Updated March 12, 2024
Today, I’m sharing the basics of Disneyland to get you started on planning.
If you haven’t visited in a while, this post will be helpful to you, too. If your last trip was before Covid, buckle up. It’s a whole new world.
MagicBand+, Disney Genie, Early Entry, Park Reservations, and so much more are new or different now.
There’s a lot to know.
Let’s get started.
Who to Book Your Trip With
Park reservations, crowd calendars, dining reservations, MagicBand+, changes since Covid, Disney Genie, etc etc all require a decent amount of familiarity to get it right.
I can help you with many parts of planning, but I recommend booking your trip with an experienced agent who can handle some of these things for you and advise on all of them. Commission is built into every Disney package purchased, regardless of who you book with. So, you do not pay a penny more than if you book with Disney directly.
I recommend booking with Love of the Magic Vacations for many, many reasons. I share all about this agency in this post. And, you can get a free quote from them at this link.
An Overview
Disneyland Resort is comprised of 2 theme parks, 3 Disney hotels and Downtown Disney. Disneyland is a fraction of the size of Disney World. Check out the layout of the resort including details on parking, lockers and more.
Disneyland is the original park and it opened in 1955. In addition to Main Street, it includes 7 lands:
- Adventureland
- Critter Country
- Fantasyland
- Frontierland
- Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
- Toontown
- New Orleans Square
- Tomorrowland
Recent photos of Disneyland can be found here.
Disney California Adventure or DCA opened in 2001 and enjoyed a grand “re-opening” in 2012 with a major transformation, which has brought the once troubled park to life. In addition to Buena Vista Street, it includes 6 lands:
- Cars Land
- Grizzly Peak
- Hollywood Land
- Pacific Wharf
- Pixar Pier
- Avengers Campus
Recent photos of DCA can be found here.
Transportation to the Disneyland Resort is fairly easy if you know what you’re looking for. There are 6 large airports that are all realistic options within 1.5 hours of Disneyland. You can get to the parks via car, shuttle, train, or car service. I highly recommend Lanksy Enterprises for transportation from the airport to your hotel.
For Walt Disney World Fans
There’s a lot to know if you’re familiar with WDW, but not Disneyland. Let’s go over a few differences:
- We don’t have a dining plan. We often walk up to counter service restaurants, order food and eat it. Don’t be scared of us. It works. Dining at the Disneyland Resort is fun.
- If you’re looking for Value Resorts at Disneyland, consider staying off-site at a good neighbor hotel. We only have 3 Disney Hotels and 2 of them are 4 Star and all three are $300+ a night.
- We have Early Entry, which allows you into the park before other guests. Read about it here.
- Everything is in walking distance. No one hour trek from park to hotel and park again. You can leave one park and be at the next in 2 minutes because the two park entrances face each other. Most hotels are in walking distance. Downtown Disney is just outside the esplanade between the two parks. You can easily leave the park, run back to your hotel and be back in the park in a short amount of time. IT’S GLORIOUS.
- The weather here is lovely. We rarely see rain. Seriously. And, regardless of when you visit – even if it’s in the summer – you’ll likely need a sweater for early morning or late night. Know how to dress ahead of time. It’s quite different compared to WDW.
- To thoroughly appreciate the history and nostalgia that Disneyland offers, consider taking my one hour scavenger hunt along Main Street to see lots of key Walt-related stops. First time Disney World fans love to see where Walt left his mark on our beloved Disneyland.
- Our characters often roam the park and some do so without handlers. The character experience is so authentic and fun at Disneyland.
Park Strategies
This post covers everything you need to know for how to tour each park, allowing you to see and do everything your heart desires during your visit. Follow my plans to ensure you won’t wait more than 20 minutes for any attraction.
I test my strategies monthly – and edit as needed – which provides you the very best plans for your visit.
Disney Genie
All new at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World!
Be sure you know how Genie works, as it’s different from FASTPASS, MaxPass, and FastPass+.
Here’s the scoop on Genie.
Hotels
You have two options when choosing where to stay at Disneyland:
DLR Hotels – Disneyland hotels have many perks including always-good Disney service, Extra Magic Hours, on-site DLR Hotel dining, and package delivery from the parks to your hotel. One (The Grand Californian) is super close to the entrance of the parks and Paradise Pier and The Disneyland Hotel are a bit further.
Off-Site Hotels – Off-site options are typically much less expensive than DLR Hotels with many averaging around $120 a night.
Attractions
Each park has a different feel to it. I’d simplify it into this:
Disneyland is old school and sweet with lots of history and fairytale-esque rides. Main Street feels like a walk back in time and the entire park has a nostalgic element to it.
Disney California Adventure feels newer and more character focused. Buena Vista is lovely and provides the nod to Americana that Main Street at Disneyland does. You’ll find “bigger” rides that teens will enjoy more at DCA, however, there is still plenty to do for little ones.
