Curator’s statement
Disneyland has held a special place in my heart since childhood. After working for the company for over 20 years, I've had the joy to share the parks with family and friends, creating memories more magical than I ever dreamed. My wish is for everyone to experience that same magic.
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Day 1
Can you do Disneyland and California Adventure in one day? The answer is yes. If you’re like me and my daughter, we average about 22 to 26 miles to get it all in! Planning your trip to the Happiest Place on Earth can be daunting—that’s why you need me. If this is your first trip, the ultimate plan would be three days. This way, you and your family can explore each of the parks and still have time to enjoy Downtown Disney and shop and eat Mickey treats to your heart's content.
Pro tip: The week after Thanksgiving is the best for peak holiday decorations and lighter crowds. Add the Lightning Lane to your ticket to breeze through lines and get maximum time on popular attractions.
Arrive early at your hotel (there are three Disneyland Resort Hotels for easy park access and special perks: Disney’s Grand Californian, Disneyland Hotel, and Pixar Pier), drop your bags, and head to Disneyland. This should be your first park of the day if you’re using the Park Hopper option. You can book Lightning Lanes three to seven days prior to park entry, which helps to plan out your day. You can also check the official Disneyland app for real-time waits. Bring an extra phone charger because this app eats your battery!
Never enough Disney treats
Prioritize the most popular attractions in the morning as these get busier and busier throughout the day. My top five are: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion, Indiana Jones Adventure, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Special mention to Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. You can also work in character meet and greets around the park.
Make sure you’re eating and drinking plenty of water. After a busy morning and afternoon, your family may be ready to check into the hotel and maybe take a swim before heading to California Adventure for the evening. A recharge is in order with the Incredicoaster, Soarin’ Around the World, Guardians of the Galaxy, and, my personal favorite, Toy Story Midway Mania waiting for you inside. Bring sweatshirts, jackets, and your Mickey ears because when the California sun goes down, it gets chilly.
Three generations of Disney love
The Disneyland Resort 70th Anniversary is in full swing, so plan to work in the parades and nighttime spectacular fireworks. If you like trivia and want to impress your friends, check out the Disney Gallery Exhibit.
Pro tip: Order meals, drinks, or snacks through your Disneyland app. No one wants hangry kids or kidults! You can also bring your own snacks. I always pack a few power bars and water bottles to refill throughout the day.
You can reserve a guaranteed viewing spot for World of Color at California Adventure through the virtual queue in the Disneyland app beginning at 12 pm no matter where you are.
It's a Small World dressed for the holidays
Day 2
California Adventure is waiting for you. If you have Marvel fans in your party, make sure to book Guardians of the Galaxy-Mission: BREAKOUT! as early in the day as possible. This one has a long line at all hours of the day. If it’s a hot day, head to Grizzly River Run to cool off from head to toe. You may want to bring a rain poncho for this one! Spend some time exploring Cars Land and you may even see Mater and McQueen! Radiator Springs is another attraction with a long line, so make a plan. It’s worth the wait or the extra money for the single pass.
The perfect view of DCA
Pro tip: Carthay Circle Lounge will transport your family back to the Golden Age of Hollywood and the drinks and dishes have a Mediterranean-California flare. All this and a view of Buena Vista Street (inspired by Walt’s early life).
It’s time to head back to Disneyland and do everything on your list and maybe revisit a favorite or two. Today is great day to book a visit to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for a magical makeover with your favorite fairy godmother or build your own lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop. Don’t forget about the classics like Pirates of the Caribbean and Jungle Cruise. Cap off the night with Fantasmic and the Fireworks spectacular. No one does fireworks like Disney!
Pro tip: The best spots to watch the fireworks are in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle (get there early to get a good spot) and Main Street U.S.A. between Central Plaza and Main Street Train Station.
The perfect Princess hug
Day 3
It’s time to head home but, before you do, make a reservation at Storytellers Cafe at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. This is one of the best character experiences in any location. The buffet is filled with Mickey waffles, bananas foster French toast, hand-carved meats, croissants, and custom-made omelets. Mickey and his friends make special appearances to put smiles on everyone's faces.
Pro tip: After breakfast, stroll through Downtown Disney and shop without crowds.
Magical memories
Need to know
Congratulations! You’ve just had the perfect three days at the Disneyland Resort! Time to plan your Walt Disney World trip.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our California page.
Travel Advisor
Stephanie Shapiro Goldsmith
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