The Happiest Place on Earth
Disneyland has to be the most popular theme park in the world. Created in 1955, people assumed it would fail and yet it has grown to multiple theme parks in the world. Located right here in sunny Southern California this park is very near and dear to my heart. As an annual pass-holder and an avid park goer, I am here to give you the easiest step by step guide to planning a successful and fun Disney-cation.
When planning your trip to the parks, be sure and understand that Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure are two different theme parks and require a ticket to get into each park. You can buy a park hopper pass which allows you to go in and out of both theme parks but I wouldn’t advise it for a first timer. You will also need to pay for parking which varies depending on the day in which you are going.
Disneyland can get overwhelming so I advise grabbing a map at the entrance. The sections of the park are color coded on the map and if you get lost, take a look at the trash cans as they are color coordinated with the map. If you are looking to catch a show or parade then be sure to ask a cast member (employee) what times they are as most parades and shows shut down sooner than the park closing.
Meet and greets can also cause some stress as your favorite Disney characters aren’t always out and are only out for select times so be sure to ask for them in advance as well. Don’t do any type of souvenir shopping in the beginning as you will have to carry the bags with you all day. The shops tend to stay open later than the park as well to allow guests to spend some money. The shops also give you a free, yes that’s right FREE button to celebrate the occasion whether it be a birthday, engaged, just married or simply just celebrating button to wear around the park.
Clothing is very important when visiting Disneyland as the park is enormous and you’ll be doing a lot of walking so bring a comfortable pair of tennis shoes. Getting through the entire park in one day can get very difficult so for the rides that usually have long lines such as Big Thunder Mountain, Space Mountain and Indiana Jones be sure to go to the fast pass section and use your ticket to save a slot for a later time so you can skip the line.
Disneyland has to be my favorite theme park as each area is uniquely decorated, the employees are always so helpful and nice and brings the kid out of anyone. The firework display is also best seen from New Orleans square so you don’t have to cram in with everyone in front of the castle to view them.
There are three Disneyland brand hotels, (The Grand California, Disneyland Hotel, Paradise Pier) which allow you to get in an hour earlier to the opening of the park if you are staying as a guest. They are also located closest to the parks and the Grand California actually has a secret entrance to California Adventure. These hotels can be pricey so if you are planning a trip on a budget, know that there are a number of local hotels with shuttles that take you directly to the park and also allow you to view the fireworks display.
Downtown Disney is the section right outside both parks that have themed restaurants, live music and unique shops all of which being Disney themed. This area is completely free to the public and requires no ticket. If you do happen to stop by Downtown Disney, be sure to visit the Jazz Kitchen as the beignets are some of my favorite desserts on the planet!
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