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Disneyland at Night
Guide to Enjoying Disneyland at Night

By Betsy Malloy, About.com Guide

© 2006 Betsy Malloy Photography. Licensed to About.com
It's a magical place any time of day, but Disneyland at night takes on an extra dimension. Lights flicker in the trees. Things are lighted up. The shows are great and on a hot summer day, it finally starts to cool down.

Pictures of Disneyland at Night

A picture (they say) is worth a thousand words, so we have a few pictures to go with our words about Disneyland at night.

Entertainment in Disneyland at Night

  • Parade: The parade is fun in the afternoon and even more magical at night. Check the Wait Time Board near the Adventureland entrance or consult the daily schedule you picked up at the gate to find out when it happens and which direction it will be going.
  • Fantasmic: This seasonal water show only runs during the warmer seasons. On very busy nights, it runs twice.
  • Fireworks: Somewhat seasonal (weekends only during off season), the fireworks show is the highlight of many visitors' trips.

Best Rides: Disneyland at Night

Many of the rides are inside and it doesn't really matter whether you go on them in the day or after dark, but taking these Disneyland rides at night is a real treat.
  • Astro Orbitor: This ride is decked out in some of the park's prettiest lights and it's a good way to get up and see a bit more of the place lighted up.

  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Roller coasters are always more fun in the dark, don't you think?

  • Disneyland Monorail: You can see both parks lighted up if you take a round trip from the Tomorrowland station. The Monorail closes for about a half hour before and after the fireworks show.

  • Jungle Cruise: The skipper's jokes won't be any better, but darkness enhances the feeling of being in the jungle.

  • Splash Mountain: The big drop in the dark is fun, but the "splash" can leave you soggy on a chilly night.

Things to Know About Disneyland at Night

  • Fantasyland rides that are right behind the castle close early on nights when there are fireworks. This includes Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Pinocchio's Daring Journey, Peter Pan's Flight and Snow White's Scary Adventures.

  • The raft to Pirate's Lair stops running around dark, Davy Crockett's Explorer Canoes closes and the two big ships stop running.

  • Toontown closes before the rest of the park does.

  • During busy times, Main Street USA shops may stay open after the rest of the park closes. It sounds like a good time to shop, but it's very crowded and you're likely to be too tired to enjoy yourself.
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