Disneyland Resort California, USA Travel Guide
The main "outdoor adventures" at Disneyland Resort involve experiencing its various thrill rides and immersive attractions. These rides often incorporate outdoor elements, high speeds, or water features.
An indoor, dark roller coaster simulating a high-speed journey through outer space.
The world's first tubular steel roller coaster, an early example of Disney's innovation.
A runaway mine train through a desert landscape, offering a thrilling experience.
If you enjoy thrills, make it a priority to get to Space Mountain, Indiana Jones Adventure, Incredicoaster, and Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! Early in the day or using Genie+ to shorten waits.
Disneyland Resort provides various opportunities to immerse in the "culture" of Disney storytelling, animation, and diverse global celebrations.
Large-scale nighttime water, fire, and projection show on the Rivers of America. Seasonal and needs careful planning for viewing.
Spectacular nighttime show featuring water, light, fire, and projections on Paradise Bay.
Daily parades (e.g., "A Christmas Fantasy Parade") and various musical acts perform throughout the parks (e.g., Main Street Philharmonic, Dapper Dans).
Various musical acts perform throughout the parks, adding to the ambiance, including the Pixarmonic Orchestra, Mariachi Divas, and Five & Dime (1920s jazz group).
Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival (spring) offers a taste of regional culture. Halloween Time features Plaza de la Familia celebrating Día de los Muertos traditions.
Mid-November to early January transforms the resort with Christmas decorations, themed parades ("A Christmas Fantasy Parade"), and holiday entertainment ("Believe... In Holiday Magic" fireworks).
Even within the busy environment of Disneyland Resort, opportunities relaxation and rejuvenation.
All three Disneyland Resort Hotels and many "Good Neighbor Hotels" feature themed pools with lounge areas. These provide a welcome break from park activities.
Features multiple pools, including the Redwood Pool with a waterslide and a dedicated quiet pool.
Known for its lively E-Ticket Pool and Monorail Pool, both featuring water slides.
Has a themed pool deck with a "Finding Nemo" splash pad.
Many Good Neighbor Hotels offer impressive pool areas, some with water parks (e.g., Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance).
A pool break provides a fun way to relax and cool off, re-energizing you for evening park activities.
Disneyland Resort a range of entertainment options that extend into the evening, from live performances within the parks to venues in Downtown Disney and nearby areas.
Hosts live stage shows, often featuring popular Disney characters and songs.
A large indoor theater that has previously hosted Broadway-style productions. It is currently closed for retheming.
Traditional nightclubs are not available within the theme parks. Downtown Disney District has venues with a lively atmosphere, but generally restaurants and lounges.
Downtown Disney District offers several bars and lounges with diverse atmospheres, including Uva Bar & Cafe (outdoor patio), Ballast Point Brewing Co. (craft beer), and Splitsville Luxury Lanes (bowling with a full bar).
Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar () is a highly themed, interactive lounge. Hearthstone Lounge (Grand Californian Hotel) offers a more relaxed, upscale atmosphere.
Oga's Cantina (Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Disneyland Park) is an immersive, Star Wars-themed cantina. Lamplight Lounge (Pixar Pier, Disney California Adventure Park) features gastropub fare. Downtown Disney shops stay open later than parks.
Check the entertainment schedule in the Disneyland app daily. Times for parades and shows can change, and you will want to plan your viewing spots accordingly.
This section guides you through the shopping landscape and provides practical advice.
Mickey/Minnie ear headbands (a classic), spirit jerseys (popular themed shirts), pins (for pin trading with Cast Members).
Specific to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge (e.g., custom droids from Droid Depot, build-your-own lightsabers), Avengers Campus (superhero gear), and Cars Land (Route 66-themed items).
Look for items specific to Disneyland Resort or "Disneyland Park" vs. "Disney California Adventure Park" for unique mementos.
Consider purchasing a small, inexpensive souvenir early in your trip, then saving larger purchases for the end of your day or at Downtown Disney to avoid carrying them.
