You can’t beat the original and that is certainly true for Disneyland Resort. Walt Disney designed the perfect playground for kids and adults alike. Magic and memories abound at the original Disney theme park. If you’ve never thought about taking a short flight to Southern California to walk in Walt’s footsteps, we have several reasons you might want to consider it.
A visit to Disneyland is like stepping back into a simpler time. Disneyland was the first-ever Disney theme park, opened by Walt Disney himself in 1955. Disneyland is infused with Walt’s personal touch and creative vision. From the meticulously designed lands to the attention to detail in every attraction, visitors feel the spirit of Walt Disney throughout the park and experience a sense of connection to the man behind the magic.
Disneyland Resort consists of two parks: Disneyland Park and California Adventure, three resorts, and Downtown Disney. Everything is in close proximity making it easy to navigate and explore in a short amount of time. You can walk from the Disneyland Resort hotels or the Good Neighbor hotels to the park entrance. California Adventure and Disneyland Park are right across the plaza from each other which makes park hopping a breeze; you can exit one park and be in the other in just a matter of moments. Just outside the gates of these parks, you’ll find Downtown Disney – a unique shopping, dining, and entertainment district. Downtown Disney connects all three on-site Disneyland Resort Hotels: Disneyland Hotel, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa and Disney’s Pixar Place Hotel — with the plaza between Disneyland and Disney California Adventure.
The Downtown Disney District captures the spirit of Southern California with its vibrant atmosphere, eclectic architecture, and lively entertainment. Whether you’re visiting during the day or in the evening, you’ll find plenty of excitement! Splitsville Luxury Lanes and Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage offering performances on select nights are two great entertainment options. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and enjoy the picturesque views of the district’s lush landscaping, water features, and iconic landmarks. Fabulous shopping abounds with Disney Home Store, The Disney Dress Shop, Lovepop, The LEGO Store, Curl Surf, Pelé Soccer and more. From gourmet cuisine to quick bites, you’ll find a wide range of dining options featuring international flavors and local favorites like CrazyShake Window by Black Tap and the all new Céntrico by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán.
Disneyland boasts some unique rides and features that are not found at other Disney parks and resorts: Incredicoaster, the WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Indiana Jones Adventure, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, Snow White’s Enchanted Wish, Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue, Nemo Submarine Voyage and more! These rides alone make it worth the trip.
Beloved attractions that can be found on both coasts may look a little different in Southern California. It’s a Small World has a lovely outdoor facade and landscaped queue at Disneyland Park. You can see the beauty of Mary Blair’s signature art style as you walk up and board this classic boat ride. The addition of Disney characters in their respective countries – like Peter Pan in England, Pinocchio in Italy, and Woody and Jessie in the US – are a fun addition for kids of all ages. It’s a Small World also receives the royal treatment at Christmastime with a fun, festive overlay that will get anyone in the holiday spirit. Haunted Mansion at Disneyland also receives a happy haunting of Christmas decor.
In addition to your usual character meet and greets, you may happen upon your favorite Disney characters just roaming through the parks at Disneyland Resort. Our Joyful Journeys Vacation Designers have had great success in meeting Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto, Chip n’ Dale and even Winnie the Pooh as they walked by us in the park on their daily strolls. Of course, you can meet Minnie and Mickey at their respective (and super cute) houses in Toontown as well. Also, unique to Disneyland Resort is Pixie Hollow where guests can meet Tinkerbell! You’ll “shrink” down to the size of a pixie and enjoy an enchanting encounter with Tink and friends.
You’ll find unique theming and lands at Disneyland Resort such as Pixar Pier, Mickey’s Toontown and everyone’s favorite – CarsLand! Here you’ll find rides like Radiator Springs Racers, Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters,and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree. You can grab lunch or dinner at Flo’s V-8 Cafe or head to the Cozy Cone Motel or Fillmore’s Taste-in for a tasty treat. Best of all in Radiator Springs, you’ll probably run into Lighting McQueen himself! He likes to hang out at the Cozy Cone Motel. Mater likes to drive in sometimes as well.
The beautiful Southern California weather is also a big plus! Temperatures are usually cooler in the summer with low humidity. You can visit Disneyland Resort in 3 days so you can stick around Southern California and enjoy Los Angeles, San Diego, Joshua Tree National Park, or swim in the Pacific Ocean.
Families with young children may find Disneyland Resort especially appealing with the beautiful weather, the laid back vibe, closer proximity to the action, and Pixar Pier. However, there’s something for all ages at the original Disney theme park. Your crew can enjoy the classics, Marvel Universe, Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge, the world of Pixar, and the magic of Disney all throughout the parks. Contact your Joyful Journeys Vacation Designer to begin planning your trip today. Make cherished memories and enjoy each magical moment at Disneyland Resort.
Chat with your Joyful Journeys Vacation Designer about Adventures by Disney if you’re looking for a guided Southern California experience that will explore and explain the storied history of Walt Disney and Disneyland Resort.
