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Where to stay and what to do at the Happiest Place on Earth. Along with my daughter, I have visited every Disney resort around the world, and I grew up in Orange County, so I have been to Disneyland Resort more times than I can count.
We live just a car ride away. I know it is a bucket-list destination for many families, so I created this guide to help you make the most of your visit, with tips I have picked up over many trips to the parks and the Disneyland Resort hotels.
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I (Katie Dillon) grew up in Orange County and have visited every Disney resort in the world with my daughter.
What to do
There is a lot to do beyond riding the rides. A few of our family favorites:
Where to eat
There is so much to eat at Disneyland Resort. I love the old standbys like the Dole Whip and the small plates at The Tropical Hideaway, but there are plenty of sit-down options too.
One of my favorites is Blue Bayou in Disneyland, where you dine on a terrace overlooking Pirates of the Caribbean. Carthay Circle is a surprisingly lovely fine-dining experience, the perfect way to unwind after a long day.
Disney California Adventure has great dining too, especially Pixar Pier and the Lamplight Lounge. Many sit-down spots book up weeks ahead, so reserve early, especially for character dining.
Plan ahead
For the smallest crowds, go midweek in January, February, or March. For extended hours, fireworks, parades, and shows, plan for summer or the holidays. Arrive with a loose idea of what you want to do, eat, and see, and build the day around dining reservations and shows. If you stay at a Disneyland Resort hotel, take advantage of Early Entry.
The essentials
Getting around
Most hotels near the parks are walkable. Otherwise, Uber and Lyft are your best bet now that the ART shuttles have shut down.
Best time to visit
Weekdays during the school year, avoiding major holidays, are the least crowded.
Beyond the parks
Disneyland isn't the only reason to visit. See our guide to the best things to do with kids in Anaheim beyond the parks.
Where it is
Stay nearby
Stay at one of the three on-site Disneyland Resort hotels (Disney's Grand Californian, the Disneyland Hotel, and Pixar Place) for early park entry, or save at a Good Neighbor hotel just across the street. I cover both in my guides.
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