The Exhausted Parent's Guide to Disneyland

Ideal trip length:

A lot depends on your budget, but for my family, three park days with a Park Hopper has been plenty—especially now that the kids are older and we know how to navigate the parks and maximize Lightning Lane. Our favorite rhythm has been a 5–6 night trip, which gives us time for slower pool days in between the park days. That said, you could absolutely do a long weekend and still feel like you checked off your must-dos—then happily pass out on the plane ride home.

One day: Possible, but rushed. You’ll have to pick and choose just the biggest highlights of one park. Park Hoppers help, but you’ll miss a lot.

Two days: The minimum recommended if you want to experience both parks. One full day per park works well, though you’ll still need to prioritize.

Three days: The sweet spot for most families. Allows you to spend a full day in each park. Use the 3rd day to revisit favorites, explore at a slower pace, or catch shows/fireworks you may have missed.

Four+ days: Great if you want a relaxed pace, pool time at your hotel, and the chance to repeat headliners without stress.

Where to stay:

The best way to guarantee less walking and less stress? A Disneyland hotel. I know it’s not the tip you wanted to hear (because $$$), but if you can swing it, it’s worth it. I’ve done hotels, home rentals, and Disney resorts. Nothing compares to the magic of staying on property—right down to the moment you check in at the front desk.

On-property perks (all three Disney hotels):

Early entry: 30-minute early access to either park each day.

Proximity: No shuttles, no parking mess. Easy to walk everywhere, which makes breaks and naps doable.

Package delivery and room charging: Your purchases made at Disney them parks and Downton Disney can be delivered directly to your room so you don’t have to carry them around with you.

Disneyland Hotel: The classic, flagship choice full of Disney nostalgia.

Theme: Retro-modern “mid-century meets Disney magic.” Think light-up Sleeping Beauty headboards and hidden Mickeys. Highlights: Monorail-themed waterslides and Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar

Goofy’s Kitchen (character dining).

Location: End of Downtown Disney, ~10-minute walk to the gates.

Best for: Families and purists who love the history.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: Luxury lodge vibes, unbeatable convenience.

Theme: Craftsman-style lodge with wood beams, fireplaces, nature-inspired calm.

Highlights: Direct private entrance to California Adventure, Napa Rose fine dining, and Storytellers Café character buffet, Tenaya Stone Spa.

Location: Closest to the parks—literally steps away.

Best for: Families who want luxury and maximum convenience.

Pro tip: Even if you don’t stay here, make reservations for lunch or dinner, then you can pop right back into California Adventure. I recommend dinner at Napa Rose; it’s pricey but you’ve earned it. GCH Craftsman Bar, outdoor dining by the pool, is also great. Unless your kids can’t be near a pool without demanding to go in. If that’s the case, skip it.

Pixar Place Hotel: Bright, casual, Pixar-themed fun.

Theme: Colorful Pixar art and contemporary design.

Highlights: Rooftop pool with fireworks views, private guest entrance to California Adventure

Location: Just across Disneyland Drive, ~10-minute walk.

Best for: Families wanting on-property perks at a lower price point than the Grand Californian.

The Villas at Disneyland Hotel

Modern and high-end while retaining Disney magic

Theme: Design is inspired by Disney Animation Studios stories

Highlights: Shared resort amenities include multiple pools, Deluxe Studios, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom villas (up to 12 guests)

Location: The Villas are just steps away from Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and the Downtown Disney District.

Best for: Families or groups. Full kitchens and living areas are really helpful for longer stays or when meals may be simpler.

Disney’s “Good Neighbor” hotels

These are Disney-approved partner hotels within walking distance. No early entry, or in-room charging, but often cheaper while still close. Package deals with tickets can also include private round-trip transportation from the airport for an additional cost.

Top picks:

Courtyard Marriott Theme Park Entrance (my #1): Epic Surfside Waterpark and huge family rooms.

Best Western Plus Park Place Inn: Closest walk (2–3 minutes)

Howard Johnson Anaheim: Pirate-themed water playground, ~7–8 min walk.

Fairfield Marriott Anaheim Resort: Modern, clean, with fireworks views.

Park tickets 101:

• Park Per Day Ticket: Cheaper, easier to manage with kids, less rushing. Stick to one park and really enjoy it.