Beware: Some attractions are very “dark” (figuratively and literally) and can scare young children. Research those before you visit.
Dining
The food at Disneyland is one of my favorite parts of my visit. There’s so much to enjoy! I have compiled every bit of Disneyland Resort dining into one post. This covers both parks, Downtown Disney, character meals, dining in the DLR Hotels, park snacks, off-the-menu options, cocktails, DLR recipes, my recommendations, and a mock budget so you can estimate your costs. Check that out for all things dining.
Disneyland Dining has several yummy options including Jolly Holiday Bakery, Hungry Bear Restaurant, The Plaza Inn, Blue Bayou and more. The park includes several table service options and many counter service ones, too. Character dining can be found at breakfast at The Plaza Inn.
California Adventure Dining feels a little more adventurous to me food-wise with options like Asian fare, high end Carthay Circle and delicious smoothies. California Adventure also serves a wide range of alcohol compared to Disneyland.
Character dining can be found at Disneyland and each of the Disneyland Resort Hotels. In addition to the expected Disney service at each of these experiences, you can also:
- Interact with characters up close for more time than at the parks.
- Take fun photos with the characters.
- Gather autographs.
I encourage you to enjoy one (or more) character dining experiences during your visit.
Seasons
Halloween Time and Holidays at Disneyland are two big seasons that take over the parks from the beginning of September until the beginning of January.
A few quick notes on these seasons:
- Halloween Time is just as popular as Christmas is now at the Disneyland Resort.
- We have a Halloween Party called Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure. It’s the best after hours event I’ve ever attended at a Disney Park. Don’t miss it.
- Each September brings an overlay to the Haunted Mansion, transforming it into a Jack Skellington’s Nightmare Before Christmas theme, where “two holidays collide”. This overlay lasts through the end of Holidays at Disneyland in early January of the following year. The Haunted Mansion typically takes up to 3 weeks to change from one theme to the other, so account for that timing when scheduling your trip. Mid-August is typically when the attraction closes for the changeover.
- “it’s a small world” changes into “it’s a small world” Holiday during Holidays at Disneyland. That transformation takes 2-3 weeks, so account for it, too, during your planning. Look for it’s a small world to go down the second half of October in preparation for Holidays.
- Halloween Time typically starts the second week of September and lasts through Halloween night, October 31.
- Holidays at Disneyland typically starts the second week of November and lasts through the first week of January.
Visit these posts, which are updated each season, as soon as Disney releases information.
MagicBand+
What does it do, do you need it, and why?
Lots to learn about MagicBand+ at Disneyland. Start here.
Additional Info
- Many people talk about Disneyland at “capacity”. The truth is that this rarely happens. A few days a year – usually around the holidays – Disneyland Park will close due to “capacity restraints”. This means there’s too many people in the park to allow more in. When it happens, it’s usually around 1:00pm and will last until around 5:00pm. When it does, you’re welcome to visit DCA if you have a park hopper. If you do not, you can wander Downtown Disney.
- Need info in Spanish? I recommend this site. Liz is super helpful.
- Venturing outside of Disneyland? There is SO MUCH to do in Southern California. Take a look at all of your options in this post.
- Know how to meet characters and how a character meal can add to your experience.
- Know all about World of Color and what your options are for seeing this unique show, only available at DCA.
- Know all about parades and fireworks, too. And, Fantasmic!
- The Disneyland Resort is very accommodating for guests with disabilities. Visit this post for so much information on this including mobility devices, how to work with each attraction, where to find alternate attractions, and so much more.
- Be prepared for crowds. You have many options when the parks become overwhelming.
- Toddlers and princess fans require extra planning.
- Bringing a baby to the parks? Are you expecting during your visit? Check out this post for lots to know including where the baby centers are, how to find a quiet place to nap, where to nurse, and more. Know where to rent a stroller off-site, too if you choose not to bring your own.
- Know what to expect with your visit to Downtown Disney.
Relax and have fun. Disneyland is such a magical place! Let me know how I can help you plan.
Thank you so much for all of your posts! We’ve been using your plans for a very long time and they always make for a GREAT trip! We haven’t been to Disneyland recently and I was wondering about Lightening Lanes. We are going in a few days and bought Genie +. You mention that you don’t recommend paying for additional Lightning Lanes. Is this because it is all the same or are there some rides that only have one-time purchase Lightning Lanes?
Hi Melissa!
Yes, there are different kinds of Lightning Lanes.
Check out this post for how to get started each day:
https://disneylanddaily.com/how-to-start-your-day-at-the-disneyland-resort/
And this one for how Genie+ works:
https://disneylanddaily.com/disney-genie-at-disneyland-and-walt-disney-world/
Let me know how else I can help!
