Updated December 6, 2025
What should you do on arrival day?
It depends on if you have a park ticket or not.
If you do have a ticket, this post details how to spend your time wisely.
No ticket? No problem! Let’s take a look at what to do.
Basic Scoop
Regardless of when you arrive, that first day can include lots of fun.
Need transportation from the airport to your hotel? I recommend Lansky. They provide boosters and car seats and stop at the grocery (or In-N-Out!) on the way to your hotel.
Get to Know Your Resort
Whether you’re on Harbor Blvd or at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, get to know your hotel. Check out (or use!) the pool.
Find out where the amenities are that you need – gym, business center, laundry, etc etc. Familiarity makes everyone more comfortable, so make your hotel your home on day one.
If you’re staying onsite, check out the details I share for The Disneyland Hotel and the Grand Californian Hotel.
Ask the concierge or anyone at check in what you need to know about your hotel to make your trip successful. You’ll be surprised at the tips they share!
Explore Downtown Disney
There’s so much to do.
Take a look at my guide for what I recommend.
Dining in Downtown is easy and should be walkable from your hotel. Most hotels in the Harbor/Katella area are not too far away.
You could spend a couple of hours just walking around shopping and enjoying any live music that might be happening. Browse the LEGO Store, explore the newly designed west end and if you’re visiting during the holiday season, look for snow!
Per Disney:
“Step into a winter wonderland every night! From November 14, 2025, through January 7, 2026, enjoy the magic of the holidays as snow falls nightly at Downtown Disney LIVE! Stageand lawn between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM.”
Hungry? Check my guide for where to eat. I have suggestions for families, finer dining and more.
The Best Pizza Delivery
We’ve been eating at Marri’s for over a decade. Can’t recommend it enough!
The restaurant is old school and charming with great service if you want to go in. But, we almost always have it delivered.
Here’s all about them with a menu.
Their phone number is 714.533.1631. They’re located at 1194 W Katella Ave.
Fireworks
If Disneyland is showing fireworks (with pyrotechnics), you can see them from outside the park.
This post details where to watch from in Downtown Disney and around the area. Don’t miss the option at Pixar Place Hotel!
Additional Resources
Planning a trip? Start with this post. It shares all sorts of basic planning info that will help you get organized.
Need discounted tickets and hotels? Check out my travel partner, Get Away Today. In business since 1990, they’re the absolute best with both pricing and service. This link takes you to them. Or you can call 855.GET.AWAY toll free.
***Use code DDaily for an additional $10 off when you book hotel and tickets
Let me know how I can help you plan!!
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