Friends, if you asked me where the happiest place on earth is, my answer would undoubtedly be Disney. This year marks the grand 100th anniversary of Disney, so visiting this year is absolutely worth it.
Recently, many friends have been urging me to discuss Disney products. Don’t worry, good stuff is coming in waves these days, one after another.
Indeed, no one can resist Disney. It allows us to temporarily escape reality, and both kids and adults need a bit of fairy tale magic, which Disney delivers perfectly.
Initially, I wasn’t a Disney enthusiast, but after visiting Hong Kong Disneyland once, I got hooked.
The castles, Mickey and Minnie mascots, thrilling rides, and nighttime fireworks show made me feel like a princess in a fairy tale.
Currently, there are six Disney resorts worldwide: California Disneyland, Orlando Disneyland, Tokyo Disneyland, Paris Disneyland, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disneyland. How many have you checked off your list?
My goal is to visit all six Disney resorts. For the past two years, I could only travel domestically, and after visiting Shanghai and Hong Kong Disneylands, I now want to explore farther. We shouldn’t limit ourselves.
Each Disney resort around the world has various new decorations. I heard Mickey and Minnie have exclusive new outfits, and there are birthday party events. The atmosphere is sure to captivate you instantly.
This year, my top choice is California Disneyland, the world’s first Disney resort.
Being the original Disneyland, they’ve launched a special “Disney 100” celebration. This is the largest global celebration in Disney’s century-long history.
Although the official 100th anniversary of Disney’s founding is on October 16th, different celebrations have already started from January 27th, with California Disneyland’s events lasting throughout the entire year.
Let me highlight a few of the major highlights.
For example, yesterday saw the return of the “Magic Happens” parade after many years. We’ve all waited a long time for this.
The nighttime fireworks show is lighting up the sky again. They’ve also introduced a new “World of Color – One,” which tells the story of Disney’s 100-year history. This has never been done before, and I hear it uses holographic projection technology. The live effects are said to be incredibly stunning.
A new Mickey and Minnie roller coaster has also opened. It’s Disneyland’s second large-scale ride centered around Mickey, featuring the most advanced technology and dazzling visual effects. You’ll be completely immersed in the whimsical world of Mickey and Minnie’s animated adventures.
In addition, there are various Disney 100th anniversary merchandise items that are not only adorable but also hold great collectible value.
From March 3rd to April 25th this year, the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival takes place, offering a chance to explore markets, taste fine wines, and savor gourmet foods. These activities are experiences exclusive to California Disney.
Just think about it – spending a few hundred bucks to witness a once-in-a-century grand performance, isn’t that already worth it?
Moreover, as a long-time Disney fan, celebrating its birthday at the place where it all began would be the most meaningful, right? California Disneyland’s opening date even shares the same day as my birthday. I’ve been planning to spend a unique birthday at California Disneyland.
Finally, California Disneyland is located in Anaheim, very close to Los Angeles. As everyone knows, Los Angeles is one of the most charming cities in the nation and even the world.
It’s right next to San Pedro Bay and Santa Monica Bay on the eastern side of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you want to shop in bustling streets or take a family trip to idyllic seaside destinations, L.A. has it all. Strolling through Los Angeles and then checking in at the world’s first Disneyland Resort, doesn’t it instantly revive that lost travel spirit?
A month ago, Ctrip even sent an expert to do a live broadcast from California Disneyland, bringing joy to us from afar. I was so envious.
This year, Ctrip has a collaboration with California Disneyland, offering discount vouchers that you can claim before placing an order.
But remember, this is California Disneyland we’re talking about.
Even though Los Angeles Disneyland is the oldest in the Disney family, it still has a youthful spirit and remains trendy. Opened in 1955, the “Disneyland Park” in California is the world’s first theme park designed specifically for children and is often called “the happiest place on Earth.”
Forty-six years later, “Disney California Adventure Park” opened across the street, capturing the essence of California in its theme. It combines thrilling rides with Hollywood’s film culture.
The attractions at both parks keep getting updated, making them a dream destination for Disney aficionados worldwide.
Today, I want to share some major tips on California Disneyland, giving you a guide and also planning my own trip.
Let’s start with the U.S. visa.
There’s been some good news recently. Visa applications for mainland Chinese citizens can now be submitted to the consulate corresponding to their region, rather than being processed centrally by the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou.
