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

April 12, 2024

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I'm amber

A mom of six through birth and adoption, family travel specialist, self-proclaimed chocolate chip cookie connoisseur, Disney lover, and, I hope to be, your new best friend.

hello,

It is no secret that Disneyland is one of our favorite family destinations. However, I know that planning a trip to this magical place can be daunting.

We’ve navigated through common pitfalls over the years and have compiled an invaluable list of Disneyland tips just for you. With our guidance, you’ll be able to enjoy every ride, meet your favorite characters, indulge in delicious treats, and most importantly, relax and create lasting memories with ease! That’s what it’s all about isn’t it?


Table of Contents

    How to Get on the Most Rides at Disneyland

    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.

    Make sure to also link your tickets in the app. If you do this, you can simply scan your ticket barcodes at the gate right from your phone. 

    This app is how you use Disney Genie+ and Mobile Ordering!


    2. Buy the Disney Genie+

    I highly recommend opting for Genie+ at the California parks even more so than in Florida. Yes, you read that right.

    The two California parks together nearly match the number of rides found across all four Florida parks combined. With Genie+, you’ll have the advantage of booking Lightning Lane access, which means less waiting and more riding.

    Plus, Genie+ includes photo pass benefits, allowing you to capture memories without extra costs. We’ve broken down the full service for you, check it out here!


    3. Get to the Park When it Opens (actually, an hour before if you can!)

    To make the most of your Disneyland trip, aim to arrive early. The first two hours typically allow you to enjoy more rides than the rest of the day combined. This early start lets you quickly cover your must-do attractions, freeing you up to relax later on.

    Sometimes, the gates may open 30 minutes before the official time, giving you a chance to stroll down Main Street and perhaps grab breakfast or a Starbucks coffee before the other areas open.

    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

    This tip is easy to follow. 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.


    Toontown - How to buy discount disneyland tickets

    5. Head to Toon Town in the Middle of the Day

    We love to hit Toon Town right when we’re ready to slow down a bit. Our little ones love to wander around this area. Plus, the new Mickey and Minnie Runaway Railway ride is in Toon Town and it is so fun!

    You can read about our amazing experience during the Disney100 Celebration here.


    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 for

    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 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. However, we’ve realized oftentimes 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
    • Star Tours
    • 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!

    However, if you have already seen these shows, you can skip some crowds by riding attractions while these shows are going on! Many people gather for the fireworks 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 a newer ride at Disneyland that is part of Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge. So many people race to this ride first as it’s very popular.

    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 minutes.


    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 6 am Pacific Time, at disneyland.com or on the Disneyland app.

    However, if you find yourself scrambling for a reservation, there is an amazing site that can help you find last-minute reservations…MouseDining.com

    Mouse Dining Calendar

    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

    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 have to ask for a cup of water. This is a Disneyland tip we use every single time we visit. 

    Bonus Tip! Bring your own reusable straw. Disneyland offers flimsy paper straws, great for the environment but not great for enjoying my Diet Coke.


    13. Book a Fantastic Dinner Package

    Fantasmic Dining Package

    If you want to get the best seats to the best show in the park, this is the answer!

    The Fantasmic! dining packages at Disneyland offer a combination of a meal and reserved viewing for the Fantasmic! show, enhancing your park experience with convenience and added enjoyment. Here are the options available:

    1. Blue Bayou Restaurant: Includes a three-course meal with pricing at $89 per adult and $35 per child. This package provides one of the best views, located near or at the center of the performance stage.
    2. River Belle Terrace: Also provides a three-course meal but with two options:
      • Standard Package: Offers a three-course meal for $55 per adult and $32 per child. Guests watch the show from a designated viewing area
      • Premium Package: Costs $75 per adult and $45 per child. Guests can enjoy the show directly from their table on the restaurant’s outdoor terrace, although this view includes a walkway and the Genie+ viewing area in front which might slightly obstruct the view.
    3. Rancho del Zocalo: This new addition offers a more casual dining experience for $35 per adult and $25 per child. Guests receive a voucher to view either the first or second show of the night​.

    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 lines for characters in the park.

    Screen Shot 2019 05 17 at 10.58.36 AM e1558113236258

    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. Make Sure to Make Advance Reservations for Sit Down Restaurants

    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:

    • 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 to each other, about a 1-minute walk apart. We recommend getting Park 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 and Genie+, you can book Lightning Lane passes for either park and take advantage of the best options available.

    KEEP IN MIND: You can now park hop beginning at 11 AM!


    20. Have a Designated Lightning Lane Expert 

    When too many hands are in the pot, things start to get complicated. Designate one person who has done their research or been to the park many times to 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!), here’s how it works:

    What is Disney Genie+? Disney Genie+ is a paid service that lets you skip the regular lines for certain attractions by using the Lightning Lane entrances.

    How to Use Disney Genie+ to Book Rides:

    • Booking Your First Ride: Once you enter the park, open the Disneyland app and book a Lightning Lane for the ride you want.
    • Booking Your Next Ride:
      • After you tap into your current Lightning Lane ride, you can immediately book another Lightning Lane.
      • If the ride you booked is more than 120 minutes away, you can book another Lightning Lane after 120 minutes have passed since your last booking.

