Disneyland USA

Disneyland, located in Anaheim, California, is the original theme park created by Walt Disney and has been a beloved destination for millions of visitors since its opening in 1955. With its rich history, meticulously crafted themed lands, and iconic attractions, Disneyland offers a magical experience that is unmatched anywhere else in the world.

Main Street, U.S.A.

Main Street, U.S.A., is the first area you encounter when entering Disneyland. This charming, turn-of-the-century American street sets the tone for your entire visit. Lined with quaint shops, restaurants, and nostalgic attractions, Main Street is a perfect introduction to the park. Be sure to explore the many unique stores, such as the Emporium and the Candy Palace, and don’t miss the chance to take a ride on the Main Street Vehicles for a leisurely tour down the avenue.

Adventureland

Adventureland transports guests into a world of excitement and exploration, inspired by exotic locales and thrilling adventures. This area is home to some of Disneyland’s most beloved attractions, including Indiana Jones Adventure, where you embark on a daring journey through a temple filled with ancient dangers, and Jungle Cruise, a classic boat ride that takes you on a humorous tour through the world’s most famous rivers. The lush vegetation and immersive theming make Adventureland a must-visit for those seeking adventure.

New Orleans Square

New Orleans Square is a beautifully themed area that captures the spirit of the French Quarter in New Orleans. It is known for its rich atmosphere, delicious food, and two of Disneyland’s most iconic attractions. Pirates of the Caribbean takes you on a swashbuckling voyage through pirate-infested waters, featuring stunningly realistic animatronics and a memorable soundtrack. The Haunted Mansion offers a spooky yet fun experience as you tour a haunted estate filled with “999 happy haunts.” The attention to detail in New Orleans Square makes it a favorite among many guests.

Frontierland

Frontierland is a tribute to the pioneering spirit of the American West. This land features rugged landscapes, frontier-style buildings, and thrilling attractions. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is a wild mine train roller coaster that races through a rocky desert, complete with dramatic twists and turns. Mark Twain Riverboat provides a more relaxed experience, offering scenic views of Frontierland as you cruise down the Rivers of America. The combination of excitement and tranquility makes Frontierland a well-rounded destination within the park.

Critter Country

Critter Country is a family-friendly area nestled among the trees and waterways of Disneyland. It is home to attractions that appeal to guests of all ages. Splash Mountain is a log-flume ride that features a delightful mix of music, animatronics, and a thrilling drop into the Briar Patch. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh is a gentle dark ride that takes you through the whimsical world of Pooh and his friends, making it a hit with younger visitors. The natural beauty and charming characters of Critter Country make it a pleasant retreat within the park.

Fantasyland

Fantasyland is the heart of Disneyland, where classic Disney stories come to life. This enchanting land is filled with attractions that evoke the wonder and magic of childhood. Peter Pan’s Flight is a timeless favorite, taking guests on a journey above London and into Neverland. It’s a Small World is a joyful boat ride that celebrates the unity of the world’s children with its catchy song and vibrant scenes. King Arthur Carrousel adds to the fairytale ambiance, offering a traditional carousel experience in the shadow of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Fantasyland’s blend of nostalgia and fantasy makes it a must-see for all visitors.

Mickey’s Toontown

Mickey’s Toontown is a whimsical, cartoon-inspired land that has recently undergone significant updates, making it even more appealing to younger guests. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway is a standout attraction, featuring Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy in a modern animation style that has quickly become a fan favorite. The ride includes a unique queue line and an extra scene compared to its counterpart in Walt Disney World. Toontown also features Goofy’s Play Yard, an interactive musical garden, and Donald’s Duck Pond, a water play area perfect for cooling down in the summer. Chippendale’s Gadget Coaster is a junior roller coaster themed to the Rescue Rangers, providing a fun, albeit brief, ride for young adventurers. Toontown’s lively atmosphere and engaging attractions make it a hit with families.

