Discover the Magic of Walt Disney’s Original Park in California
I recently spent a full week at Disneyland Resort in California, and I finally understand why it’s called “The Happiest Place on Earth.” As the original Disneyland, opened in 1955 and the only one Walt Disney personally oversaw, there's something truly nostalgic and magical about walking through its gates.
What surprised me most? Just how conveniently compact everything is. The two parks — Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure — are only a 3-minute walk apart, and everything else (hotels, shopping, dining) is within easy reach. No long commutes or shuttle rides between attractions — just pure Disney fun from morning till night.
Despite being smaller than some other Disney resorts worldwide, the combined area of the two parks is still massive — about the size of 16 Tokyo Domes. But it’s totally doable. With two full park days, I managed to cover all the major rides and shows. I’d recommend a 6-day, 4-night trip, giving you extra time to explore Los Angeles or even just relax at the hotel pool.
Oh, and if you’re planning a trip soon — don’t wait on tickets! I got mine in advance through Klook, and not only was it cheaper, I also got to skip the queue at the entrance.
Introducing the 2 Parks at Disneyland Resort in California
When Disneyland first opened its doors in 1955, it was simply called Disneyland. The name “Disneyland Resort” came later, as the area expanded into a full-fledged vacation destination.
Today, the resort is home to two unique theme parks — Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure — plus hotels, shopping, and dining all within walking distance. It’s no longer just a theme park — it’s an experience that spans multiple days.
Let’s take a closer look at both parks:
Disneyland Park — The Original Disney Magic
Opened on July 17, 1955, Disneyland Park is the original that inspired Magic Kingdom in Florida and Tokyo Disneyland. At its heart is the charming Sleeping Beauty Castle, which is noticeably smaller than Tokyo’s Cinderella Castle — a design choice meant to feel more welcoming and familiar.
This park is full of classic rides like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and It’s a Small World, plus character meet-and-greets that will bring out your inner child.
Disney California Adventure Park
Just across from Disneyland Park is Disney California Adventure, which brings the best of California's culture and Disney’s modern franchises together.
Explore Cars Land, ride the Incredicoaster at Pixar Pier, or step into the action at Avengers Campus — it’s a must-visit for fans of Pixar and Marvel films. Plus, the park features stunning shows like World of Color, making it just as magical after dark.
Downtown Disney District
Right between the two parks is Downtown Disney, a lively area full of shops, restaurants, and live entertainment — no park ticket required!
Must-See Attractions at Disneyland Park California
Did you know many of Tokyo Disneyland’s classic attractions actually originated right here in Disneyland Park California? The park features nine themed lands, each with its own atmosphere and signature rides:
- Main Street, U.S.A.
- Tomorrowland
- Fantasyland
- Mickey’s Toontown
- Frontierland
- Critter Country
- New Orleans Square
- Adventureland
- Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
With so many experiences to choose from, here are a few must-try attractions to prioritise during your visit:
🐸 Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Replacing Splash Mountain, this new water ride brings the world of The Princess and the Frog to life. Join Tiana and her friends on a Mardi Gras journey through the magical bayou, complete with catchy tunes, familiar characters, and immersive storytelling. A must-ride for fans of the film!
🌌 Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Located in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, this blockbuster attraction puts you right in the middle of a galactic battle. Board a transport with your crew, encounter Stormtroopers, Kylo Ren, and more as you fight alongside the Resistance. It’s one of the most technologically advanced rides Disney has ever built.
🚂 Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
This first-ever Mickey and Minnie ride at any Disney park is a visual treat! Using cutting-edge 2.5D technology (no glasses required), this zany train ride blends cartoon animation with real-world sets for a unique, immersive experience. Opened in 2023, it’s a must for all ages.
Must-Try Attractions at Disney California Adventure Park
Over the years, Disney California Adventure Park has gone through an exciting transformation — adding immersive new lands like Cars Land (2012), Pixar Pier (2018), and Avengers Campus (2021).
Here are three of the most popular attractions you won’t want to miss on your visit:
🎢 Incredicoaster
Get ready to feel like a superhero on the Incredicoaster, a high-speed roller coaster themed after The Incredibles 2. This ride zooms through Pixar Pier, featuring sharp turns, sudden drops, and an energetic soundtrack that plays as you race under the open California sky.
It’s a proper thrill ride — fast, fun, and surprisingly intense (even for adults!). The coaster is located in Incredibles Park, part of Pixar Pier, where you’ll also find themed zones inspired by Toy Story and Inside Out.
🏁 Radiator Springs Racers
One of the park’s top attractions, Radiator Springs Racers takes you straight into the world of Cars. Cruise through stunning desert landscapes before speeding off in a race against another car!
Along the way, you’ll meet beloved characters like Lightning McQueen, Mater, and Doc Hudson — and since the story changes each time, it’s worth riding more than once.
The entire Cars Land area is a nostalgic tribute to classic Americana, complete with neon signs, vintage diners like Flo’s V8 Café, and a Route 66 vibe that car lovers (and 80s pop culture fans) will adore.
🚀 Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout!
Located in Avengers Campus, this thrilling drop ride is packed with Marvel-style action and humor. Your mission? Help the Guardians of the Galaxy escape from the clutches of the Collector!
Expect a wild ride filled with loud music, flashing lights, and sudden drops — it’s a reimagined version of the Tower of Terror, and fans love it. The soundtrack alone is worth the ride!