WOW!! This is the Disneyland post this WDW goer needed!! I knew I would find what I needed and THIS. IS. IT! Thank you!! I have booked my 40th birthday celebration for next November and this time, we are going west to Disneyland. What started out as a curiosity rabbithole ended in that $200 deposit! Not only is it my first time at Disneyland, it will be for my husband and three children, two of which have not been to either! Thank you SO SO much for this post. All of the elements, comparisons, and info I was hoping for. Can’t wait to dive in!
Shannon H-M, San Antonio, TX
Happy I could help you. Let me know what your questions are!
“Disneyland is the ultimate escape from reality. It’s like stepping into a magical world where anything is possible.”
I agree! Well said.
Hello! We planning 2 day trip. First time visitors.
We will be on-site, and splurging for LL+, G+, and will be early entry.
1) Do we need Park hopping? Or should we savor everything at each park? I’m worried DCA may not have enough to see and do. Will we be done by noon? We also won’t be doing Guardinas. So that leaves 4 good rides, and a bunch of county fair-type rides. Or should we just splurge, and buy park hopper, even though we won’t ‘hop’ on our Disneyland Park day?
2) Also, can we add on Park hopping to a 2-day ticket, AFTER wards to a 2-day, 2-single day ticket? Without doing this at the park. We just want to add this to our DCA day. Can this be done on the app or online?
Hello!
I am a WDW veteran and will be visiting Disneyland as first time visitor in mid July. Only there for 2 days TOTAL. Do I really need park hopper? We will be staying at the Grand Californian, and will be utilizing early entry, Genie+, and LL+. I know we will not “hop” to DCA during our 1-day at Disneyland, as there will be so much to see there.
I worry that we will be done by early afternoon at DCA. We typically do a pool day mid-afternoon anyways. But fear we will run out of rides for 9 and 11yr old. Is there enough ambiance/entertainment at DCA in the evening? It will be more relaxed to not “hop”, and just chillax in the evening and enjoy Disneyland Downtown and WOC.
Plus….. it would save us $240, which would only be used once for us hopping from DCA to DL. Thanks!
Also: podcasts say do NOT try Peter Pan for early entry. Do you agree?
Hi George.
Park hoppers are not entirely necessary.
Use my strategies here to see and do everything you want:
https://disneylanddaily.com/how-to-start-your-day-at-the-disneyland-resort/
*Podcasts now say to not go to Peter Pan first because I started saying not to years ago. ?
Follow my strategies and you’re good!
Hi Casey,
We’re planning on visiting the third week in June for 2 days only. I’ve been to Disney World many times, but only once to Disneyland & that was about 5-6 years ago. I generally use a TA, but Disney doesn’t let them help with trips less than 3 days. Do you recommend anyone who can help with a 2-day trip? I have a couple of questions for now, but will probably have more as the time gets closer. Your site has a lot of good information.
Thank you.
Hi Cathy.
I just spoke to Jamie at the agency I use and recommend and they can book 2 day Disneyland trips. You’re good! I highly suggest using her. Here’s a link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf2KbTFy8xFC8sh5Ch4OAHm4Izykv-5GlQIakLWz96dovt69w/viewform
I’m happy to help you, too, of course, but you’ll have an agent walking you through it with more info than I can provide by going through Jamie.
Either way, let me know your questions and you’ll be ready for your trip!
Hi Casey, I am wondering if you have any recommendations inside, or nearby Disneyland or California adventure, for gluten free food options. Thanks
Hi, Kelly.
I don’t, personally, but I recommend these Instagram accounts for ideas:
@glutenfreeandthemouse
@gfdisneymom
Hope this helps!
Hi Casey,
Thank you so much for all your amazing information. Just wondering we are planning a trip from Australia in September 2023. We are wanting to go to oogie boogie bash on one day. Just wondering how many other park days you would recommend and if we need park hoppers? We would look to get genie plus and rope drop each day with having a break in the afternoons before heading back. Thank you.
Hi, Brooke.
For a thorough trip, I recommend a full day at each park in addition to Oogie Boogie Bash. Two at Disneyland Park if you can.
Let me know how else I can help!
Casey
With the new add fast pass on autoutopia and monster inc where to add it in for your Strategies for both DCA and Disneyland we are going in March
Hi, Luz.
Just updated all my plans to include Autopia and Monsters Inc FASTPASSES. Enjoy!
Hi Casey,
We are planning to visit the parks on july with our kids, a 5 years old girl, and a 1.5 year old baby. We have a doubt of how many days we need, we think to buy one day tickets and the maxpass+, it will be ok 3 or 4 days to visit both parks?
regards,
Victor
That’s plenty!
Hi Casey,
I am planning a trip to Disneyland and my boys will be four and almost two at the time. Do you think doing one day in each park is doable with toddlers or should we do two in Disneyland and one one day in DCA? I have also thought about doing two days in Disneyland and skipping DCA altogether. I definitely don’t want our time to be rushed. Thank you!
