneyland , Disney California Adventure , Disneyland Resort , Disneyland Tips

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Hi, I will be going on the days of July 24 and 25 (both parks) and I will be going for 2 Adults and 2 Kids, 12, 6. My 12-year-old loves rides and anything thrilling but the 6-year-old hates them. Is there anything to do while waiting for the 12-year-old to ride the rides with me and my 6-year-old son that won't make my baby cry extremely loud?

Well, you're at the perfect spot! Disneyland has so much to offer for toddlers. There are many gentle rides if he can stand slower-moving rides such as Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Mad Tea Party and King Arthur's Carrousel. You can meet characters, watch the parades or shows, explore Mickey's Toontown or Tom Sawyer's Island in Disneyland Park, or play at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail in DCA. For more tips and info, you can check out our park plan for families with smaller children .

Hi, its me again! Thank you for your response to my other message but I have another question. Do I have to purchase a Genie+ for all of the members in our party or can I just do it for my 12 year old (the one that loves rides and anything thrilling)? And also, Do I have to purchase Genie+ online or in person at the park? Thank you and I love your article

No, you do not need to purchase Genie+ for your entire party — you can just buy for the people who will find use for it. If you haven't purchased tickets already, you can buy Genie+ as an add-on with the ticket! But if you already have tickets, then you can purchase Genie+ through the Disneyland app same day, on each day of your trip.

Hello! Quick question, if I have my group’s Genie+ tickets on my account and we split up later in the day, is it easy for them to take control of their own Genie+ tickets on their own device once we split up?

Hi Stephanie!

Yes! They would need to link their tickets onto their own account, and once they do, they'll have control and can make Genie+ reservations on their own. For more Genie+ info, you can hop to our main guide , FAQ post and tips for using Genie+ with a group .

Thank you for the wonderful and insightful article. Appreciate the work you put into this!

Thanks so much, Mama Bear! :) from our family of frogs to your family of bears, have a great trip!

I'm not sure what is the best ticket purchase for my family. I have an 81 year old mom (handicap placard), 2 teenage boys that do not ride rollercoasters, and me that can ride anything!!! What type of tickets should I buy? Genie+ or not...The only popular rides they want to go on are Radiator Springs, Millinneum Falcon, and Rise of the Resistance.

There are a few rides that are not thrill rides included with Genie+ such as Haunted Mansion, Autopia, small world, Buzz Lightyear, Monsters Inc., Soarin' and Toy Story Midway Mania, Web Slingers as well as Millennium Falcon and Grizzly River Run. If you are all staying together and want to do these rides, then you might want to get Genie+. You can also get return times for the wheelchair for many additional rides in Disneyland park. We have a helpful post on using a wheelchair at Disneyland . But if you are not sure about Genie + you can always just buy it for yourself or wait until you get to the park to purchase. For Radiator Springs Racers and Rise of the Resistance, you can purchase individual Lightning Lanes if you don't like the wait time. Radiator Springs Racers also has a single rider line that is short in the morning.

Hi, my husband and I are headed to Disneyland for our first time in April. We're contemplating going for either 3 or 4 days. Do you think it would be possible to ride everything, in addition to seeing the night shows and trying the popular restaurants/foods in 3 days or should we try to go for 4? We're planning on staying open to close.

Hi Rachael!

With all the entertainment and the Food & Wine Festival going on, four days will give you plenty of time to see and do it all. You could do all the rides in three days, but taking entertainment and dining into consideration, we'd recommend four days!

It's been 20 years since we last went...any advice?

You've found our 40 Tips to Maximize Your Time at Disneyland post, which is a good place to start! You could also reference our First Timer's Guide to Disneyland Resort guide (we know you're technically not a first timer, but since it's been a long time, you may find it to be useful!). Major changes include mobile ordering , new lands such as Avengers Campus and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge and Disney Genie+ service . If you have any other questions, let us know and we'd be hoppy to help!

We are headed to Disneyland on Thursday! (Oct. 13). We have 2 days at Disneyland and 1 Day at California adventure. Disney will be Friday and Sunday and California on Saturday. Do you have a 2 day park plan? Our group is 5, 8, 40, 40, 67, and 68

We do not currently have a 2-Day Park Plan, but we do have 1-Day Park Plans for each theme park, which you could still use if you're not park hopping. You can find them here . Have lots of froggy fun!

Your article provides a lot of good information! We ( a 3 year old, a 6 year old, and 3 adults) are coming from Canada in mid October. We will either purchase 4 day/1 park per day tickets, or 3 day park hoppers. Which would you suggest? We have the 18-23 to attend so can go on a couple of weekdays. Also, are there rides that the 6 year old can go on that the 3 year old won't be able to ride? Thanks for your help.

Thanks for hopping by! Either would be fine so it's up to you and your plans, though we do like the convenience of park hoppers so we can be sure to hit the nighttime entertainment in either park. You'll want a mix of weekend and weekday visits since fireworks and Fantasmic! only run Friday through Sunday at that time. As for rides, check out our post about height requirements — it also has information about rider switch in case the 3-year-old cannot go on a ride.

Are there charging sites in the park for our phones?

There aren't any free charging stations in the parks (other than the occasional outlet you might find near a bathroom but those are hard to find), so we'd suggest bringing your own battery pack or picking up a charging kit at a FuelRod kiosk.

Hi, first off I would like to thank you for your site as it has given me a lot of information. However I do have a question as I am not able to find it in the site or I may just be overlooking it. My family and I are planning to go to Disneyland, DCA, and Universal on the week of Thanksgiving and I am trying to find a itinerary that will allow us to do the most rides as possible at all the parks since we will be purchasing Genie+ and Express Pass. Is there something that can guide us into like how to do each ride in order format to better our chances to doing as many rides as possible? Your response is greatly appreciated.

Hi Jessica!

Be sure to check out our Park Plans for a helpful itinerary - have fun!

I have my group of 6 on my app, can I share my access to the app with other members of my group? Can we make different reservations for the 6 in the app?

Yes, you'll just need to share your login information and everyone can access the same info on different devices.

I’m new to the app. You mention one person should be in charge of Genie+. Does that mean I keep all tickets on my phone and the others download the app without an associates ticket?

You can link all of your tickets to multiple accounts, so if you link everyone's ticket to your account, you could be the Genie+ guru of the group, but each person can still have their associated ticket linked to their own accounts.

Im going next friday and saturday and definitely feel better prepared after reading some posts! Thank you for sharing.

Thanks for hopping by, and we hope you have a frogtastic time!

Hi- staying at Grand Californian with 3 day park hoppers. Should we start at California adventure 2 days and Disney 1 day or all 3 days at CA?

You’ll want to take turns starting in each park since morning is the best time of day in both parks. The Grand Californian entrance into DCA is so convenient, but definitely take a day or two to start at Disneyland park, depending on your interests. You’ll get to Disneyland through Downtown Disney. On the days you start at Disneyland, you can end in Disney California Adventure, which is so nice when you are tired at the end of the day.

This is so helpful! We are about to take our 7 year old daughter on her first Disneyland Trip and I feel WAY more prepared after visiting your site. Thanks!

Thanks so much for hopping by, Steven! Have a magical first trip!!!

We are going to Disneyland only for one day with a two year old, four year old, and eleven year old. How should we maximize our time?

Hi Kimberly!

Our main advice is to take advantage of Rider Switch and break up into groups, if possible, since the 11-year-old may enjoy rides that the other kids are not tall enough for. You could buy Genie+ for the 11-year-old and one parent to cut down on wait times and use Mobile Order for food. Arrive at park opening and follow our park plan to hit a lot of the iconic rides on the left side of the park in the morning. When one parent takes the 11-year-old to Splash Mountain, the other should take the little ones on Winnie the Pooh or meet Winnie. Likewise, when the older group goes on the Matterhorn Bobsleds, the younger ones can go on some of the Fantasyland rides. That way, you're in the same area but you can keep the tadpoles occupied with rides and experiences for them. If the supervising adult wants to ride the big rides too, then use Rider Switch. Many rides without height requirements are good for the whole family, such as Jungle Cruise, it's a small world, Haunted Mansion and most Fantasyland rides. Also, catch the character cavalcades and never underestimate the power of bubble wands for the younger ones!

I am excited to see Disneyland!!!

Yay, we're excited for you! Have a great trip :)

Hi! We are looking to go to Disney Land in June. We heard about a dog kennel there at Disney, but I see the website has said it temporarily closed for a while now. Have you heard anything about their reopening?

We know that the Disneyland Kennel is still closed for now — we don't know a reopening date but we'll certainly update once we hear any news.

Can visit park 1 day . Have child with Down's need fast pace and best way to see park .

Your best bet is to arrive at park opening to beat the crowds. You can talk to Disneyland about DAS before your trip to set it up, choose two rides in advance and get return times to allow you to avoid a standard queue. Another tool that can help you out is Disney Genie+ . Between Genie+ and DAS, you should be able to move through the park at a quick pace and accomplish a lot.

Great tips! My husband and I are taking our kids/young adults (21, 21, 25 and 24) May 9th - 11th. I'm thinking of spending all day Monday in Disneyland and all day Tuesday in the Adventure Park. Any suggestions for the best ticket prices?

Thanks for hopping by :) You can save some green by purchasing discount tickets through us !

Do you know if either of the parks have WiFi?

Hi Natalie!

Yes, both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure have free Wi-Fi in select areas .

Just got back from a day trip to Disneyland over the weekend, this post and your 1 day Disney plan recs with the maps were SOOO helpful. I couldn't get over how smooth the trip went! Thanks so much!

Oh my goodness, First Time Disneylander, this makes our hearts SO hoppy - we're so glad you had a great time! Thank you for hopping by!

Thanks for the info.

We plan to rent a locker in the morning (tip #7) and then put some clothes and snacks/drinks (tip #26) in there until later in the morning. From the Disneyland website, it looks like only the lockers in the Esplanade are open and the lockers inside the parks remain closed?

Also, if we bring our own lunch (tip #31), what are some places you recommend eating lunch? Outside the park by the Picnic Area? Doesn’t that take you away from the attractions?

The lockers inside the park are now open! The website and app just haven't been updated yet. We haven't had any issues using a restaurant table to eat lunch items from home, but there are picnic tables to the left of the Disneyland entrance too.

Thank you for all the amazing tips and tricks. I'm planning a trip to Disneyland CA in October. We want to stay on site and I would love to Disney hop and do two days at the parks. Do you know how to get the best deal for two adults and one 7 yr old child? Is it best to do one day at Disneyland and one day at CA adventures?

Thanks so much for your help!

You've hopped to the right spot! We offer a 2-Day Park Hopper ticket , as well as hoppin' deals on hotel stays for the on-site Disneyland Resort hotels . We would recommend to start at Disneyland one day and Disney California Adventure the next. You can park hop as much as you'd like after 1 p.m. If you happen to be a California resident, we also have a 3-Day Park Hopper ticket deal that is good through Sept. 30.

Ok we are going May 8. I took a leap and jump on the VIP tour. What should I know, there is 7 in our group. What do we do first, does tour guide set everything up. Would love to ride star wars rise of the resistance,

The VIP tour guide will set up the itinerary for you, so you don't need to plan anything. The schedule is toadally flexible though, even on the day of (in case a ride breaks down or something is unavailable), and can be tailored to your preferences. If you haven't already, you should let them know what time you're planning to arrive. Beforehand, you can provide a list of must-do attractions or restaurants, so they can be sure to incorporate them and book your reservations in advance. The VIP tour lasts a minimum of 7 hours, but if you want to keep going, you will have the option to do so! However, if you want to ride Star Wars : Rise of the Resistance, you will still need to get a Boarding Group that morning on your own (it's the only attraction you won't have automatic access to).

My wife and I are surprising out 2 kids (9 and 5) with a 2 day trip to Disney on 5/13 and 5/14. The 5/13 date unfortunately closes at 7pm so there are two less park hours that day. I had heard that Marvel area in Ca Adv won't open until after June 4th so I'm guessing that leaves less to do at CA Adve than at Disneyland in regards to areas closed off and we're thinking of switching our reservations around to do Disneyland on the "closes at 9pm" night and CA Adv on the "Closes at 7pm" night. Are we right in our thinking there? Why or why not? Thanks! *Also, our kids have done Disneyland in the past 2 years, but haven't done Ca Adv since they were much younger. Thanks for any tips/advice!

It's hard to say how long things will take with the physical distancing measure in place, but Disneyland in general has more to do than Disney California Adventure Park, so we agree with your strategy! We would check to see if the days are still available, and if so then it seems like a good idea to switch them. Have a great time!

This was very helpful

We are planning to bring our 3foster kids Sept 2021 to California they are autistic are there any special services

Disney's Disability Access program may be a good fit for your kiddos! You can learn more about that service here . Have a great trip!

Hi they just came out with this So Cal resident deal. And I wanted to go 2x between now and end of May. Its seems worth it cost to do the 3 day pass even you go 2x. What do you think.

It's definitley a good deal! Go for the Promo Deal! Don’t froget that Undercover Tourist sells the 3-day So Call promo for even less than Disneyland! You can find those here .

Thanks for the great guidance. One question I am hoping you can help me answer... we have purchased 5 day passes but are interested in adding a 6th day (for which there is no option). I have heard that you can add on a day at the ticket counter but that it can be hit or miss. Do you know if/how this works and what the cost is? Thanks!

They may charge you for a full-day ticket, but there is a cheaper way! Look at the day of the week your sixth day falls on. Then look at the blockout calendar for the Southern California Select pass. If it is an available day, before end of day on the last day of your ticket you can go to the photo booth to upgrade your ticket to the annual pass to upgrade inexpensively. (If you have a park hopper ticket, it will just cost $4 to get that 6th day by upgrading to the pass/$59 without park hopper). Plus you’ll get discounts on food and merchandise with the annual pass. Hope this helps!

Hi! Thanks for all the great info and tips! We’re Disney World veterans and are headed for our first trip to Disneyland - taking 3 days anywhere between November 23-28. We will have MaxPass, and are debating the hopper. What are your suggestions during the busy week of Thanksgiving? Thanks again!

Since things are so close together at Disneyland, and because MaxPass will work in both parks, we'd suggest upgrading to the Hopper. According to our Crowd Calendar , things will get busier as Thanksgiving approaches, but that timeframe ranges from 8-10s. Since you have MaxPass, we'd pick the dates that work best for your family! Have a great time!

Hi we will be in the area August 2-5! We only have one day to do both parks! Either going on Friday Saturday or sunday ! Which day would be best and do you think we could do most of the parks in one day! First time for Disneyland! Been to Disney World many times ! Any advice would be greatly appreciative! ????

Hi Kristina!

You'll find that Disneyland is a toadally different experience than Disney World! Both parks are super close together, which makes them perfect for hopping. We'd suggest two days with hoppers if you can swing it, but if you have MaxPass, you should be able to knock out a fair amount in a day. Friday, Saturday and Sunday are all slated to be pretty busy, so we'd go with whichever day works best with your schedule :) Be sure to take advantage of Rope Drop! Have fun!

Very informative!!!

Hi there! Love your site, lots of great information. My 1st time at Disneyland, 5 adults July 12 and 13 no park hopper, but we do have Max Pass. Which days do you recommend we do each park? Since there will not be any fast pass for Smugglers Run should we go 1st thing in the am or get in queue just before close? Thank you!

We'd do Disneyland on the 12th and DCA on the 13th since Magic Morning will be hosted in DL on the 12th. Please also check out our guide to Star Wars, because the virtual queue system should insure you get into Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge .

I’m headed to Disneyland May 25th & 26th with my family of 5, our 3 kids ages range from 6-13. Since we’ll only have 2 days, how would you suggest we best utilize our time? We haven’t purchased tickets yet. We’re staying about 5 minutes from the park. Thanks!

The best plan is to arrive before the park opens and use Disney MaxPass . If you want to visit both parks, we recommend Park Hopping one day (starting at Disney California Adventure on Saturday and then hopping over to Disneyland) and spending at least one whole day at Disneyland Park on Sunday. Be sure to check the entertainment calendar before your visit to catch parades and fireworks. Have a frogtastic trip!

we are giong in June We are from Bc canada Going for a wedding and want to see Disneyland one day ,,We have someone who is 75 and uses a walker ,, If the go on any attractions what can we do will the walker while they are on any

Hi Sandy Dee!

Disneyland will store your walker for you at the rides similar to what they do with wheelchairs. Many queues can accommodate wheelchairs or walkers in terms of width, and then will have you leave them on the dock when you board the ride itself. Cast Members at the ride entrance will be able to walk you through the procedure. There are also wheelchair and ECV rentals available if you need them!

We are taking our twin 6 year olds to Disney for the first time this May. We have 2 days in the park - the 21st and 22nd. We don't have park hopper passes. Given the ages of our kids, would you recommend doing two days at the original Disneyland or one at each park? Thank you!!!!

That’s a tough call! You could easily spend both days at Disneyland because it offers the most rides and other entertainment. If your kids really love Cars and Frozen and some thrill rides, then taking a day at DCA will be enjoyable. Otherwise, you could spend two days at Disneyland, especially with the new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to explore. (Personally, we don't think there's any right or wrong way to do this - it's all magical :) ) Have a frogtastic trip!

My family is going to DL in early July. I am reading about crowding due to the new Star Wars section opening late May. Any guidance on UCT about guidance for this?

I am concerned about park capacity. We will get there early.. but if we leave... are we guaranteed to get back in (if the park would hit capacity)?

Hi Kristen!

Things will definitely be busy, and unfortunately this is new territory for all of us! Be sure to take advantage of MaxPass and get to the parks early. If you do leave, there IS a chance that you may not get back in if they hit capacity. It's worth noting that Disney handles these closures in phases, so for some of the lower-level closures, you'd still be permitted; it's more or less the highest level of closure when your entry would be denied (which is certainly possible). We're hoping that the reservation system Disneyland is using will mitigate the crowds a bit, but we still anticipate this being a very busy summer.

I can't believe I am just finding your blog, better late than never I suppose, so thank you for all the incredible tips.

I am also wondering about a few things:

1. Is it worth it to pay for the dessert party to see the World of Color show? Perhaps there is a restaurant that might offer a similar experience (as the dessert party with a view)?

-I would ask the same question for the Fantasmic show, I don't know much about that one and I haven't been able to piece together enough tips about Fantasmic.

2. Do you have a planner or blog post about visiting Disneyland and Universal on one trip and making the most of it?

3. If you do offer advice about Universal, are those VIP tickets worth it or will the express tickets suffice?

4. Do you offer the Max Pass and or photo pass on your site as well?

This is my first trip to California, I am a single mom with an elementary school age child. I am looking at all your amazing deals on tickets, parks, and transportation and I am trying to make the best decisions to make the most out of our vacation. Sorry, I asked so many questions. I have been reading through the site for a couple of weeks now trying to learn from you. Thank you.

Hi Shaniqua!

Welcome! We're so glad you found us and took the time to say hello!

1. Whether or not the dessert party is worth it tends to come down to preference. It is certainly convenient to have a place to sit, and many park visitors love the party. You can either pay to have preferred seating with the dessert party, or as you noted, some of the restaurants offer a dining package that provides you with a designated viewing area for the show. The difference is that the dessert party overlaps with the World of Color showing, while the dining packages require that you eat earlier at the restaurant, but provide you with a designated viewing area. If you're planning on eating at one of the restaurants that offer the dining package anyway, it's certainly worth it (like a bonus FastPass)!

2. We sure do have planning tips for visiting both Disneyland and Universal! You can find those here .

3. The VIP experience includes benefits like valet parking, a paid meal and snacks, a private tour, and escorted express access to rides. We personally think that Express tickets are sufficient, but also think that the VIP experience would be a neat one to try :) Again, it just comes down to preference! Others in the Frog Pond may be able to weigh in with additional information.

4. MaxPass and PhotoPass (which will be included with your MaxPass purchase) are purchased directly through Disneyland using the Disneyland app upon entering the park.

We hope this is hopful ! Have a frogastic trip with your tadpole!

It has been 10 years since we were last at Disney Springs (Downtown Disney) Marketplace. Sad to say that they did away with the Adventure Club and the Comedy Club. It is basically an upscale shopping mall and overpriced NBA center focused place now. Not a p place for the children of baby boomers who remembers the magic of Disney of the sixties and seventies.

Thank you for all these tips and tricks!

Is it known for the park to be “slower” on holiday weekends?

Hi Shelley,

No, it is not. You can see more on our Disneyland Crowd Calendar .

Thank you for taking the time to write up this article. Although I have been to Disneyland several times when I was younger, I needed a little guidance on how to navigate most efficiently this time around and your tips really helped! Blue Bayou restaurant reservations were all booked up :( I'll have to book in advance next time! Going tomorrow for the first time in 4 years and so excited! Thanks again!

This is my first trip to Disney anything. I want to go on my birthday which is January 7th and the day after. What all can I expect for these times to maximize my stay?

So how was it??? ????

Hi Michelle!

