Shelley Hasson

My Personal Travel Experience

Image of the Disneyland castle with a blue sky background and the words The Ultimate Guide to Disneyland with Kids: Tips for an Unforgettable Trip

Yes, I know it’s a complete cliché, but there really is something truly magical about stepping onto Main Street, U.S.A., with your kids for the first time. The smell of popcorn, the sight of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, and that undeniable Disney energy—it’s enough to bring a tear to any parent’s eye (and not just because you’ve been up since 5 AM with jetlag!).

Buying Tickets in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is waiting until the last minute to buy your Disneyland tickets. Not only do prices fluctuate, but Disneyland now requires a reservation to enter the park. That means even if you have a ticket, you still need to reserve your park day in advance. You can book your reservation up to 180 days in advance—so if you’re planning a special trip, get in early!

💡 Pro Tip: If you want to experience both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure in one day, consider a Park Hopper ticket. This allows you to switch parks after 11 a.m., giving you more flexibility in your itinerary.

Arriving Early & Rope Drop Magic

If you’re staying nearby, aim to get to the park at least 30 minutes before opening.

You walk through the main entrance, collect your free “My First Disneyland Visit” badge, meander through Main Street, and wait in front of the castle at a rope. Then, a magical voice comes over the loudspeaker, officially opening the park. The rope drops, and guests rush to their first ride of the day—if you’re heading to Fantasyland, Peter Pan is a solid first choice!

Our Favourite Disneyland Rides

There are so many iconic attractions, but here are some family favourites:

• Fantasyland Classics: Dumbo, Peter Pan’s Flight, It’s a Small World
• Thrill Rides: Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Indiana Jones Adventure, Incredicoaster
• Pixar Picks: Toy Story Midway Mania, Radiator Springs Racers
• New & Nostalgic: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Pirates of the Caribbean, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Lightning Lane Multi Pass

Disney has replaced Genie+ with the Lightning Lane Multi Pass. This paid upgrade lets you skip long lines for select attractions, saving you time for more magic.

💡 Tip: Some of the most popular rides, like Rise of the Resistance, require an Individual Lightning Lane purchase separate from the Multi Pass.

Taking a Midday Break

Even the most energetic kids (and parents) need a break. Consider:

• Lunch at a quieter spot like Red Rose Taverne or Plaza Inn.
• A mid-afternoon rest at the hotel (if staying nearby) or a slower attraction like the Disneyland Railroad.
• Cooling off at indoor shows like the Enchanted Tiki Room with a Dole whip.
• Using the monorail to get to Downtown Disney to rest your legs instead of walking.

The Magic of Disneyland Parades & Shows

Disneyland parades are pure magic! Watching my kids skip and dance along to the music was incredible. And it’s not just the kids—full-grown adults were crying when meeting Mickey Mouse. The atmosphere is that special.

Be sure to check showtimes for Fantasmic!, World of Color, and the iconic fireworks display over Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Hidden Mickeys & Nostalgic Touches

One of our favourite things? Finding Hidden Mickeys everywhere! My daughter spotted them in the craziest places.

Another must-do is experiencing Disneyland’s rich history. We loved seeing Walt Disney’s apartment above the firehouse on Main Street, with the lamp still lit in his honour. Did you know they had to block off the fireman’s pole? An overly excited guest once climbed up it!

Dining & Snack Tips

• Mobile Order: Use the Disneyland app to pre-order food and skip the lines.
• Must-Try Snacks: Churros, Dole Whip, Mickey-shaped pretzels
• Character Dining: A fun way to meet characters without long lines

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Disneyland Experience

• Wear well-broken-in shoes – you’ll be racking up close to 30,000 steps a day (and the kids, even more!).
• Pack bandaids for unexpected blisters.
• Bring a portable phone charger – between all the photos and app usage, your battery will drain quickly.
• Stock up on snacks to keep everyone fueled between meals.
• Refillable water bottles – hydration is key, and there are refill stations throughout the park.
• Don’t forget sunscreen – even on cloudy days, the California sun is strong.
• Use the PhotoPass photographers included for free with the Multi Lane Pass – an easy way to get family photos with everyone in the shot.

Final Thoughts: Making Disney Memories

Disneyland is truly a bucket-list experience for families. Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, there’s always something magical waiting around the corner. If you want expert guidance in planning the ultimate Disneyland holiday, I’d love to help!