I would do one at DCA and two at Disneyland. There really is so much to do. Take advantage of the sale, too, for kids if your travel dates work:
https://disneylanddaily.com/discounted-disneyland-tickets-that-are-safe-to-purchase/#Current_Deals
I will be travelling to Disneyland 2 adults and 2 kids 10 and 7 years old, for the first time early May. A lot of people seem to think hoppers are the way to go, which is obvious why and I’d love to just get it for many reasons but for a family of 4 with the exchange rate (coming from Canada) not sure we can do it…do you think we would manage and enjoy the park with a 2 or 3 day pass no hopper…we are only staying for 4 nights and want to enjoy the grand Californian resort and pool and down town Disney (if you think it is worth time) or even a beach day if it works out?!! Thanks Lori
Absolutely. Buy Hoppers if they’re on sale, but otherwise, they’re not necessary.
Have you seen this deal for kids? It’s amazing!
https://www.facebook.com/DisneylandDailyCasey/photos/a.477640795666902/2535597406537887/?type=3&theater
Hi Casey,
Love your site! We’re planning our first trip to DL first week in February, 2020 and you’re giving us a wealth of information! I was hoping you could help me out with the best way to use our Early Morning entrance for DL. The crowd calendar says that we’re going to have low crowds the week we’re there, but it looks like from other crowd calendars I’ve checked suggests that later in the week will be busier than the first part. Is it better to use the early morning entry on a day with lighter crowds or do it when the day is calling for heavier crowds? Suggestions? Thanks!
Hi, Chad.
It’s best to use your Magic Morning on your last available day option so that you can focus on what you missed earlier or want to do again.
Don’t worry too much about crowds in regards to MM.
Enjoy!
Hi Casey!
I need your help when google fails me. Me, my fiance and my brother are planning a trip to Disneyland and California adventure in 2020 but we have a lot of trouble choosing date. The most important thing for us is to not miss out on anything because this can (I hope I’m wrong) be our one and only chance to visit Disneyland. Are there refurbishments in May? Can we see the fireworks and shows daily? Is it better to go in June to see and ride everything? Is June a lot hotter or is it almost the same? Is it a big difference in crowds? We really want these four days to be the best ever.
I love your site, it’s sooo helpful! Best wishes/ Amanda and co from Sweden <3
Hi, Amanda.
Happy to help you!
Here are your questions with answers:
Are there refurbishments in May? – Refurbishments vary throughout the year and there’s no way to know what will be down in May. I update this page as often as I have info available to me:
https://disneylanddaily.com/refurbishments/
Can we see the fireworks and shows daily? – Entertainment varies, too. But, May is a good time to go, as there’s typically a lot going on. Here’s more info:
https://disneylanddaily.com/disneyland-entertainment-parades-fireworks-shows-special-events-and-more/
Is it better to go in June to see and ride everything? – May and June are pretty similar in schedules, but June will be busier…..but might have a tad bit more entertainment. Think of it like this…Disney doesn’t want to disappoint guests. Ever. So, if they’re expecting big crowds, they work hard to have as many entertainment options as possible. They also try to focus on ride refurbishments in ‘slower’ months. June is busy. Most attractions will be open.
Is June a lot hotter or is it almost the same? – June can be chilly. May can be, too. Check out average temps with ideas on what to wear here:
https://disneylanddaily.com/what-to-wear-to-disneyland/
July is when it really starts heating up.
Is it a big difference in crowds? – Check out my calendar here:
https://disneylanddaily.com/crowd-calendar/
Hope this helps!
Hi Casey,
We’re planning a SoCal trip for April 2020, the week leading into Easter, starting in San Diego ending in LA. We plan on visiting DL/DCA for 2 days, Tues Apr 7th and Wed Apr 8th. My girls are 11 and 13 yrs. old.
I’m trying to determine what kind of tickets to buy: one park a day or park hopper. We’ve been to WDW and Universal FL before and park hopped there. I understand from your posts that it is even easier (distance-wise) to move between DL and DCA. However you do t seem to post plans for park hopping so I’m wondering if it’s worth the cost.
I’m also unsure about MM. If I purchase 2-day Disney tickets on the SoCal City Pass, do we get MM? Or does it still have to be 3+ days?
I’ve already decided Max Pass is worth it for whichever tickets we decide on. I understand EMH, which I know we’re not eligible for since we’re staying off site.
Any feedback is appreciated. Your site is really helpful!
Thanks
Jenny
Hi, Jenny.
Hoppers are not entirely necessary at Disneyland, but they’re nice to have if the price is right. Typically, though, good discounts are only available for 3+ day tickets. Occasionally, the agency I partner with has a sale that includes 2 day tickets. I would look for that over the next few months. But, ticket prices typically go up at the first of the year, so if you don’t see a sale on 2 day tickets, I would purchase them prior to the end of 2019.
