Disneyland
United States and Canada · United States
See also
Los Angeles
United States34.05°N 118.24°W · 106 m
Pasadena
United States34.16°N 118.13°W · 263 m
Overview
The Disneyland Resort is a theme park complex in Anaheim, California, home to the original Disneyland Park which opened in 1955 and the newer Disney California Adventure. It offers classic dark rides, iconic mountains, and attractions for all ages, from the nostalgic to the thrilling.
Languages: English
Why go?
The Disneyland Resort is a theme park complex in Anaheim, California, home to the original Disneyland Park which opened in 1955 and the newer Disney California Adventure. It offers classic dark rides, iconic mountains, and attractions for all ages, from the nostalgic to the thrilling.
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Get around
Within the parks, everything is reachable by foot. The Disneyland Railroad loops around Disneyland Park with stops at Main Street, New Orleans Square, Mickey's Toontown, and Tomorrowland. The Disneyland Monorail links Tomorrowland with Downtown Disney. Trams and buses connect parking structures to the main entrance.
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Getting in
Disneyland is in Anaheim, about 35 miles south of Los Angeles. Fly into LAX or John Wayne Airport (SNA), then take a shuttle or rental car. Amtrak and Metrolink serve Anaheim station; from there, take a taxi or bus. Parking costs $30–$50 per day.
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Where to stay
Three on-site hotels: Disneyland Hotel (standard rate $330-$460), Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa ($380-$620), and Pixar Place Hotel ($260-$450). All are within walking distance of the parks.
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When to go
The parks are busiest during summer, holidays, and weekends. Spring and fall offer milder weather and smaller crowds. Fireworks are not nightly; check schedules. Avoid holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving for lower wait times.
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Food and drink
Dining options range from quick service like Bengal Barbeque and Cozy Cone Motel to table service like Blue Bayou Restaurant (entrees $25-$35) and Carthay Circle Restaurant. Many themed snacks and treats are available throughout the parks.
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Things to do
The resort includes two theme parks: Disneyland Park with lands like Main Street, Adventureland, New Orleans Square, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge; and Disney California Adventure with areas like Buena Vista Street, Pixar Pier, and Cars Land. Highlights include Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission BREAKOUT, and Radiator Springs Racers.
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Stay safe
Disneyland is one of the safest places in the US, but be aware of crowds and the risk of losing children. Write contact info on an index card for kids to show a cast member. First aid centers are scattered around the resort. In an emergency, call 911.
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Respect
Security screening is required. Do not bring weapons, toy weapons, or large amounts of outside food. Only children under 14 may wear costumes. Avoid offensive clothing or tattoos. Follow instructions from cast members for a smooth visit.
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Go next
Nearby attractions include Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, Legoland California in Carlsbad, SeaWorld San Diego, Universal Studios Hollywood, and other Southern California destinations.
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Day trips
A day trip to Knott's Berry Farm, about 4 miles west, is popular. Legoland California, SeaWorld San Diego, and Universal Studios Hollywood are farther but reachable by train or car.
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Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
- do
"it's a small world"
One of Disneyland's most beloved attractions, this is an indoor boat ride that introduces visitors to singing children from all over the globe. During the holiday season, this attraction is decorated in all its festive glory.
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- do
Alice in Wonderland
A combination indoor/outdoor dark ride that takes you through the film's storyline. This attraction is exclusive to this Disneyland.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Animation Academy
A half-hour class where a Disney artist teaches you to sketch a character. Pencil and paper provided. This makes a calm change of pace during a day at the park, and even non-artistic visitors may end up drawing something they're pleased with. Offered every half hour on the half hour for most of the day, but seating is limited and people line up beforehand, so try to arrive 20 minutes early.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Astro Orbiter
A rocket flight where guests fly around a futuristic-looking tower.
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- do
Autopia
A driving course with miniature cars that wind along a scenic motorway. While many might think this to be a children's ride, there is a height requirement, as crashing may occur.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- buy
Avenger's Reserve
Featuring iconic stories of Earth's Mightiest Heroes and other Marvel heroes, offers merchandise featuring comic book and Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) characters.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
A roller coaster built to look like a mine train which sends you hurtling through abandoned mine shafts, under a waterfall, past desert scenery, and dodging a rock landslide.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
An indoor dark ride that is a game similar to laser tag, only riders need to shoot the Z's along the way as your vehicle spins around.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi throughout the resort; cellular coverage is excellent.
Culture
No costumes for adults (except special events). Disney Bounding (subtle character-inspired outfits) is popular. Respect cast members and follow rules.
Etiquette
Security screening required. No weapons or large outside food. Costumes only for children under 14.
Health
First aid stations available. Free ice water at quick-service restaurants. Stay hydrated.
Local transport
Parking costs $30/day. Use the free tram from parking structures. Off-site hotels often have shuttles.
Money
As of May 2016, Disney no longer offers Disney Dollars. Existing Disney Dollars are still valid but worth more to collectors.
Safety
Biggest risk is losing children. Write contact details on an index card and show it to a cast member if lost.
Visa context
Visa rules depend on passport; check current entry rules before booking.