Hoppy early birthday! Check out our Crowd Calendar for what to expect with how busy the parks are :)

Hello, just booked a 5 day trip to Disneyland on March 28th through April 3rd. Any pointers besides what is on this post? How are crowd volumes during this time?

Ah, you should have beautiful weather during that time of year! Check out our Crowd Calendar for how busy we expect the park to be. We definitely recommend MaxPass to make the most of your trip!

How crazy am I to want to go the Monday before Thanksgiving with a 3 and 10 year old? Not staying on site, but driving up from Oceanside. Only have 1 day.

Our Crowd Calendar predicts pretty heavy crowds. We recommend purchasing MaxPass to make the most of your time ... enjoy! Still totally worth the trip!

Hoppy planning!

Coming in on Oct. 25 and 26 with one of those being Mickey's Halloween Party, which we are not planning to attend. We will not have EE or MM perks. Would you still recommend doing Disneyland on a non EE day even though they close early (at 7:00 pm)? The other option is to do Disneyland on a EE day and thus enter the park 1 hour after EE/MM but have more hours in the park overall which will close later. Thanks for a great site to help us all out! :)

Oh, man! That's a tough choice. What it breaks down to is what you'd be happiest doing. Are you a morning bird or a night owl? Which park do you want to spend more time in? Don't stress too much, and enjoy your trip!

Thanks for the info for someone who hasn't been there for 30 yrs. Can I bring a small backpack into the park and take it on the attractions? Also, may I bring a plastic water bottle into the park and find places to fill it?

Yes and yes! You're good to go.

We will be in Disneyland Sept 12-17 with our 16, 17 and 21 year olds. Any suggestions for older teens?

Many of the more thrilling rides such as Guardians of the Galaxy and Incredicoaster are in Disney California Adventure Park. These are sure to be a hit with your older teens! Be sure to dedicate a day at this park.

great ideas. thanks for pulling them together for us newbies

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Ultimate 3-Day Disneyland Itinerary (2024 Travel Guide)

Are you trying to plan the BEST Disneyland itinerary for your trip?

A trip to Disneyland is always magical, but doing it over the course of three days is even better. Honestly, three days is plenty of time to explore all that the Disneyland Resort has to offer.

We’re breaking down the ultimate 3-day Disneyland itinerary by day, and what you should do, where you should eat, and where you should stay at the Disneyland Resort.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLOSURE  FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Day 1: Arrival Day at Disneyland Resort

Try to arrive at the Disneyland Resort as early in the morning or afternoon as possible. This will help you to be able to have as much time as possible at the parks without wasting time on the crowded California highways during rush hour.

I’ve found that the best time to land at LAX is anywhere from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., allowing for morning traffic to dissipate before the afternoon rush hour has started.

This makes the ride to the Disneyland Resort about 30-45 minutes versus almost two hours at peak traffic times!

If I could, I would always stay at Disney’s Grand Californian Resort and Spa. The luxury resort offers sweeping views of Disney California Adventure, the Downtown Disney District , or the majestic California mountains.

The resort boasts beautiful rooms that are a sweet escape after a day at the theme parks.

I love this Disney-owned resort most because of how warm and inviting the space is, as well as how easy it is to get to the parks from there.

Get Your Discounted Disneyland Tickets here!

Did you know that the Grand Californian is the only resort at Disneyland with direct access to a theme park?

That’s right, Disney’s Grand Californian has an entrance right into Disney California Adventure for resort guests only!

For the sake of this Disneyland itinerary I have you arriving at Disney’s Grand Californian at 12:30 pm. After you check in you’re going to want to grab some lunch .

Skip lunch in the park today and head straight for GCH Craftsman Grill, and sit at the pool bar to order the lobster quesadilla!

This is the perfect California-inspired lunch and the quesadilla is filled with so much lobster it’s almost as if the cheese is just a binder to hold all of the lobster together.

REVIEW: Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel and Waterpark (Hotels Near Disneyland)

Disneyland After Lunch

The first place you should go after lunch is Disneyland Park . There’s nothing like walking down Main Street U.S.A. at Walt’s original Magic Kingdom. Typically Disneyland Park is open late so you’ll have lots of time to enjoy rides.

If we had to choose one ride to go on first it would be the Disneyland Railroad.

This classic attraction gives a grand circle tour of Disneyland Park with stops at New Orleans Square, Tomorrowland, then back to the Main Street Station.

After that first ride the world is your oyster. Here at ThemeParkHipster, I prefer to do one section of the park at a time versus crisscrossing the park again and again to get on rides.

Typically Fantasyland, Star Wars Land , and Tomorrowland are the busiest sections later in the afternoon, so opting to go to the left and start in Adventureland is a good idea.

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

Disneyland at Dinner

Dinner on your first day at the Disneyland Resort should be easy since you’ll want to enjoy as much of the park as possible.

We love Cafe Orleans, which is a table service restaurant serving up the iconic Monte Cristo. Something you MUST add to your Disneyland itinerary.

For the ultimate dining experience, be sure to ask to sit outside, where a live jazz band or Captain Jack Sparrow might come by the gated patio to say hello.

5 Best Restaurants in Downtown Disney You MUST Try (Anaheim)

Late Night at Disneyland Park

After dinner, consider staying at Disneyland until they close.

This late night time in the park is the best time to get on many of the attractions in Fantasyland, since most parents traveling with smaller kids will be lined up to watch the fireworks, Fantasmic!, or the parade.

This is also a great time to ride Haunted Mansion since the lines in the afternoon get long and the space in the queue is limited.

Once the park is closed take the quick walk back to your room to turn in for the night and get ready for another big day tomorrow.

REVIEW: Is the Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures Worth It? (2023)

Day 2: Your First Full Day at Disneyland Resort

Staring off your first full day at the Disneyland Resort by going to whatever park has Extra Magic Hours for hotel guests.

This time is when the park is going to be the most empty, and when you can get on some big ticket attractions like:

• The Incredicoaster and Guardians of the Galaxy- Mission: Breakout at Disney California Adventure
• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run or The Matterhorn at Disneyland Park

They will have a super short wait.

After Extra Magic Hours (EMH) are over, head over to Disney California Adventure (or stay there if that’s where EMH was) and explore the park. This park is really a half to three quarter day park if the crowds are light to do everything.

I definitely encourage the use of Genie+ for rides like Radiator Springs Racers and Grizzly River Run.

Time for Breakfast at Disney California Adventure

Breakfast on the second day of your trip should be quick. Since you’ll most likely be spending the morning to late afternoon at Disney California Adventure we suggest eating breakfast at Flo’s V8 Cafe in Cars Land.

Here you’ll find breakfast favorites like eggs and bacon, and some sweet treats like brioche French toast with caramelized bananas!

Sit outside to enjoy the view of Radiator Springs Racers as cars go by Ornament Valley.

After Breakfast

The time between breakfast and lunch is a great time to get in more rides and see some characters along the main hub of Disney California Adventure before the park starts getting too busy.

Do not miss out on snagging a spot in line to see Mickey Mouse in his Hollywood glam outfit. Specific times for character meet and greets can be found on the Disneyland app.

If you’re thinking about making a trip out to any of the parks at the Disneyland Resort in California, then be sure to get your tickets here!

Lunch at Disney California Adventure

Before leaving Disney California Adventure to go back to Disneyland Park you’re going to want to have lunch at Lamplight Lounge.

Typically this restaurant is reservations only, but they usually have some first come first served seating at their downstairs bar. This is where we like to sit.

Partly because reservations can be hard to come by, and partly because the view out to Pixar Pier is beautiful!

Do not miss out on the tasty drink menus, yummy sushi rolls, and juicy burgers! Be sure to explore the restaurant before you leave too. It’s filled with nods to all of the Pixar films from Toy Story to Onward.

Your Plans After Lunch

After lunch on day two is the best time to head back over to Disneyland Park to explore more of what that park has to offer.

Consider grabbing a Ronto Wrap with a drink at Oga’s Cantina inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge , riding Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Disneyland’s version of Pirates of the Caribbean.

Using Genie+ will allow you to get through most of the big attractions before dinner.

How to Dress for Dapper Day at the Disney Parks: Your 2024 Fashion Guide!

Dinner at Napa Rose

Speaking of dinner, day two is really where you should treat yourself to a nice dinner. There are two places worth checking out, Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Resort and Spa, and Carthay Circle at Disney California Adventure.

Depending on your taste and the current menu you should be able to decide between the two which is the best for you.

Carthay Circle is more elegant and fine dining, where Napa Rose is more centered around California cuisine and fresh ingredients. If we had to make a choice we would choose Napa Rose, mainly for their incredible wine list and attention to detail on the plates.

Your Plans After Dinner

After dinner you’re going to want to find a spot for either World of Color or Fantasmic! if they are showing at either park.

You will not be able to see both on the same night unless Fantasmic! has two showings. If we had to choose we would always pick Fantasmic! just for the opportunity to see Mickey in a classic show.

Recommended: The ULTIMATE California 7-Day Road Trip Itinerary and Guide!

Late night at the Disneyland Hotel

After the parks are closed for the evening you’re going to want to head over to the Disneyland Hotel. The easiest way to get there from either park is to walk through the Downtown Disney District.

Here is where you’ll find Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar , which is home to yummy tiki-inspired drinks, zany antics, and a good time.

The bar has limited seating so you might have to wait, but it’s worth it to have a late night drink at the classic Disneyland bar.

So, be sure to add Trader Sam’s to your Disneyland itinerary.

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Day 3: Disneyland Departure Day

It’s your last day at the Disneyland Resort but that doesn’t mean that you have to get up and leave right away.

Here at ThemeParkHipster, we like to get the most out of our Disney days as we can!

This means always getting the red eye flight back home to have a pretty full day at the parks.

How to Find Cheap Flights to Orlando (10 Pro Tips for Flying to Orlando)

Breakfast at Disneyland

This is the day to have that leisurely breakfast you’ve been waiting for. The one place not to miss is Carnation Cafe right on Main Street U.S.A.

They are serving up breakfast favorites like Mickey waffles in a turn of the century setting. We love getting the Mickey Waffles with a side of potatoes and bacon to get us through til lunch.

If there’s open space, ask to be seated outside to take in the sights and sounds of Main Street U.S.A. Sometimes the Dapper Dans will come by to sing a song, and you might even see a famous mouse wave hello.

One of the coolest things to add to your Disneyland itinerary.

What to Wear to Disneyland in July (These Theme Park Outfits Will Help You Decide)

Your Plans After Breakfast

After breakfast while the parks are still less crowded is the best time to get on those last minute rides that you might not have gotten to yet, or favorites that you want to ride one more time.

We always park hop during this time until lunch trying to get in as many rides as we can!

Lunch at Disneyland

The last day at the Disneyland Resort should always be held for the best quick service lunch at Disneyland Park- the grilled cheese and tomato soup at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe.

Grab your lunch then sit out on the plaza to eat while enjoying views of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Secrets Revealed: Disneyland Mint Julep Recipe!

Depending on when your ride back to the airport is set to pick you up this may be your last opportunity to get on any rides or buy any souvenirs you haven’t picked up yet.

You can’t leave Disneyland without a new Christmas ornament or trading pin, which are always easy to pack away in full suitcases.

If you’re planning a last ride, I think it should be either Guardians of the Galaxy- Mission: Breakout or Pirates of the Caribbean.

Both tell a great story and are a lot of fun! Before getting picked up be sure to get those last selfies in front of the castle. A perfect way to end your Disneyland itinerary.

Final Thoughts on Your Disneyland Itinerary

With so much to do at the Disneyland Resort it can be hard to figure out a good game plan for a short three day trip.

However, I think this Disneyland itinerary is a pretty good one, and I’ve used this format for trips lots of times and haven’t missed one thing yet!

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

Megan is a theme park expert and frequent traveler to magical places. She covers all things Disney and Universal and runs marathons for fun.

She thinks you can tell a lot about someone by the name of their signature lipstick, and hers is NARS Dragon Girl.

UP NEXT: 13 BEST Tips For Your First Time At Disneyland

(Original Article Date: August 23, 2020/Updated on June 14, 2022)

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35 Most Underrated Disney World Tips and Tricks for First Timers (2023)

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15 Coolest Things To Do In Disneyland, California

July 25, 2021 //  by  Jessie Wolf //   3 Comments

You might think that the coolest things to do in Disneyland California would be pretty obvious, but actually, there are a lot of hidden treats in and around the parks that add that little extra magic to your trip. From the more obvious rides and attractions, all the way through to sitting for a portrait!

We’re going to run down our best things to do in Disneyland so that you’ll be able to have the best plan of what to see and do while you’re there. There are a huge range of things to take your fancy so don’t worry if you don’t like rides or aren’t a big fan of musicals. There’s something at Disneyland CA for everyone. After all, it is the happiest place on earth!

Get a FREE printable 30/60/90 day Disney countdown by joining our private  Disney Facebook Group  and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks!

Rides and Attractions

When people think of Disneyland, a lot of people will think of all the cool rides and attractions that it has to offer. This is a great way to spend your time at Disneyland. There are rides for everyone in your party, from smaller and more gentler rides to the big coasters. You’ll be sure to find something that everyone will enjoy. Some rides do have different height restrictions but we have a helpful guide all about those to help you out! 

Even if you have people in your group that aren’t big fans of rides, there are plenty of other cool attractions to take a look at. Whether that’s discovering the different lands, especially the new Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge, which is superbly designed, or enjoying the various play parks and smaller activities, such as Tom Sawyer’s Island. You can also spend some time meeting the characters or enjoying a guided tour of the park with one of the very knowledgeable Cast Members. Whatever kind of Disney you’re into, there are plenty of rides and attractions to keep you entertained.

Character Dining

Disneyland has some really great food options on offer, we’ve rounded up some of the must-eats for you here . But one of the best things to do at Disneyland is to enjoy some character dining. Character dining is a unique experience where you get to enjoy a delicious meal whilst also enjoying the company of some of your favourite characters.

There are a number of different options for character dining and different characters are available at different locations. Character dining can often be a way for you to meet characters that you otherwise wouldn’t see around the parks. For example, having breakfast or brunch at Disney’s PCH Grill is one of the only ways you can meet Stitch at Disneyland, outside of special events. Other character dining includes the Disney Princesses and Mickey and Pals. Character dining is available at more locations for breakfast, but if you’d rather have dinner with your favourite characters then Goofy’s Kitchen is the best place to be as they have character dining all throughout the day. A lot of character dining experiences feature a buffet meal which means you can get your fill of food as well as fun with your favourite Disney friends!

Park Hopping

Pretty much all the Disney parks in the world, feature two or more parks. When you visit Disneyland, you can get tickets that all you to go in both Disneyland and California Adventure in a single day. This is known as park hopping. It allows you to take advantage of everything that both parks have to offer, giving you the freedom to jump in and out of the parks when it’s convenient for you. 

California Adventure has more of the bigger rides which can mean that wait times for rides in that park are longer. The fast passes are also more likely to run out earlier, especially for the Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout ride.

This means that you may wish to head to this park earlier to get the fast passes and then spend time in the Disneyland park while you wait for your time slot. Similarly, you may wish to do all the water rides in one go so you can dry off completely rather than repeatedly getting wet! Park hopping gives you more opportunities to make the most of everything to see and do in the park.

But one of the best things about park hopping is the transition between the two parks. The large forecourt between the two parks is always packed with people. You’ll get to see all kinds of weird and wonderful costumes, especially if you go around Halloween.

You can check out what people are Disney Bounding as (if you’re not sure what Disney Bounding is, check out our guide !). There’s just such a great energy and excitement around there, even while you’re not in the park. It’s such a wonderful place to spend a bit of time and people watch for a bit.

Everybody loves a holiday. That’s why going to Disneyland during a holiday season, whether that’s Halloween or Christmas or Easter, is both one of the coolest things to do, but can also be pretty tricky.

Big events, like the Oogie Boogie Bash at Halloween, often have bigger crowds and bigger costs so it may not be the best for everyone. If you want to look when the park will be the quietest, check out our crowd calendar for the best ideas.

The special events at Disneyland are often separately ticketed meaning that you need to pay extra to go to the specific events. However, if you’re not interested in the events specifically but just the decorations and the general ambiance of the parks, then going at these times doesn’t have to cost you more.

Alternatively, if you want to go to a ticketed event, the event ticket often gives you access to the park earlier than the event starts, so you don’t necessarily need a park ticket as well as the event ticket.

These special events often give you exclusive access to rides or additional experiences, such as the Trick or Treat walks at Halloween. You may also be able to meet exclusive characters, or characters in different costumes, so for a lot of people these events are well worth the money.

But even if you don’t want to doing anything extra, going during the holidays is extra magical anyway! The parks get decorated for the theme and no detail is spared. If you want to go somewhere truly, magical at Christmas time, Disneyland is the place you want to be! The Cast Members and the park itself go all out and lots of rides and attractions get Christmas make overs too. Going to Disneyland during a holiday is a great way to make your trip, and your holiday, extra special.

House of Blues

House of Blues Anaheim was originally located in Downtown Disney but has since moved into bigger premises on nearby Garden Walk. It’s only a few minutes walk away and is well worth a visit so we’re still including it on this list of best things to do at Disneyland.

House of Blues is an incredible restaurant with four differently themed rooms, all playing live music. All are based around New Orleans in style and also flavour and there’s a huge range of live music whenever you visit. If you’re looking for an extra special treat, head over for Gospel Brunch on a Sunday morning and you won’t be disappointed!

Special Occasions

Any trip to Disneyland is magical. It’s always a real treat and something you’ll remember for years to come. But Disneyland can make an already special occasion even more special. Whether that’s a birthday or a graduation or even an engagement, Disney have many ways to make a memorable moment truly special.

If you’re visiting Disneyland for a special occasion, make sure to visit the Town Hall first. You’ll find a range of badges there that will help you celebrate. These include birthdays, just married, and even first visits. You can personalize these with your name or the date and when you wear them around the park, Cast Members often give you a little extra magic to make your day that little bit more special.

Whether that’s as simple as a Congratulations or Happy Birthday, to letting you ride at the front on a ride, or taking some extra Magical Moment pictures, it can be a tiny token to make your day extra amazing.

Disneyland Cast Members love making magic for people so if you’re looking for a helping hand or a sneaky photographer for a big moment, they are more than happy to help. All you have to do is ask! If you are planning a Disneyland engagement, you may want to check out our guide for some of the best ways to go about it!

Even if there’s nothing extraordinary happening while you’re at Disneyland, any trip to Disney is a magical experience – especially if it’s a surprise trip! We’ve also rounded up some of the best ways to reveal a surprise Disney trip here so be sure to check that out to kick off a great trip in a magical way.

Fantasmic is Disneyland’s ‘end-of-day’ show and is as fantastic as the name suggests. Fantasmic turns Tom Sawyer’s Island into a magical stage where Sorcerer Mickey creates incredible illusions. Featuring fireworks, animations and even a real life pirate ship, Fantasmic is a must experience when you’re at Disneyland.

Some of the dining experiences include priority seating to watch the show, so if you want a great view and a physical seat, this can be a great way to combine great dining with great entertainment. Annual Passholders also have priority access to some standing areas, the rest are on a first come, first served basis so it’s a good idea to get there with plenty of time if you want a great view.

One great thing about Fantasmic though, is that is revolves around the island, so even if you’re further round the edges, you still get a really good view as the boats pass in front of you.

World of Colour

Don’t worry if you’ve only got California Adventure tickets while you’re visiting Disneyland, there’s still an end of day show for you to enjoy too. California Adventure’s show is called World of Colour and uses a clever display of water to tell magical stories.

Depending on what time of year you visit, there are different stories to be told. If you visit during Halloween for example, the story is all about the Disney villains! No matter what story is being told, there are a range of wonderful animations and incredible waterworks. All the rides in the background get switched off too so all you can see is the colours of the show. There’s plenty of great spots available and they are all first come first served, but be careful if you stand too close as you may get wet!

One way to make sure you have a trip to Disneyland you’ll never forget, is to get plenty of great photos. They say a picture is worth a thousand words so think of all the stories you can tell from the pictures you take at Disneyland. Whether you get them taken by the Disney photographers or you take them all yourself, there are loads of great places to get photos at in Disney.

One of the most popular things to do is to take pictures with the Disney Walls around the park. These are simply what they say, walls. But there are so many different ones, all painted differently, that they make brilliant backdrops for photographs – particularly ones for Instagram. If you’re thinking about putting your Disney photos on Instagram, check out these great captions to use!

Pin trading

This is one of the most simple things to do at Disneyland but it can actually be one of the most rewarding. If you’re new to pin trading, or if you’re a seasoned pro, and want some great tips and tricks on how to get going in the parks, we have a great guide here .

What makes it one of the best things to do at Disneyland is that you can make it whatever you want it to be. Maybe you want to try and trade as many pins as possible while you’re in the park, or maybe you’re looking for a single pin that sums up your trip, pin trading offers a bit of something for everyone. Some people like to collect specific rides or characters, or event pins when they go to special events. Some people just like to see what they can find. Whatever way you want to trade, it’ll be sure to add a bit of magic to your Disneyland trip.