My strategies are not designed with the suggestion to hop at any point because I want to make them available to all guests….and some don’t want to pay the upgrade to hop. Again, I don’t think they’re an absolute necessity. Follow my strategies for each park and you’ll see/do everything you want to by focusing on one park per day.
Magic Morning is only for guests with a 3+ day ticket. 🙁
MaxPass is worth every penny.
You sound like you know what you’re doing! Let me know as other questions come up.
Thanks for this guide! I always get nervous visiting new parks as I’m spoiled with the planning tools for WDW. When my husband and I went to Disneyland Paris recently we found it a bit more difficult as there was no prebookable Fastpass system. Thankfully they have Ultimate Fastpass (endless fastpasses) but it was expensive. How long would you recommend spending here as a first time visitor. It feels like 3 days but I’m really not sure. My husband and I can easily spend 10 nights at WDW.
I liked that you said that one thing to consider when you are attending Disneyland is to make sure that you are dining at some of their best restaurants to make your trip extra memorable. I have been thinking about going to Disneyland but I have been unsure as to which rides and restaurants to make sure to experience. I will be sure to read reviews and ratings before attending the park to discover which attractions to visit so that I make sure to have the best experience possible.
Hi Casey! we are planning to go to Disneyland early next year. We want to get 4 day tickets, but just do the park hopper for two days, is that possible?
Unfortunately, no. When you change to hoppers, it’s all or nothing.
This link has info on discounted tickets:
https://disneylanddaily.com/discounted-disneyland-tickets-that-are-safe-to-purchase/#Current_Deals_for_Disneyland
Hello! I’m learning so much from this website…thank you!
We are going to Disneyland the first week of May. I noticed on the crowd calendar it has a GRAD on some of the days. What does this mean and how will it affect us?
Thanks,
Katey
Hi, Katey.
These are grad nites. Visit this post for everything you need to know:
https://disneylanddaily.com/grad-nights-at-disneyland/
There are so many post for guiding to disneyland, but your post is clear and updated, thanks for doing this. I’m making plan to visit there with my kids for summer.
Hi Casey!
not a first time visitor, but a first time staying way off site (Newport Coast) so we will be driving. Which parking lot do you recommend? March 2019 for my birthday!
thanks!
I think that it is so cool that you can dine with your favorite characters. This is a great sentiment that a lot of people will be able to carry with them as a memory. A trip to the resort will be a lot more fun with this in mind.
Hey Casey, your site is awesome, I am an avid Disney world goer and we are making our first trip to Disneyland 6/21. I have tried to read thru the site multiple times to soak it all in and have made a plan and just wanted to ask for clarification on some things… We are staying at the Castle Inn, so we will NOT get extra magic hours??? and if not, you recommend going to DCA on a day that Disneyland offers the extra magic hours? Thanks
Hi, Julie.
Extra Magic Hour is for guests staying at one of the three Disneyland Resort Hotel properties.
Magic Morning is for guests with a 3+ park ticket.
So, you may have access to Magic Morning, depending on how long you’re visiting. Magic Morning is good at Disneyland only.
I go into lots of detail here:
https://disneylanddaily.com/extra-magic-hour-and-magic-morning-at-disneyland-resort/
Visit the park not hosting EMH/MM if you don’t have one of the two early admission options. Enjoy!
Hey Casey! Our trip is only 4 weeks away (yay!) and I’ll be coming with my hubby (who’s only been once) and our friend (for his first visit!). We were looking at the park schedule and noticed that during our dates everything in Toon Town shows as Schedule Unavailable. Do you have any idea if there’s something going on in Toon Town or would it be showing that way since Toon Town closes earlier in the day? My friend loves Roger Rabbit and is excited to ride his ride, but I just want to prepare him just in case.
Hi, Brianna.
Keep checking back if the times aren’t showing yet. Toontown is sometimes filled in later on. As odd as it seems, the entire schedule isn’t always updated at the same time. Hope you have a great visit!
Hello!
I’m heading to Disneyland for the first time in my life! And I’ll be going to be celebrating my big 3-0 birthday there this June. Would you recommend any special perks that I could take advantage of for it being my birthday? (Other than just the button).
Thanks!
Shaun
Happy early birthday! Check out this post for some ideas:
https://disneylanddaily.com/making-magic-happen-at-disneyland/
Hi Casey,
I have read through a lot of your site and had a couple questions. We are leaving for California soon!
1. If you drive to the Disneyland hotel for dinner, where do you park? Will the restaurant validate it?
2. Where are the ticket booths located to exchange ticket/meal vouchers?
3. Can you use Starbucks gift cards at the Disneyland/DCA Starbucks?
4. How does the photo package work if you are traveling with a larger group (9) who are not all family members? Can you get by with just one package and link everyone’s pictures? Or is the package tied to one person’s ticket?
