Don’t wait—this is the year for Disneyland Resort in California
Step into a world where dreams take flight and adventures come to life. This is of course none other than Disneyland Resort in California, The Happiest Place on Earth, home to iconic stories and a dazzling array of new experiences.
To truly soak in the magic of Disneyland Resort, set aside a minimum of three days. And don’t wait—this is your sign to visit in 2024. Let this guide be your compass, navigating you through some of the must-sees at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. It’s also packed with practical tips to enhance your stay and make every second count.
Buckle up for a journey beyond your imagination that is filled with joy and magic.
Disneyland Park
Begin your journey at Disneyland Park, the legendary destination that has captivated hearts since 1955. Start your day in Mickey’s Toontown, visit the home of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse where you could even snap a photo with them. Then hop aboard a zany adventure with Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, a wild attraction through a wacky cartoon world.
The adventure continues when you find yourself transported to a galaxy far, far away on the planet of Batuu in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Step on board the Millennium Falcon to join a daring smuggling mission with Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, and join the fight against the First Order in Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. You may even encounter the famous duo, The Mandalorian and Grogu.
Following that, embark on a journey to Fantasyland where timeless Disney tales come alive in enchanting experiences, from soaring through the skies on Peter Pan's Flight to exploring the renowned Sleeping Beauty Castle. Tomorrowland calls for a futuristic escape where you can enjoy the thrilling coaster through the cosmos with Space Mountain and join the cosmic battle in Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters. Meanwhile, in Adventureland, you’ll be transported to a tropical oasis for intrepid explorers who are keen to hop on the classic attraction, Jungle Cruise, or brave the perilous Indiana Jones Adventure for a thrilling experience.
Yet, the magic extends far beyond the attractions. Disneyland Park transforms as it hosts wondrous parades and unveils nighttime spectaculars at select times on select dates. These are not your average parades and nighttime spectaculars. Featuring beloved stories, a stellar cast of Disney Characters, state-of-the-art projections, pyrotechnics and fireworks (on select dates), these performances add an extra layer of enchantment and excitement to your Disneyland experience that is truly not to be missed.
Disney California Adventure Park
Disney California Adventure Park is not to be missed. Filled with incredible experiences, watch as some of your favourite stories play out before your eyes.
Unleash your inner superhero at Avengers Campus, dedicated to Earth's mightiest heroes (where you might even catch a villain or two). Swing through the city in WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure, experiencing the exploits of the iconic web-slinger, and brace yourself for Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: BREAKOUT!, a thrilling attraction that catapults you into the cosmic universe of the intergalactic misfits. Whilst you’re there, you might even stand side by side with some of your favourite heroes, from Spider-Man to Captain Marvel and Black Panther.
Pixar Pier awaits as a jubilant celebration of some of your favourite Pixar Characters and stories. Feel the rush on the Incredicoaster, an exhilarating attraction that encapsulates the spirit of The Incredibles. Fancy a dose of friendly rivalry? Toy Story Midway Mania! lets you challenge friends and family to see who reigns supreme in midway-style games that bring out some friendly competition.
For fans of the film Cars, Cars Land is a high-octane haven. Cruise through Radiator Springs in the adrenaline-pumping action of Radiator Springs Racers, where you’ll find yourself in a high-speed race against the backdrop of the Cadillac Range. And you might have the chance to meet the legendary Lightning McQueen – Kachow!
On select nights and times, you could experience World of Color. It’s a nighttime spectacular featuring a wondrous water and pyrotechnic show showcasing dazzling projections and music from some of your favourite stories.
Limited-Time Events - Pixar Fest & Season of the Force
Disneyland Resort hosts a myriad of limited-time and seasonal events that sprinkle extra magic throughout the year. To elevate the joy of your Disneyland adventure, align your stay with some of these special events.