Caricatures

If you’re looking for a different kind of souvenir, then a custom caricature drawing is also a great idea. These are Disney stylized drawings by professional Disney artists, who will Disneyfy you as you sit for them. They are relatively inexpensive and it’s a complete custom and unique piece of Disneyland to take home with you.

What makes them a great thing to do at Disneyland is that you don’t actually have to be in Disneyland to get one. There is a caricature artist in New Orleans Square in Disneyland park, but there is also an artist located in Downtown Disney, near the World of Disney store. Both are employed directly by Disney so you know that you’ll get just as good quality outside the park as you would inside!

Frozen – Live at the Hyperion

Going to see any show at Disneyland is a wonderful treat and if you get chance to see them all, go for it! You would not be disappointed. But if you’re only planning on seeing one show whilst you’re at Disneyland, Frozen is the one you want to see.

Frozen Live at the Hyperion is in the Hyperion Theatre in California Adventure and guests can experience a Broadway quality show, with incredible sets, costumes and special effects. It also has phenomenal singing! It tells a shortened version of Frozen but it still lasts about an hour so it may not be the best for very young children. Although the staging and acting are all so magical that I’m sure it’ll capture the attention of everyone, young and old!

WonderGround Gallery

WonderGround Gallery is a store and art gallery-of sorts in Downtown Disney. It is primarily a homeware and art store that sells phenomenal (and somewhat expensive) Disney collectibles. The Gallery name comes from the quality of the artwork on display, and for sale, in the store. So if you’re not looking to buy anything, it’s still a fantastic thing to do in Disneyland as it’s all worth a look at.

They often run special events too where they theme the artwork around new rides or movies. There’s also new stock in very frequently so it’s always different whenever you visit. As much a gallery as it is a store, it’s a great way to spend some time while you’re in the area.

Watch the Clock

This may seem like an odd thing to do at Disneyland. Why would you want to be watching the clock when you want to be doing all the amazing things to do at Disneyland? Well, sometimes it’s nice to take a little moment to relax and enjoy the time and effort that went into building Disneyland.

By watching the clock, I mean specifically, the clock on It’s a Small World. The large clock face on the front of the ride is an actual working clock and if you’re there when it strikes the hour then you get to watch figures from across the globe have a little song and dance around the clock! It changes it when it has its holiday decorations on too! But with all the hustle and bustle going on around Disneyland, sometimes it’s nice to take a moment and just take it all in!

Cars Land in California Adventure is one of the most impressive and immersive areas of the park and you could easily spend hours looking at all the intricate details that go into it. But what you can also do while you’re in Cars Land is meet the Cars themselves.

These are full on vehicles that you can meet and have photos with. They all have different personalities and are super incredible to look at. It is a little bit of potluck sometimes about who’s going to come out, but they’re all worth the wait, just for the pure attention to detail that goes into them!

There are so many amazing things to do at Disneyland and different people will enjoy different things. Disneyland and the surrounding area has so much to offer that you’ll be sure to find many amazing and magical things to fill your time with!

Reader Interactions

August 18, 2021 at 4:00 am

The publishing date of this article is July 25th, 2021. It’s an old article and many of the suggestion, like park hopping, fast passes, Fantasmic, and other shows are not even available at this time. Your article is a disservice to anyone looking for current information.

August 18, 2021 at 7:32 pm

Hello! I have hundreds of articles on this site and it would be nearly impossible to update them all for current offerings. Some offerings at disney world [not land] started off small, and disney world has been bringing back dining, experiences and more multiple times a month. This would mean over a year of updating hundreds of articles multiple times a month and that just isn’t feasible for a small business owner in this climate. Thank you for understanding! Please always cross check with the official Disney website.

August 31, 2023 at 12:59 am

I was wondering if you can use a Magic Band at Disneyland like you do at Disney World?

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Disneyland Tips

Disneyland California Tips and Secrets

Betsy Malloy Photography

Disneyland Park is America's first real theme park, operating for more than fifty years as the self-proclaimed Happiest Place on Earth. In nearly 20 years of writing about Disneyland, I've made a lot of mistakes, which means I have a lot of tips, so you don't have to repeat my slip-ups.

Some of the Disneyland tips you see online are great. Some are not. A few tips are just wrong or out of date. 

I have tested every single item on this list of Disneyland tips. Most of them more than once. To compile a complete list, I talked to other Disneyland fans, theme park experts, former cast members and a couple of fanatic season pass holders, too.

The practical tips below can help you make the most of your Disneyland Park visit. You can learn more by reading  Disneyland Guide: Planning Your Trip . It has ideas that apply to both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. 

You never know when something will be closed and unfortunately, the Disney website doesn’t keep up. For example, you could visit the web page for one of the restaurants and it wouldn’t tell you that it was closed. For things that really matter to you, your best defense against disappointment is to check. For rides and entertainment, use the daily schedule online  or on the Disneyland app, then scroll down to find the list of things closed for refurbishment. 

If you're a gal going to Disneyland, I know how hard it can be to figure out what to pack. I've been there so many times - and seen all my friends packing failures - that I created a guide just for you. Here's  what you need to pack for Disneyland - and what you don't . 

3 Ways to Make the Most of Disneyland Entertainment

• Where to See the Fireworks: Use our guide to watching the Disneyland fireworks to find out all the best places to see them.
• Where to Watch Fantasmic!: This show is so popular that it can be frustrating trying to find a good place to view it - and for this one, a so-so spot just won't do. Use our Fantasmic! Tips to find a good viewing spot without having to sit for hours to do it.
• Where to Watch the Parades: Parades travel between a gate near it's a small world and a gate next to the Opera House. They go down Main Street U.S.A. At the hub, the turn slightly left past the entrance to Tomorrowland, then they circle the square in front of City Hall - or vice versa. You can watch anywhere along that route, but the best place is from the front of the crowd - if you can manage that.

7 Tips for Doing Disneyland Like a VIP + 11 More

• You can get into Disneyland early. The program has various names like magic morning or early entry. The details change, but you may get it by staying at a Disney hotel, a Good Neighbor hotel and sometimes with multi-day tickets. Some people think it's a must, but it has some pitfalls. Use these tips to make the most of your early entry .
• You can also get in early on a morning when there's a Rope Drop . You can get as far as the hub, where you wait for the super-fun moment when the park officially opens. It doesn't happen every day, and it isn't on any schedule, but you can get some tips about it here .
• Main Street U.S.A. often opens 30 minutes before the rest of Disneyland park. You can eat breakfast, shop, grab a cup of Starbucks or pose for photos with the characters.
• You can stay at Disneyland after the official closing time , and you don't need VIP status to do it. All you need to do is get into any ride line just a couple of minutes before the official closing is announced and you can stay in it until your ride is finished, even if the ride has a super-long wait. You absolutely must watch your timing for this one - be late to the line by even a couple of minutes and a cast member will kindly but firmly turn you away. If you try this, we hear that the Space Mountain line gets super crowded just before closing time. 
• You can stay in Disneyland late for shopping , too. The shops on Main Street shops U.S.A. stay open after park closing time. They will be packed with people who also put off their purchases to the end of the day, so it's probably best to make your selections earlier and be ready to pay for them right away.
• If your little Jedi wants to get some training , go straight to the sign up area at the Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost immediately after the park opens. Spots are open by reservation only and are on a first come, first served. Your child must be with you when you register and must be between four and twelve years old.
• You don't have to be a VIP to get someone else to take care of your purchases , either. If you're staying at one of the Disney hotels, you can ask to have your packages delivered to your room. Otherwise, you have them put on hold for you to pick up later. Your salesperson can fill you in on pickup locations.

But wait! There's 11 more ! Check out these  11 Things You Didn't Know You Could Do at Disneyland .

7 Tips for Finding Things at Disneyland

• City Hall and Guest Relations are just inside the left tunnel after the entry plaza . That's where you can pick up a button for your special occasion. They can also help you with a multitude of questions and issues, including getting an access pass if you have mobility concerns.
• First Aid is just off Main Street. You'll find it by walking past down the side walkway past the Corn Dog cart. That's where you can get an aspirin your headache, a bandage for your blister or get help with any other medical need.
• The Baby Care Center isn't as well known as it might be, judging from the number of moms I've seen struggling to take care of their littles ones around the park. It's also near the Corn Dog cart. They have quiet places to change a diaper, rock a cranky baby or nurse in a more private setting. And your littlest ones will absolutely adore those child-sized toilets, which are restricted to little ones less than 42 inches tall.
• If your phone battery is running down from all the texting, game playing, taking photos and posting to social media, you can find battery powered lockers next to the Cone Shop on Main Street U.S.A. Or try this list of electrical outlet locations  or the Mouselets app.
• If you packed too much in your backpack and regret it, find a locker. Regular lockers are at the end of the walkway next to Starbucks. More lockers outside left of entrance
• Disneyland is a no smoking area , except for the places on this list .
• Did you lose something? Someone may have returned it. Lost and found is outside the main gates on the left.
• Did your balloon pop or did your mouse ears fall off? According to a cast member at the Main Street Emporium, you can get a replacement on the day of purchase.

2 Best Disneyland Meeting Places

• City Hall is where children wait for their lost parents to show up , and it's a good, easy-to-find spot to meet your entire group. It's just on the left after you go through the tunnel.
• The Snow White Grotto next to the castle is also a good place to meet your group . And a fun spot to take a group photo with fewer photo bombers in the background. Veer to the right just before you reach the castle's drawbridge. It's a good idea to walk there together as soon as you get in so everyone knows exactly where it is.

6 Disneyland Food Tips

• If you're craving a Disneyland corn dog - and who doesn't once in a while - you don't have to stand in a long line and balance your dog on your knee to eat it. The Stage Door Saloon has the same corn dogs, but shorter lines - and there's a place nearby to sit down. Or go inside the Golden Horseshoe to sit.
• The Stage Door Saloon serves  ice cream nachos . They're a hidden item that you won't see on the menu board, but all you have to do is ask. What is an ice cream nacho? It's ice cream served atop pieces of crunchy waffle cones.
• If you want to enjoy the nearly legendary Disneyland Monte Cristo sandwich , you can make a reservation at the Blue Bayou restaurant - or you can get the same sliced turkey, ham, and Swiss cheese sandwich fried in a light batter at the Cafe Orleans. 
• Mickey-shaped beignets (New Orleans-style donuts) are also on the menu at Blue Bayou.
• If you're dying for a Dole Whip but fear you'll die standing there  in that long line, slip into the Tiki Room waiting area and order from there. 
• There's a hidden patio where you can eat in peace next to Rivers of America. It's behind the Harbor Gallery, which is across from Haunted Mansion. The passageway behind it looks like it might be for cast members only, but it actually leads to several quiet tables.
• No alcohol is served anywhere in Disneyland , except in members-only Club 33 and Oga's Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.

5 Step Savers and Short Cuts at Disneyland

• Use the Main Street conveyances to save some steps between the train station and the castle. Don't just stand there looking at them and say "how quaint." Get on one and save some steps. You might get a chance to travel in a horse-drawn streetcar, a fire engine or a spiffy yellow jitney - that's an early automobile without a roof.
• Ride the train to save even more steps . It stops at the station on Main Street, at New Orleans Square, Tomorrowland and Toontown, a 1.2-mile round trip.
• Take the monorail, too . It stops at Tomorrowland and at a station in Downtown Disney, which is a convenient place to get into the park.
• Walking to New Orleans Square quickly:  Don't take the obvious route through Adventureland. Instead, use the Frontierland entrance where you won't get tangled up in the bunches of people who are trying to get onto Indiana Jones Adventure and the Jungle Cruise .
• To get down Main Street U.S.A. during the parade or fireworks , don't fight your way down the sidewalk. Instead, use the side of Main Street where the Carnation Cafe is and walk inside the shops as much as possible.

12 Disneyland Tips and Secret Spots + More Ride Tips

To get the most out of Disneyland and the magic that went into its making, you need to get into the details. These are a few of the ones that I have discovered that I think make the place so special.

• The windows on Main Street U.S.A. have lots of names on them. It's fun to check them all out and even more fun to know that they all honor real people, who are former employees or friends of Disneyland. My personal favorite is the Palm Parlor, dedicated to imagineer Rolly Crump who designed the Haunted Mansion and many other rides.
• Hidden Mickeys are something you hear about everywhere. All it takes is three circles to create the iconic mouse silhouette. There's even a book to help you find them. It's fun to look around for them.
• Touch everything in Toontown . Almost everything in the area around Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin does something. Pull a door handle and you might hear an explosion. Pick up the telephone and you'll eavesdrop on a hilarious call. I won't spoil the surprises by telling you all the other things you can find there, but don't miss the water fountain.
• Listen in on a Party Line. Just inside the Main Street U.S.A. Starbucks entrance, you'll see two old-fashioned telephones on the wall. Pick up a receiver and listen in on a lively conversation between a couple of very gossipy women.
• Step into the side area near the Starbucks entrance and walk toward the back, where the lockers are. You may hear Goofy and his friends getting ready for the day - or some disturbing sounds coming from the dentist's office.
• Those yummy smells near the candy shop on Main Street U.S.A are coming from a vent beneath the window.
• Snow White Grotto: There's a wishing well and marble statues of Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs to the side of the castle drawbridge. The soundtrack playing in this quiet little corner is from the film. Guests can toss pennies into the wishing well which are donated to children's charities. This romantic little spot is also a perfect place for a marriage proposal.
• Rub the brass apple outside Snow White's Scary Adventures and you'll hear the witch cackle.
• Wicked Witch is Watching: If you're in line at Pinocchio, look at the upstairs window of the Snow White ride, and you may catch the Wicked Witch pulling open the curtains to peek out of the window. 
• A voodoo priestess curses in the restrooms near the New Orleans Square train station.
• The New Orleans Square train station telegraph isn't just making random dot and dash sounds; it's spelling out the opening lines of Walt Disney’s opening day speech in Morse Code - or so the experts say. 
• Where to Rest : You could just lay down on a bench and catch a few winds, but that's a little too public for me. However, I may or may not have taken a short nap while watching Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln in a cool, dark auditorium. The Tiki Room is also air-conditioned, and the show is long enough that you'll feel refreshed afterward.

I have a lot more tips for enjoying every single ride and show at Disneyland. They're in the Disneyland Ride Guide .

8 Disneyland Tips You May See That Are Wrong - Or Out of Date

• The Haunted Mansion doesn't give out death certificates . I pity the poor cast members at who must be tired to "death" of being asked for one. People report visitors getting more than reasonably upset about this, shouting: "PINTEREST SAID YOU WOULD!" Get over it now. They don't give them out and apparently never did.
• You can't get a jungle cruise map from the skipper anymore, either. But you can download one for yourself from the Disney Parks Blog .
• “Toy Story” characters like Woody, Buzz and Jessie don't drop to the ground and play dead if you yell: “Andy’s coming!” You can imagine that one got old pretty fast.
• Answer poll takers' questions if you want to, but don't expect to get any rewards or free tickets for doing it.
• The lavender teacup is fastest. This may have been true before Disney regulated their speed in 2004, but it isn't true now.
• Step into the walkway next to the perfume shop in New Orleans Square and listen. You'll hear tinkling bells and soft chanting. I haven't confirmed this, but it sounds like a voodoo priestess to me. She is sometimes mistakenly reported as being in the restrooms nearby, but what do I know? Maybe she moves around.
• Driver's licenses aren't free at Autopia any longer, either.
• You can find the Cheshire Cat at the Mad Hatter Gift Shop , but he doesn't appear IN the mirror. Instead, he's part of the mirror frame.
• Y ou can't use an expired FASTPASS . Cast members would once accept an expired FASTPASS any time after its official end time, but now they only allow a few minutes' grace period. This killed a lot of older touring plans that depended on using expired passes.
• You Can't Get 4 Fastpasses Within 15 Minutes of Entering Disneyland , no matter what you see on Pinterest. In fact, that pin no longer leads to the same content it once did.
• Lines 13, 20, or 21 move fastest at the Disneyland entrance - or so people say. I won't say this one is wrong, but I'm skeptical about whether it's true.
• The Secret Restroom  which was near the Carnation Cafe is now gone.
•  Don't try knocking on the door to the Ink & Paint Club at Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin and saying Walt sent me. I did it and looked like a buffoon so you don't have to. In fact, nothing happens. The window opens sporadically, but knocking doesn’t affect it.

Best Disneyland Rides for Kids and Toddlers

Disneyland Ride Guide

Disneyland Tips and Tricks

Disneyland vs. Disney World: Which Is Better?

Things for Your Disneyland Bucket List

Things You Didn't Know You Could Do at Disneyland

The Top Tips For Visiting Disney California Adventure

Disney California Adventure: The Complete Guide

The Top 10 Things to Do at Disneyland

Southern California CityPASS

Disneyland Train

Guide to Christmas in Orange County: Festivals, Events, Things to Do

Disney World Vacation Hacks Seen on Pinterest

Walk Through at Sleeping Beauty Castle

60 Reasons to Visit Disneyland's 60th Anniversary

Disneyland's Haunted Mansion: The Complete Guide

• Worldschooling Topics
• Family Travel Resources
• Destinations
• Travel Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Family Gap Year Guide
• Places and Destinations

11 Amazing 2 Day Disneyland Itinerary Ideas For Families

What’s a fun vacation treat for families who love to travel? How about a trip to Disneyland! Our little worldschooling family enjoyed a memorable 2 day Disneyland itinerary with members of our extended family in August 2022. And while it was a departure from our usual adventure travel, it was still epic just the same.

If you’re looking for your own epic 2 day Disney itinerary, then look no further! After coming back from our two days at Disneyland trip, I put together this list of Disneyland two day itinerary ideas to help traveling families like you make the most of their time at the happiest place on Earth.

With a little bit of planning, you can see everything Disneyland has to offer in just 48 hours. So all you have to worry about when you get there is having fun!

This article was originally published on September 25, 2022.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase something. But don't worry, this will not result in any extra costs to you.

Table of Contents

Top tips for a 2 day Disneyland itinerary

Want my top three tips for a great Disneyland experience when you visit Los Angeles in 2 days? Here they are:

• Stay at the Hampton Inn and Suites for the best value stay
• Take advantage of the Genie Plus service and the Single Rider Lanes
• Use the Unofficial Guide To Disney for insider tips

Where to stay for a 2 day Disneyland itinerary

In terms of lodging, the most convenient option is to stay at one of the hotels that are part of the Disneyland resort:

• Grand Californian Hotel
• Disneyland Hotel
• Paradise Pier

Most of these hotels are located near Downtown Disney, where you can find restaurants and stores for shopping. 

Alternatively, find hotels in Anaheim to stay during your 2 days at Disneyland that are either close to the park or close to the parking lots .

Hampton Inn and Suites Anaheim Resort

If you're a family that values dependability, then a stay at the Hampton Inn and Suites Anaheim Resort during your 2 day Disneyland itinerary would be a good option for you. Located in Anaheim, this hotel is conveniently located near Disneyland, so it's also a great option if you're looking for a place to stay near the park (and don't want to pay Disney prices for a room!) We stayed here in 2022, when we were visiting Disneyland, and loved how close it was to the park.

Since this hotel is part of the Hampton by Hilton chain, you'll get all the amenities that you'll find at most Hampton Inns: WiFi, in-room fridge, and free hot breakfasts. This Hampton Inn has an outdoor pool, hot tub, and a gym as well.

Rooms can accommodate families of up to 4 people. The hotel is a few minutes walk from Anaheim Garden Walk, where you'll find a wide range of restaurant options. We loved this hotel for our 2 days in Disneyland trip because it offered the best value for money.

Tropicana Inn and Suites

If you want to stay close to Disneyland, but don’t want to pay the resort fees, you can’t get much closer than Tropicana Inn and Suites. This hotel is literally across the street from Disneyland. And it’s about as old as the park, having first opened in the 1960s. It’s a Southern California institution.

Rooms at the Tropicana Inn and Suites can fit families of up to 4 people. Rooms have WiFi, TV, microwaves, and refrigerators. There’s an outdoor pool with a hot tub for relaxing at the end of those long days during your 2 day Disneyland itinerary. 

Cambria Hotel and Suites Anaheim

While not as close to Disneyland as the other hotel options, Cambria Hotel and Suites Anaheim is still a good choice for lodging during your 2 day Disneyland itinerary. It's located about a 10 minute walk from the Toy Story parking lot. And also a 10-15 minute walk from the restaurants at the Anaheim Garden Walk.

Families will enjoy Cambria Hotel and Suites for their Disneyland two day plan because rooms can accommodate families of up to 7 people. Some of these family suites have bunk beds! There's also a great outdoor pool with water slides. Breakfast is included and rooms come with free WiFi. Families visiting Disneyland can also take advantage of the theme park shuttle for a fee.

Packing ideas for a 2 day Disneyland itinerary

Be sure to pack for the weather during your 2 day Disneyland itinerary. Southern California is sunny most of the year, and if you’re walking around the parks, you’ll want to have a hat or sunscreen to protect you.