Tomorrowland

Tomorrowland is where the future comes to life, offering a glimpse into the possibilities of tomorrow. Space Mountain is the centerpiece of this land, an indoor roller coaster that takes riders on a thrilling journey through the darkness of space. The ride’s unexpected twists and turns, combined with its exhilarating speed, make it a must-ride for thrill-seekers. Star Tours is a 3D motion simulator ride that takes you on an intergalactic adventure through the Star Wars universe, with a variety of scenes that ensure each ride is unique. Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters lets guests compete in a high-scoring game as they help Buzz defeat the evil Emperor Zurg. Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage and the Disneyland Monorail round out Tomorrowland’s offerings, providing a mix of nostalgia and forward-thinking fun.

Parades and Nighttime Shows

Disneyland is known for its spectacular parades and nighttime shows, which bring the magic of Disney to life in vibrant, unforgettable ways. Magic Happens is a daytime parade that features floats and characters from beloved Disney films such as Moana, Coco, and Frozen 2. The parade is a visual feast, filled with intricate set pieces and vibrant costumes, and typically runs twice a day.

The nighttime spectacular Wondrous Journeys celebrates 100 years of Walt Disney Animation Studios with a stunning montage of every film released by the studio, from Steamboat Willie to the latest releases. The show features state-of-the-art projections, an incredible soundtrack, and, on select nights, breathtaking fireworks.

Finally, Fantasmic! is a classic nighttime show that combines live performers, beloved Disney characters, special effects, and pyrotechnics in a fantastical display of storytelling. It’s the perfect way to end a day at Disneyland, with performances that are sure to captivate audiences of all ages.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

1. Choose the Right Time to Visit

Disneyland can be crowded, especially during holidays, school vacations, and weekends. To enjoy shorter wait times and a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the off-season, such as mid-week in January, February, or September. Additionally, checking Disneyland’s crowd calendars online can help you select the best days to visit.

2. Purchase Tickets in Advance

Buying your tickets online before you arrive not only saves you time at the entrance but also allows you to secure your preferred dates, as Disneyland can reach capacity on busy days. Consider purchasing multi-day passes if you plan to explore both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, as these offer better value than single-day tickets.

3. Utilize Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane

Disney Genie+ is a paid service that allows you to skip the regular standby line and use the Lightning Lane for select attractions. It’s a great way to maximize your time, especially for popular rides like Space Mountain and Indiana Jones Adventure. Be sure to book your Lightning Lane reservations as early in the day as possible, as they can fill up quickly.

4. Stay at a Disneyland Resort Hotel

Staying at one of Disneyland’s three on-site hotels—Disneyland Hotel, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, or Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel—comes with several perks. These include early entry to the parks, proximity to the attractions, and exclusive access to certain amenities. If staying on-site isn’t an option, consider nearby partner hotels that offer shuttle services to the park.

5. Plan Your Meals

Dining at Disneyland is part of the experience, but it can also be time-consuming. Make dining reservations up to 60 days in advance for popular restaurants like Blue Bayou or Café Orleans to avoid long waits. If you’re on the go, mobile ordering through the Disneyland app is a convenient way to pick up quick-service meals without waiting in line.

6. Download the Disneyland App

The Disneyland app is an essential tool for navigating the park. It provides real-time information on wait times, show schedules, dining options, and even restroom locations. The app also allows you to make dining reservations, order food, and access Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane services.

7. Dress Comfortably and Be Prepared

Disneyland involves a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing weather. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles. Bringing a portable phone charger is also a good idea, as you’ll likely be using your phone throughout the day for photos, the Disneyland app, and mobile ordering.

8. Take Advantage of Rider Switch

If you’re visiting with young children who aren’t tall enough for certain rides, the Rider Switch program is a lifesaver. It allows one adult to wait with the child while the other rides, and then they can switch without waiting in line again. This way, both adults can enjoy the attraction without the hassle.

9. Plan for Breaks

A day at Disneyland can be exhausting, so plan for breaks to rest and recharge. Consider taking a midday break back at your hotel, especially if you’re staying on-site, or find a quiet spot in the park to relax. This is especially helpful if you plan to stay for nighttime shows and parades.

10. Make Time for Parades and Nighttime Shows

Parades and nighttime shows are a highlight of any Disneyland visit, but they can be crowded. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially for popular shows like Fantasmic! and the fireworks display. Some dining packages offer reserved seating for these shows, which can be a great way to enjoy a meal and a prime viewing location.