    Tips to Maximize Your Genie+ Usage:

    • Set a Timer: To make sure you don’t miss the next booking opportunity, set a timer on your phone for when you can book the next Lightning Lane.
    • Plan Ahead: Check the app for wait times and Lightning Lane availability to plan your day efficiently.

    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.

    Don’t forget to account for how much time security might take, set aside 20-30 minutes to get through it all. 


    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 to Make the Most of Your Stay

    25. It’s Worth the $$ to Stay on Property 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.  Disneyland Hotel is my top choice!

    1. Disneyland Hotel: This hotel is a favorite among many for its nostalgic charm and spectacular pools, making it a top choice for families looking for fun and relaxation. The pools here are designed to provide a magical Disney experience!
    2. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: Known for its stunning Craftsman-style architecture, this hotel offers a premium experience with direct park access to Disney California Adventure. It’s perfect for those seeking luxury and convenience, with fine dining options and an award-winning spa.
    3. Disney’s Pixar Place: Pixar Place Hotel, which transformed from the former Paradise Pier Hotel, is the first fully Pixar-themed hotel in the U.S. It celebrates the creativity and spirit of Pixar Animation Studios, with decor and amenities reflecting various Pixar stories, such as “Toy Story,” “Finding Nemo,” and “Inside Out.” The hotel also features unique Pixar character interactions, making it a vibrant and interactive experience for guests.
    Disneyland Extra Magic Hour
    The munchkins up early at Disneyland Hotel ready to take on 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 Early Entry for Disneyland Resort Hotel Guests

    Staying at one of the Disneyland Resort hotels gives you the benefit of Early Entry, allowing you to enter either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure 30 minutes before the official park opening time. This early access lets you enjoy select attractions with shorter wait times before the general public arrives.

    Unlike Disney World, where over 30 hotels provide access to Early Entry, Disneyland restricts this perk to guests of its three on-site hotels, leading to fewer crowds during Early Entry. This means a more exclusive and less crowded experience compared to Disney World. 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!


    30. Choose an Offsite Hotel for a Budget-Friendly Stay

    When planning your Disneyland trip, choosing an offsite hotel can be a great way to save money without sacrificing comfort and convenience. Here are two excellent options:

    Hyatt Regency Irvine

    The Hyatt Regency Irvine, located just 20 minutes from Disneyland, offers a luxurious yet budget-friendly stay. This hotel provides a variety of amenities perfect for families and those on the go:

    • Free WiFi: Stay connected throughout your trip without any extra cost.
    • Waterfill Stations: Conveniently located by the ice machines, perfect for families needing to refill water bottles.
    • Family Suites: These spacious rooms feature bunk beds, a separate living area with a pull-out bed, two TVs with streaming options, and two bathrooms. This setup ensures everyone has their own space and comfort.
    • Modern Amenities: Enjoy the 24-hour gym equipped with a Peloton bike and workouts available on the TV. The rooms also feature innovative lighting, including lights under the bed that activate when you get up.
    • Balcony Access: Relax on your private balcony with tables and chairs.
    • Dining Options: The marketplace offers a variety of food from 6 am to 10 pm, and a new restaurant is opening in June.
    • Parking: Valet parking is available for $46, and self-parking for $40.
    • Additional Facilities: The hotel boasts a conference center, private workspaces, a wedding venue, and outdoor firepit lounge areas.
    • Recreational Amenities: The pool area, open from 7 am to 10 pm, features waterslides, a Baja shelf, lifeguard presence, cabanas with fire pits and tables, and a poolside bar with food and drinks!

    With its proximity to Disneyland and John Wayne Airport, along with its extensive amenities, the Hyatt Regency Irvine is an excellent choice for families looking for a comfortable and convenient stay.


    Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance Hotel

    For an even closer option, consider the Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance Hotel, located directly across from the Disneyland Resort and Disney California Adventure on South Harbor Blvd.

    • Proximity to Disneyland: Just a 5-minute walk from the park entrance, making it incredibly convenient for families.
    • Family-Friendly Accommodations: The family suites are designed with large families in mind, featuring two queen beds and a bunk bed. The spacious layout ensures that even with six people, there’s plenty of room for everyone.
    • On-Site Water Park: The Surfside Water Park is a highlight, offering fun for kids and adults alike.
    • Fitness Center: Maintain your workout routine at the hotel’s beautiful fitness center.
    • Firework Views: Some rooms and the pool area offer views of Disneyland’s fireworks, adding a magical touch to your stay.

    The Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance Hotel combines convenience with excellent amenities, making it a fantastic choice for families looking to stay close to the magic of Disneyland.


    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

    We have an amazing travel agency, Best Day Ever Vacations, and will help you book the vacation of your dreams. Our agents will help you plan everything out and it doesn’t cost you a penny!

    Our agents are truly Disney Experts and will make your trip more magical than you ever could have imagined.

    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

    planning a Disney Trip

    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!


    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.


    How We Incorporate Family Fun Moments Throughout Our Day

    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

    Planning a Disneyland Trip - Don't Skip the Bakery

    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

    Disneyland tips - take pictures in front of fun Disneyland Walls

    48. Take Pictures With Disneyland Balloons!

    Disneyland Mickey 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. 

    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.

    Emily Myers

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    1. Dad says:

      Well toontown has been and remains closed…

    2. GracieL says:

      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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