These are the things we brought along for our trip to Disneyland and California Adventure:

• KEEN Wome n ’s Newport Sandals
• GRAYL GeoPress 24 oz Water Purifier Bottle
• Cotopaxi Luzon 24L Hiking Daypack
• Panama Jack Women’s Floppy Hat
• Reef Safe Sunscreen

Also be sure to buy one of these Disneyland guide books to help prepare you for visiting Disneyland for two days.

The Unofficial Guide to Disneyland

Birnbaum's Disneyland Resort: The Official Vacation Guide

Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Disneyland Resort's Best Kept Secrets

The Disneyland Encyclopedia

Check out more eco-friendly supplies to buy for travel.

Ideas for a Disneyland itinerary for families

As I was putting together this list of 2 day Disneyland itinerary ideas, I wanted to make sure that families had the right 2 days itinerary for their various needs and interests.

Here, you’ll find ideas for classic Disney lovers, as well as lovers of Marvel and Avengers. You’ll also find 2-day Disneyland itinerary ideas for families with young kids, families with teens, and families with accessibility needs. Take a look through this list of itineraries and find one that fits your family.

Ready for a change? Take the first step to living a life of full time travel.

1. Classic Disney itinerary

This 2 day Disneyland itinerary focuses on all the classic Disneyland rides in the Magic Kingdom. 

The rides in this Disneyland ride itinerary are some of the oldest Disneyland rides, including Pirates of the Caribbean and the Haunted Mansion in New Orleans Square. And some of them are from the first year that Disneyland opened! To learn more about the rides in this particular itinerary, check out this Magic Kingdom guide .

Rides in Disneyland:

• Disneyland Monorail
• Disneyland Railroad
• Dumbo The Flying Elephant 
• Haunted Mansion
• “It’s a small world”
• Jungle Cruise
• King Arthur Carousel
• Mad Tea Party
• Main Street Cinema
• Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
• Pinnochio’s Daring Journey
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Sleeping Beauty Castle Walk Through
• Snow White’s Enchanted Wish
• Space Mountain
• Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room

2. Toddler-friendly itinerary

For families with very young kids, this 2 day Disneyland itinerary for toddlers is full of rides geared towards kids of all ages. There are no height limits. And the rides are fairly gentle and slow.

During our visit, I noticed that Mickey’s ToonTown was closed for redesigning. So rides like Roger Rabbit Car Toon Spin were not running. 

However, there are still plenty of attractions available for families with toddlers. This is the best Disneyland itinerary for families with younger children.

• Alice in Wonderland
• Astro Orbiter
• Casey Jr. Circus Train
• Dumbo The Flying Elephant
• Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage
• The Many Adventures of Winnie The Pooh
• Storybook Land Canal Boats

Rides in Disney California Adventure:

• Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind
• Jessie’s Critter Carousel
• The Little Mermaid - Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
• Mickey’s PhilharMagic
• Monsters, Inc. Mike and Sully to the Rescue
• Turtle Talk With Crush

3. Teens-focused itinerary

If you’re traveling with teens, then you’ll want to pack your two days at Disney with as much action and thrills as possible. This 2 day Disneyland itinerary is full of roller coasters and thrill rides that will entertain teens.

Rides in this itinerary are in both Disneyland park and California Adventure park. I particularly like this Disneyland 2 day park hopper itinerary because it’s most similar to the one we did as a family!

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Frontierland Shootin’ Exposition
• Indiana Jones Adventure
• Matterhorn Bobsleds
• Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run
• Star Tours - The Adventures Continue
• Splash Mountain
• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
• Grizzly River Run
• Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: Breakout!
• Incredicoaster
• Radiator Springs Racers
• Silly Symphony Swings
• Web Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure

4. Multigenerational family itinerary

Disneyland and California Adventure Park is a great place for multigenerational trips. If you’re traveling with grandparents, you’ll want a 2 day Disneyland itinerary that offers some slower paced rides and activities.

This Disneyland park hopper itinerary has a mix of rides that will please multiple generations. 

• The Disney Gallery
• Droid Depot
• Mark Twain River Boat
• Animation Academy
• Games of Pixar Pier
• Golden Zephyr
• Goofy’s Sky School
• Pixar Pal-A-Around
• Redwood Creek Challenge Trail
• Soarin’ Around The World

Prep for your family vacation with this handy checklist .

5. Wheelchair accessible itinerary

Disneyland makes a big effort into making the park wheelchair accessible. Walkways are spacious and most entryways have ramps. 

If you’re a family that has special mobility needs, this 2 day Disneyland itinerary offers rides and activities that are accessible for wheelchairs. Most of the activities and rides are in Disneyland, but there are some in California Adventure park too.

• Mark Twain Riverboat

6. Itinerary for thrill seekers

Most people think that Disneyland is just for kids, but there are plenty of rides that are fun for grown-ups to enjoy too! If you’re spending two days in Disneyland without kids, or if you’re the type of family who loves thrill-rides, this 2 day Disneyland itinerary is perfect for you.

This Disneyland 2 day itinerary includes all the rollercoasters, thrill rides, and action rides found in both Disneyland and California Adventure park.

7. Low key rides and attractions

If you’re the type of family that likes to keep it low key, this 2 day Disneyland itinerary might be more of your pace. All the rides in this Disneyland suggested itinerary are slower paced, with minimal scares or drops.

This is the perfect Disneyland itinerary to introduce young kids to amusement parks in general. They’ll enjoy riding the vehicles along Main Street in Disneyland and the trolley down Buena Vista Street in California Adventure.

• Main Street Vehicles
• Sailing Ship Columbia
• Red Car Trolley

8. Itinerary for activity and adventure lovers

While both Disneyland and California Adventure park are known for their rides, there are also some more hands-on activities you can do at the parks. This 2 day Disneyland itinerary is perfect for families who prefer more active and hands-on options.

• Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes
• Savi’s Workshop - Handbuilt Lightsabers
• Tarzan’s Treehouse

9. Itinerary for storybook fans

If you’re big fans of classic Disney movies, coming to Disneyland is almost like stepping into these stories! This 2 day Disneyland itinerary is a special one for storybook fans. It’s full of rides from all the storybooks you loved reading as a kid.

• Sleeping Beauty’s Castle
• Peter Pan’s Flight

10. Pixar fan itinerary

For Disney movie fans who prefer the Pixar movies, there are plenty of rides and activities you can do in both California Adventure and Disneyland in 2 days. This primarily California Adventure itinerary has all the Pixar themed rides and activities for families to do.

• Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
• Jumpin’ Jellyfish
• Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters
• Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
• Toy Story Midway Mania

11. Star Wars and Marvel itinerary

We love the feel of stepping into another world. We felt this way when we went to the Harry Potter studio tour in London, and we felt this way visiting Kidzania parks with our kids. So we were pleasantly surprised by the amount of world-building that happens in Disneyland.

Nowhere can you see this the most than in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland. Walking through this part of the park, you really do feel like you’ve been transported to a galaxy far far away!

In addition to Star Wars, you can also find a lot of Marvel world building in the California Adventure park. We loved walking through Avenger’s campus and trying out food in Pym’s Test Kitchen.

If you’re a fan of both Star Wars and Marvel, this is the 2 day Disneyland itinerary that you need!

• Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Bonus: Itinerary for worldschoolers

Who says that you can’t learn while you’re in Disneyland? We always love making travel educational for our kids.

While the theme park is primarily aimed for entertainment, there are still plenty of ways for worldschoolers to squeeze in some learning too! This 2 day Disneyland itinerary has activities that encourage learning, creativity, and immersive experiences.

• Disneyland Story - Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln
• The Bakery Tour

Visiting more of California? Read my California posts .

Things to know for a Disneyland itinerary

A trip to Disneyland is a trip of a lifetime for most families. Because tickets to Disneyland and the adjoining California Adventure park are not cheap, you want to make the most of your time there.

Having a plan ahead of time helps you maximize your fun in Disneyland. As you’re putting together your 2 day Disneyland itinerary, keep in mind some of these tips to help prepare for your trip.

Transportation options for a Disneyland park itinerary

Disneyland is not far too far from Southern California cities like San Diego or Los Angeles. So if you’re driving during your 2 day Disneyland itinerary, you can take a shuttle from any of the Disneyland parking lots. The shuttle buses come often, and operate during the same times as the park opening hours. 

Parking rates are $30 for cars and motorcycles, and $35 for oversized vehicles. Closer parking spots have a premium rate of $45 per vehicle.

Hours and tickets for Disneyland and California Adventure

Keep in mind the park hours as you’re planning your visit. Opening hours for Disneyland are 8 am to 12 am. And for California Adventure, the hours are 8 am to 10 pm. 

Ticket prices vary depending on the number of days. For a 2 day Disneyland itinerary, a One Park Per Day ticket starts at $128 per day. However, you can get a 2-day Park Hopper pass, which costs an additional $60 per ticket that allows you to travel back and forth between the parks.

Additional tips for a great Disneyland itinerary 

I’ve offered some great ideas for a 2 day Disneyland itinerary that suit a variety of family needs.

In addition to itinerary ideas, take a look at these simple tips to help you make the most of your itinerary. Besides the tips I offer below, you can also check out tips from this Disneyland Resort Guide .

1. Use the Disneyland app to plan out your Disneyland itinerary 

Gone are the days when you had to deal with paper maps, and guessing the wait times for rides. The Disneyland app offers a map of the parks.

The app also offers current wait times for the rides, so you can anticipate how long you’ll need to wait for your favorite ride during your 2 day Disneyland itinerary. Additionally, the Disneyland app also lets you see which rides have lightning lanes. 

The other thing the Disneyland app lets you do is mobile ordering for food. You can order food ahead of time and pick up your mobile order at special lines.

Get prepared for any emergency with the insurance made for digital nomads!

2. Have a backup plan in case of ride closures or long wait times 

With travel, nothing ever goes exactly as planned. And that’s true for Disneyland too. 

For your 2 day Disneyland itinerary, prioritize your must-see rides. And be okay with skipping the others if the lines are too long. Also have some back-up rides as part of your Disneyland California itinerary in case of ride closures and repairs.

3. Pay attention to height limits

Some rides have height limits. So depending on how young your kids are, they might not be able to go on a ride.

When we were at Disneyland, we were worried that our youngest kids would be too short for the Incredicoaster. But thankfully, they just barely made the height limit. Check the height limits ahead of time to avoid disappointment during your 2 day Disneyland itinerary.

4. Build in down time during your Disneyland itinerary

A day at Disneyland can be long. So leave some space for down time or rest during your 2 day Disneyland itinerary.

Use rides like the Jungle Cruise and It’s A Small World for down time. Or do a few loops on the train or monorail to give your little ones a nap.

5. Bring snacks to Disneyland park

Guests are allowed to bring snacks into the Disneyland and California Adventure parks. This is a great money-saving tip for your 2 day Disneyland itinerary as the food in the parks can be expensive. 

Bring a lightweight backpack to carry snacks, sunscreen, and souvenirs. Make sure it’s not too big, so that you can tuck it under your legs during rides.

6. Get the park hopper tickets

Disneyland and California Adventure are huge parks. One way to make the most of your 2 day Disneyland itinerary is to purchase park hopper tickets. They are an extra $60 per ticket, but makes seeing the park more convenient.

When using the park hopper tickets, you’ll need to identify the park you want to start with each day. You’ll spend the morning at that park, and then can go to the other park after a certain time.

7. Use the Single Rider Line

Some rides in Disneyland and California Adventure have Single Rider Lines which allow individuals to fill in gaps in rides. If your kids are older, and you’re willing to break up your group for certain rides, this is a great hack to avoid waiting in long lines.

These are rides at Disneyland and California Adventure that have a Single Rider Line:

• Millenium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run

8. Maximize your Disneyland itinerary with Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lanes

Another way to maximize your 2 day Disneyland itinerary is to purchase the Genie+ (Genie Plus) and Lightning Lane add-ons. This allows you to use the lightning lanes for most rides.

The Genie+ is an additional $20 per person per day. Some of the more popular rides also require you purchase specific lightning lane passes. Individual lightning lane pass costs vary depending on the ride.

Bond with your family even more on your trip with these fun ideas .

9. Splurge for the VIP tour during your Disneyland itinerary

To make your 2 day Disneyland itinerary extra special, why not splurge for the VIP tour ? With the VIP tour, you have a personal concierge who guides you through the park.

Your concierge also allows you access to all the lightning lanes. Or if the ride doesn’t have a lightning lane, you can jump to the front of the line.

The VIP tour experience starts at $3,500 (in addition to theme park admission) for a minimum of 7 hours. The maximum number of people for a VIP tour is 10, so this is a good idea if you’re going with a big group. Just a note, VIP tours are also available for Walt Disney World too!

If you’re pressed for time, and you have a big group to split the cost of the VIP tour, this is actually a pretty good deal. In one day, we saw 15 fifteen rides. We also got seats to watch the night-time fireworks show!

We were gifted the VIP tour by friends of ours. But I might consider doing it again the next time I’m in Disneyland because being able to see all the rides we wanted was definitely worth it.

A memorable Disneyland itinerary 2 days of fun!

For many families, a trip to Disneyland and California Adventure is a once in a lifetime experience. So why not make the most of your time as much as possible?

We loved our 2 day Disneyland itinerary, and made so many special memories with our family. If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland, use one of my suggestions to create the best itinerary for Disneyland for your family.

Is Disneyland part of a bigger family travel adventure for you? Use my ebook, Hey Kids, Let’s Go Travel! as a resource for tools, advice, and action steps for planning your trip.

Need help thinking through how to budget for a family trip? My  Travel Budget Worksheet  is just the tool you need! Click  here  to receive your free copy by signing up for my newsletter.

Need help thinking through how to budget for a family trip? My  Travel Budget Worksheet  is just the tool you need! Click  here  to receive your free copy by signing up for my newsletter.

Want to connect with me on social media? Find me on Facebook , Instagram , Pinterest , and Twitter. And for those of you who are dedicated to traveling more responsibly, sustainably, and ethically, join over 200 like-minded families on my Facebook group, Responsible Family Travel .

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Global Munchkins

Travel + Global Inspired Lifestyle

May 11, 2023

50 [Amazing] Disneyland Tips from a Pro – Save Time & Money

We are big Disneyland lovers and it’s definitely one of our favorite places to be together as a family. However, we understand how hard it can be planning a Disneyland trip. We don’t want anyone feeling this way! Lucky for you guys, we have made all the mistakes already for you and over the years have pulled together a really amazing list of our best Disneyland tips.

Also, if you ever have planned a Disney World trip, Disneyland is so much easier. With only two parks within walking distance of each other, planning is a breeze.

With this list in hand, you are sure to have the Disneyland trip you have always dreamed of.

You will be able to fit in all the rides you could possibly want to go on, meet the characters, eat all the delicious food, and most importantly feel relaxed while doing it all!  While doing your planning have fun with your kids and check out this adorable Disneyland Trip Countdown Calendar

Best Tips to Pack in the Most Rides

1. download the disneyland app.

This App is a lifesaver when it comes to planning out your day. It’s like having a detailed guide to all things Disneyland right in your hand. It has everything from wait times to restaurant menus. Get it downloaded and ready to go before you are at the park because it will help you to get everything planned out.

This app is also how you use Disney Genie + (available in the Fall) and Mobile Ordering, we will go over both these later on!

You might even want to check out the option of buying your tickets through the app. If you go this route, you will be able to simply scan your ticket barcodes at the gate right from your phone. 

2. Buy the Disney Genie +

Here’s why Genie + is great at the California Parks much more than the Florida Parks. California Parks pack in the rides. In fact the two parks have the same # of rides as all 4 florida parks combined. Genie allows you to book your Lightning Lane passes right on the Disneyland App as opposed to having to get a physical copy in front of the attraction.

This means you will get you on many more rides! Plus, it includes a photo pass. We broke down the full service for you, check it out here!

This costs just an additional $20 per ticket. 

3. Get to the Park When it Opens (Actually an hour before)

Planning a Disneyland trip often involves getting on the most rides. The best way to do this is arriving early. You will get on so many more rides in the first 2 hours than the entire rest of the day. Doing this allows you to hit everything that is a priority right off the bat and then you can take it easy the rest of the day. 

Pro Tip:  Occasionally, the gates open 30 minutes early allowing you to explore Main Street before the rest of the park is really opened. This means you can grab some breakfast or a Starbucks coffee!

Bonus Pro Tip: If you are driving into the parks get there about 90 minutes before the park opens. This will give you time to park, get through the security lines and take the tram to the entrance.

4. Where to Head First

Getting to the park early is a great benefit, especially if you follow our best Disneyland tips for when to hit which sections of the park. Right when the park opens head to Frontierland. Ride Indy, Big Thunder, Jungle Cruise, and Pirates. Most people go to Fantasy or Tomorrowland so you will benefit from being elsewhere.

5. Head to Toon Town First

Another tip, one of the newest attractions is Mickey and Minnie Runaway Railway in Toon Town and it actually is a really popular one. You can read about our amazing experience during the Disney100 Celebration here.

Our main tip here, is to get to the park when the rope drops and head straight to this attraction to beat the crowds!

6. Hit Up Fantasyland at Night

If you can, hit up Fantasyland at night. That is typically when those lines are the shortest as many  people with small children have left for the day. Otherwise, if it is on the top of your list and your kids will get tired, go first thing in the morning.

You will also want to save any big ticket rides that you missed in the morning for late at night. You can even hop into line right at closing time. As long as you are in the line, you get to ride!

7. Got Little Kids?- Use Rider Switch for rides they aren’t tall enough

Disney recognizes that being a family with both big kids and little kids can be a struggle in the parks. Rider Switch is the solution they have come up with for this, and it is something we have been taking advantage of for years.

If your child does not meet the height requirements or simply does not want to ride, the rest of your party can ride while someone sits out with them. Once they are done, you can hop on the ride without having to wait in the line again. Check with a cast member to obtain the switch pass before getting in line. Here is a list of all the rides that offer rider switch

8. Go Single Rider for Popular Rides

Often times the Single Rider line is even shorter than the Fastpass line. The only catch is everyone in your party has to be willing to ride alone. Although, we’ve realized often times you end up in the same car or even next to each other. Here are the attractions in Disneyland with Single Rider lines

• Indiana Jones Adventure
• Space Mountain
• Matterhorn Bobsleds
• Splash Mountain

California Adventure Single Rider Lines

• Radiator Springs Racers
• Incredicoaster
• Spiderman Web Slingers
• Goofy’s Sky School
• Grizzly Rapids

9. Hop on Rides During Popular Shows & Parades 

Now, we are the first to say that the entertainment at Disneyland is top notch! We highly suggest seeing all the shows and parades offered in the park! The Tale of the Lion King and Storytelling at the Royal Theater are a couple of our favorites!

However, if you have already seen these shows though, you can skip some crowds by riding attractions while these shows are going on! Many people gather for the firework shows or Fantasmic! leaving lines for rides a bit shorter. 

10. Hit up Rise of the Resistance in the Evening

Rise of the Resistance is the newest ride at Disneyland as part of the Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Expansion . and everyone races to that ride first. During the day you will find wait times of 90 -120 minutes but if you wait towards the evening the ride times drop down often to 30-60 minute

Best Disneyland & California Adventure Food Tips 

11. how to get amazing dining reservations (even last minute reservations).

You can book reservations 60 days in advance beginning at 6am Pacific Time. You can book online at disneyland.com or on the Disneyland app.

However, if you find yourself scrambling for a reservation, there is a great site which can help you find some amazing last minute reservations.

MouseDining.com

Mousedining.com is the best way to find last minute reservations. They have email alerts but also their calendar to book dining reservations is so much easier and faster than the actual Disneyland site. They have a monthly calendar with a list of all the availability. Simply click on the time that is open and it takes you right to the reservation booking page on the Disneyland website.

12. FREE Water & Better Yet Free Chocolate & Bread- 

You might not want to lug a water bottle around Disneyland all day, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay up every time you’re thirsty! All the restaurants provide free water, you simply just have to ask for a cup of water. This is a Disneyland tip we use every single time we visit. 

Over in California Adventure, just past cars land is a Ghiradelli’s shop and Boudin Bakery. Pop in each one and you will be handed a piece of bread at Boudin’s and chocolate at Ghiradelli’s

13. Book a Fantastic Dinner Package

If you want to get the best seats to the best show in the park, this is the answer! Keep in mind the nicer the restaurant you book, the better the seats. Currently the Fantasmic Dining Package is available at River Bell Terrace and the Blue Bayou.

14. Use Mobile Ordering on the Disneyland App

We aren’t going to lie and say your Disneyland trip won’t include waiting in lines. However, thanks to Mobile Ordering on the Disneyland App, food will be one less thing you spend time in line waiting for. This will save you a ton of time! You simply put in your order and pick it up from the window when it’s ready. 

15. Get Dole Whip without waiting in that long line!

Use the Mobile Ordering App for all the meals you can, but be sure to order this iconic treat through it for sure! Get a Dole Whip with Mobile Ordering rather than waiting in the typical 20-30 minute line. No trip is complete without a Dole Whip, that’s just a fact. 

Bonus Tip – Check out where to snag a Dole Whip with Rum at Disneyland!