5. Does Disneyland have a Pirate Makeover location like WDW?
Thank you so much for the help!!
Hi, Meg.
Let’s go through your questions:
1. If you drive to the Disneyland hotel for dinner, where do you park? Will the restaurant validate it? – You may self park at the hotel and then the restaurant will validate.
2. Where are the ticket booths located to exchange ticket/meal vouchers? – The ticket booths are located in between the two parks in an area called the esplanade. The two park entrances face each other and then the space in between and around the entrances includes the ticket booths, a picnic area, lockers, restrooms, etc, etc.
3. Can you use Starbucks gift cards at the Disneyland/DCA Starbucks? – Unfortunately, no. 🙁
4. How does the photo package work if you are traveling with a larger group (9) who are not all family members? Can you get by with just one package and link everyone’s pictures? Or is the package tied to one person’s ticket? – You may purchase one photo package and include whomever you wish in your photos, family or not. There is no limit to the number of photos you may include.
5. Does Disneyland have a Pirate Makeover location like WDW? – They used to offer a similar service around Halloween, but I haven’t seen it in a few years.
Hope this helps!
Hi! We’re planning our first trip for the end of June, and I know summer is a crazy time, but if we have 3 park-hopper days will we be able to do most of what we’re wanting to do? (We’re going Mon-Wed, so no weekend days!)
Absolutely. Arrive an hour before opening, use FASTPASSES, use my strategies and get lots done in the morning. You’ll be fine!
Hi Casey, my family is preparing an August trip and we were thinking the 19th-23rd would be the best time according to your crowd calendar. But I think I read somewhere else that that week is also when annual pass holders will be unblocked too. Do you know if that’s true? And would your calendar remain the same (yellow) whether it’s true or not?
The calendar was created with all of the annual passholder calendars taken into account. August is still busy…..but the latter part is a bit better as APs are often focused on returning to school at that time.
After I asked you the question I thought, “well duh, Casey knew that when she made the calendar!” 🙂
Thanks for the reassurance!
No worries! I welcome any and all questions. You guys teach me stuff, too!
Hi Casey,
I’m planning a mother-daughter trip (first timer) for November 1-6 2018. Based on your Halloween Time and Holiday Celebration dates, it seems like we may end up going when the park is technically between seasons… Do you think we will get to see the park in its original state, or will we potentially get to see BOTH Halloween and holiday? Thanks so much!
Halloween is almost all taken down by the 1st. You’ll see Holidays coming together during your dates.
Hi. We are visiting at the end of June for two weekdays and the weekend. Are you able to give me an idea of when we should see the shows? Eg. Should we see the day time shows/parades on the weekdays (thurs, fri) or the weekend? Thanks so much – love your site!
Fit the shows and parades in any day – weekend or weekday – in the afternoon. Spend your mornings getting stuff done. Then, break for lunch and a nap/swim during the busiest time of the day. Return for shows and parades until closer to dinner. Then, start with attractions again. Enjoy!
Good afternoon! We are very excited to make our first DL trip the first week of June 2019. We are so accustomed to WDW it seem strange not to be planning this far ahead! My question is about Grad nights. We are planning on 5 park hopper days when we are there. We are thinking of adding the “Max” option to our tickets as well. Will we have enough time to get things done with that amount of time, even with Grad nights? Thank you in advance!
Jonnie
Absolutely. Use MaxPass and my general rules for touring – arrive early each day and stay on task until lunch. Break and then return for the evening. 5 days will allow plenty of time for it all.
Grad night info can be found here:
https://disneylanddaily.com/grad-nights-at-disneyland/
Hi!
Thank you for all the information! lots of reading and learning to do. One question I do have, with DCA being under so much construction is it worth going there? Or should we just stick with DL? We are going March 2-5 with our 6 year old daughter (she has princess fever and loves Disney JR) and our 3 year old son (typical boy and also loves Disney JR!) This is a first of anything Disney for all of us!
Thank you!
I still recommend DCA. Spend more time at Disneyland, but a day at DCA. Enjoy!
Hi Casey! I love your website and appreciate your research!We are considering a first visit to Disneyland (we have been to WDW 3 times) in September of 2018. I have a question about your calendar for 2018 on” pick a date” for your visit: 2017 shows September weekdays being mostly green however for 2018, only the week of the 10th is green with the rest of the weekdays being yellow. What is your reasoning for this? Thank you so very much for your info!!!
The reason is for the growing popularity of Halloween Time. Each year, it gets bigger and bigger at Disneyland.
Hope that helps!
Hi! I will be going to California in April for about 5 days and will be going to Disneyland for the first time for two of them. If I only bought tickets to Disneyland, do I have to change anything if I also want to go DCA for one of the days? Like update my tickets or something?