When filling out the DS-160 application form online, you can select the appropriate consulate for your region, saving time.
Here are the steps for applying for a visa:
1. Prepare the necessary materials in advance (passport, photos, personal information form, and application forms). Fill out the form on this website:
[https://ceac.state.gov/GenNIV/Default.aspx](https://ceac.state.gov/GenNIV/Default.aspx)
2. Then log on to the website [https://www.ustraveldocs.com/cn_zh/](https://www.ustraveldocs.com/cn_zh/), register a personal account, and pay the visa fee;
3. Schedule an interview.
4. Bring the confirmation letter, passport, interview confirmation letter, and relevant personal documents (employment certificate, asset proof, etc.). Just take the forms to the embassy for the interview.
Now, let’s talk about how to buy tickets for California Disneyland.
Disneyland offers a variety of ticket options, so you can choose based on your schedule. The main options include single-day single-park tickets (one park for a day), single-day park hopper tickets (both parks in one day), two-day single-park tickets (one park per day for two days), two-day park hopper tickets (entry to the second park after 1:00 PM), multi-day tickets (3, 4, or 5 days), and annual passes (long-term VIP customers, who can enjoy discounts on hotels, dining, and souvenirs).
Even though the two parks are just a street apart, trying to cover both in one day is quite rushed. I believe the two-day single-park ticket is the most suitable; you can spend one day in each park without feeling rushed. If you have a strong preference for one park, you can even visit the same park on both days.
Tickets can be purchased on the Disneyland official website, here is the link:
https://disneyland.disney.go.com/100th-anniversary/
However, buying tickets on the official website requires an international bank card. After logging into the website, you need to register an account and follow the given requirements and steps to book your tickets. Remember to reserve the park visit date as well. Once the reservation is successful, you will receive an electronic ticket in your email.
Let me also mention Genie+ (commonly known as FASTPASS).
As everyone knows, getting a FastPass for popular Disneyland attractions is crucial as it can save a lot of time.
You can download the official Disney app: Disneyland, and check under Guest Services for related information.
Moreover, the app provides information on queue times for all attractions, park maps, daily show schedules, dining options, and other services. With it, you can navigate Disneyland efficiently.
Here are the steps listed out for you:
1. Download the official app “Disneyland app.”
2. Select the page for the park you purchased tickets for and log into your Disney account using your ticket.
3. Click on the “Get FASTPASS with Disney MaxPass” option.
4. Choose the list of companions you are traveling with and purchase MaxPasses for them if needed.
5. After payment, you can directly receive the FastPass in the app.
How to get to California Disneyland:
1) Los Angeles Airport
If your plan is to go to Disneyland first, you can take a bus directly from Los Angeles Airport. There are shuttle buses to and from Disneyland at the airport.
2) Departing from the city
You can take the metro and bus.
If you are departing from downtown, you can choose either the bus or the subway.
Starting with the subway, you can follow the signs for LAX Shuttle & Airline at various points, take the G-shuttle to Aviation Station, then transfer to Metro Rail to Norwalk Station. From there, transfer to the Metro Express Line 460 to get to the Disney Resort.
For the bus option, the first choice is to take the MTA 460 bus from Figueroa St., 6th St, 5th St, or Flower St in downtown (you can also catch it at Norwalk). The journey takes about two hours.
Another option is to use OCAT’s bus routes, with routes 50, 43, 46, 83, and 430 going to Disneyland.
3) Driving
If traveling with children makes using public transportation inconvenient, you can rent a car and drive yourself. Simply take the I-5 (Santa Ana Freeway), exit at Harbor Blvd., and follow the Disney signs.
Using Google Maps for navigation, you can search directly for “Disneyland Park” or “Disney California Adventure Park.” The official website lists Disneyland parking fees at $30 per day.
Take note of the opening hours when planning your Disney trip.
Before going to Disneyland, remember to check the opening hours for the day, as the specific times in California Disneyland adjust based on peak and off-peak seasons and holidays.
Generally speaking, Disneyland Park’s hours are 09:00-21:00 (adjusted to 8:00-24:00 during peak summer season); Adventure Park’s hours are 10:00-21:00 (adjusted to 8:00-22:00 during peak summer season).
How to enjoy California Disneyland
California Disneyland consists of two main parks: Disneyland Park and California Adventure Park.