16. If Seeing Characters is Important, Book Character Dining 

You are going to have to eat at some point, which means if seeing characters is a priority you should book a Character Dining experience. This will allow you to knock out two important things at once. Plus, it will save you from having to wait in any lines for characters in the park .

We recommend doing breakfast because you can get early admission to the park this way! And after all, there’s no better way to kick off the day. My personal favorite is Minnie’s Breakfast inside the park and Goofy’s Kitchen is a classic, but check out my complete guide to character dining at Disneyland .

Here is a quick guide on How to make Disneyland Dining Reservations

17. Best Places for a quick Bite:

Disneyland quick bites.

Rancho Del Zocalo – Mexican Food Bengal Barbeque – Kabob Skewers Pizza Planet – Pizza & Salads

California Adventure Quick Butes

Pacific Wharf Cafe – Bread Bowls, Soups, Salads & Sandwiches Smokejumpers Grill – Burgers Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta

18. Best Sit Down Restaurants (Reservations Required)

Disneyland sit down restaurants: .

Blue Bayou – Hands down, this is the best place. You dine inside the Pirates of the Caribbean Ride. This place is amazing but books up fast!

California Adventure Sit Down Restaurants (Here is a ranking of all our favorites )

Carthay Circle – Amazing food – sit on the balcony if you can. Napa Rose  (located inside Grand Californian)

Tips for a Less Stressful Day

19. buy a park hopper pass.

Unlike Florida, the Disneyland parks are super close, about a 1 minute walk (that close). We recommend hopper tickets no matter what, even if you are staying multiple days. Here is the big reason why; Disneyland tends to get packed in the middle of the day.

It’s nice to walk across the way to a less crowded California Adventure. With a Park Hopper Pass + the Genie +, you will be able to book Lightning Lane passes for either park and take advantage of the best options available. 

***You can now park hop beginning at 11 am, (used to be 1 pm)****

20. Have a Designated Lightning Lane Expert 

It is just common knowledge that when too many hands are in the pot, things start to get complicated. Have one person who has really done their research or maybe been to the park many times be in charge of the fast passes. This is an especially helpful Disneyland tip if you will be using the MaxPass. It will ensure everyone in the group ends up with the same return time. It will also mean all the Fastpass info is on one person’s phone. 

21. Find Places to Cool Off on Hot Days

A summer day at Disneyland can get pretty hot and even winter ones do as well. Sometimes the most enjoyable Disneyland days include lots of breaks. Anaheim has its fair share of hot days in the summer and finding somewhere to cool off can steer the day away from disaster. These are our favorite spots to cool off and we usually end up having so much fun!

Animation with Turtle Talk at California Adventure

Playhouse Disney at California Adventure

Starbucks (My personal favorite)

Enchanted Tiki Room

Disneyland Monorail 

Star Wars Launch Bay

22. Lightning Lane Tricks & Tips

If you get the Disney Genie + (and you should!) you should know once you are in line for one Lightning Lane (aka Fastpass) ride, you can book your next Lightning Lane. You can also book another Lightning Lane Pass 90 minutes after you requested your last one. Basically, pay attention to whichever of these options comes first and book ASAP. I always set a timer on my phone to alert me when I can book another fastness!

23. How to Be Prepared for Security when entering the Resort

Don’t let security stress you out too much upon arrival. Know Disneyland’s guidelines and rules beforehand to keep from being stopped or held up here. We have a list of everything you can bring into Disneyland here . You can also find a list of prohibited items here . It is also helpful to account for how much time security might take and set aside 20-30 minutes for it. 

24. Stay Entertained by Downloading Fun Apps for Waiting in Line!

Waiting in line can get boring. We download some fun apps to keep our kids entertained. Our favorite is the Heads up app , it is a ton of fun and they even have a Disney Parks pack which is Free when you download it inside the park. 

Tips for Staying on Property

25. it’s worth the $$ if you can afford it. .

If you can stay at one of the Disney Resorts, we do recommend it for your Disney vacation. It’s a great way to make the most out of your time and really adds a magical touch to your entire trip.

Each resort offers great amenities and the resort staff typically goes above and beyond. Check with a specialized Disney travel agent like Best Day Ever Vacations to  get you the best pricing

26.  Stay at the Grand Californian or Disneyland Hotel, skip Paradise Pier

Disneyland Hotel has the best Pool, some great newly remodeled rooms and just a great feel to it. The Grand Californian is the nicest of the three resorts and is especially beautiful during Christmas time as a massive tree takes over the lobby. Paradise Pier, in my opinion, is kind of meh, and usually isn’t much cheaper than the Disneyland hotel, plus it is the farthest hotel away from the parks. 

27. Don’t Abandon Nap Time

If you have little ones that still nap, go back to the room so everyone can rest. Try to keep it consistent with their usual nap times. This will make it possible for you to stay later in the parks with happy kiddos. 

Even if no one in your family naps anymore, go back to the room midday for some relaxation. This is also a great time to hit up the pools and take a break from the park madness. 

28. Take Advantage of Extra Magic Hours

Staying at the Disney Resorts gives you the advantage of Extra Magic Hours! This allows you to enter the park 1 hour early before the crowds arrive and hit some rides before long lines form. Check out everything you need to know about this perk here! You definitely have to take advantage of this Disneyland tip if you are staying at the resorts! The early wake-up call is worth it. 

At Disney World, there are over 30 hotels filled with guests that have access to Extra Magic Hours. At Disneyland it is only 3 hotels, think of how empty the parks will be! It’s AWESOME

29. Book the Concierge if you can afford it (and sometimes you’ll even save Money)

It might sound crazy but we always try to book the concierge level. Many times it is about $100-$150 more per night and the amenities are totally worth it. You will enjoy Free breakfast, usually, it’s a continental breakfast with some sort of egg dish. In addition, you can grab waters, sodas, and snacks like Uncrustables for the park. 

Lastly, at night they have a dessert reception with a view of the fireworks where they pipe in the music from the parks. It is a great way to experience the fireworks. I absolutely love it.!  

Where to Stay Off Property

30. courtyard anaheim theme park entrance.

If planning a Disneyland Trip involves staying offsite, there are some great option.  Located on South Harbor Blvd directly across from the Disneyland Resort & Disney California Adventure is the Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance Hotel .

This brand new hotel features an on-site water park called Surfside, a beautiful fitness center, rooms designed with families in mind and you can even see fireworks from the pool area and some of the rooms.

We stayed in a family suite which had two queen beds + a bunk bed. There is so much space and such great organization that even with all 6 of us we never felt squished.  Check Prices Here!

The best part, it’s about a 5-minute walk to Disneyland (closer than Paradise Pier)

Tips for Catching the Shows and Entertainment

31. best spot to watch the fireworks.

One of the best spots to view fireworks without a crowd around you is the area around It’s a Small World. The fireworks are shot off from Toon Town so this will put you very close to the action. Plus, there is plenty of room to stand around here and different elevations meaning you can get above the majority of the crowd.

Our favorite spot to view fireworks is actually from our hotel rooms. When you are booking, you should try to get a room with a view or ask the front desk upon arrival if there is anywhere in the hotel to watch from. Of course, you don’t get the full experience but it’s still a nice way to view. The biggest bonus is obviously that you get to avoid the crowd. 

32. When & Where to See the Parades 

During the busy times of the year, the parades may happen multiple times a day. If this is the case when you are visiting always see the second parade or later. 

If this isn’t the case, we say it is better to squeeze in some rides rather than waiting for a good parade viewing spot. You can just walk along Main St and still get a good feel of what’s going on in the parade. 

33. What to Do When World of Color is a Priority 

If you are buying Park Hopper tickets and visiting both parks, you might want to see World of Color. If you decide the World of Color is a priority, you will want to get a Fastpass as early as possible. These Fastpasses do not affect your ability to book attractions, so if you have the MaxPass just book them right when you enter the park.

This is also true if you want to see Fantasmic! without the dinner package. 

34. The Tale of the Lion King

If you’ve got a kiddo that loves the Lion King or if you just love a good live show, The Tale of the Lion King is the best option in either of the parks. 

Tips for Saving Money at Disneyland

35. use a travel agent –.

If you know anything about my husband he loves doing everything himself, that being said, after 25+ Disney VacationS we decided to book with a travel agent and we are never going back. Not only do they help you with all the planning, but they also don’t cost a penny and they actually end up saving you money!

Disney Travel Agents like Best Day Ever Vacations exclusively sell Disney. They are truly Disney Experts, they have experienced agents who have visited  Disney World, Disneyland, been on Disney Cruises and have even been to Aulani multiple times. They have experts for every Disney trip and it is the best decision we have ever made.

Bonus Tip!!! – Save money on your stay at the Grand Californian Resort by Renting points

Renting Disney Vacation club points is a great way to save money on your next Disney Vacation. Currently only the Grand Californian has Disney Vacation club rooms so you have to book early (like 11 months early. If you do, you can save close to 40% off rooms. Check David’s Vacation rentals to book discounted rooms.

36. Check out all Ticket Options

Don’t just buy the first park tickets that you find. There are plenty of different options and bargains to be found. You can find some ideas for discounted tickets here.  

37. Take Advantage of some of the little freebies for kids in the Park

Everybody loves something free. At Disneyland, you can pick up little freebies for your kids like Birthday Buttons, or 1st Visit, or Special Day Buttons for Free at City Hall inside both parks. 

Also, throughout the park you will see Disney Vacation Club cast members, they are always passing out stickers for little ones. 

Lastly, Don’t forget about the free chocolate at Ghiradelli’s in California Adventure!

38. Buy Souvenirs Before or After You Go 

Buying souvenirs in the park can get really pricey, not to mention you don’t want to spend too much time in the stores when you could be on rides. If you buy some Disney toys beforehand and let your kiddo bring one along, they probably won’t mind skipping the stores. You can also promise to purchase something after the trip to commemorate.

Bonus Tip: My personal favorite souvenir with all my kids is the light up bubble wand. It entertains the kids all day and night. You can grab one here!

39. Pack Your Favorite Snacks & Take them into the Park.

You can bring as many snacks as you’d like into the park (just no coolers)! This might allow you to minimize the meals you have to buy. You and your kiddos will have all the foods you love and can choose healthy options that will keep you fueled for the day. It also means you can splurge on the meals you do eat in the park. This is one Disneyland tip we always try to follow. 

40. Pick Out What’s Splurge-Worthy Beforehand

Don’t go into the park without a plan for how you’ll be spending if you are wanting to stick to a budget. Once you are in the park it can be really tempting to buy a cute t-shirt or the bubble wand your kiddo wants. Set a plan beforehand to purchase specific souvenirs and treats so you won’t end up tempted and overspending. 

41. Save Money by Ordering a Family Style Pizza

Having 6 kids, you have to learn a few tricks to afford Disneyland. One simple one is to order a fullsize pizza from Pizza Planet. Usually meals run about $12-$15 per person, so with the pizza you can feed a family of 4 for about $35 versus $60

How to Pack for Disneyland

Disneyland can be tough to pack for. Check out our complete packing list with printable here. Here are some quick and easy tips.

42. Wear Comfortable Shoes!

Disneyland is a lot of walking, so make sure to bring your comfiest pair of kicks and get ready to work your fitbit to the max, because you will be getting in plenty of steps. On our last trip I was averaging 20k a day. (Here is my guide to best shoes for Disney )

42. Plan for Weather

Although Disneyland is in Southern California, the weather can change quite dramatically. In the winter make sure to pack jeans and a sweater. In the summer be ready for some heat as temps can reach up to 100 degrees in July & August. If you are around between January – April there might be rain, so pack a small umbrella.

43. Have fun with it & Do some Disney Matching Shirts

Really this isn’t my tip, it’s my husbands. He loves matching shirts and in fact, he created his own article all on the best Disney Matching shirts. Even though I begrudgingly wear one, it is always fun to have the whole team in some matching shirts. 

44. A Portable Charger is a Must

Between using the Disneyland App to book Fast passes or check wait lines, taking pics with your phone and using other apps to stay entertained while waiting in line, your battery can go down fast. Grab a good portable charger before you go.

Little Disneyland Tips to Make the Trip More Fun!

Sometimes when planning a Disneyland trip, we get caught up on getting on the most rides and having the perfect spot for the parade. So, here are some fun little things to do while in Disneyland and California Adventure to make your trip more fun.

45. Explore the smells and amazing Bakery Items

I absolutely love walking into the Ice Cream shop at Disneyland and smelling that fresh waffle cone smell. Also, I love looking in the windows of where they are making caramel apples (you can see it in both parks and Downtown Disney) and watch their incredible creations. 

46. Grab a Hidden Mickey’s Book

Disneyland is filled with hundreds of hidden Mickey’s throughout the park, in lines, on rides. Imagineers placed them there as their little signature for their work. Grab the guide to Hidden Mickey’s and it will keep you and more importantly, the kids entertained while walking, waiting on lines and more. 

47. Take Pictures in front of Fun Disney Walls

48. Take Pictures With Disneyland Balloons!

Ask a cast member if you can hold the balloons, and then you get a perfect Disney Photo opp!

Transportation/Getting To Disneyland!

49. disney parking hack.

If you ever pulled up to the Mickey & Friends Lot, you have noticed the infinite line of cars waiting to park. Avoid that line by driving the path towards downtown Disney. Make a right on Magic Way and the entrance is on your right side. You will find barely any line.

Disneyland Resort Parking Map + Secret Entrance –

50. Short Term Parking Hack

If you are planning to go to the parks for less than 4 hours, you can park in the Downtown Disney Parking Lot for FREE (Kind of). Downtown Disney does require you to spend $20 to get the 4 hours of FREE Parking. So I simply go to Starbucks and buy a $20 gift card, get my parking validated and then use the card later.

Which Airport is Closest to Disneyland

Santa Ana (SNA) is the closest airport to Disneyland, but you might find flight to LAX a whole lot cheaper. Santa Ana is about 30 minutes away and LAX is about an hour, that is of course if there is no traffic. If you are arriving in the area between 5am-9am and 3pm-7pm expect traffic

How to get to Disneyland from the Airport

Most convenient option – uber or renting a car.

I recommend renting a car while in LA, unless you are only spending all your time in Disneyland & California Adventure. Otherwise, if you want to venture out, L.A. and Anaheim have a ton to offer for families. You can also Uber it, expect the fee to be around $70 from LAX and $50 from Santa Ana (SNA).

The Cheapest Option – Disneyland Express 

Disneyland Express will pick you up right from the airport. 

• From LAX , Disneyland Resort Express is $30 one way/$48 rt for an adult (age 12 and up) and $9 one way/$14 rt for a child (age 3-11). Kids age 2 and under are FREE but may be required to lap sit
• From SNA , Disneyland Resort Express is $20 one way/$35 rt for an adult (age 12 and up) and $7 one way/$11 rt for a child (age 3-11). Kids age 2 and under are FREE, but may be required to lap sit.

Disneyland Resort Express from the airport  – after picking up your luggage at the airport, proceed out to the pickup location:

• At LAX , go to the center island and stand under the overhead green sign. The bus departs frequently – contact them directly at  (800) 828-6699  for the current schedule.
• At SNA , go outside to the Ground Transportation Center and find the area in front of the ticket booth on your left. The bus departs frequently – contact them directly at  (800) 828-6699  for the current schedule.

If you have any questions about planning a Disneyland Trip, feel free to ask in the comments or message me on my Instagram . We will be adding to this list as we come up with even more tips. 

Pin for Later – Planning a Disneyland Trip? 50 Best Disneyland Tips from a Pro

Frequently Asked Questions about Disneyland Tips

How do i get the most out of a day at disneyland.

Get to the parks when the park opens. You’ll get on so many rides early on. Also, add genie + to your park ticket cost it is worth the extra $20

What are the best Rides at Disneyland

Rise of the Resistance Splash Mountain Space Mountain Indiana Jones Thunder Mountain

Can you bring food into Disneyland?

Yes, you can bring food and snacks into Disneyland (no alcohol) You simply cannot bring in a hard cooler into the park.

What hotels are at the Disneyland Resort?

Right now there are 3 hotels at the Disneyland Resort.

The Disneyland Hotel, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa.

When is the best time to visit Disneyland?

If you prefer cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, the best time to visit Disneyland is typically during the off-season, which is generally from January to mid-March and mid-September to early November.

These periods tend to have lower crowd levels and you might spend LESS times in line for a ride.

If you’re looking for special events and holiday festivities, the peak seasons from mid-November to early January and mid-March to early September offer seasonal shows, parades, and fireworks displays, as well as extended park hours. However, these periods tend to be the busiest times, with higher ticket prices and longer wait times for attractions.

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Reader Interactions

September 2, 2022 at 4:45 pm

Well toontown has been and remains closed…

September 3, 2022 at 6:22 pm

Excellent advice! I only disagree about the packing list. I never recommend taking/wearing jeans to a theme park. If you go on any water rides and even get damp, jeans are MISERABLE! They chafe & take forever to dry. I always take pants that are mostly nylon mixed with cotton.

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The Family Vacation Guide

Plan Your Ultimate Family Trip To Disneyland California With These 10 Top Tips

posted by Caitlin Lloyd on March 15, 2022 // last updated on March 28, 2022

Whether you’re a Disney regular or a newcomer experiencing the magic for the first time, planning a family trip to the Disneyland Resort can feel like a colossal feat. With theme park tickets, accommodation, schedules, and much more, there are a lot of factors to consider.

But worried parents can breathe a sigh of relief! We’ve compiled all the must-know information about Disneyland California to take the stress out of your vacation.

Whether you want to experience the Downtown Disney District or new attractions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, follow our expert tips for an easy and carefree trip. From queue lines to character costumes, we’ve got you covered!

Trying to find other exciting things to do during your vacation here? We’ve put together a list of the best family activities and fun family day trips in Southern California to inspire you ahead of your trip!

Staying Onsite

Staying offsite, step two: theme park tickets, step three: creating a schedule, 1. prioritize your must-see rides and shows, 2. factor in plenty of walking time, 3. keep your schedule flexible, 4. use the disney mobile app, 5. stay hydrated, 6. plan your food in advance, 7. use rider switch, 8. don’t forget about indoor performances, 9. purchase your kids’ costume in advance, 10. don’t overdo it, not planning your food, wearing uncomfortable footwear, staying too far away, final thoughts.

Planning Your Trip To Disneyland California

Step one: accommodation.

Once you’ve decided on a time frame and budget for your Disney trip, you can plan where you will stay.

In terms of accommodation, there are two main options to choose from: staying onsite and staying offsite.

If you want to stay close to the action, look no further than one of Disney’s on-site hotels:

• Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel. With three themed pools, a hot tub, a cocktail bar, and the famous Storytellers Cafe, you can’t go wrong with Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, located within the Disneyland Resort itself.
• Disneyland Hotel. Every room in the Disneyland Hotel is decorated in Disney’s characteristic whimsical design, making it perfect for families with young kids.
• Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. A 10-minute walk from the Downtown Disney District, Paradise Pier is another convenient option. It provides a Disney spin on California’s laid-back beach culture and is well suited to all ages.

If you’d prefer to stay offsite, there are many local hotels to choose from:

• Courtyard Anaheim (Theme Park Entrance) . If you want to enjoy more of the fun that Anaheim has to offer, the Courtyard boasts an impressive 20,000 square-foot waterpark, open to both kids and adults.
• Residence Inn Anaheim Resort. Families can enjoy large, spacious rooms at the Residence Inn. Even full-size kitchens are available- perfect for whipping up a quick meal in your downtime.

Our guide to the best hotels near Disneyland, Anaheim will provide you with great accommodation options to help you plan your Disney vacation.

After selecting your accommodation, you can compare ticket prices on the Disney website.

The Disney Resort in Anaheim is made up of two theme parks- the Disney California Adventure park and Disney California – so make sure to purchase the correct ticket for your visit. You’ll need a Park Hopper ticket if you want to visit both parks on the same day.

Locals will be pleased to hear that Southern California residents are eligible for a discounted ticket!

Our handy guide exploring the cost of Disneyland California tickets should make useful reading ahead of your next visit.

Once your tickets and accommodation are secured, we recommend putting together a rough daily schedule.

From mealtimes to queuing, read on for our must-know scheduling advice!

Our Top Tips

When booking your Disneyland Resort tickets, you’ve no doubt got some must-visit attractions in mind. Maybe you’re dying to see the new Star Wars rides at the Disney California Adventure, or perhaps your kids are excited to ride on Peter Pan’s Flight.

Whatever your Disney favorites are, schedule your days around your priority rides. Try to arrive at these early in the day to avoid the long wait times.

Why not pick out your must-see rides with help from our park breakdown of how many rides are in Disneyland and California Adventure ?

Though the Disney California Adventure Park and Disneyland Resort California aren’t as large as the Disney parks in Florida , a day at Disney California still entails a lot of walking.

If you’re pregnant or have young kids, factor extra walking time into your schedule. There’s only so much ground you can cover in a day, and you don’t want to be rushing across the Disneyland Resort from ride to ride!

Because there’s so much to do and see on your Disneyland trip, Disney first-timers may be tempted to plan every day down to a tee.