So, what you bought was likely one-park-per-day tickets, which allow you to visit one park only per day. These are totally fine and should suffice for 5 days. But, you’ll need to commit each day to one park, as you won’t be allowed in the opposite park once you enter the other one.
If you wanted to upgrade to park hopper tickets, you can do so when you arrive (at the ticket booths), but it’s totally optional. Park hopper tickets allow you to enter and leave both parks on the same day as many times as you wish. If you were to upgrade, you will have to upgrade all 5 days, as you can’t choose one or two to turn into hoppers. It’s all or none.
Disney shares more info here:
https://disneyland.disney.go.com/tickets/
Hi, we are visiting Disneyland in April (from Australia), and we have received our 5 day hopper Disneyland tickets as vouchers to be redeemed when we arrive. We also have character dining vouchers. On the character dining voucher it has an actual date. Do I have to book the character dining for that actual date or is this flexible? I am waiting for the bookings to open up to book Goofy’s Kitchen for dinner.
Hi, Denise. Where did you purchase your tickets and vouchers?
I purchased them through our travel agent here in Australia.
I could help you if they were purchased through Disney or Get Away Today, but since all agencies are a little different, I recommend you ask yours to make sure you have the right info. I’m so sorry I can’t advise!
That’s ok. Thanks for replying to my messages. I am following your blog preparing for our trip. We are so excited. Thank you.
Just one more question. Do you have any further info on the Pixar shows coming in April? We will be there during the first week of the Pixar festivities.
Hello, i have question. this Erik be my first time at DL and i have a one day park hopper tickets and I want to know where should i start I know i won’t be able to see it all,but i would like to see as much as possible. Another thing, where should I park?
Hi, there.
With just one day for both parks, I highly recommend you use MaxPass, which will cost you $10 for the day. It will allow you to more efficiently select FASTPASSES, which will cut down on wait times for rides.
So, first, read this post that details how FASTPASSES – and specifically MaxPass – works:
https://disneylanddaily.com/a-fastpass-guide-for-disneyland-and-california-adventure/#MaxPass
And, you’re in luck because I visited both parks recently – on 12.22.2017 – which was quite busy, but with MaxPass, I covered all the key attractions in each park. Check out this link to see how that day went and to get an idea of the strategy I think you should use:
https://www.facebook.com/DisneylandDailyCasey/posts/1455330824564556
I know that’s a lot to take in. Make notes where you have questions while you’re reviewing and let me know how I can help.
For parking, I recommend the Mickey and Friends Parking Garage. Arrive at the garage 1.5 hours prior to park opening. You’ll be able to park and then ride the free tram to the park and then get in line to start your day. This post has more details on parking:
https://disneylanddaily.com/the-logistics-of-disneyland/#Parking
Hope this helps you get started planning!
Lots of good info. WDW 22 times. First time at Disneyland. Thanks for all the great info. Boo to no Baroque Hodown and those beautiful lights. Cheers
Cheers to you! Hope you enjoyed our beloved Disneyland.
I’m so glad I stumbled upon your website. My friend and I are going to Disneyland at the end of October, its my first time and I’m 44 years old! Thanks for all the information.
You’re so welcome! Enjoy!
Is there any special reason I should go to Disneyland on the Fourth of July? I have the SoCal City Pass to spend 3 days with the park hopper, one day at SeaWorld and one day at LegoLand. The only website that mentions anything that is out of the ordinary for the holiday is LegoLand. I know that there will be fireworks every night at Disneyland, so am I better off spending 7/3, 7/5, and 7/7 at Disney, 7/4 at LegoLand, and 7/6 at Sea World?
Disneyland has special fireworks that night. The park is usually not crowded that morning, but fills up and gets super crowded late afternoon/evening for the fireworks show. More on that here:
https://disneyland.disney.go.com/entertainment/disneyland/celebrate-america-fireworks/
Your plan looks good!
Are there typically fireworks in June or July in Disneyland? Touring plans has fireworks listed in the Spring and Fall of 2017 but not in June or July, even for weekends. Thanks!
There should be fireworks all summer long, as it’s peak season. Can’t imagine them not having fireworks in June or July.
Thank you for your reply! It would seem weird for Disney to not have fireworks then.
It seems that apart from rainy days, that DLR has been very busy every day in January, even on weekdays with crowd levels commonly at a 9 or 10 out of 10. Is this typical? I thought January was supposed to have low crowds. Are more people buying annual passes? Or do you think that people are using their annual passes more? Or have there been a few more rainy days than usual causing more people to go on the non rainy days creating huge crowds (hope that makes sense)? Or something else? I am trying to figure out if going to WDW would be a better fit for my family which seems to have times of the year when crowds are lower than other times.
Thank you for your knowledge!
Realizing that I may be coming off as expecting you to know some insider info on visitor demographics – I didn’t mean to. Mostly I was hoping if you could confirm if January 2017 was a lot more crowded? And if you want to speculate why, that would be great but understand why you wouldn’t want to. Thanks again!
