Visiting Disneyland® is a dream for many families with young children. Due to its popularity, securing tickets in advance is essential. Yes, you can spend just one day at Disneyland®. Here are some planning tips for your visit. Read more.
What to expect during your Disneyland® trip.
Access Disneyland®'s two parks: Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park. A One Park Per Day ticket allows entry to one park, while a Park Hopper ticket enables park-to-park fun. Expect numerous rides, attractions, and shows.
In 2025, celebrate the park's 70th anniversary with festive events like Oogie Boogie Bash, Plaza de la Familia, and the Disney Festival of Holidays. Shops offer plenty of keepsakes for the anniversary and seasonal festivities.
Let's make your Disneyland® day memorable!
Maximize your Disneyland® day with a top itinerary, from rope drop to fireworks!
Arrive early when the rope drops.
Come 30 minutes before the main gate opens for an exciting start to your day at Disneyland®, especially during busy times. You'll get in earlier and get closer to the attractions. Don't miss the recommended pumpkin cookies from Harbour Galley—order via the Disneyland® App for a smooth experience.
Experience classic theme park rides in the morning.
Start your Disney adventure at Adventureland with the Indiana Jones Adventure for a morning adrenaline boost. Then head to New Orleans Square for Pirates of the Caribbean and the seasonal Haunted Mansion Holiday. Next, visit Tiana's Bayou Adventure for jazz and humor. Don't miss Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run for a Star Wars experience and grab a caffeine fix at Docking Bay 7.
Fantasyland is perfect for kids and the young at heart. Classics like Dumbo, Snow White's Enchanted Wish, and the Mad Tea Party create a fun atmosphere. Seeing Miguel and Dante in "It's a Small World" adds a lovely touch, especially with Richard Sherman's celebratory verse at the end.
Enjoy a delightful lunch.
Disneyland® offers classic thrills, tasty food, and drinks, including Mickey-shaped waffles and giant turkey legs. Character Dining packages provide exclusive meals and character meet-and-greets, so reservations are recommended. Recharge at Troubadour Tavern with its large baked potatoes and popular Chicken Tenders with Mac & Cheese.
Maintain the energy for a magical midday.
After a hearty lunch, enjoy Disney nostalgia at the Opera House with Walt Disney – A Magical Life, featuring artifacts and an emotional conclusion. Also, ride the Disneyland® Railroad!
Enjoy a fun afternoon at Toontown and Tomorrowland.
Kids can enjoy Goofy's How-to-Play Yard and meet Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Use PhotoPass for lasting memories. For dinner, Cafe Daisy is popular, but table-service options like Blue Bayou and Carnation Café offer less crowded dining. For thrills, try Autopia, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, or Star Tours.
Exciting experiences await after sunset.
Wrap up your Disneyland® visit at Matterhorn Bobsleds. The icy caverns behind Sleeping Beauty's Castle are breathtaking. The Paint the Night Parade returns for a limited time, dazzling Main Street with floats and music.
Afterward, enjoy Halloween Screams with projections and fireworks on select nights, highlighted by Jack Skellington from The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Planning to visit Disneyland® this year? Prepare in advance to enjoy its fun and magic.
We hope this guide helps you plan your one day at Disneyland® Resort. Arrive early and secure park admission in advance for a stress-free visit. Download the official Disneyland® app to manage your reservations.
Consider purchasing Lightning Lane with Multi Pass for shorter wait times, especially in peak season. Weekdays are the best time to visit. Enjoy the magic at Disneyland® and get your discount tickets today!