Some aspects of your trip – like queue and transport times – can be unpredictable and subject to last-minute change. Be prepared to adapt and modify your schedule to avoid throwing your whole day if you can’t go on a certain ride when expected.

You can monitor wait times, opening hours, and much more with the Disney Genie mobile app.

Though it’s important to plan what areas of Disneyland park you’re visiting each day, there’s no need to stress about sticking to a minute-by-minute schedule.

To skip the long queues, you can purchase Lighting Lane entry to your favorite attractions through the Disney Genie app. Not only will this allow you to see more attractions, but it’ll also keep the family happy, as no one likes standing in a crazy long queue!

You can either book on a ride-by-ride basis or buy the Disney Genie+ service, which provides Lighting Lane arrival windows for a set group of rides.

Want to find out more? Our guide to Disney Genie, Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane will be a great help when planning your next trip.  

There’s a reason that California’s nickname is the Golden State! Anaheim can reach very high temperatures, particularly in the peak summer holiday months, so it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to avoid heatstroke when visiting the Disneyland Park!

To keep your family healthy and happy at California’s Disneyland Resort, ensure that everyone has their own large refillable water bottle. Though there are restaurants and kiosks throughout the theme parks, you might not always be able to buy water.

If you’re queuing for your next ride, avoid getting caught out by carrying plenty of water in your bag.

To avoid queues and potential disappointment at Disney, the magic rule is plan, plan, plan!

This doesn’t just apply to rides, but mealtimes as well. If you’d like to enjoy a family dinner in Downtown Disney or at one of the famous Disney Resort restaurants, make sure to reserve a table online in advance. Tables become available as early as 60 days in advance!

At Disneyland Resort, two dining options are available: Quick Service and Table Service. While you’ll be able to grab a Quick Service meal on the day, reservations are recommended for Table Service dining.

When visiting the Disneyland Resort as a family, we’d strongly encourage you to splash the cash on a character dining experience.

There’s nothing more magical for a child than breakfast with their favorite Disney characters! While it’s not the cheapest dining option, it is the highlight of many visitors’ trips.

If you’re visiting Disney’s California Adventure or Disney California with young children, we’d recommend taking advantage of the Rider Switch system.

When you reach the front of the queue, requesting a Rider Switch pass will allow a second adult to ride without queuing, meaning that everyone gets to ride (and kids may be able to ride twice!).

Are you planning on taking your baby to Disneyland? Our guide exploring which rides babies can ride at Disneyland should be a helpful read ahead of your trip. 

With so much ground to cover, a day in the Disney California Adventure Park can be tiring, especially for little ones.

To avoid over-tiring yourself, it’s a great idea to enjoy some of the indoor performances that the theme park has to offer.

From 3D concerts like Mickey’s PhilharMagic to the much-loved Frozen- Live at the Hyperion show, there’s a long list of indoor events to choose from! They provide the perfect opportunity to rest tired legs while keeping the whole family entertained.

To get fully immersed in the excitement of the Disneyland theme park, most kids will be hankering for merchandise and the costume of their favorite character. Every child delights in the opportunity to transform into their hero – and there’s no better time to do so than on your Disney vacation!

As a magical surprise for your kids, you can buy their costumes in advance through the Disney Store and arrange to collect them in the park.

This is a great way to avoid potential disappointment if their desired outfit is unavailable.

Though Disney is the Happiest Place on Earth, the crowds and excitement can be a little overwhelming at times. Whether from tiredness or heat, it’s not uncommon for kids to shed a few tears during their Disney visit.

To avoid your family from getting overtired, it’s important to allow rest time throughout your trip. If you’re able to start your day early, we’d recommend leaving Disneyland Park for a short break in the early afternoon, when the heat and crowds are at their peak.

If you’d like to enjoy some slower-paced activities, check out our complete guide to visiting California with kids . 

Common Mistakes To Avoid

If you fail to plan for food, you’ll likely end up spending more than you need to for your meals. An average meal in the park will cost around $15, and this will add up if you’ve got a large family.

Disney allows you to bring your food and drinks into the parks, so we’d recommend packing snacks to keep you going between meals. You may also want to pack sandwiches to save your money for a luxurious evening meal.

That way, you can save money while still enjoying some of Disney’s iconic treats, like Dole Whip and corndogs.

Similarly, for Table Service dining, we’d recommend reserving a table as far in advance as possible. This also applies to character dining, which can get booked up very quickly.

A day at Disneyland Resort is comparable to an endurance sport. From lengthy queue times to long walks across the theme park, your feet will be tired by the end of the trip!

As a general rule, it’s a good idea to plan to walk at least 5 miles each day. Accordingly, every family member should pack two pairs of comfortable shoes. We’d recommend some hardy sneakers and a pair of comfortable sandals.

When planning the accommodation for your Disneyland Resort trip, be sure to factor in travel times. Though you might want to explore all that Los Angeles has to offer, staying over an hour away in one of Santa Monica’s family hotels will cut into your theme park time.

However, if you are planning to stay in LA, our guide to the best hotels in Los Angeles for families will give you some great inspiration to prepare you for your vacation.

While we strongly recommend staying onsite at Walt Disney World Florida, Disneyland Resort California has many close offsite hotel options available.

Stay nearby in Anaheim to enjoy quick access to both parks, and consider opting for a hotel that’s part of Disney’s Good Neighbour scheme to enjoy additional discounts and perks.

Are there all-inclusive family vacation packages to Disneyland?

Disney does not offer all-inclusive packages in the traditional sense, though you can tailor your own package with Disney’s wide range of bonus amenities, from fast-tracked tickets to food vouchers.

Guests at the official Disneyland Resort hotels enjoy many extra benefits, including entertainment packages and extra access to the theme parks during Magic Hours.

How many days do you need at Disney California?

Because California’s Disneyland Resort is considerably smaller than its Floridian counterpart, it can be fully enjoyed in just two days.

To experience all of the magic, we’d recommend spending a day each at Disneyland California Adventure Park and Disney California.

We’ve created the perfect guide that explores how many days you need at Disneyland California to help you plan your family trip!

What is the cheapest time to go to Disney?

As a general rule, Disney tickets are cheapest in January, February, August, and September (excluding holidays).

The busiest (and most expensive) period is during the school holidays and at weekends all year round.

To save on your ticket cost, try to visit during the off-season. 

Want more information on ticket prices? Our handy guide exploring how much Disneyland California tickets cost will provide you with everything you need to know before purchasing your tickets.

Whether you’re planning a brief visit to the Disney California Adventure Park or a weekend at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, be sure to remember our top tips.

Visiting a Disneyland Resort can seem daunting for first-timers, but as long as you listen to the experts, you’ll have an incredible time at California’s Disneyland Park!

If there’s one main takeaway, it’s that preparation is vital . From schedules to food, planning your trip will allow you to get the most out of Disney California Adventure and Disney California.

Before you visit Disneyland Resort California, be sure to check the most up-to-date COVID-19 information. Our helpful guide should help you understand more about the pandemic’s changes on Disneyland and whether you have to be vaccinated to go to Disneyland, California .

Love big days out and need more inspiration of where to go ahead of your family vacation? Our list of the top attractions and fun things to do in California with kids should take the weight off your shoulders when planning your trip!

More about our TFVG Author

Caitlin Lloyd

Caitlin is one of The Family Vacation Guide's long standing contributors. She enjoys taking vacation to busy, vibrant cities and has stretched her traveling legs out towards Europe in recent months, enjoying new experiences in Barcelona in Spain, and Nice in France.

About Caitlin Lloyd

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What To Pack For A Disneyland Trip: 41 Essentials To Bring

Introduction.

Planning a trip to Disneyland can be an exciting and memorable experience, but being properly prepared is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay. One of the key aspects of a successful Disneyland trip is knowing what to pack. This comprehensive packing guide will help you pack all the essentials for a magical adventure at the happiest place on earth.

When it comes to packing for a Disneyland trip, it’s important to strike a balance between being prepared for all the fun activities and not overpacking. You don’t want to be weighed down by excessive luggage, but at the same time, you don’t want to find yourself without essential items. By following this packing guide, you’ll be equipped with everything you need to have a stress-free and unforgettable trip.

Whether you’re visiting Disneyland for the first time or you’re a seasoned Disney enthusiast, here are some tips to keep in mind before you start packing:

• Check the weather forecast for your travel dates. This will help you determine the appropriate clothing to pack.
• Consider the duration of your trip. If you’re staying for multiple days, you may need to pack more items than a one-day visit.
• Think about the activities you plan to engage in at Disneyland. Are you going to enjoy water rides? Will you be attending any special events or character meet and greets?
• Take note of any specific guidelines or restrictions set by Disneyland, such as prohibited items and dress code.

By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to create a packing list tailored to your specific needs and ensure a hassle-free trip. In the following sections, we’ll dive into the essential items you should pack for your Disneyland adventure.

Essential Clothing and Accessories

When it comes to packing clothing and accessories for your Disneyland trip, comfort and versatility are key. Here are some essential items to include in your suitcase:

• Comfortable shoes: Disneyland involves a lot of walking, so be sure to pack a pair of comfortable shoes or sneakers.
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Check the weather forecast and pack clothing suitable for the conditions. T-shirts, shorts, and lightweight layers are ideal for warm weather, while jeans, sweaters, and jackets are necessary for cooler temperatures.
• Rain gear: Since weather can be unpredictable, it’s wise to pack a lightweight raincoat or poncho. This will keep you dry during any unexpected showers or water rides.
• Hats and sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun by bringing a hat and sunglasses. These accessories will shield you from harmful UV rays and keep you comfortable throughout the day.
• Backpack or day bag: A small backpack or day bag is essential for carrying your belongings. Make sure it’s comfortable to wear and has enough space to hold essentials like water bottles, snacks, and sunscreen.
• Extra clothes: If you’re planning to go on water rides or get wet in any way, pack a change of clothes so you can quickly change and avoid discomfort.
• Costume or Disney-themed attire: Many visitors enjoy dressing up in Disney-inspired outfits. Consider packing a costume or Disney-themed attire to add to the fun and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere.

Remember to pack clothes and accessories that you feel comfortable in and reflect your personal style. This will ensure that you not only have a delightful experience at Disneyland, but also feel confident and relaxed throughout your trip.

Comfort and Convenience

When embarking on a Disneyland trip, it’s important to prioritize your comfort and convenience. Here are some essential items to pack that will help ensure a more enjoyable experience:

• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by packing a high SPF sunscreen. Apply it generously and reapply throughout the day to prevent sunburn.
• Portable phone charger: With all the photo opportunities and using your phone for navigation, your battery might drain quickly. Bring a portable charger to keep your devices powered up throughout the day.
• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when you’re spending hours walking around. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at water fountains throughout the park.
• Snacks: Pack some lightweight, non-perishable snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day. Granola bars, trail mix, and fruit snacks are great options.
• Ziplock bags: These versatile bags come in handy for storing wet clothes, keeping snacks fresh, and protecting your electronics from water on water rides.
• Ponchos or umbrellas: Be prepared for unexpected rain showers by packing disposable ponchos or a compact travel umbrella.
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes: Keep your hands clean and fresh by carrying hand sanitizer and wet wipes. They’re especially useful before enjoying any snacks or meals.
• Travel-size toiletries: Bring travel-size toiletries like toothbrush, toothpaste, and travel-sized shampoo and conditioner if you’re staying at a hotel or planning to freshen up during the day.
• Travel-sized first aid kit: It’s always a good idea to have a small first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary medication in case of minor injuries or illnesses.

By packing these comfort and convenience items, you’ll have peace of mind and be prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise during your Disneyland adventure. Remember, it’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.

Electronics and Entertainment

While Disneyland is an immersive experience in itself, having some electronics and entertainment options can add to the enjoyment of your trip. Here are some essential items to consider packing:

• Camera or smartphone: Capture all the magical moments at Disneyland with a camera or smartphone. Make sure to bring extra memory cards or ensure your phone has ample storage space.
• Portable speakers: If you enjoy listening to music, bring a portable speaker to play your favorite tunes while waiting in line or relaxing in the park.
• Noise-canceling headphones: Block out any excess noise and distractions by packing noise-canceling headphones. They’re perfect for immersing yourself in the park’s atmosphere or enjoying your favorite music.
• E-readers or books: If you prefer a quiet moment to relax, bring along an e-reader or a good book to enjoy during breaks or while waiting for shows.
• Portable gaming device: Keep yourself entertained during downtime by bringing a portable gaming device. It’s a great option for kids and adults alike.
• Charging cables: Don’t forget to pack charging cables for all your electronic devices. This will ensure they stay powered up throughout the day.

While it’s important to have some electronics and entertainment options, be sure not to spend your entire trip glued to your devices. Disneyland is a place to create magical memories and immerse yourself in the experience, so strike a balance between enjoying the attractions and making use of your entertainment options.

Important Documents and Money

When preparing for your Disneyland trip, it’s crucial to have all the necessary documents and sufficient funds to ensure a smooth and worry-free experience. Here’s a checklist of important items to pack:

• IDs and travel documents: Carry your identification card, driver’s license, passport, or any other form of identification that may be required for entry or verification.
• Tickets and reservations: Make sure to pack all tickets, passes, or reservations for Disneyland and any other attractions you plan to visit during your trip.
• Payment methods: Bring multiple forms of payment, such as cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Some vendors in the park may only accept cash, so it’s important to have some on hand.
• Health insurance card: It’s always a good idea to have your health insurance card with you, especially in case of any unexpected medical situations.
• Emergency contact information: Write down the contact information of a trusted friend or family member, as well as any relevant medical information or allergies, in case of emergencies.

It’s also advisable to make photocopies or take pictures of your important documents and store them securely in case of loss or theft.

While at Disneyland, be mindful of your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Consider using lockers or the hotel safe to store valuable and important items. Additionally, notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your accounts.

By having all your necessary documents and funds in order, you’ll be prepared for any situation that may arise during your Disneyland adventure.

Safety and First Aid

Ensuring your safety and well-being during your Disneyland trip is of utmost importance. Here are some essential items to pack for safety and first aid:

• First aid kit: Pack a compact first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medication you or your family members may need.
• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen regularly. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF.
• Insect repellent: Depending on the season, insects may be present in certain areas of the park. Pack insect repellent to keep bugs at bay.
• Pain relievers: Headaches and muscle soreness can occur after a long day of walking and standing. Bring pain relievers to alleviate any discomfort.
• Hand sanitizer: Keep your hands clean and germ-free by carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer.
• Emergency contact information: Have the contact information of your emergency contacts readily available in case of any unexpected situations.
• Emergency poncho: Pack a compact emergency poncho or raincoat in case of sudden rain showers or water attractions.
• Motion sickness remedies: If you or your family members are prone to motion sickness, pack remedies such as motion sickness bands or medication.
• Comfort items: If you have any specific comfort items that help you feel secure and relaxed, such as a blanket or pillow, consider bringing them along.

Disneyland has trained medical staff and first aid stations throughout the park to assist with any medical emergencies or injuries. You can refer to the park map or ask a cast member for assistance if needed.

Remember to listen to your body, take breaks when necessary, and stay hydrated. By being prepared and taking precautions, you’ll have a safe and enjoyable time at Disneyland.

Snacks and Drinks

While Disneyland offers a wide variety of dining options, having some snacks and drinks on hand can save you time and money, and keep you energized throughout the day. Here are some essential items to pack:

• Lightweight and non-perishable snacks: Choose snacks that are easy to carry, non-perishable, and won’t get crushed in your bag. Granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit, and crackers are great options.
• Fruits and vegetables: Pack some fresh fruits and cut-up vegetables for a healthy and refreshing snack option.
• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, so bring a reusable water bottle to refill at water fountains throughout the park.
• Drinks: If you prefer something other than water, bring along individual packets of powdered drink mixes or small bottles of your favorite beverages.
• Treats and indulgences: Disneyland is known for its delicious treats. If you have a favorite snack or treat, consider bringing it along to enjoy while exploring the park.

It’s important to note that outside food and beverages are permitted in Disneyland, with the exception of glass containers, large coolers, and alcoholic beverages. Be mindful of any dietary restrictions or food allergies when selecting your snacks.

While having snacks and drinks on hand is convenient, make sure to also indulge in the delicious dining options available at Disneyland. The park offers a wide variety of cuisines and dining experiences, giving you the opportunity to try new and exciting flavors.

By packing snacks and drinks, you’ll have the flexibility to enjoy quick bites on the go and avoid hunger or dehydration during your Disneyland adventure.

Miscellaneous Items

Aside from the essentials mentioned previously, there are a few miscellaneous items that can enhance your Disneyland trip and make your experience even more magical. Consider packing the following:

• Autograph book and pen: If you’re planning to meet Disney characters, bringing an autograph book and pen will allow you to collect their signatures and create lasting memories.
• Glow sticks or light-up toys: In the evening, Disneyland comes alive with dazzling lights and fireworks. Bring glow sticks or light-up toys to add to the enchanting atmosphere.
• Reusable shopping bags: Disneyland has plenty of shops, and having reusable shopping bags on hand will come in handy for carrying any souvenirs you purchase.
• Ziploc bags or wet bags: Whether you’re storing wet clothes or want to protect your belongings from spills, having ziplock bags or wet bags is always useful.
• Park maps and guidebooks: Although park maps are readily available at Disneyland, bringing a guidebook or downloading the official Disneyland app can provide additional information and help you navigate the park efficiently.
• Park tickets and FastPasses: Keep your park tickets and FastPasses easily accessible in a secure location to avoid any hassle during entry or ride reservations.
• Disney-themed accessories: Get into the spirit of Disneyland by wearing Disney-themed accessories, such as hats, ears, or shirts. This will add to the fun and immerse you in the magical atmosphere.
• Baby supplies: If you’re traveling with an infant or young child, be sure to pack items such as diapers, wipes, bottles, and a stroller to make your little one comfortable during the trip.

Remember to pack any personal items that will enhance your enjoyment of the park. Whether it’s a camera for capturing memories, a portable fan to stay cool, or a travel pillow for a quick nap, think about what will make your Disneyland experience more enjoyable and convenient.

By considering these miscellaneous items, you’ll have everything you need to fully immerse yourself in the Disney magic and create unforgettable memories during your trip to Disneyland.

Preparing for a trip to Disneyland can be both exciting and overwhelming, but with the right packing tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. By following this comprehensive packing guide, you’ll be equipped with all the essentials to make your Disneyland adventure unforgettable.

Take the time to consider the specific needs of your trip, such as the weather, the duration of your stay, and the activities you plan to engage in. This will help you tailor your packing list to meet your individual requirements.

Remember to pack comfortable clothing and shoes, as well as essential accessories like hats, sunglasses, and backpacks. Don’t forget crucial items like sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and snacks to keep you energized throughout the day.

Ensure the safety of you and your fellow travelers by packing a first aid kit, emergency contact information, and any necessary medications. And, of course, don’t forget your important documents and payment methods.

While this packing guide covers the essentials, it’s important to personalize your packing list based on your preferences and needs. Consider adding some entertainment options, such as cameras or portable speakers, to enhance your experience.

Lastly, remember that packing for Disneyland is not only about being prepared, but also about enjoying the magic of the park. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere by adding some Disney-themed accessories or indulging in treats unique to Disneyland.

With this comprehensive packing guide, you’ll be ready to embark on a magical adventure at the happiest place on earth. So pack your bags, double-check your packing list, and get ready to create lasting memories at Disneyland!

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40 Best Foods at Disneyland — From Dole Whips to Lobster Nachos

Looking for the best food at Disneyland? We've rounded up 40 of the most iconic Disneyland snacks and meals so you can eat your way through the theme parks.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Courtesy of Disney

If you think theme park grub is all ice cream, popcorn, and hamburgers, think again. The best food at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park includes Mickey-shaped treats, Star Wars -inspired meals, and even some of Walt's favorite eats. From iconic Disneyland snacks like the Dole Whip to tasty bites in Avengers Campus, we've rounded up 40 of the best Disneyland foods to try on your next trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth." And with options for every taste, you may be hard-pressed to find time to get back on a ride between stops. Elizabeth Rhodes, Travel + Leisure 's on-staff theme park expert, knows it can be hard to choose, but don't worry — our expert input will help you plot out your must-eat treats (including options for a range of dietary preferences).

Our advice? Leave the snacks at home, arrive early, and come hungry because eating your way through the best food at Disneyland is an attraction on its own.

Skewers, Bengal Barbecue

Elizabeth Rhodes

As one of the quickest and healthiest snacks in the park, Bengal Barbecue's beef, chicken, veggie, and bacon-wrapped asparagus skewers are a reliable bite. "I personally love the fresh vegetable and meat skewers here — especially when it's a hot day and I want something filling but light," says Rhodes.

Monte Cristo, Multiple Locations

It's so much more than a fried sandwich. The turkey, ham, and Swiss-stuffed sustenance found at restaurants throughout New Orleans Square is a Disneyland institution.

