I grew up with family in southern California and have visited Disneyland many times. While I love Walt Disney World as well, here are a few of my favorite things about Walt’s original park.
Location. The Disneyland resort is only 160 acres (compared to 40 square miles at the Walt Disney World Resort). You can see the entrance of Disney California Adventure from the entrance of the Disneyland Park. Being able to walk from your hotel, to one park and to a second park and then back to your hotel means you don’t have to rent a car or spend time waiting on a bus, boat or train. You’ll have more time to experience the magic!
Cars Land. The newest addition to Disney California Adventure opened in 2012. When you enter Cars Land, you are transported into the ‘Cars’ movie. You’ll find rides such as Radiator Springs Racers and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree and great food options like Flo’s V8 Café or the Cozy Cone Motel. You’ll also get to meet Mater and Lightning McQueen after watching them drive down the street! Be sure to stick around after dark. Once the sun goes down, the neon is turned on!
it’s a small world – it’s a small world at Disneyland Park is the original. But in 2008, Disney and Pixar characters were added to the familiar ride. When you ride, keep your eyes open for Cinderella (and a couple of her mice friends), Alice and the White Rabbit, Aladdin and Jasmine, Marlin and Dory, Woody, and more! How many can you find?
Pirates of the Caribbean – Again, this attraction is the original. It inspired a hit movie franchise and then incorporated some of the movie characters and scenes back into the ride. If you’ve ridden the ride only at Walt Disney World, be sure to make time to ride it in California. The ride is a longer and has a more exciting drop. There is even a restaurant inside the attraction. For a meal that feels like you’re in the bayou watching the boats pass by, don’t miss Blue Bayou. Be sure to request a waterside table!
Holiday overlays – The Haunted Mansion, it’s a small world and other rides at Disneyland are transformed during the holiday seasons. You’ll find Sally and Jack and other Nightmare Before Christmas details taking over the Haunted Mansion during Halloween. And Christmas traditions from around the world are included in it’s a small world. Last year, even the Jungle Cruise got a holiday makeover!
Toontown – Toontown at Disneyland is home to Minnie, Mickey, Donald, Goofy, Chip and Dale and more. You can explore their homes and even meet Mickey Mouse. You’ll also find a super silly, fun ride based on ‘Who Framed Roger Rabbit’. There is a quick service dining area and a fun play area as well as a kiddie coaster.
Fantasyland – The attractions in Fantasyland take you back to your favorite fairy tales and childhood stories. My personal favorites are attractions found only at Disneyland – Pinnochio’s Daring Journey, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride and Snow White’s Scary Adventures.
Where Walt Walked – Disneyland is the original. It all started with Walt’s amazing vision. Walt walked through this park and his personal touches are still seen to this day. If you’re a Disney or a history buff, be sure to check out the Walking in Walt’s Footsteps Tour (available for an additional fee).
How would you like to visit the park where Walt started it all? Please email me at Amy@TravelWithTheMagic.com or you can find me on Facebook so I can book your family’s Disneyland vacation! You can also call me at 1-800-670-4312, ext 129. I can’t wait to plan your family’s MAGICAL vacation!
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