Disneyland Park features many attractions and interactions related to Disney animated characters, while California Adventure Park, as the name suggests, has many adventure-themed rides. I recommend dedicating one day to each park to fully immerse yourself in the Disney fairy tale world without rushing.
After all that, the main point is to explain how to play. You can choose your preferred attractions in advance to save time.
First, let’s talk about California Disneyland Park.
The park is divided into eight themed areas: Main Street USA, Adventureland, New Orleans Square, Critter Country, Frontierland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Mickey’s Toontown. (You can follow this sequence for your tour.)
Each area has a distinct thematic style and different attractions. Besides downloading the official Disney app, remember to pick up a map and a show schedule at the entrance to better plan your time according to your preferences.
1) Main Street USA
Don’t miss the parade.
Main Street USA is designed to look like American landscapes from over 100 years ago. The first stop for all Disneyland parks worldwide is Main Street USA. It acts as a time tunnel, with shops and restaurants lining the road. Walking through this street, you officially enter the wonderful world of fairy tales.
Oh, by the way, remember that there is a Disney parade here every afternoon at around 4:30 PM. It’s best to arrive half an hour early to find a good spot.
Adventureland
Must-Do Attraction: Indiana Jones Adventure
When you visit Adventureland, you definitely have to check out the Indiana Jones Adventure, which is the most popular ride that opened in 1995.
Inspired by the beloved “Indiana Jones” series, it fully showcases African jungle scenery and the wild allure of a hidden paradise.
Additionally, in this area, there’s also a “Tarzan’s Treehouse” that children particularly love. The treehouse is embraced by a giant tropical jungle tree.
New Orleans Square
Food and Public Services
New Orleans Square is themed around New Orleans, Louisiana, presenting us with the rich cultural influences of the colonial era.
Here, you can enjoy afternoon tea in a romantic French-style café, take a boat ride with Pirates of the Caribbean to greet other visitors, and if you want to enjoy Fantasmic! at night, this is the best spot as well.
Critter Country
Must-Do Attraction: Splash Mountain
Pass through New Orleans Square, and you’ll arrive at Critter Country. The must-do attraction here is Splash Mountain.
As the name suggests, this is a particularly thrilling water activity. You ride in a log boat that twists and turns through indoor and outdoor waterways. The most exhilarating part is the vertical drop from a waterfall, taking the excitement to the highest level.
Moreover, you can also enjoy seeing Disney animated animal characters inside the caves, and immerse yourself in this dazzling animal kingdom with music.
Frontierland
Must-Do Attraction: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
After experiencing Splash Mountain, you can walk towards Frontierland. Entering here feels like stepping into the American West.
The most popular attraction here is the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. It’s a roller coaster resembling a mine train that weaves through red rock riverbeds and dinosaur ribs, culminating in an impressive rockslide scene. However, there’s a height requirement for this ride; children under 102 cm are not allowed to participate.
Fantasyland
Must-Do Attraction: Matterhorn Bobsleds
When it comes to iconic Disney landmarks, none stands taller than Sleeping Beauty Castle at the heart of the park. This castle is the spiritual centerpiece of every Disney park.
Just east of Frontierland, you’ll find the castle, and nearby is the classic Disney attraction “It’s a Small World.” Here, you can take pictures with Disney princesses and join the seven dwarfs for some fun interactive experiences.
Additionally, you can check out the Matterhorn Bobsleds. Here, you can ride a bobsled over the mountain peaks and then slide down the slopes; it’s particularly thrilling.
The most important event, the fireworks show, also takes place in Fantasyland. It happens every night at 9:30 PM. To avoid missing out, it’s best to secure a good spot at least half an hour before the show starts. (We recommend finding a scenic viewpoint opposite the castle.)
Tomorrowland
Must-Do Attraction: Space Mountain, Star Tours
Tomorrowland showcases the futuristic feel of the world of tomorrow. You can hop onto the high-speed roller coaster ride “Space Mountain” and zoom through the future world. This immersive 3D movie experience is truly breathtaking.
Another popular attraction is “Star Tours.” This grand production whisks you straight into a sci-fi movie, casting you as the main character in an intergalactic battle. The sound effects and visuals are top-notch.
Mickey’s Toontown (Opening on March 19)
Tour Mickey and Minnie’s House
If you’re looking to find Mickey and his best friends, head straight here. You can visit Mickey’s and Minnie’s houses and even have the chance to take photos with them.
Now, let’s talk about Disney California Adventure Park.
