Tips For Visiting Disneyland With Kids

We visit Disneyland or Disney California Adventure at least a couple of times a month. Usually we try to visit at least once a week. Through trial and error , I could easily say that I have learned what it takes to have a fun and stress free day at Disneyland. Here is what I usually bring with me to have a fun day and general tips on making the most out of your visit.


What do I bring with me??
1. You need a good backpack - I'm usually prepared with a great backpack- I never leave home without one .
2. Bring a stroller if you have small children. If you can, make sure to bring a light or umbrella stroller. They are easier to fold up and store- and this is always a plus if you have to take some sort of tram to the theme park entrance. Make sure to have some kind of labeling on you stroller to help yours stand out in the sea of strollers. If you prefer don't bring a stroller and rent one at the front of the park. I usually avoid this at costs but if you can't bring a stroller and want one this is a good alternative and trust me a stroller is indispensable.
3. Make sure to pack a jacket /sweater/blanket. - I've left home without one thinking that there was no possible way that I would be cold on a summer day. Boy was I wrong!! The nights cool off and there is nothing worse than shelling out $50.00 for a sweatshirt because your three year old is cold. Trust me on this one!!
4. If you have little ones make sure to pack a couple of snacks. I usually bring a baggie or two of
goldfish and fruit snacks. Just keep it simple.
5. If you can bring a bottle or two of water. I usually freeze mine the night before and throw them in a Ziploc bag- I pack them in at the bottom of my bag and they have been a lifesaver!!
6. Bring baby wipes. I always carry them even if I don't have my youngest with me. They are great for sticky hands and clean ups. I think they are a necessity !!
7. Make sure to pack a blanket if you plan on watching Fantasmic.
7. Last but not least I always pack my camera to make sure to capture my little one's smiling faces.


How can I make my visit stress free and as smooth as possible?
1. I think the most important thing to do is to be prepared and do a little research- Make sure to visit the park's website . There are other websites that I think are filled at the rim with information and are a must read if you plan on visiting. Mouseplanet.com is a great resource.
2. Get there as early as possible. You've heard the saying "the early bird catches the bird" and this holds quite true with Disneyland. . You will be able to make the most out of your day this way.In my opinion it's the best time of day to ride your favorite attraction-you usually won't have to wait in line and if you do- you won't usually mind because it will be nice and cool.
3. Pick up a map/event guide at the front entrance- The first thing I do is try to plan out my day as soon as I have the map in my hands. Head to the most popular attractions first and plan out your day with the help of your map/event guide.
4. Avoid the lunch time rush. I would try to stay away from eating between 11am to 2pm. Usually the lines to attractions are shorter at this time because everyone is heading out to lunch. If you can , try to eat before 11 am and after 2pm.
5. Avoid attractions between 2 to 4 pm. This is usually peak time at a theme park. We usually use this time to grab a bite to eat and catch a couple of shows. Most restaurants and shows are air conditioned and it's a great time to take a break. If you have little ones- it's the perfect time to catch a snooze in the stroller.
6. Maximize your visit by taking advantage of the Fastpass system.
7.Make sure your family is well rested the night before and also well fed before you arrive at the your park of choice. There is nothing worse than dealing with cranky and hungry kids.
8. Last but not least- Enjoy yourself- Don't feel rushed. If you're visiting on a super busy day- odds are you probably wont' be able to take everything in one day and that's fine. It will give you the perfect reason to come back- or even better- upgrade your one day pass to an annual pass and come back as often as you like.