• Park Hopper Ticket: Lets you move between Disneyland and California Adventure after 11 am. Best if you have older kids or only a short trip. We’ve always gone this route so that when lines get absolutely maddening at the Magic Kingdom, we can head to California Adventure right when they open.

• Genie+: Add this to skip (most) long lines using Lightning Lane. This is a must, absolutely worth it for families—less time standing, more time sitting with a Dole Whip.

• Special tickets: Multi-day passes are cheaper per day. If you go 3+ days, they really start to pay off.

Disneyland Park reservations

Once you’ve purchased your park tickets, make your park reservations right away—they’re limited and subject to blockout dates, availability, and park capacity, and aren’t guaranteed until confirmed. In practice, this just means:

With a one-park-per-day ticket, you’ll choose whether you’re visiting Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park on each day of your trip.

With a Park Hopper ticket, you’ll select which park you want to start your day in (you can hop to the other later).

Basics:

To make a Disneyland park reservation, you must have a valid ticket, log in to your MyDisney account on the Disneyland Resort website or the Disneyland app, and link your tickets if purchased from a third party. You can then find “My Plans” or a “Make a Park Reservation” button to choose your dates and park from the availability calendar.

You must use the same admission that was used to make the reservation.

Guests age 3+ need both a valid ticket/Magic Key and a park reservation for the same date and park

Note: You can only make dining reservations inside the park you’re scheduled to visit based on your park reservation. However, hotel restaurants and Downtown Disney dining are open to everyone, whether or not you have a park reservation.

Disney app and Lightning Lane tips:

Download the Disneyland App before you go: This is your control center. Mobile food orders, Genie+ Lightning Lanes, maps, showtimes, wait times—it’s all here. Set up payment info in advance: Saves precious meltdown minutes at mealtime.

Pro tip: Waiting is part of the Disneyland experience, so come prepared to keep everyone entertained. A family game app like Heads Up is perfect—it gets everyone laughing together instead of everyone zoning out on their own screens. And it’s contagious, once other families see you doing this, they’ll start playing with their crew.

Genie+ strategy:

You can start booking Lightning Lanes as soon as you enter a park and your ticket is scanned.

Book your first Lightning Lane early, ideally for a ride 45–60 minutes after park opening, so you can rope drop other rides first.

You may book another Lightning Lane after you redeem your first one, OR 120 minutes after booking, whichever comes first. Important: Lightning Lane doesn’t mean “no wait”—it just makes waits much shorter. Expect 10–20 minutes on average.

Use Genie+ for the big rides first, like Space Mountain, Indiana Jones Adventure, Haunted Mansion, Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout!, and Radiator Springs Racers.

There are rides and attractions that don’t allow for Lightning Lane, including most of the popular rides in Fantasy Land, so plan accordingly

Rider Switch

If you have little kids who don’t meet height requirements, ask for Rider Switch: one adult rides while the other waits with the kids. Then you swap, and the second adult rides without waiting in the full line again.

Early access perks

Disney Resort hotels: This was mentioned in the Disney property overviews above, but it deserves more discussion. Staying at the Grand Californian, Disneyland Hotel, or Pixar Place gets you into the parks 30 minutes early. It may not seem like a lot, but it’s priceless—hit the big rides with almost no wait.

Pro tip, I would not recommend taking the monorail into the park for early entry unless you’re on the very first monorail trip. It’s slow going and if you’re aiming for Space Mountain, there’s still a lot of walking once you get to the Tomorrowland Station. It may save you some steps but will eat off a lot of your precious early entry time.

Exhausted mom’s Disneyland checklist:

Before you go:

• Buy tickets and Genie+ in advance.

• Download Disneyland App and set up payment.

• Reserve dining if you want sit-down meals (Lamplight, Carnation Café, etc.). You can make reservations 60 days in advance.

• Roughly plan out your strategy for rope drop. Where you head first and how quickly you get your first ride in will help you determine the framework for planning the rest of your day.

• Get on the same page with your partner about additional purchases in the park, including extra treats and souvenirs. You don’t want to waste precious energy arguing, so set expectations with your kids to prevent tears. Maybe.

Inside the parks:

• Mobile order food to skip lines.

• Book Lightning Lanes early (set alarms every two hrs).

