Adulting at Disneyland

Love the feeling of the wind in your hair or that stomach flip during a big drop? Disneyland isn’t just for kids! Make sure to check out the following attractions to add some thrill to your day!

• Big Thunder Mountain in Frontierland: The wildest ride in the wilderness! (For a little extra thrill, try the not-so-secret secret goat trick).

• Guardians of the Galaxy—Mission: BREAKOUT! Each ride is different with six different ride storylines. Be ready to experience a sequence of drops to the soundtrack of classic hits from the Guardians of the Galaxy movies.

• Incredicoaster: Help the Incredible family chase Jack-Jack through a series of twists and turns (one inversion) while the relaxing backdrop of Pixar Pier flashes by in the background.

Want to take it slower and enjoy the scenery around you? Here are some of my favorite low-key rides!

• Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters: Add some competition to your day while you help Buzz Lightyear defeat Zurg in this interactive attraction! Aim for the targets with your laser and see if you can earn the title of Galactic Hero!

• Haunted Mansion: Love everything spooky, or maybe you just want to escape from the heat? Enjoy this Disney classic and see if you can take home a hitchhiking ghost! Pro tip: ride during Halloween or Holidays at the resort for a whole new “nightmare” of an attraction.

• Pirates of the Caribbean: The BEST ride to relax, rest your feet, and escape the heat! Cruise through a classic Disneyland ride with added touches from the popular Pirates movie franchise.

Enjoy one of the many shows and nighttime spectaculars that Disney offers! Check the Disneyland App for up-to-date showtimes each day—firework displays, Fantasmic, evening parades, and World of Color changes throughout the year based on season, weather, special events, etc., but occur fairly regularly. I recommend riding rides or eating dinner during the first evening parade, finding a seat or standing spot for the fireworks and then watching the last evening parade after the fireworks have ended!

Looking to escape the crowds and rest your feet? Try one of the indoor shows like the Enchanted Tiki Room, Mickey’s Philharmagic, Walt Disney—A Magical Life, and Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. Be on the lookout for special character interactive shows such as cavalcades, Guardians of the Galaxy dance-off, Five & Dime, and The Dapper Dans!

In the parks

• Quick service: Want to mobile order, grab something on the go, or just need a quick meal?

• Pym Test Kitchen: Fun-themed, but still delicious food! Portions are generous and seasonal items are available. Bonus: Great cocktails at Pym Tasting Lab next door!

• Smokejumpers Grill: This has both indoor and outdoor seating. Burgers and sandwiches, all are good portions for the price! They will have seasonal and special offerings based on the events happening in the park.

• Bengal Barbecue: Great option if you want to eat healthy but still enjoy something full of flavor. Make sure to mobilize early ahead of time—timeslots book up fast and the line can get pretty long at meal times.

Snacks

Want something light or just a sweet treat that gives that Disney nostalgia?

• Churros: Make sure to stop at a churro cart (or two). Did you even go to Disneyland if you didn’t eat a churro?

• The Tropical Hideaway: Enjoy an iconic Dole Whip or switch it up and try one of their seasonal flavors or sundaes. Raspberry or watermelon swirl are so refreshing! Hint: Now accepting mobile orders, too!

• Edelweiss Snacks: The Cheesy Garlic Bread Pretzel is a must-try! It is heavier, so can easily be shared. Tip: If you’re looking for more of a meal and less of a snack, try the Fantasyland Garlic Cheesy Brat

Sit-down & fine dining

Have some extra time and want to sit down for your meal? Looking for a delicious culinary experience and service? Enjoy it at one of these restaurants.

• Carthay Circle Restaurant: This is a must for my family every single time we visit. The service is great, the food is better, and the cocktails never miss. The pork chop is a MUST-try—I compare every pork chop I have to this one.

• Lamplight Lounge: The atmosphere cannot be beat. They offer brunch, lunch, and dinner. Their drinks are fun and the food is always good. Check out their “secret” drink menu or grab a table in the evening outside to catch World of Color.

• Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar: This restaurant/bar transports you right to the islands of Hawaii. The cocktails are DELICIOUS and make sure to sit indoors for a meal and an experience.