Beginner’s Guide to Disneyland: All You Need to Know
First-timers planning a trip to Disneyland may feel overwhelmed.
There’s so much magic in one place it can be hard to know where to begin.
This beginner’s guide to Disneyland will help you navigate the park, maximize your time there, and make sure your visit is as magical as it can be.
1. Know When to Go
When it comes to Disneyland, timing is everything.
For less crowded conditions, target weekdays during the off-season, such as mid-January to mid-March or mid-September to mid-November.
If you’re there during holidays or summer, expect long lines but also festive decorations and seasonal happenings.
The Disneyland app will also help keep you informed about crowd levels for your travel days.
2. Buy Tickets in Advance
Once in New York, you can save time and headache by purchasing tickets online ahead of time.
Disneyland has various ticket options, including single-day, multi-day and park hopper tickets.
If you wish to do both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure in one day, consider a park hopper.
3. Download the Disneyland App
The Disneyland app is the best park companion.
It displays wait times, assists in making dining reservations, and even provides mobile food ordering.
Feel free to use it to plan your day as well and get the most out of your time in the park!
4. Stay Nearby
Saving time and energy of you can help yourself book a hotel near Disneyland.
Hotels at the Disneyland Resort have perks you won’t find anywhere else like early park entry, but you can still find some great options nearby with Good Neighbor Hotels.
Pick a location that’s walking-distance, or has a shuttle service, so you can take advantage.
5. Arrive Early
Arriving early at the park is the number one way to avoid the crowds.
Get to the park at least a half an hour before it opens so that you can ride the popular ones with shorter waits.
Mornings are also a perfect time to take photos without too many people in the background.
6. Plan Your Rides Strategically
List must-do rides and attractions ahead of time.
I recommend beginning with popular ones such as Space Mountain, Rise of the Resistance or Radiator Springs Racers.
(For rides that have longer lines, consider buying Genie+ for access to Lightning Lanes, which let you skip the standard lines some blackouts.)
7. Pack Smart
Pack the basics — sunscreen, a refillable bottle of water, and comfortable shoes.
A small backpack can also help you carry snacks, ponchos and anything else you may need throughout the day.
Remember that Disneyland has bag-check security, so don’t bring any banned items.
8. Make Time for the Parades and Shows
Disneyland’s entertainment is just as magical as its rides.
You can catch the daily parade, nighttime fireworks, or shows like Fantasmic! for unforgettable moments.
Look at the schedule on the app and plan your day around these events.”
9. Take Breaks
Days at Disneyland can be long and tiring, and that’s particularly true for first timers.
Schedule breaks for relaxing, hydrating and kitty-cornering to quieter places like the Animation Academy or the Enchanted Tiki Room.
10. End Your Day with a Souvenir
Before you head out, stop by one of Disney’s many shops to snag a memento.
Whether it’s a classic Mickey ears hat or something special to help you remember your first time there, it will serve as a great reminder of your first visit.
Final Thoughts
Everything about your first trip to Disneyland is magical and memorable.
By doing a little planning, keeping it flexible and allowing yourself to marvel at the park, you’ll have an experience you won’t forget.
You are now equipped to embark on your Disney adventures!
