Disneyland is one of my favourite places to travel and for good reason, it is known as the happiest place on Earth after all. Disneyland is an entirely different experience as an adult. So if you’re like me and you feel like you’re a big kid, continue reading for my tips on how to spend 4 days in Disneyland.
When in the Year to Go and What Time of Day
I’ve made the mistake of going to Disneyland during peak season before—it was still a great time, however, very busy. Try to pick off-season if you can. Because my sister’s birthday is in November, we wanted to go during that month but before Thanksgiving and after Halloween. We decided to fly out on a Sunday morning and start our Disney adventures that week. We made sure to go as early as we could to the park so we could enjoy our day without feeling stressed. Because we stayed in Anaheim and got a nearby hotel, it was so easy to get to the parks, just a quick walk and we were there. So convenient. Since we wanted to go to the parks for multiple days, staying in Anaheim rather than LA was the best option. Pro tip? We got a flight + hotel package which was quite affordable.
Fast Pass and Max Pass
We did Disneyland’s Fast Pass for the first few days and managed to go on quite a few rides with bearable wait times. This was for both Disneyland and California Adventure Parks. However, the last day we wanted to try out Max Pass to see what it was all about. It’s $15 per person, per day, so affordable. The Max Pass essentially lets you reserve a ride (certain rides available) from an app on your phone. It’s super convenient and user-friendly.
I would definitely recommend going this route because you don’t have to wait in line and can go on your favourite rides more than once. Not only that, but it gives you access to those super cringy onboard ride photos. All you need is the 8-character code on top of the image (pro tip: take a picture with your phone at the ride’s exit to capture the code). Though they may not be Insta worthy shots (mine definitely weren’t. They will make for some hilarrious memories down the road).
Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park
Disneyland
Because Disney California is made up of two parks, in my opinion, you definitely want to do both. Disneyland is all about the classics from your childhood, think Mickey Mouse, Disney Princesses and so much more. Even if you’re not a kid anymore (in my experience, especially) you’ll have the best time at Disneyland. The rides are just as special as you remember (or if you’re a first-timer, expect them to be) and there really is magic in the air. Everyone is so happy, the energy is contagious and the food scents wafting throughout the park is another bonus.
I always love seeing which character I can spot in the park, it’s such a fun experience. The shopping is also amazing—I picked up the most beautiful rose gold Minnie ears which I will cherish forever. Even if you’re not buying, it’s fun just to browse to check out all of the goodies.
Disney California Adventure Park
Across from Disneyland is Disney California Adventure Park. This is another must-do when visiting because it houses more thrilling rides and it offers a bit more of a grown-up vibe. The latest attraction, Guardians of the Galaxy is a must-do ride. It’s so much fun and you can tell that they put tons of effort into it. My sister and I went on it quite a few times. This one definitely has a longer lineup throughout the day, so plan accordingly. My sister and I hit this ride up first because we knew the line was only going to be longer as the day went on. If you’re into roller coasters, definitely hit up the incredicoaster—it’s so much fun and totally worth going on multiple times.
Meal Time
I’m a breakfast eater and my sister isn’t, so to save time, I ate breakfast in the hotel while I was getting ready/going through emails. It was a great choice because we were so excited to go on rides right as we walked in the park that food wasn’t a priority right away. However, there are tons of options in the parks so do whatever works for you.
I have a huge appetite and always carry food with me. Thankfully, Disney didn’t have any problems with me bringing my granola bars in my purse. This saved me quite a few times when we were mid-lineup and I felt hungry. Plus, Disney has garbages everywhere (multiple in line) so you don’t have to worry about carrying garbage in your bag.
My sister and I don’t eat dairy and thankfully, Disneyland has quite a few options for those with dietary restrictions. We may or may not have gotten dole whip a few times a day, it’s so good (vegan) and not that many calories.
Of course, there are tons of options for dinner at Disney, Pirates of the Caribbean restaurant is always a highlight. Next time I’m definitely going to eat at Star Wars Land—again, the detail is incredible there. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, bring a reusable water bottle with you as Disney has multiple water filling stations (including a very on-brand one at Star Wars Land—so neat.)
One of the highlights of this trip to Disneyland was that it was decorated for the holidays. The Sleeping Beauty castle was all done up and looked even more beautiful than it usually does.
Have you been to Disneyland? What’s your favourite thing about it?
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