Top 5 things I wish I knew before visiting Disneyland Resort

As a first-time visitor to Disneyland Resort, here are my Top 5 Tips for Disneyland (or things that I wish I had known before visiting for the first time...)

1. The Lightning Lane Premier Pass (LLPP) can be used at both Disneyland (DLR) and California Adventure Park (DCA). Unlike Walt Disney World (WDW), you can use your LLPP at both parks in one day…as long as you have a park hopper ticket.

   
   

2. Both parks will close rides/sections for nightly events. During the fireworks shows, DLR will close Mickey's Toontown. DCA will close many of the Pixar Pier rides during the World of Color. So plan accordingly...

   
   

3. Rides will close temporarily during park hours. (Matterhorn Bobsleds, Goofys Flight School, etc.). Be prepared to pivot and ask for a free lighting lane pass if it happens while you are in line.

   
   

4. Downtown Disney (DTD) is inside the security bubble. This is great if you want a break from the park to shop or eat without having to exit the secure area. However, if you want to run out to grab a Starbucks or some beignets in DTD from your Disney Resort Hotel, you may need to factor in some additional time to get through security during peak hours.

   
   

5. The Matterhorn Bobsleds are a different experience on each side! (We liked the standby side better than the lighting lane side.)

Until next time...