Lobster Nachos, Lamplight Lounge

If you spend the day at Disney California Adventure and somehow don't make it to Lamplight Lounge for this heap of deliciousness, you've missed out. "A fun, fruity cocktail and a plate of these tasty nachos served up with a view of Pixar Pier — it doesn't get much better than that," says Rhodes.

Mickey Mouse Beignets, Mint Julep Bar

Sugar-dusted, deep-fried, and sweet as could be — who wouldn't want a bite of Mickey? Find them at Mint Julep Bar. (Note that the Mint Julep Bar is currently closed for refurbishment.)

Turkey Leg, Multiple Locations

Larger-than-life turkey legs aren't just good for the 'gram — they're a delicious, meaty indulgence from Edelweiss Snacks (among other snack carts in the park) best split with a friend. Just be sure to grab a bottle of water too, because these can be salty!

Lobster Roll, Harbour Galley

It's easy to breeze past Harbour Galley in Critter Country, but this seafaring outpost serves up hefty sandwiches worth stopping for, including the lobster roll and a tuna sandwich.

Matterhorn Macaroon, Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe

There are many beloved Disneyland attractions, but at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe, only one gets the dessert treatment. And at $3.99, it's also one of the least expensive snacks on this list.

Fried Chicken, Plaza Inn

If you're dining at Plaza Inn, don't skip this crispy, crunchy crowd favorite, which is the best you'll find at Disneyland. Served up alongside mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetables, and a biscuit, this is the ultimate comfort meal.

Mickey Mouse Pancake, Red Rose Taverne

This Red Rose Taverne breakfast treat is an adorable way to start any Disney day. This mouse-shaped pancake is served with berry compote and your choice of bacon or sausage.

Enchilada Platter, Rancho del Zocalo

Skip the standard theme park fare and instead opt for a delicious Mexican favorite at Rancho del Zocalo, like these famed cheese enchiladas.

Mac and Cheese Dog, Refreshment Corner

Of course, if you'd rather go for a fun take on classic theme park food, we've got you covered. Deciding what to eat for lunch is never an issue with this bacon-topped dual delicacy from Refreshment Corner.

Cheese-filled Pretzels, Multiple Locations

Soft pretzels filled with cream cheese or japaleño cheese, served at Refreshment Corner and Bayside Brews, are always a better choice than the plain ones.

Mickey Waffle, Multiple Locations

Grab the famous mouse-shaped breakfast at one of Disneyland's hotels, or at Carnation Cafe inside Disneyland Park. Something about the Mickey shape just tastes better.

BBQ Tofu, River Belle Terrace

Disneyland is surprisingly chock full of tasty vegan eats, like this spicy, seasoned platter from River Belle Terrace.

Gumbo, Multiple Locations

It's not a trip to N'awlins without some gumbo, and the same is true at Disneyland. Pick up a cup at eateries throughout New Orleans Square, like Cafe Orleans.

Fried Pickles, Carnation Cafe

Panko-crusted, deep-fried, and served with a house sauce for dipping, this under-the-radar treat from Carnation Cafe is a salty, tangy must.

Dole Whip, Multiple Locations

Adventureland has some incredible rides, but its undisputed highlight is this classic pineapple soft-serve, served just beyond its entrance. "Along with the Mickey-shaped treats, Dole Whip is a truly iconic Disneyland snack, and I love to get it every time I visit the parks," says Rhodes.

Stuffed Baked Potatoes, Troubadour Tavern

Troubadour Tavern in Fantasyland loads their spuds with cheese, bacon, and scallions providing more than enough of a hearty meal while running from ride to ride.

Savory Cones, Cozy Cone Motel

Grab a bread cone filled with cheesy chili or mac and cheese at California Adventure for an only-in-Cars-Land delight.

Hand-dipped Ice Cream Bars, Clarabelle's Hand Scooped Ice Cream

Mickey ice cream bars are tough to outshine, but the flavor lineup at Clarabelle's Hand Scooped Ice Cream may just rival them (although adults might be tempted to try a boozy ice cream float).

Stuffed Sourdough Bowls, Pacific Wharf Cafe

If you're looking for an easy lunch between Lightning Lanes, swing by Pacific Wharf Cafe to grab a sourdough bread bowl filled with delicious mac and cheese or clam chowder.

Churros, Multiple Locations

It's not a trip to Disneyland without indulging in one of these cinnamon-sugar delights, available throughout both parks. "Something about grabbing a churro as you stroll through Disneyland between rides feels so nostalgic," says Rhodes.

Mickey Sourdough, Pacific Wharf Cafe

It's edible, delicious, and in the likeness of Mickey. Who needs a souvenir when Pacific Wharf Cafe is cooking these up?

Flavored Popcorn, Cozy Cone Motel

Dill pickle, sriracha, garlic parmesan — you're in for a flavor explosion with whichever taste is being served up at Cozy Cone Motel.

Double Chocolate Bread Pudding, Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen

If you're pulling out all the stops come dessert time, be sure to plan ahead. This indulgent specialty from Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney takes 25 minutes to bake.

Cheddar Cheese Stick, Corn Dog Castle

Disneyland corn dogs are some of the best you'll have, but Corn Dog Castle's cheese-filled version kicks the whole game up a notch.

Quesa Birria Tacos, Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill

These quesa birria tacos from Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill are an upgraded take on your usual theme park lunch.

Candy Apples, Multiple Locations

The ever-rotating designs of these delicate creations sold at both parks are so impressive, you may not want to eat them...but you will.

Parmesan Toasted Patty Melt, Carnation Cafe

With the best parts of a sandwich and a burger combined, Carnation Cafe serves up one heck of a delight made of a beef patty, cheese, grilled onions, and house sauce.

Ronto Wrap, Ronto Roasters

Intergalactic travelers love the Ronto Wrap (and the plant-based Ronto-less Garden Wrap) from Ronto Roasters at Star Wars : Galaxy's Edge. "It's flavorful, unique, and easy to grab and go — ideal theme park food," says Rhodes.

It's Chile-lime Mango!, Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats

This dairy-free mango soft serve with Chamoy, chili-lime seasoning, and mango is just what you want on a hot California day.

Alien Macaron, Alien Pizza Planet

Find this absolutely adorable treat inspired by Toy Story at Alien Pizza Planet (and don't forget to take a photo before you dig in).

Felucian Kefta and Hummus Garden Spread, Docking Bay 7

With Impossible meatballs, herby hummus, and a tomato and cucumber relish, this plant-based entree from Docking Bay 7 is fresh and delicious. "I recommend this for meat-eaters and plant-based diners alike — I love everything about this dish," says Rhodes.

Choco-Smash Candy Bar, Pym Test Kitchen

With layers of brownie, nougat, caramel, peanuts, and chocolate, this dessert from Pym Test Kitchen is absolutely delicious. Rhodes says, "I think this is one of the very best desserts at Disneyland — it's definitely a must-order treat when you're in Avengers Campus."

Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums, Pixar Pier

Because really, what's better than a warm chocolate chip cookie? This snack stand also serves milk to enjoy with your sweet treat.

Raspberry Rose Mickey Macaron, Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe

Available at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe, this pretty macaron is practically begging to be Instagrammed in front of the castle.

Blue and Green Milk, Milk Stand

Star Wars fans simply have to try the famous blue or green milk at least once. It's plant-based and served frozen for a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up.

Outpost Mix, Kat Saka's Kettle

Pick up a bag of tasty flavored popcorn from Kat Saka's Kettle in Galaxy's Edge for a light bite while you explore the Star Wars -themed land.

Not-so-little Chicken Sandwich, Pym Test Kitchen

Pym Test Kitchen has several themed eats to choose from, including this flavorful fried chicken sandwich served with crispy potato bites. "I tried this the last time I visited Avengers Campus, and I thought it was much tastier than your typical fast-food fried chicken sandwich," says Rhodes.

New York's Tastiest, Shawarma Palace

This chicken shawarma wrap with garlic spread and pickled veggies from Shawarma Palace is the perfect fuel for your Avengers Campus adventures.

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16 Must-Try Date Ideas For Disneyland

Whether SoCal locals or Disney adults on vacation, The Happiest Place on Earth has long been a downright dreamy place to enjoy a pixie-dust-drenched date night. Disneyland offers couples everything from playful rides and dazzling fireworks to sophisticated dining and indulgent spa treatments, along with a healthy dose of nostalgia. 

Ready to plan your next Disney date night? We can help. (And they say chivalry is dead.) Keep reading for our guide to having a romantic date night at Disneyland, including some sweet ways to spend your time. 

Fall in Love with These 16 Dreamy Disneyland Date Night Ideas

If you’re thinking of doing Disney with your special someone, you might be wondering, “is Disneyland a good place for a date?” Yes! (And we still mean that even if you’re traveling as a family with your kids – see our tips and tricks at the bottom.) Believe it or not, romance is in Disneyland’s DNA. 

Starting way back in 1957, Date Nite at Disneyland revolutionized the park-going experience. The offering invited young lovers to take advantage of the park’s all-new late-night hours and enjoy its attractions and hospitality into the wee hours of the morning. 

Heart-eyed couples would don their fanciest clothes and cuddle up under the moonlight on the park’s more romantic rides. A local band was brought in for live music and dancing. The event was so popular Disneyland even used Date Nite to launch the park’s first-ever pyrotechnics display. And really, with people talking about seeing fireworks when they fall in love, what could be more appropriate? 

Although the original lovey-dovey tradition is no more, the spirit of Date Nite still lives on at Disneyland. Valentine’s Day and the season of love brings Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite, while Dapper Day – though not strictly for couples – sees guests put on their spiffiest duds twice a year. 

And before the Covid-19 pandemic, you could even swing dance the night away to a live band on Saturday nights at Fantasyland’s Royal Theatre. Plus, let’s not forget these romantic things to do at Disneyland:

#1 – Canoodle with your boo at the Haunted Mansion, the best makeout spot in Disneyland

No, we’re not joking. The Orange County Register once polled its readers on their favorite place to pucker up at Disneyland. (And they say news outlets nowadays never do any hard-hitting journalism.) 

Thanks to its guise of “privacy” throughout the shadowy dark ride and a spooky theme to use as a ruse to cozy up, the Haunted Mansion was dubbed the winner. So, go ahead – sneak a kiss, or several, from the comfort of your Doom Buggy. Just be sure to keep an eye out for hitchhiking ghosts. 

#2 – Or snuggle with your sweetie on another Disneyland dark ride

The Haunted Mansion isn’t the only Disney dark ride where couples can enjoy a little “alone” time. Many other enclosed rides throughout Disneyland Park and California Adventure offer a similar air of “privacy” that’s perfect for date night. 

At Disneyland, Peter Pan’s Flight takes lovebirds on an undeniably romantic jaunt by secluded pirate ship over a twinkling London and the mermaids of Neverland. Or, for a delightful boat ride with a sense of adventure, set sail on Pirates of the Caribbean – just be sure to request the back row. Meanwhile, over at California Adventure, a ride on Ariel’s Undersea Adventure sets the scene for a fairy-tale kiss inspired by The Little Mermaid and “Kiss the Girl.” 

A Note About Those Quotes: Keep in mind that while it can sometimes feel like you have privacy or that no one can see you (or anything less-than-family-friendly that you and your boo may be doing in the shadows) on dark rides at Disneyland, that definitely isn’t the case. Disney has cameras everywhere, especially in the dark corners of its enclosed rides. Trust us, cast members are watching, so remember to keep things PG. 

#3 – Soak up some nostalgia on the Mark Twain Riverboat or Storybook Land Canal Boats

Blame it on Titanic (I’m flying!), but there’s something idyllic about floating down the water in a boat with your sweetheart. Sure, their journey and, thus, their relationship is doomed from the start, but we digress. 

Channel Jack and Rose and go back to a simpler time as you cruise the backwaters of the Rivers of America from onboard the Mark Twain Riverboat. Then, claim the back row on one of the Storybook Land Canal Boats for a charming whirlwind tour of some fairy-tale destinations. 

#4 – Feel like you’re in a whole new world from the top of the Pixar Pier Ferris Wheel

For many young couples at the local carnival, nothing could be more romantic than kissing at the top of the Ferris wheel. So, make your way to Pixar Pier for a spin on the Pixar Pal-A-Round. 

While some gondolas on this lively Ferris wheel swing and slide as you whirl around, we prefer the steady, non-swinging gondolas. While they can’t compare to a magic carpet, their breathtaking, bird’s-eye views and picturesque setting make for top-of-the-world smooches. 

#5 – Enjoy some friendly competition on the shooting gallery-style rides

They say that healthy competition can help keep things interesting in long-term relationships. So, let your competitive side shine and do your relationship some good at the same time with a ride on attractions like Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, Toy Story Midway Mania or WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure. 

Not only will you get a chance to impress your significant other with your skills, but you can even use the opportunity to place a playful wager, like the loser treating the winner to a sweet DOLE Whip or a sensual massage back at home or your room. 

#6 – Scream together on one of Disneyland’s thrill rides

While the dopamine will already be flowing during your date night at Disneyland, why not kick things up a notch with a little adrenaline rush? Disney’s thrill rides may not be made for cuddling like the dimly lit dark rides, but your heart is sure to skip a beat as you careen around corners on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad or the Incredicoaster or shout with glee (or fear) on Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!

#7 – Relax with a serene couples massage at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

A theme park day – or heck, just life in general – can be stressful. Treat yourself and your sweetheart to a Signature Couples Massage from the Tenaya Stone Spa at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa . For this luxurious treatment, you and your special someone will enjoy rejuvenating side-by-side massages along with time to enjoy spa amenities like the steam room and relaxation lounge. 

#8 – Gaze into each other’s eyes over some delectable Disneyland dining

No matter where you are, no date night would be complete without a romantic dinner. Fortunately, no matter where you are at Disneyland, you’ll find plenty of dining options to choose from. 

Theme park eateries like the Carthay Circle Restaurant at California Adventure or Disneyland’s Blue Bayou offer elevated eats and atmosphere in the heart of the action. Or, if you’d rather not fork over for a costly park ticket, book a reservation for the Grand Californian’s Napa Rose or Catal Restaurant at Downtown Disney instead. 

Don’t worry if a fancy meal isn’t in your date night budget. Cheaper options like sharing a variety of snacks and desserts on a DIY Disneyland food tour can be just as memorable. 

#9 – Then unwind with something boozy at a Disneyland bar or lounge

Going to get a drink is an age-old date night tradition, and it’s an oldie but a goodie for a reason. Liquid courage can be crucial, especially during the early stages of a relationship. Get the conversation flowing over a glass of something tasty at one of the many Disneyland bars . 

Themed bars like Trader Sam’s and Oga’s Cantina are sure to appeal to the geeks out there, while the Lamplight Lounge and Carthay Circle Lounge are classy spots for a cocktail. 

#10 – Create your own souvenirs at the Animation Academy

For some, being able to laugh at yourself is an incredibly attractive quality. For others, it’s incredibly impressive drawing skills. Either way, chances are you’ll be happy at the Animation Academy. 

This interactive attraction walks guests through how to sketch your favorite Disney characters, making for a fun bonding experience. Swap your finished masterpieces for a unique token of your time together.

#11 – Or win a prize for your love at Pixar Pier

Remember walking the mighty midway with your special someone? If you were lucky, one of you would walk away from one of those tricky games with an outrageous stuffed animal and bragging rights. Recreate this nostalgic competition – with a playful twist – down at Pixar Pier, complete with adorable, Disney-inspired prizes perfect for your magical date night. 

#12 – Celebrate your date with some fun photo opportunities

You know what they say, pics or it didn’t happen. Commemorate your enchanted evening with a photo or two around the Disneyland Resort. This sprawling destination is filled with enough adorable photo backdrops to fill your social media feeds. 

Pay tribute to your fairy-tale romance in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Test the strength of your love at the Sword in the Stone. The possibilities are endless. 

#13 – Party the night away during Sweethearts’ Nite or another special event

With exclusive, lovey-dovey dishes, dance parties and appearances by iconic Disney couples, Sweethearts’ Nite is the ultimate Disneyland date night idea. This and other Disneyland After Dark events or seasonal parties make for a welcome departure from your average theme park visit. 

Sure, the tickets can be pricey. However, there’s something magical about themed food and drinks, dancing the night away and, best of all, blissfully short lines. 

#14 – Skip the spendy park ticket but not the romance at Downtown Disney District

For a Disney date night that’s fun and memorable without breaking the bank, head to the Downtown Disney District . Along with delightful dining and some of the resort’s best shopping, lovebirds can also enjoy live music. We especially love the smooth rhythms of  Flambeaux’s Jazz Club at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen. 

#15 – Challenge your special someone to bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes

Can you think of a more wholesome date night than donning a pair of bowling shoes and showing your sweetheart what you’ve got? We think not. Fortunately, Disneyland has one heckuva place to enjoy this all-American pastime. 

Splitsville Luxury Lanes combines retro charm and a little good-natured competition with an impressive menu and the latest in bowling technologies, making for a carefree Disney date night that doesn’t skimp on the fun. 

#16 – End your date night with a bang with the Disneyland fireworks, Fantasmic or World of Color

What better way to cap off your pixie-dust-filled Disney date night than with one of the stunning nighttime spectaculars? While the Disneyland fireworks are an obvious ending for your magical day, don’t forget about the resort’s other impressive displays. 

With its timeless battle between good and evil and some of your favorite characters, Fantasmic is like a Disney movie brought to life, making it ideal for your Disneyland date night. While over in California Adventure, the World of Color dazzles with its vibrant kaleidoscopic effects.  

Tips & Tricks for Your Date Night at Disneyland

Now that you know what you’ll be doing, make sure the big day goes off without a hitch with these Disneyland date night tips:

• If you can, save your Disney romance for the evening – Date Nite at Disneyland was a hit for a reason – nighttime in the parks is the best. The lines tend to be shorter, outdoor rides like Splash Mountain and Jungle Cruise take on air of romance when the sun goes down. Plus, don’t forget the fireworks! 
• Feel extra-fancy and do some DisneyBounding or wear matching shirts – Dressing up was a mainstay of Date Nite at Disneyland, so make like the lovebirds of yesteryear and get spiffy. Do what feels most comfortable for you, whether that’s DisneyBounding, attire that would be right at home on Dapper Day or just simple matching t-shirts. 
• Don’t forget a sweater or jacket – While you could certainly just cuddle up with your sweetie for warmth, you’ll both probably be more comfortable if you bring along a sweater or jacket to put on when the night turns cool. 
• Make a dining reservation if you’re planning on a sit-down meal – Table-service restaurants are incredibly popular. Save yourself any last-minute disappointment and book a table in advance.
• Skip the crowds with Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lanes – For those who’d rather be out doing more fun things together than wasting time in line, consider splurging on Disney Genie+ . Otherwise, make the most of it with fun apps like Heads Up or Play Disney Parks . 
• Arrange a babysitter – Just because you’re traveling with kids at Disneyland doesn’t mean that you and your other half can’t enjoy a little alone time. Services like Destination Sitters will send a vetted sitter to your hotel room to entertain you little ones while you sneak away for the night. 

Well, lovebirds, that concludes our round up of the best couple things to do at Disneyland. Have you gone on a Disney date night at The Happiest Place on Earth? Let us know in the comments! Then, find out how to save some cash for your day of romance with our discount Disneyland tickets .

Disneyland Parking Guide: Where to Park, Price, and Best Lots

A lthough some of the glamour of parking at Disneyland has gone away as the park expanded, the necessity is still essential to the park-going experience. Yes, you no longer pass under the iconic Disneyland sign and pass by the park’s towering structures on your way to a nearby lot, but there is still a fun build-up as you get closer to Disneyland Drive.

Where to Park at Disneyland

Toy story lot.

• Location: 1900 S Harbor Blvd Anaheim, CA 92802
• Price: $35 (Oversized price options available)
• EV Charging Available? Yes

While the Toy Story Parking Lot isn’t as close to Disneyland Resort and California Adventure, it is arguably the more popular option. Head down Harbor Boulevard past Disneyland and the parking lot is just a few blocks further.

As with any Theme Park Parking Lot, there are color-coded and numbered zones that you should take note of. These zones are also themed based on a different Disney character, in this case, Toy Story. They are:

• Bullseye (Yellow)
• Buzz Lightyear (Green)
• Jessie (Red)
• Woody (Blue)

The Disneyland mobile app includes a useful car locator option that uses a smartphone’s GPS to track where you parked, but you can also enter the information manually. After a long day in the parks, the last thing you want to do is walk up and down aisles trying to locate your vehicle.

Transportation from Toy Story Parking Lot to Disneyland

After parking at the Toy Story Parking Lot, there are two options for getting to Disneyland and California Adventure. You could head out of the lot and onto Harbor Boulevard and walk, or you could take advantage of the free buses to the park. Depending on how busy the day is and your arrival time, it may be worth it to skip the bus and walk, but Disneyland staffs plenty of buses, and they run constantly before the park opens and for one hour after the park closes.

Heading over to the bus loading area (circled in blue), you’ll first have to pass through a security checkpoint that includes bag and stroller check, as well as a metal detector. No matter how you plan to enter Disneyland or California Adventure, you will need to pass through one of these security checkpoints, so getting them out of the way now is helpful.