🦸♂️ While you're at Avengers Campus, grab a Shawarma (yes, like in the movie!), and catch live-action training sessions with heroes like the Dora Milaje from Black Panther.
🌊 Bonus: World of Color (Night Show)
Although it’s not a ride, World of Color is a show you cannot miss. Taking place at Paradise Bay, this nighttime spectacular uses one of the largest fountain systems in the world, along with projections, music, and fire effects to bring Disney and Pixar scenes to life.
Disneyland Resort 2025 Event Calendar
Event | Dates | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
Lunar New Year | Jan 17 – Feb 16, 2025 | Mulan parade, water show, Asian cuisine, Year of the Snake merch, Mickey & Minnie in Korean outfits |
Anaheim Ducks Day | Jan 24, 2025 | NHL player appearances, fan games, cavalcade, Downtown Disney fan zone |
Celebrate Gospel | Feb 8 & 15, 2025 | Live gospel music by Southern California choirs, emotional performances in Disneyland Park |
DCA Food & Wine Festival | Feb 28 – Apr 21, 2025 | 10 food markets, exclusive dishes, live music, Goofy appearances, special ride overlays |
Season of the Force | Mar 28 – May 11, 2025 | Star Wars-themed events, "Hyperspace Mountain", night shows & fireworks |
Disney Junior Let’s Play! Party | Summer 2025 | Interactive activities, character greetings, ideal for families with toddlers |
Disneyland After Dark | Select nights (Jan – Jun 2025) | Nighttime access with themed entertainment, rare characters, exclusive snacks |
Halloween Time | Aug 22 – Oct 31, 2025 | Park-wide Halloween decorations, seasonal food, spooky ride overlays |
Plaza de la Familia | Aug 22 – Nov 2, 2025 | Coco-inspired celebration of Día de los Muertos, live music, cultural displays |
Oogie Boogie Bash | Select nights (Aug – Oct 2025) | Costume-friendly Halloween party with trick-or-treating, exclusive shows |
Holidays at Disneyland Resort | Nov 14, 2025 – Jan 7, 2026 | Christmas decor, holiday menus, festive parades & nighttime shows |
Park Maps — Plan Your Adventure Ahead of Time!
Want to know where every ride, show, and snack stand is before you even step inside the gates? You’re in luck! Disneyland Resort offers detailed maps of both parks to help you plan your day like a pro.
Check out the latest maps here:
- 📍 Disneyland Park Map (Official Site)
- 📍 Disney California Adventure Park Map (Official Site)
These interactive maps include attraction locations, dining options, restroom spots, entertainment schedules, and even where to find your favorite characters. Perfect for plotting your route and making the most of your time!
What Is Lightning Lane? Your Shortcut to Skip the Lines
If you're planning a Disneyland trip and want to spend less time in queues, Lightning Lane is the key. It's the paid, upgraded replacement for the old FastPass system, offering faster access to select rides.
Everything is managed through the Disneyland app — including bookings, return windows, and scanning into Lightning Lane entrances. Once you use one, you can make your next selection or wait two hours, whichever comes first.
👉 Check out our full Lightning Lane Guide for a detailed breakdown on how to use it, tips to maximise your time, and a full list of rides included across both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
How to Get to Disneyland Resort in California
Disneyland Resort is located in Anaheim, California, about 50 minutes by car from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Whether you're coming straight from the airport or another part of LA, there are several convenient ways to reach the parks:
🚌 Shuttle Bus or Limousine Bus | These are direct, comfortable options from LAX to Disneyland. The travel time is around 50–60 minutes, and prices are similar to taxis. |
🚕 Ride-Sharing Services (Uber / Lyft) | Popular and easy to use in California. Be sure to download the Uber or Lyft app in advance so you can book your ride as soon as you land. |
🚗 Driving or Car Rental | Planning to explore more of California? Renting a car might be convenient — just keep in mind that parking at Disneyland costs extra. |
🏨 Where to Stay — Official Hotels at Disneyland Resort
Staying at one of Disneyland Resort’s official hotels means you're just steps away from the parks — perfect for families, Disney fans, or anyone who wants to maximise their time in the magic. Each hotel offers unique theming, early park entry, and that signature Disney service.
Staying at the Disneyland Resort: The 3 Official Hotels
If you want to stay close to the magic, the Disneyland Resort has three official hotels, each with its own theme, perks, and price point. All three offer early park entry and the immersive Disney touch you won’t find elsewhere, but only one provides direct access into a park.
1) Disneyland Hotel
The OG Disneyland Hotel blends mid-century charm with modern luxury.It’s home to themed suites (like the Mickey Mouse Penthouse), the fun Monorail Waterslides, and fan-favorite dining at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar and Goofy’s Kitchen for character meals.
A unique feature here is the room fireworks switch — flip it on, and your headboard lights up with a fiber-optic fireworks display, complete with music!
2) Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Inspired by California’s grand national park lodges, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is the most luxurious hotel option. It’s the only hotel with direct access into Disney California Adventure Park, making it incredibly convenient.
Guests also love the relaxing Mandara Spa, award-winning dining at Napa Rose, and character dining at Storytellers Cafe. We stayed here for the week — and having direct access meant we could head back to our room for quick breaks and to drop off shopping.
3) Pixar Place Hotel
Formerly Paradise Pier, the Pixar Place Hotel has been fully reimagined with colorful Pixar theming. From Finding Nemo murals at the rooftop pool to playful touches from Inside Out, Toy Story, and more, the hotel is full of fun details.
More Disneyland Inspiration
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