A fan of Pixar? Join in the resort-wide celebration of friendship, infused with the delight of Pixar Fest from 26 April to 4 August 2024. At Disney California Adventure Park, be enthralled by the new parade, "Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!". Meanwhile, at Disneyland Park, the "Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular" introduces new scenes to the nighttime show, transforming the night into a breathtaking display of magic. Beyond the shows, indulge in themed menu items and purchase commemorative merchandise to treasure these memories.
The excitement continues. From 5 April to 2 June 2024, Season of the Force at Disneyland Park will propel you into intergalactic wonders. Zoom through the cosmos on Hyperspace Mountain and discover the new surprises at Star Tours: The Adventures Continue. As night falls, head to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to witness awe-inspiring fireworks illuminating the skies on select nights, providing a dazzling finale to your interstellar escapade.
Downtown Disney District
The magic continues in the heart of Downtown Disney District, a bustling hub that combines shopping, dining and entertainment. Fulfil your retail desires by exploring the district's boutiques and flagship stores. Head towards the World of Disney, a treasure trove boasting an extensive collection of Disney merchandise.
On the culinary front, the Downtown Disney District caters to a spectrum of tastes, offering everything from quick bites to gourmet dining experiences. Treat yourself to the delectable beignets from Beignets Expressed and for pizza enthusiasts, Napolini Pizzeria promises a savoury journey to Italy with its specialty pizza offerings.
Where to stay
Elevate your holiday by choosing to stay at one of the Disneyland Resort hotels, where magic begins the moment you wake up. As one of the exclusive perks, guests at these hotels with a valid ticket and Park reservation can enjoy a 30-minute early entry into a designated theme Park every day of their stay.
The Disneyland Hotel is a family favourite, marrying modern amenities with classic charm and a touch of whimsy. For those seeking the epitome of luxury, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa offers a lavish escape with wellness facilities and world-class dining. The newly opened Pixar Place Hotel, which has recently undergone a complete reimagining, will whisk you straight into some of your favourite Pixar films.
Additionally, for Disney-approved stays beyond the immediate Resort area, check out some of their Good Neighbour Hotels. Tailored to suit a variety of budgets and needs, these accommodations ensure a comfortable stay close to the Resort to ensure you’re not far from the magic of Disneyland once you leave the Parks.
Travel tips
⌛Plan your time well
Crafting a memorable three-day stay at the Disneyland Resort requires some planning. Begin by allocating your time well. Dedicate one full day to Disneyland Park and another to Disney California Adventure Park. Split your final day between the two Parks to catch missed experiences, dine at special restaurants, get in some last-minute shopping or revisit favourite attractions and shows.
For this itinerary, pick the multi-day Ticket: One Park Per Day for the initial two days and the Park Hopper for the final day. Alternatively, you could get a Park Hopper Theme Park Ticket for all three days.
📱Download the Disneyland mobile app
Upon arrival at the Resort, arm yourself with the ultimate planning tool—the official mobile app of Disneyland Resort. This indispensable resource allows you to navigate the Parks efficiently, access real-time information, and plan your visit with ease.
🕒 Start early
To maximize your time, start early and be among the first for the day to enjoy popular attractions. Once you download the app upon arrival at the Resort, you can invest in Lightning Lane entrances to breeze through select attractions with minimal wait times. Plan meals strategically and order food through the app for quick service at select locations. Don’t forget to prioritise your comfort in what you wear for the day. Stay hydrated, opt for comfy footwear, and schedule breaks for optimal relaxation.
Embrace the Disney magic this year
The moment has arrived to escape to The Happiest Place on Earth. Designed to captivate not only the wide-eyed wonder of children but also the young-at-heart, Disneyland Resort in California is for everyone looking for extra magic in their life. So don’t wait—seize the opportunity this year to experience the joy that weaves through every corner of this magical destination. To find out more, consult your preferred Travel Agent or visit Disneyland.com.au.
Disclaimer: Check for performance times. Both a Theme Park reservation and valid ticket for the same Park on the same date are required for Park entry. Entertainment and offerings are subject to availability, restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com.au for important information before visiting the Disneyland Resort.
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