The California Adventure Park is a bit smaller than Disneyland, covering 55 acres. It’s easier to navigate and features more thrilling attractions, many of which are worth experiencing multiple times.
The park is divided into seven themed areas: Buena Vista Street, Grizzly Peak, Hollywood Land, A Bug’s Land, Cars Land, Pacific Wharf, and Paradise Pier. Just like Disneyland, you can follow the order I provided to explore them.
Buena Vista Street
Must-See Show: Pixar Play Parade
Buena Vista Street is the main street of the park, similar to Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland. The street is lined with shops and dining locations.
The highly anticipated Pixar Play Parade takes place here daily, usually around 6 PM. The parade features many classic Pixar characters and scenes, from Monsters, Inc. and The Incredibles to Finding Nemo, and many more.
Grizzly Peak
Must-Do Activity: Grizzly River Run
The Grizzly Peak’s Grizzly River Run is definitely an enhanced version. After one trip, you won’t find a single spot on you dry.
You’ll sit on a round raft, following the waves as you slide down from a height and plunge into the water, experiencing thrilling and smooth moments. Unexpected surprises are always awaiting behind you, which is what makes it so exciting and fun.
Grizzly Peak also features “Soarin’ Around the World,” an attraction worth trying.
Sitting on a flying chair, you will be taken to witness representative landscapes from around the globe. The visuals are quite realistic, and the unparalleled aerial view is incredibly stunning. However, both of these attractions have height requirements for children, who must not be shorter than 102 cm.
A Bug’s Land
A Bug’s Land is perfect for kids to get to know various insects, all through special visual effects. Once you put on the glasses, you’ll step into a mysterious world of bugs, with all kinds of insects appearing right before your eyes, offering a strong sense of interaction.
Cars Land
Experienced drivers shouldn’t miss Cars Land. It’s modeled after the iconic Radiator Springs from the movie “Cars,” creating a racing experience with a fun and cartoonish touch.
Notably, there’s also a 280,000 square foot mountain which is the largest man-made mountain in any American Disney theme park. You can drive at high speeds through valleys, just like crossing Route 66 in reality—it’s incredibly exhilarating.
Paradise Pier
Paradise Pier boasts the most attractions. Roller coaster enthusiasts must try the “California Screamin’.” Other highlights include the “Mickey’s Fun Wheel,” the signature attraction of Disney California Adventure Park, and the whimsical “The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure.”
Additionally, there’s a grand “World of Color” show every night, set against the backdrop of Mickey’s Fun Wheel. You can see all of Disney’s friends depicted on the water screens of the fountain—this view is unique to Disney California Adventure Park.
Showtimes are at 9:00 PM and 10:15 PM. Make sure to plan your schedule accordingly.
Must-See Shows
Besides the attractions, Disney’s theater performances are an essential part of the Disneyland experience.
Disneyland Park: Parades and Fireworks Shows
The most anticipated event at Disneyland has to be the daytime parade, which has been on hiatus for a while but has just recently returned.
You should know, every float in the parade is a Disney masterpiece, with your favorite Disney characters right before your eyes, giving you that dreamlike castle feeling. The parade happens twice daily, at 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM. To get a good spot, remember to arrive in the parade area 20 minutes early.
Disney California Adventure Park: World of Color Show
Adventure Park features two nightly performances of the World of Color water show, scheduled for 9:00 PM and 10:15 PM.
You need to secure a spot in the virtual queue via the app at 12:00 PM on the day of your visit. Once in the queue, you can enjoy a close-up view of the show. Note that the show times differ, so remember to plan ahead.
Where to Eat in Disney
Figuring out where to eat in Disney can be tricky since you’re not allowed to bring any food into the park. Here are a few tasty and reasonably priced snack options to consider. Exploring the park can be exhausting, so don’t go hungry.
Each themed area in Disney California Adventure features food trucks offering basic snacks such as hamburgers, fried chicken with fries, popcorn, and ice cream.
At 📍Mint Julep Bar in New Orleans Square, you can find Mickey-shaped pumpkin beignets, though they are typically a seasonal treat. Check them out if you’re feeling lucky.
Also located in New Orleans Square, 📍Cafe Orleans offers the Monte Cristo Sandwich—a popular Disney delight. This sandwich is filled with meat and cheese, deep-fried, sprinkled with powdered sugar, and served with blueberry jam and fresh fruit. It’s both filling and delicious.