Hi Casey! I absolutely love your website and have recommended your it to several first-time visitors (like myself) making plans for our 2017.
My question: We’re going with grandma and my kids. Grandma doesn’t need a wheelchair, but I’m worried the walking will be too much for her. Do you have information on ECVs? Can they be rented at the last minute? Thanks!
Hi, Jennifer.
Thank you! I’m so glad my site has helped with your planning. ECVs and wheelchairs can be rented at the last minute, without a reservation. You rent those by walking up to the location near the stroller rentals, to the right of the Disneyland Park main entrance.
The cost is $12 a day for a wheelchair and $50 a day for an ECV. Check out this link for all the details you need:
https://disneyland.disney.go.com/guest-services/wheelchair-rental/
Enjoy your visit!
We’re planning to go to DL on nov 19th, is there a Stars Wars feature there as my niece fr UK is interested in Star Wars. Thanks…
Absolutely. Know this post to enjoy all of Star Wars at Disneyland:
https://disneylanddaily.com/season-of-the-force-everything-you-need-to-know/
Hi Casey, thanks for sharing so much valuable info! I’m bringing my 2 year old daughter for the 2nd time during Labor Day weekend.
The first time we visited, I didn’t get a chance to buy her personalized Mickey Mouse ears. Do you know where I can purchase them? Are they available in both parks?
They’re available at many stops throughout both parks and World of Disney in downtown Disney. Mad Hatter has the best selection and there are two locations in Disneyland.
If I leave a park and want to go back later in the evening (to the same one), do I need to get a hand stamp before I leave that park?
Yes. You’ll need a hand stamp and your ticket to re-enter.
Thank you! And is this something you ask any Castmember for when you leave the turnstiles or is there a specific place/lane I have to go to?
Hi, I have booked a condo where we would need to walk and cross S Walnut st. To get to Disney. Is this a smart idea? I’m not 100% set on the condo, but I felt like VRBO, was affordable with many perks (kitchen, parking, washer) Whats your condo advice? And are you familiar with crossing thE S Walnut st with young children. Thanks!
Hi, Kaylee.
I have stayed at the Holiday Inn on Walnut and didn’t have any trouble with crossing the street. I was by myself and not thrilled with being solo in such a dark area at night, but if you’re with a group, you should be OK. I walked toward the Disneyland Hotel, crossed through it, and then into Downtown Disney to get to the parks. You should be OK.
Hi Casey!
My family and I are goin to diseney in a few days! It will be our first time going there! But I have a question. Can we go to disney land and the california adventure one? Or is it 2 different parks that are different? Thanks!
They are two different parks and require tickets for each. You can purchase “park hopper” tickets that allow you entrance to both parks in the same day if you wish. Here is a discounted ticket option: https://disneylanddaily.com/discounted-disneyland-tickets-that-are-actually-safe-to-purchase/
Hi! Have loved using your posts to plan our trip trip we will be taking to DL with our girls this summer. I was wondering if you knew how well the parks offered gluten free options. My youngest has celiac disease so I’m trying to get an idea of food options for her!
They are quite accommodating. Ask for special menus at each restaurant – even counter services. You may also speak to the chef at any restaurants to explain your concerns. Enjoy!
Hi! Thanks so much for the informative website. Our first trip to DL is planned for mid-May. I was looking through your daily ride/park plans and was wondering if they have been updated for the new closures for Star Wars? I’m not familiar with the park at all so I’m not sure what is currently closed for the new attraction. Thank you!! ~Jessica
Here is what is closed for Star Wars Land : https://disneylanddaily.com/before-star-wars-land-construction-begins-dont-miss-these-attractions/
Hi Casey
I’m just wondering if at DL you can buy gift cards there to use around the park. I’d rather buy one of those then struggle with cash everywhere I go. And if they do have gift cards can they be used everywhere in the park including food vendors. I’m from Canada and I can’t buy them at the stores here and rather not buy them online either.
Thanks
Ivisited Disneyland last Sunday and followed your advice and tried the Montecristo sandwich. I loved it.
My bf was reluctant to visit Disney but he was happy that we followed one of he spreadsheets you shared in the website. My bes Disney trip ever. I Didn’t get to see the peter pan ride open though.
Thanks 🙂
Anahi, I’m so glad you had a good visit! Peter Pan will open soon. Another time.
I’m enjoying a monte cristo on Thursday. Counting the hours until!
Hi! Is there a way for me to find out what the options are for off-site dinning? Breakfast specifically, thanks!
Hi, Carla.
Here is a post on off-site retail and dining near the parks:
https://disneylanddaily.com/your-guide-to-off-site-hotel-life-at-disneyland/
And, here is one about Downtown Disney that has lots of good breakfast options:
https://disneylanddaily.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-downtown-disney-2/
Hope that helps!