Planning Your First Disneyland Trip: The Tips We Wish We Knew
Practical, free tips for a first visit to Disneyland Resort from a family that goes all the time: when to arrive, how to use the app, where to watch the shows, eating smart and saving your energy.
Disneyland is the park we visit most, and after many visits these are the habits that make the biggest difference for a first-timer. None of them cost extra. Some we learned the hard way.
Before you go
Download the Disneyland app and link your tickets. Wait times, mobile food orders, show times and maps all live there, and it’s how you’ll buy Lightning Lane if you decide you want it. Set it up at home on Wi-Fi, not in the line at the gate.
Check the park calendar before you pick dates. Seasonal events like Halloween Time, the holidays and Lunar New Year change the shows, decorations and food. They’re our favorite times to go, but they’re also busier.
Pick one or two must-dos per park. Write down the rides and shows you’d be sad to miss, and plan around those. You’ll see more if you aren’t racing a checklist.
Break in your shoes. You’ll easily walk many miles a day. New shoes on park day are a mistake you only make once.
On the day
Arrive before the gates open. The first hour is the calmest of the day, and the most popular rides usually have their shortest waits right after opening. This is called “rope drop,” and it’s the single best free tip there is.
Ride the big ones early or late. Mid-afternoon is the busiest time. Use it for shows, indoor attractions, snacks and a rest.
Mobile order meals before you’re hungry. Pick a pickup window an hour ahead. It saves a lot of time standing in line at the busiest lunch and dinner hours.
Take a midday break with little ones. A nap at the hotel means a happier evening for the fireworks.
Shows, parades and fireworks
Claim your spot early on busy nights. For a good view of the castle fireworks, plan to be in place well before showtime on weekends and holidays.
Scout with our videos. We film full shows from the best spots we can find, like our front-and-center view of Together Forever at the top of this page. Watch first and you’ll know where you want to stand before you arrive.
Nighttime shows are worth staying for. If you can only stay late one night, pick the one with the fireworks or World of Color.
Eating smart
- You can bring snacks and drinks. Disneyland allows outside food, with a few limits (see the FAQ below).
- Ask for free ice water at any quick-service counter.
- Share the treats. Park desserts are big and rich. Splitting means you can try more. Our Halloween treats roundup shows what to expect.
Save your energy
- Charge your phone overnight and carry a battery pack. The app works hard all day.
- Bring a light layer: evenings by the water get cool, even in summer.
- Don’t try to do everything in one day. The best Disneyland days have a little room in them.
Prices, policies and services change often, so check the official Disneyland website and app before your visit.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need at Disneyland?
For a first visit we suggest at least two days, one for each park (Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure). Three days lets you slow down, repeat favorites and see both nighttime shows.
Can you bring your own food into Disneyland?
Yes. Disneyland allows outside food and non-alcoholic drinks, as long as nothing needs heating, reheating, processing or refrigerating by the park. No glass containers (small baby food jars are the exception), no alcohol and no loose ice (ice packs are fine). Check Disneyland's help center for the latest rules.
Do I need Lightning Lane on my first visit?
Not necessarily. Lightning Lane Multi Pass is a paid add-on that lets you skip the regular line on many rides, and its price changes by date. On quieter days, arriving early and planning well can work just as well. On holidays and weekends it saves real time.
What if my child is too small for a ride?
Ask the Cast Member at the entrance about Rider Switch. One adult waits with the child while the rest of the group rides, then the waiting adult rides without lining up again.
Is the water free?
Yes. Quick-service restaurants will give you a free cup of ice water. Bring a refillable bottle too; there are water fountains around both parks.