From there, get in line and hop on the next available bus, which will shuttle you to the Esplanade (the big open area between the entrances of Disneyland and California Adventure), and then it’s off to the parks.

Transportation to Toy Story Parking from Disneyland

At the end of the night, there will be a set of lines with Cast Members guiding you back to the buses for the Toy Story Parking Lot. Upon exiting Disneyland, the bus loading is to the left or to the right if you are exiting California Adventure. It’s the same process as before, except without the security checkpoint. Wait in line until a bus is available, take a seat/stand, and shuttle back to the lot.

While getting to the parks can be a little less cramped, the nighttime shuttles are typically packed. If your legs can take it then walking is still an option, but just be aware that there will most likely be some waiting until you get near the front of the line and on the bus.

You can take the shuttles back to the Toy Story Parking Lot at any point of the day if you leave early or need something from your car.

Mickey and Friends & Pixar Pals Parking Structure

• Location: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802

The other parking option for Disneyland and California adventure is the Mickey and Friends & Pixar Pals parking structure. Basically, a set of two parking structures, there are a lot spaces here as well with the main difference being floors instead of zones in a lot.

Each floor on either the Mickey and Friends or Pixar Pals section is color-coded and themed after a different character, with numbers and letters to indicate specific rows. For reference, the Mickey and Friends parking structure is the northern one and the Pixar Pals is the southern one. The floors are labeled:

• Level 1: Chip n Dale or Incredibles
• Level 2: Daisy or Coco
• Level 3: Mickey or Cars
• Level 4: Goofy or Monsters Inc.
• Level 5: Donald or Finding Nemo
• Level 6: Minnie or Inside Out

After paying for parking upon entry, a series of cones will guide your car to one of the levels for parking. It is all dependent on which lane you are in for the pay station – some cones lead to different floors. From there you will follow a series of cones through the structure until a Cast Member points out where each car should park. In the morning, it’s only a matter of following the car in front of you and parking in the next available spot.

Later in the day, the cones will still guide you to a specific floor, but from there you will have your pick of rows. The structure has helpful signs above each row that indicate how many free spaces are available and there are lights above each parking spot that glow green to indicate they are free. When occupied they glow red.

Once again, we recommend using the Car Locator in the Disneyland mobile app to set a reminder of where you parked and then head down. There are escalators and elevators in a few central locations within the structures, with signs that indicate where to go for the parks.

Transportation from Mickey Parking to Disneyland

Upon reaching the ground floor, you will head through a security checkpoint where they will check any bags or strollers, and you must pass through a metal detector. From there, head to the series of lines marked off by guardrails, these correspond to rows on the tram.

The trams can hold roughly 4 adults per row, but the front row of each car has a set of benches that face each other and can fit a larger family. This row is perfect for groups that might have a stroller and need the extra space, but keep in mind you need to collapse the stroller before boarding.

There are ADA accessible sections of the tram at the front with a raised boarding platform.

Once on board, it’s a short tram ride through the behind-the-scenes section of Disneyland before being dropped off on the East side of the Esplanade. As with the Toy Story buses, the tram will continue to pick up and drop off guests throughout the day.

Transportation from Disneyland to Mickey Parking

The process for getting on the trams at the end of the night is a bit of a free-for-all all because there are no separate lines for each row on the cars. Instead, there are chunks that correspond to a full car, with guests basically funneling into the rows as each tram arrives. It can be chaotic, especially if you are hoping for one of the front rows, but the trams will continue to run until one hour after the parks close.

Downtown Disney District Parking (Simba Lot)

• Location: 1739 Disneyland Dr. Anaheim, CA 92802
• Price: Varies by time, Extra time available with $20 purchase and validation

Parking for the Downtown Disney District is available in the Simba Lot, but this is not parking for either Disneyland or California Adventure. Think of it like paid parking for a mall, where the price is based on time and there is validation available based on purchase value and shop. Stopping in to buy something valued at $20+ will get you 3 hours of parking with the $10 parking fee, whereas dining at a restaurant will get you more time.

Downtown Disney has an array of restaurants and specialty shops for people who want to brush up against that Disney magic without entering the parks. If you want to buy some Disneyland merch, for example, there is a World of Disney store that carries a lot of the items sold in the parks. There are also some popular restaurants and quick-serve locations like Jazz Kitchen and Salt & Straw.

All the hotels around Disneyland offer parking for guests staying on their premises. The price depends on the hotel and how close to the parks you are. Disney offers three hotels that are considered on-property: The Disneyland Hotel, The Grand Californian, and Pixar Place Hotel. For these hotels, there are loading zones for dropping off guests and luggage as well as valet parking options in addition to self-parking.

Best Place to Park at Disneyland

Personal preference will come into play, but our pick for the best place to park is the Mickey and Friends Parking Structure. At times the Toy Story lot shuttle pickup can be crowded, but most won't want to make the walk and put extra mileage on their legs before/after walking around the parks all day. Mickey and Friends is closer and there is a shorter walk back to the structure if the shuttles are full. It's also a bit easier to get a collapsed stroller into the rows than the buses.

Either way, guests should plan to spend at least 20-30 minutes getting through parking and making their way to the park. If time is of the essence, it's important to make a plan and choose the parking setup that best suits your group size and needs.

Fun, Time-Saving Ways to Get Around Walt Disney World

by Lisa Mendillo , Sr. Manager, Digital Integration

There truly are so many ways to easily get from one location to the next at Walt Disney World Resort. Perhaps you and your family even find the complimentary transportation from your Disney Resorts Collection hotel as fun as an attraction in your favorite theme park. And if you are that guest, planDisney supports you!

From monorails to buses, water taxis and more … knowing you have transportation covered and so many options to get you to your destination, truly takes away the stress of planning.

We think planDisney panelist Amy C . says it best, “why drive when you can sail, soar, or glide to your theme park destination? Disney transportation can pick you up and get you right where you belong while you relax, snap pictures, and enjoy time with your family.”

Walt Disney World Bus Service is one of the easiest modes of transportation to spot around property. Thanks to the wonderful cast members driving these iconic buses, traveling from your Disney Resort hotel to your Walt Disney World destination is a snap. Guests who have visited recently might even have noticed some of the new buses that were just added to the fleet. While planDisney panelists are excited about new features like charging stations and updated accessibility for guests in wheelchairs and other mobility devices that will make the boarding process smoother, they are even more excited about spotting the new bus wraps on the roads!

From Zootopia to Ratatouille, 101 Dalmatians and fan-favorite characters, new and updated wraps will be rolling out throughout the year. Did someone mention Orange Bird?

“As a parent, there is so much that goes into planning and executing a vacation for your family,” said Jenna J . “I love that once I arrive at Disney World, transportation is something I don’t even need to think about. It feels like I have a chauffeur making sure my family is wherever they want to be whenever they need to be there.”

View this post on Instagram A post shared by planDisney (@plandisneypanel)

Which color monorail is your favorite? planDisney panelists could debate this topic for days, but one thing they all agree on is the magic of traveling to your destination aboard the Walt Disney World Monorail System. There are three separate lines that travel throughout the resort, making stops at three Disney Resort hotels, two theme parks, and the Transportation and Ticket Center. Another complimentary transportation option for guests of Walt Disney World Resort!

Panelist Lizzie B . fondly remembers catching her first glimpse of Cinderella Castle from aboard the monorail as a little girl.

“In that moment I knew everything about Walt Disney World Resort was truly magical. Now, as a Disney adult, the Resort Monorail has saved my legs after many run Disney race weekends. Can’t stand up at your stop because of weak race legs? No problem! Simply take in the views as you enjoy another loop around Seven Seas Lagoon, acting as if that was the plan all along.”

Disney Skyliner

One of the newest complimentary transportation options, Disney Skyliner , offers guests the opportunity to travel from several Disney Resort hotels to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT. Traveling high above the parks means some incredible views of your favorite Walt Disney World locations. All while traveling in a gondola that features some of your favorite Disney characters.

“My kids love staying at resorts connected to the Disney Skyliner because our transportation becomes our first and last rides of the day!, exclaims Jen W. “My oldest child still talks about the time we had a “VIP view” of an EPCOT nighttime spectacular while we were riding the Disney Skyliner back to our resort at the end of a fun-filled Disney day.”

Water Transportation

Looking for a different way to travel from Magic Kingdom area Resorts to Magic Kingdom Park on your next vacation? Try the water taxis that travel to four Disney Resort hotels. There are also ferryboats connecting Magic Kingdom to the Transportation and Ticket Center. EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are also accessible via FriendShip Boat making stops at five different hotels. And let’s not forget the Sassagoula River Cruise that is accessible from four Disney Resort hotels and travels to Disney Springs!

For panelist Prince , the water is the way to travel around Walt Disney World property. “Take it from a seasoned sailor who’s lived on the open seas, there’s nothing like being out on the water to experience all the forms of water transportation at Walt Disney World Resort! From the winding waterways of a Sassagoula River Cruise, a leisurely launch across the Seven Seas Lagoon or drifting past the evening lights of Disney’s BoardWalk – I always recommend finding a seat where you can enjoy the breeze for a leisurely sail away!”

More Ways to Travel Across Walt Disney World Resort

Lastly there are a few options offered on property that are not complimentary but might be a great solution for your party.  Minnie Van Service, connected by Lyft , is a great alternative for many guests. These fun, themed vehicles are also driven by Disney Cast members. Hours of operation and costs vary, so be sure to check the Lyft app when requesting a ride. For guests who really enjoy having a car on hand to travel from park to park, there is a car rental facility on property with our preferred car rental partners:  Enterprise, Alamo and National . When booking through the  Car Care Center , you have access to a convenient, complimentary shuttle with door-to-door service from Disney Resort hotels to the facility. And remember, if you have driven to your Disney Resort hotel, you will receive complimentary parking at your hotel and all theme parks!

One Extra Transportation Tip for Magic Kingdom Park

Okay, so it may only travel within Magic Kingdom Park, but it is definitely a mode of transportation that Jason K . can’t recommend enough.

“All aboard! The Walt Disney World Railroad is an intra-theme park transportation option that takes an enchanted trip around Magic Kingdom Park . With spectacular views of attractions and scenes along the Rivers of America, Mouseketeers of all ages will enjoy this relaxed journey. The round trip 20-minute journey is the perfect way to travel between lands or to take a quick break from the sun or walking. There are three train stations connected to the attractions of that land. For tiny travelers, the thrill of riding aboard the Walt Disney World Railroad gives them an adventure they have only read about or seen in books and television.”

We have covered a lot when it comes to transportation, but if you still have questions, be sure to visit us at planDisney.com to ask your question and receive a personalized answer from one of our panelists. You can also follow us on Instagram at planDisneypanel.com for more tips and recommendations.

Panelists receive compensation for their participation on planDisney.

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

April Fools' Day pranks: Apps to translate baby stoner sayings, a ghostbuster at Tinder

Every april 1, brands and companies want to get some laughs – and attention – with goofy new 'product' launches. here are some ideas from companies such as sweetgreen, welch's and omaha steaks..

If you don't like Mondays, this one may especially be grating. It's April Fool's Day , when you should trust no one and question everything.

The roots of April Fools' Day may date back before to before the 15th century. But the modern-day April Fools' Day has become a day to prank a friend, family member, co-worker − or your customers.

Even though some companies have had April Fools' pranks backfire , marketers continue to issue spoof products in attempts to get some laughs and attention.

Already ahead of April Fools' Day, 7-Eleven has hinted at a possible prank product: In addition to new Lemon Lime, Green Apple and Sweet Orange flavored 7-Select sparkling waters, out now with partner Miracle Seltzer, there's a fourth flavor coming April 1: Big Bite Hot Dog.

The hot dog-flavored water "combines the mouthwatering experience of 7-Eleven’s iconic Big Bite Hot Dog into one refreshing beverage – ketchup and mustard included," the convenience chain says in a press release . "Say goodbye to the days of alternating bites of a hot dog with sips of a beverage, now those on the go can swap the bun for bubbles."

Krispy Kreme: A special doughnut deal for April Fools' Day

Will Big Bite Hot Dog sparkling water be sold? Its availability will be announced April 1. However, some reporters were sent a can of the drink. USA TODAY can confirm that it definitely smells like hot dog water and has a smoky aftertaste.

If you are interested in trying it, both 7-Eleven and Miracle Seltzer have hinted at having some to give away on their Instagram pages. (If you get a can, share with a friend as it's 16 ounces.)

Here's a roundup of many of the brand-related April Fools’ gag announcements. You've been warned.

Sour cream & onion flavored soda

Despite the proliferation of crazy-flavored products including Peeps-flavored Pepsi , Frank's RedHot sauce-flavored Vlasic pickles and Doritos Nacho Cheese-flavored liquor , healthy soda brand OLIPOP and Pringles are not really teaming up to bring to market a Sour Cream & Onion soda.

The product would have been "a match made in heaven … to bring the delicious, tangy flavor of Pringles’ Sour Cream & Onion flavor to life in liquid form with prebiotic benefits," the companies said.

Stoner lingo translation app

Another dream team prank product: Rosetta Stoned, a mobile app from Rosetta Stone and medical marijuana company Fluent , that "bridges the conversational gap between novice users and seasoned stoners in any social setting."

Da da decoder

Infant equipment site BabyQuip has its own language-bridging lark: the “Baby Translator” app, to decode your baby's secret language.

"Say 'goodbye' to restless nights as you decode your baby's coos and cries instantly, providing you with the understanding you need as a parent, all in one convenient app," it promises.

An AI-powered plush doll

Custom stuffed animal maker Budsies already makes selfie plush dolls with a built-in voice recorder. Its April Fools' spoof: Artificial intelligence-enabled dolls that "come programmed to learn everything about you and to become your new best friend."

A 50-pound Bearabuddy

Sorry to the 3,500 or so who have already signed up to buy Bearaby's Jumbo Benji plush toy, which is four times the size of its regular weighted plush toys and twice as heavy as its heaviest weighted blanket . This isn't actually going to be sold. But it is real and will be making its home in the lobby at The Child Mind Institute in Harlem to welcome children and their families. More weighted plushies are due the day after April Fools' Day, the company says.

A sleeping bag to go bananas over

The Dole Banana Peel Sleeping Bag, conveniently promoted as being available on April Fools' Day only, is made from actual banana fiber and "allows parents to escape into their own cocoon of sensory deprivation."

A full-body cleaning suit

Outrageous clothing company Tipsy Elves has a special product for April Fools' Day: The Mopsie. You don't need paper towels anymore, you can use your body to clean up those messes, with this "innovative, wearable microfiber towel jumpsuit" for "effortlessly soaking up spills and messes with ease." There's also a Baby Mopsie for "hard to reach places."

Korean BBQ deodorant

Kevin's Natural Foods , which has paleo- and keto-certified ready-to-cook and easy-prep entrées, is touting a new line of personal care products inspired by its food dishes including Korean BBQ Deodorant, Cilantro Lime Toothpaste, Lemongrass Basil Shampoo and Tikka Masala Sunscreen.

"These new face, body and hair care essentials will help fans prioritize self-care inside and out," the company says. 

Omaha Steaks' meaty sprays

Omaha Steaks has its own personal care prank product: Meaty Spritz sprays with flavors such as Omaha Fog, Hog Haze, and Cock-a-Doodle-Dew.

"The world’s first protein-infused, flavor-packed, portable pump spray … (to) enjoy all the mouthwatering flavors of your Omaha Steaks gourmet favorites no matter how far away from the kitchen you are!" the company says.

Sriracha toothpaste

Asian sauce maker Lee Kum Kee , which makes Sriracha Chili Sauce and Sriracha Mayo Dressing, is introducing – not – its Siracha Mayo Toothpaste. It's "fiery and creamy goodness … is sure to spice up your morning dental routine."

Post-salad dental kit

Need some less powerful toothpaste? Sweetgreen offered these fanciful personal hygiene products as part of its Sweetgreen After Salad Kit, which is "designed with your pearly whites in mind … offering everything you need to freshen up post-meal."

Choose from Miso Ginger Toothpaste, Spicy Cashew Mints, Lime Cilantro Dental Floss, and Sweetgreen Toothbrush and Floss Picks.

Fruit juice lip gloss

More personal care prank products: Welch’s Juicyfuls Juicy Fruit Lip Gloss – now available in five flavors: grape, orange, peach, strawberry and raspberry – made with real juice from Juicefuls fruit snacks so "you get that irresistible sweet flavor you love, all in a lip gloss that's as fun as it is nourishing."

Protein-powered seasonings

Quest Nutrition , maker of protein powder, snacks and other products, has a prank product line of seasonings including All Purpose, Lemon Pepper, and Garlic Herb, each of which deliver "21g of protein, 2g of net carbs and less than 1g of sugar."

If you want to try Quest's real products, you can use code NOJOKE for free shipping on online orders over $49 April 1-3.

Superpowered Superfeet?

These would certainly come in hand on a run, but – sorry – it's a jogging joke. Superfeet SuperBoost Power E-Soles gives you 8 hours of continuous battery-powered boost, for almost Iron Man-like propulsion. "All the comfort and support of Superfeet , now with electrifying performance," the company says in a video about the prank product. "It's like having a powerful electric motor in your shoes."

Scotch tape-branded Scotch?

This shenanigan seems like a blend that could stick: Scotch Whisky by Scotch Brand. The whisky "features a nose of cherry wood and a delightfully smooth finish that hits like a well-wrapped gift."

Who you gonna call when ghosted? This new title at Tinder

Dating app Tinder announced a new April Fools' Day hiring quest for a Vice President of Ghost Hunting to help combat "one of dating culture’s most prevalent vices – ghosting," a practice inflicted on 78% of singles already in 2024 (an untrue fact from Tinder).

Patrón's bringing back a beloved liqueur. No kidding.

Patrón patrons get some good news today. The premium tequila maker chose April Fools' Day to announce the return of its Patrón XO Cafe tequila-based coffee liqueur, which was discontinued in 2021. Since production ceased, devotees took to social media and signed a petition asking parent company Bacardi to bring it back.

Made with Patrón Silver tequila and Arabica bean coffee – the dry liqueur can be sipped straight, in cocktails and as dessert topping – Patrón XO Cafe will begin arriving in stores again later this month.

Say it with dead flowers

Don't forget to put roses on your April Fools' Day list. UrbanStems has this "special" delivery, The Dead Inside Collection, "an assortment of dead flower bouquets, dead plants, half empty vases, and more for the pessimist in your life." But, for real, check UrbanStems' social media accounts including Instagram for how to get 20% off an order of real flowers.

Cheesecake Factory's real deals

The Cheesecake Factory  also has a deal that's no joke: Sign up for the chain's Cheesecake Rewards loyalty program on April 1 to get an Any Slice, Half Price reward, redeemable for 50% off any slice of cheesecake or layer cake, with any food or beverage purchase (no gift cards).

Those who were members before April 1 will find something special in their account on Monday, too: either a free slice of cheesecake each month for a year, a free whole cheesecake, a free slice of cheesecake, $5 off $25 purchases, or $10 off $40 purchases. (All rewards redeemable by April 16; can be redeemed for dine-in, to-go and DoorDash.)

New merch from Dunkin', bonus points in app

Dunkin' announced it is going back to its roots and rebranding to just "Donuts'" on Monday, April 1. To celebrate the rebrand, the company is selling "Donuts'" merch, including sweatshirts that read "DONUTS," on ShopDunkin.com .

Additionally, Dunkin' Rewards members will receive 3x bonus points on any donut order through the mobile app on April 1.

Urban Outfitters launches 'Name Three Shirts' movement

Urban Outfitters said it is launching a global movement to "stand in solidarity against band-tee-shaming" by launching a new collection called "Name Three Shirts."

The t-shirt line "playfully mocks the gatekeeping attitudes of older generations who insist that band-shirt wearers should be required to name songs by those artists," the company said in a news release.

The line, which features revamped logos from bands such as The Grateful Dead, Joy Division and Led Zeppelin, is a "playful jab at the attitudes of older generations, and fights back against the misogynistic undertones of the infamous ‘name three songs’ line of questioning," Urban Outfitters said in the news release.

The collection of shirts is available online and in select Urban Outfitters stores starting April 1. You can shop the collection online here .

Auntie Anne's, Frontier Airlines collaborate on Pretzel Plane

Auntie Anne's pretzels and Frontier Airlines announced they have collaborated on the newest addition to Frontier's fleet: the Pretzel Plane.

According to a news release, the plane includes new in-flight entertainment featuring Auntie Anne's pretzels rolled seat-side, the "luxurious" smell of hot, fresh pretzels throughout the cabin and airplane-shaped pretzels if you're feeling hungry.

Moe's Southwest Grill, Sonic team up to introduce a Queso Slush

Two popular fast food chains announced a collaboration that is sure to be polarizing.

Moe's and Sonic announced a new beverage, the Queso Slush, a queso-flavored slushie. "The frozen goodness of a Sonic Slush meets the delicious flavor of Moe's queso."

Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads:  @mikesnider  & mikegsnider .

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].

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