Q&A Wednesday - Disneyland Tips

Jackie from New Zealand asked, "We are heading to Disneyland later in the year, will need to get around by taxi or bus. What do you think are good places to take 8 year old boy, 11 year old girl, Mum, Dad and Nan? We have Disneyland pass, Universal Studios tour, Medieval dinner and thats all so far. Thanks."

I'm no expert, Jackie, but I did just go to Disneyland last year. It was my first visit as an adult and I hope to return with our family when each child turns five.


I know you didn't ask for frugal tips, but since you're traveling half way across the world for this trip, I'd venture to guess that you'd like to save where you can.

The first thing I would suggest, before you enter Disneyland, is to stock up on some Disney souveniers outside the park. I'm not sure what you have available in New Zealand, but if you even wait until you get to the states, then hit a store like Target or Walmart to find Disney-themed shirts, bags, etc. If you buy them on site, you'll pay a fortune and if you buy a few things ahead of time, you'll be less tempted to go crazy when you arrive at Disneyland. Because seriously...their stuff is really, really, really tempting.

I'd also suggest going to the grocery store and buying bottles of water and snacks (granola bars, dried fruit, stuff that you can carry in your purse) while at the parks. The food inside is pricey and Disney doesn't mind if you bring your own.

As far as places to go, I'm a big fan of the character dining. I'm not sure if your kids are too old to think that's fun, but I did a character breakfast in college and still loved it. The characters come around to your table and give you one-on-one picture taking opportunities. We did Goofy's Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel on a day that we weren't planning on going to Disneyland, but I later learned that for the places that are inside of the parks (Ariel's Grotto in California Adventure and Breakfast with Minnie and Friends in Disneyland) you can enter the park early and avoid the crowds to get in. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time (like now) because time slots fill up quickly.


Someplace that we also really enjoyed was Downtown Disney. It's across from Disneyland and is a great place to spend some time either during the day or at night. It's mostly a shopping area; no admission required. They have live entertainment outside and tons of Disney stores to walk through. The Rainforest Cafe is a fun, family place to eat and is at the entrance of Downtown Disney - your kids will love the atmosphere and the food is really good.

My last tip is the Fast Pass system for rides at Disneyland. Once in the park, ask about an employee about it. You can grab a ticket at certain rides and avoid waiting in lines later in the day. You can do twice as much in the same amount of time by avoiding the long lines.

Be sure to also check out my interview with the Good Deal Gal about how to do Disneyland on a budget. There are other tips on that post from both of us about ways to enjoy your Disney experience.

Anyone else have any tips for Jackie? Please leave a comment if you do!