• Use Rider Switch if needed.

• Stay hydrated and plan for a lot of bathroom breaks. Bathroom lines are long too, so ask your kids frequently so you don’t have emergencies while you’re waiting in line.

• Take afternoon breaks (indoor shows or hotel naps).

• Keep expectations low: Aim for 2–3 big rides/day, everything else is extra.

What to bring into the parks:

Essentials:

• Valid park tickets and photo ID—mobile or printed.

• Phone and portable charger/power bank: You’ll use the Disneyland app for Lightning Lane, mobile food orders, and wait times.

• Credit/debit card or MagicBand+: Most places are cashless.

• Park map (digital or paper): The app is great, but a paper backup can help.

Personal comfort:

• Refillable water bottle: Plastic or metal is fine if it’s empty at security; refill at water fountains/bottle stations.

• Light layers: Mornings and evenings can be cool; bring a sweatshirt or light jacket.

• Rain poncho: Weather or water rides.

• Change of clothes: If you plan on going on those water rides. Pancho’s help, but the water comes up from under your seat on Splash Mountain. Your butt will be wet.

• Hat and sunglasses: For sunny California days.

• Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll easily hit 10k+ steps.

• Travel-size sunscreen and lip balm (SPF): Non-aerosol only.

Food and snacks:

• Small snacks: Granola bars, fruit, crackers are allowed.

• Meals: You can bring in a soft sided cooler, but that’s a lot to manage. If you’re looking to cut down on costs, bring in some PBJs and apple sauce pouches.

• Baby food and formula: Always allowed.

For families:

• Stroller (if needed): Must be no larger than 31” wide x 52” long. Wagons and stroller wagons are not allowed.

• Diapers/wipes/changing pad: Baby Care Centers also available.

• Autograph book and pen: For character meet-and-greets. But keep in mind, there are also lines to meet the characters. I’d skip unless your kids are super fans. Character breakfasts are another alternative.

• Child ID wristband or tag: With parent phone number.

• I’m a photographer, and I know it’s tempting to bring the “good” camera. But think twice before lugging it around—the latest phones take fantastic photos, so you really don’t need the extra gear.

Helpful extras

• Cooling towel or small fan: Great on hot days.

• Zip-top bags: For electronics on water rides or leftover snacks.

• Small first-aid kit: Band-aids, blister pads, pain reliever.

• Hand sanitizer/wipes: Although stations are around the park.

Items not allowed: Large coolers, loose ice, alcoholic beverages, glass containers (except baby food jars), selfie sticks, drones, weapons of any kind, and folding chairs. (Full list on Disneyland’s official site.)

Insider tips for exhausted moms:

• Mobile order everything: No lines, no whining.

• Coffee fix: The Starbucks in Downtown Disney is so busy, lines rival those in the parks. Order in advance to save yourself time and maybe consider an extra shot.

• Stash snacks and refillable water bottles: You’ll save $ and sanity.

• Portable phone charger: The app plus photos will drain your battery fast.

• Stroller = survival: Even if your kids think they’re too old, you’ll thank yourself.

• Pack pjs: If you’re staying nearby, change kids before fireworks so they can go straight to bed after.

• Aim for 2–3 big rides per day: Anything else is a bonus. You’re not failing if you don’t “do it all.”

• Have a plan: Talk to your kids about what to do if you get separated. If you lose track of a child, find a cast member right away. Teach your kids to look for anyone wearing a Disney name tag—whether it’s a cashier, someone sweeping the grounds, or another staff member. Try not to panic—Disney cast members are absolute pros, and it truly becomes all hands on deck until your family is reunited. Make sure your kids have a tag with your phone numbers and take a photo of them each morning so you can show the experts exactly what they’re wearing.

Stroller, wheelchair, and ECV scooter rentals:

Location: Available outside the main entrances to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park (on the east side of the main entrance plaza, near the Harbor Blvd. security check).

Details: First-come, first-served.

Extra tips:

Third-party rentals: If you want a stroller, wheelchair, or scooter that you can keep at your hotel or use beyond the parks, Disney works with outside vendors (like ScooterBug) who can deliver directly to your hotel.

Accessibility: Many attractions have wheelchair/ECV access or transfer options—Disney provides a detailed guide at Guest Relations.

