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How to Get to Disneyland Resort

How to Get to Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Resort California, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airports Serving Anaheim

Choose from several major airports, considering proximity, flight options, and traffic.

Airports

  • John Wayne Airport (SNA), Santa Ana, CA: Closest, 14 miles (22 km) SE.
  • Long Beach Airport (LGB), Long Beach, CA: About 20 miles (32 km) SW, smaller size.
  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), LA, CA: 35 miles (56 km) NW, widest routes.

Airlines & Routes

All major U.S. Airlines fly to these airports. LAX has the most direct international flights. Consider services like AirHelp for flight issues.

Flight Planning

  • Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for deals.
  • Prices increase during peak seasons (summer, holidays, school breaks).
  • Book 3-6 months in advance for best prices. Flexibility with dates helps.

LAX Accessibility

LAX provides the most direct flight options from major global hubs. From LAX, various ground transportation options lead to Disneyland Resort.

Airport Facilities

All major airports offer standard facilities: dining, retail, car rental agencies, ride-sharing pick-up points, and taxi stands.

Additional Airports

Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) and Ontario International Airport (ONT) are good alternatives, often with less stress than LAX.

Airport Transfer Options

SNA & LGB Transfers

  • SNA: Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft), Taxi, Anaheim Resort Express (ARE) Shuttle. ($20-$40, 20-30 min).
  • LGB: Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft), Taxi, Private Shuttle. ($30-$50, 30-45 min).
  • SNA Shuttle: $15-$20. LGB Shuttle: $20-$30.
  • These are often more relaxed than larger airports.

LAX & Other Transfers

  • LAX: Ride-sharing, Taxi, Shared-ride Van (Karmel Shuttle), Public Transit. ($50-$100+ taxi/ride-share, 45-90 min).
  • LAX Shared-ride: $25-$35. Public transit (FlyAway + Metrolink/ART): $10-$20.
  • BUR: Ride-sharing, Taxi, Private Shuttle. ($60-$80, 45-75 min).
  • ONT: Ride-sharing, Taxi, Private Shuttle. ($50-$70, 40-60 min).

Booking & Logistics

Advance Booking

Booking flights well in advance (3-6 months) secures better prices, especially for peak periods.

LAX Transfers

For LAX transfers, booking a shared-ride van in advance can be cost-effective for larger groups or with extensive luggage.

Real-time Info

Use real-time traffic apps for Southern California freeway conditions. Factor in potential congestion.

Land Transportation

Train Services

Train travel offers a scenic way to reach Anaheim, connecting to various California cities. No international border crossings apply.

Rail Connections

  • Amtrak (Pacific Surfliner) connects Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC).
  • ARTIC is 1.5 miles from Disneyland, a convenient arrival point.
  • Metrolink commuter rail also operates from ARTIC for regional travel.

Bus Travel & Self-Driving

Long-distance buses provide an economical option.

Road Transport

  • Long-distance bus companies (Greyhound, FlixBus) service Anaheim near ARTIC.
  • Disneyland is accessible via Interstate 5; expect heavy traffic during peak hours.
  • Valid driver's license (with IDP if not English) and a major credit card needed for car rental. DiscoverCars.com is an option.

Driving Considerations

Be ready for potential traffic and parking fees. Navigation apps are helpful for real-time updates.

Parking & Traffic

  • Daily parking at Disneyland: $35 standard, $55 preferred. Hotels charge $15-$40/night.
  • Heavy traffic on freeways during peak hours.
  • Use navigation apps (Google Maps, Waze) for real-time traffic.

Road Conditions & Safety

Roads are generally well-maintained. Be vigilant for aggressive driving due to congestion.

Safe Driving

  • Maintain vigilance, especially during lane changes.
  • Avoid distracted driving.
  • Familiarize yourself with speed limits, lane markings, and freeway interchanges.

Driving Laws & Restrictions

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Texting while driving is illegal.
  • Right turns on a red light are generally permitted after a full stop, unless signs prohibit.
  • Carpooling lanes (HOV) require a minimum number of occupants (2-3) unless a transponder is used.
  • Surcharge often applies for renters under 25 for car rentals.

Sea/River Arrivals

Cruise Port Information

Sea and river arrivals are not directly applicable for reaching Disneyland Resort. However, Southern California features major cruise ports.

Cruise Gateways

  • Closest major cruise ports: Long Beach and San Pedro (Port of Los Angeles).
  • Approximately 25-30 miles from Anaheim.
  • These ports serve cruise lines to Mexico, Alaska, and other destinations.

Onward Connections

Travelers arriving by cruise arrange land transportation from the cruise terminal to Disneyland Resort. River transportation is not applicable.

Port Transfers

  • Standard U.S. Immigration procedures apply at seaports; present passport/visa/ESTA.
  • Cruise terminals offer taxi stands, ride-sharing pick-up, and pre-arranged shuttle services.
  • Pre-booking your transfer from the cruise port to your Anaheim hotel is recommended.

No River Transport

The resort's waterways are internal to the park and used for attractions, not transportation to or from the resort.

Land from Port

Travelers disembarking from cruises will need to arrange for land transportation to reach Anaheim.

Cruise Destinations

Cruise lines from Long Beach/San Pedro ports offer voyages mainly to destinations like Mexico and Alaska.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

No specific departure fees or taxes are levied for international flights from the U.S.; they are usually included in your ticket price.

Timings & Checks

  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at airport at least 2 hours before departure.
  • International Flights: Arrive at airport at least 3 hours before departure (LAX may need more).
  • Check in online if possible to save time.

Airport & Station Facilities

Airports offer a range of facilities for departing travelers, including check-in, security, dining, and retail.

Amenities & Tips

  • Confirm baggage allowances with your airline to avoid fees. Weigh luggage beforehand.
  • Factor in Southern California traffic when planning airport departure time.
  • Beyond security, airports offer duty-free (international), dining, and lounges.

Departure Logistics

Baggage Claim

Baggage claim, restrooms, and information desks are readily available at all airports.

LAX Specifics

LAX, as a major international hub, offers extensive facilities in its international terminals, including lounges.

ARTIC Facilities

Train stations like ARTIC provide ticketing kiosks, waiting areas, and basic amenities for departing passengers.

Smooth Departure

Plan your airport transfer well in advance, especially for early morning flights or during peak traffic. Pre-book a shuttle or ride-share if needed.