These Disneyland tips apply to both Southern California parks. Try our Disneyland tips and California Adventure tips for more good ideas.
No matter which park you're going to, take very good care of your tickets. Disneyland does not replace lost tickets, even if you have a copy of them. If you buy in advance, pack them in your carry-on luggage, and keep them safely tucked into a secure pocket while you're in the park.
Disneyland Tips to Avoid Crowds
Disneyland Tips to Stay Comfortable
- Dress for less stress. Wear comfortable shoes. Bring warmer clothing for evening. Even in summer, it can get chilly after dark.
- You're not a yak. Don't carry too much. You have to drag every ounce around all day. Go through your bag several times and remove all non-essentials. Put everything in your pockets if you can.
- Stow it. You'll find rental lockers both outside and inside the park gates. Stow dry clothing, jackets, snacks, and so forth here so you don't have to carry them around all day. Rentals are for the day only, so be sure to remember to pick up your belongings as you leave.
- Don't suffer Got a headache? Blister? Upset tummy? The First Aid Center can help.
Disneyland Tips to Help You Get Organized
- Don't let morning clouds alarm you. In summer, overcast mornings are probably low fog that will be gone by noon, but check the weather forecast just to be sure.
- In case it rains in Southern California. Umbrellas are hard to manage. Bring hooded rain gear and enjoy the park anyway. Lines will be shorter. However, a few rides may be closed.
- Money matters. You can get currency exchange services, credit card advances and wire transfers at the Thomas Cook office in Downtown Disney. ATMs are inside each park.
- Park smart. Bring cash for the parking lot. They don't take credit cards. WRITE DOWN your parking space number or use your cell phone or digital camera to take a picture of the place you parked. If you forget, ask Security and they'll help you find your vehicle.
- Big rigs. If you're driving an oversized vehicle, use the main entrance of Mickey and Friends parking, just off southbound Disneyland Drive at Ball Road. The height limit is 13 feet 10 inches.
- No butts. California smoking laws are strict, and smoking is even more restricted in the Disney park, even outdoors.
Disneyland Tips For Kids
- Big enough? Measure your child's height before you visit, and check the Disneyland and California Adventure ride descriptions so you'll know which rides they can go on. It could save a temper tantrum. The Cast Members know all the tricks, so don't even try to fool them and please don't ask for exceptions. The height limits are there to keep your kids safe.
- Little navigator: Disneyland is a great place for kids to learn how to navigate with a map. Let them find the way to the next attraction for you.
- Lost and found: If you and your child get separated, ask any Cast Member for help. They're very efficient at reuniting lost kids with their parents. Prepare your kids by telling them to find the nearest Cast Member (look for the badge) if they're lost.
- Take a break: During the busiest, hottest time of day, go back to your hotel for a swim or a nap, being sure to get your hand stamped on the way out and keeping your paper ticket. Return later when it's cooler and you're rested.
Disneyland Tips for Special Needs
- For Fluffy and Fido: There is a boarding kennel near the main entrance. Cost is $20(cash only) per pet per day. The kennel is for day boarding only.
- Need wheels? Wheelchairs, ECVs and strollers can be rented at the park, or bring your own.
- Habla Espanol? Parlez-vous Francais? If you do not speak English, look for cast members wearing a small flag pin with your country's flag on it. They will speak your language.
Disneyland Tips: Guest Relations Can Help
The Disney Guest Relations desk is near the entrance to each park. Consult your map or ask a Cast Member if you can't find it. Things you need it for:- If it's your birthday, you can get a special birthday pin and listen to Mickey wish you a happy day.
- Make restaurant reservations.
- Make reservations for the special Disneyland tours.
- Get park information.
- Get foreign language brochures.
- Handle any other difficulties, including requesting a refund if you are dissatisfied.
