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Staying on Disney's property offers tons of perks! Every hotel is just a short walk away, so you're always right in the middle of the fun. Plus, as a guest, you get early access to both parks on certain days! And if you're planning to attend special events or festivals, be sure to grab your tickets early, as they can sell out fast.
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Where to stay in California
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Day 1: Arrival and Splitzville in California
Check into your Disneyland Resort hotel and don't forget to mention any special occasions you're celebrating! You might just get some free personalized pins. Once you've dropped off your bags, head over to Downtown Disney. This lively district is full of shops, restaurants and entertainment. Check the event calendar for live music and be sure to stop by Splitzville, a hidden gem for great food and bowling. After dinner, stroll through the shops or grab a drink at one of the many bars. If you're staying at the new Pixar Place Hotel, keep an eye out for fireworks viewing on select nights and unique character meet-and-greets, like Bing Bong!
Day 2: Parks day in California
Choose one of the two parks to visit today, either Disneyland or California Adventure. When planning your day, consider which park offers Extra Magic Hours and prioritize that one. Also, be mindful of special events during the holidays, as they might affect park hours and closures.
Tip 1: One Park a Day
During non-peak seasons, you can comfortably explore one park per day. Take advantage of early entry to tackle popular rides like Rise of the Resistance or Radiator Springs Racers with shorter wait times.
Tip 2: Utilize Lightning Lane
To maximize your ride time, invest in the Lightning Lane Multi-Pass. Book your first pass as soon as you enter the park, and keep an eye on availability throughout the day. Strategically choose rides that are nearby and have the earliest available time slots. Remember, refreshing the app frequently can lead to unexpected opportunities.
A Note on Premium Rides
Some rides, like Radiator Springs Racers, are not included in the Multi-Pass. If you're a big fan of these attractions, consider paying for a single Lightning Lane pass.
Day 3: Disney farewell and tips in California
Today's the day to explore the park you skipped yesterday! Remember to book virtual queues early, especially for popular attractions like Haunted Mansion Holiday. For Halloween 2024, this ride was virtual queue only, so don't miss the 7 AM opening window. While joining a virtual queue doesn't guarantee entry, it significantly increases your chances.
Planning ahead is key, especially when it comes to dining. With 60-day advance reservations, you can secure a table at popular spots like Trader Sam's or Olga's Cantina. Trader Sam's is renowned for its unique drinks, great service, and tasty food. Olga's Cantina offers a fun atmosphere and delicious drinks like the Yub Nub.
While reservations are helpful, consider the flexibility of virtual queues for Olga's. In my experience, walking up and joining the virtual queue can be more efficient. You might even get a prime spot at the bar, offering a better view of the cantina's lively ambiance.
Need to know
Remember, there's no strict order to follow for these three days. If you need a break between park days, consider exploring Downtown Disney or relaxing by the pool. The Grand Californian Hotel & Spa even offers luxurious spa treatments for the ultimate relaxation.
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider booking a photo shoot with a professional photographer. I have a great one I can recommend. Even a short session can yield stunning photos that will forever remind you of your magical time at Disneyland.
As the sun sets, a hidden surprise awaits in Radiator Springs. Near Flo's, the neon lights turn on and music starts playing, creating a magical ambiance. It's a delightful experience, particularly for Cars enthusiasts. Plan to be there a little before sunset that day. It usually happens a few minutes after and gets crowded.
With these tips and a bit of planning, you're all set to create lasting memories at the happiest place on Earth!
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Alyssa Paprocky
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to California. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Ashley Freer's guide, California Disneyland Resort Itinerary for Families with Little Kids That Don’t Like Rides.