Stroller size limits: If you bring your own, it must be no larger than 31” wide and 52” long. Wagons (including stroller wagons) are not allowed.

Pro tip: Disneyland publishes a free Accessibility Guide (available at Guest Relations or online) with attraction-by-attraction details, including mobility requirements, service animal restrictions, and sensory considerations.

Exhausted parent strategy:

Pro-exhausted parent move: focus on the must-dos, let go of the stress of “doing it all.” There’s definitely pressure to hit the classics, but they’re not all worth it. Here’s a breakdown of rides at Disneyland (Magic Kingdom) and California Adventure with notes on which ones are worth it and which ones you can skip (including Matterhorn and Indiana Jones).

Bottom line: Plan the big stuff, use Genie+, rest when you can, and don’t underestimate the power of a parade break with a churro in hand.

Disneyland (Magic Kingdom):

Worth It (if your kids are the right height/age):

• Space Mountain: Classic, smooth indoor coaster, usually a must-do. It’s been updated so it may look a little different than you remember if it’s been awhile.

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: This is in our top three. It’s a fun coaster, that’s great even if your little kids are nervous about this type of ride and it’s even better at night.

• Haunted Mansion: A Disneyland classic, low-stress line most of the day.

• Pirates of the Caribbean: Long ride, AC, and fun for everyone. This is a one-time ride for us, it can be a little slow going.

• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run: An interactive ride where you pilot, gun, or serve as an engineer on a mission to smuggle goods in the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy. Super cute and fun.

• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance: A massive, multi-part experience that combines several attraction types into one. And it is an experience; all the cast members stay in character; it’s pretty amazing. That being said, the ride itself is somewhat underwhelming. Do it once early in the day.

• It’s a Small World: Classic + indoor break = win. Just do it once. Don’t worry, the song will stay with you for your entire vacation.

• Fantasyland rides (Peter Pan, Dumbo, Mr. Toad, Alice, etc.): Must for little ones, but lines get long fast. And Fantasy Land is by far the hardest land to get around because there are 4.7 million strollers.

• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (formally Splash Mountain): This ride is adorable until the big drop. The person in the front is probably going to get soaked, so consider that while figuring out where to fit this one in if you’re not bringing a change of clothes. I’d skip this one all together in the colder months. Wet and cold kids = grumpy kids. Equally uncomfortable as a grownup, but no one is going to carry you.

• Indiana Jones Adventure: This is at the bottom of the list; I don’t love it. While it’s super immersive, it’s really bumpy. Can be skippable if you don’t like rough rides.

Skippable (unless it’s special to you):

• Matterhorn Bobsleds: VERY rough, not great for backs, necks, parents, or grandparents. Responsible for more spinal injuries than thrills. Do not recommend.

• Autopia: Smelly gas fumes, long line, short payoff. But it’s still cute.

• Astro Orbiter: Like Dumbo, but slower loading and worse views.

• Teacups: Barf. This was amazing when I was six. Make your partner take the kids.

• Snow White’s Enchanted Wish: Cute, but not a must if pressed for time.

California Adventure

Worth it:

• Radiator Springs Racers: This ride is fun and adorable. Great for kids and adults of all ages. Do not skip this one!

• Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout: If you like drop rides, this is amazing. It used to be the Tower of Terror. Skip if you hate heights/drops.

• Incredicoaster: Smooth, long, fun, but for older kids only. It took our oldest four times visiting the park for them to try it, and now it’s their favorite.

• Toy Story Midway Mania: Fun family game ride, not as overstimulating as some.

• Soarin’ Around the World: Relaxing, stunning, great for all ages. And great for giving your feet a much-needed rest.

• The Little Mermaid: Short line, AC, good filler.

• Animation Academy and Turtle Talk with Crush: Indoors and surprisingly entertaining.

Skippable:

• Grizzly River Run: You will get soaked, not ideal if you’re tired or it’s cold.

• Goofy’s Sky School: Rough, and jerky, usually not worth the wait, but if there’s a short line, go for it.

• Jumpin’ Jellyfish and Golden Zephyr: Short, like comically short, tame ride you can skip unless your little ones insist or you need a filler ride.

• Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree: Fun once, but similar to a carnival ride.

• Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters: Cute, but not essential.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Anaheim page.