Disneyland 101: A guide for Disneyland First-Timers
- Jennifer Perry
- Aug 6
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 4
Dreaming of churros, castle views, and that one-of-a-kind Disney magic?
Welcome to Disneyland Resort—the original Disney park where the magic all began in 1955! Located in Anaheim, California, this West Coast gem is the perfect destination for families looking for a mix of nostalgia, adventure, and imagination. Whether it’s your first visit or your first time planning with kids, here's your beginner-friendly guide to Disneyland basics.
Two Parks, One Magical Vacation
Disneyland Resort is made up of two theme parks located just steps apart—yes, you can easily walk from one to the other!
Disneyland Park: This is the one Walt built himself—the park that started it all. Here you'll find the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, classic attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, and “it’s a small world”, plus lands like Fantasyland, Adventureland, and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
Disney California Adventure Park: Right across the way, DCA brings a more modern, California-inspired vibe with lands like Pixar Pier, Avengers Campus, and Cars Land. This park is home to thrill rides like Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and Incredicoaster, as well as fun character moments and incredible entertainment. [This is my personal favorite park of both Disneyland and Walt Disney World]
Where to Stay
While Disneyland is more compact than Walt Disney World, location still matters. You have two main options:
Disney Resort Hotels: There are three on-property hotels
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa (luxury and closest to the parks),
Disneyland Hotel (classic charm and themed towers), and
Pixar Place Hotel (playful Pixar theming).
Staying on-site means early entry to the parks, immersive theming, and a touch of extra pixie dust.
Good Neighbor Hotels: These are Disney-approved off-site hotels within walking distance (some literally across the street). Many offer family suites, free breakfast, and budget-friendly options while still keeping you close to the action.
Vacation Specialist Tip: Make sure your hotel/resort is within walking distance or check if your hotel partners with ART (Anaheim Resort Transportation) for an easy and affordable shuttle option—especially helpful if you don’t want to walk back after fireworks with tired kiddos.
Tickets, Park Hoppers, and Lightning Lanes
Disneyland tickets work a little differently than you might expect if you’re used to Walt Disney World.
Theme Park Reservations are required in addition to your ticket, so make sure you select your park days in advance.
Park Hoppers let you bounce between both parks starting at 11 AM.
Lightning Lane Multipass is Disneyland’s skip-the-line system and highly recommended, especially for popular attractions. You can add it when we book your package or on the day of your visit. It includes Lightning Lane access and free digital PhotoPass downloads.
Vacation Specialist Tip: Some attractions—like Indiana Jones Adventure and Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout — will sell out of lightning lane availability quickly. If those are must-dos, prioritize them early or book them through your Multipass as soon as your day starts.
Dining at Disneyland
Dining is more laid-back at Disneyland, but there are still some reservations you’ll want to snag 60 days out—especially for character meals like:
The Plaza Inn - Minnie & Friends – Breakfast in the Park at Disneyland Park
Goofy’s Kitchen at Disneyland Hotel
Storytellers Café at Grand Californian
Lamp Light Lounge in DCA
DISNEYLAND HOT TAKE: Quick Service Dining is way better than table servicing dining at Disneyland.
Mobile order is your best friend for quick service, and trust me—don’t skip the snacks. Dole Whip, churros, Mickey beignets, and loaded corn dogs are practically required eats! Some fan favorites:
Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe
Cozy Cone Motel
Cafe Daisy
Vacation Specialist Tip: You can mobile order treats like beignets from Mint Julep Bar or a Dole Whip from The Tropical Hideaway and pick them up at your convenience—no standing in long lines with hangry kids.
Disneyland for Families
Disneyland is incredibly family-friendly, and many of the attractions are geared toward all ages. Even toddlers can ride several rides without height requirements, and the compact layout makes it easier with little legs or strollers.
Characters roam the parks more casually than at WDW, which makes for magical surprises like bumping into Peter Pan or seeing Goofy dancing along Main Street. It feels personal, spontaneous, and unforgettable. [I personally LOVE this. You may get to see Alice and the Mad Hatter riding the teacups or even be pulled into a spontaneous dance party with the characters!]
Vacation Specialist Tip: Disneyland’s Baby Care Centers (located in both parks) are hidden gems with quiet changing areas, private nursing rooms, toddler toilets, and even baby essentials for sale if you forget something.
Best Times to Visit
Southern California has mild weather year-round, but here are a few things to consider:
Spring and Fall: Great weather and lighter crowds (outside of school breaks).
Summer: Longer hours and full entertainment, but also warmer temps and higher crowd levels.
Holiday Season: Late November through early January brings festive overlays, parades, and decorations that are pure Disney magic.
Vacation Specialist Tip: If you visit during Halloween Time (mid-Sept to Oct), both parks transform with spooky décor, seasonal snacks, and special events like Oogie Boogie Bash at California Adventure—a separately ticketed event with trick-or-treating and rare characters.
And….right now Disneyland is celebrating its 70th anniversary, bringing exclusive merch, decor, and food offerings!
Let’s Plan Your Disneyland Adventure!
Planning a Disneyland trip can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we come in! We help families figure out when to go, where to stay, what to book—and how to make sure your visit is as magical (and stress-free) as possible.
✨ Let’s make your Disneyland dreams come true! Reach out today for a personalized quote and help from your favorite Allonsy Travel agent. We'll handle the planning—so you can focus on the fun.
Hi, I’m Jennifer! I’ve been a travel agent since 2022, specializing in unforgettable family vacations. As a mom, I know how important it is to plan a trip that keeps everyone happy. Whether it’s the magic of Disney, the thrills of Universal, or the relaxation of a cruise, I’m here to help you check off your must-dos and make lasting memories. Because, as Genie says, 'You've never had a friend like me' - and I'm here to make your travel dreams come true!
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