In the sunny south of California is the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, the place where the first Disney park ever opened its doors. This extraordinary resort has been a beloved destination for travelers from around the world since 1955. Here you'll stand face to face with princesses, discover iconic attractions such as Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain and feel like you've taken a break from everyday life.
Whether you are a true Disney fan who can't wait to visit the world's very first Disney park, or just want to discover why this resort is so unique, a visit to Disneyland Resort is an experience you won't soon forget!
What is the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim?
The Disneyland Park in Anaheim is the very first Disney theme park in the world! Walt Disney opened the park in 1955 with one dream: to create a place where children and adults could together can have fun. By now this park has grown into a true resort with two theme parks, three Disney hotels and the lively Downtown Disney area full of stores and restaurants.
The Disneyland Resort is located in the city of Anaheim, about a half-hour drive south of Los Angeles. Thanks to its central location, the Disneyland Resort is ideal to combine with other Southern California attractions, such as the beaches of Santa Monica or a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood.
Those who once step inside the Disneyland Resort notice that everything here is about experience. From the music in the various streets to the smells of freshly baked cookies. Every detail has been carefully crafted to let visitors escape the real world for a moment.
Anaheim's two Disney Parks
While visiting the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, there are no less than 2 parks to visit. Thus, this resort consists of not only the original Disneyland park, but also Disney California Adventure Park. The parks differ in appearance and attractions, but that is precisely why it is so much fun to explore both parks during a visit to Disneyland Resort Anaheim!
Disneyland Park - the original fairy tale park
This is the park that started it all! The Disneyland Park breathes nostalgia: here, classic Disney stories come to life in themed areas with their own atmosphere, music and attractions.
Theme areas & highlights
- Main Street, U.S.A. - As soon as you step into the park, you are on this nostalgic street full of brick facades, stores and old-fashioned details. Walt Disney based this area on his childhood memories of Marceline, Missouri. Thanks to clever architecture, the buildings appear taller than they are.
- Adventureland - In Adventureland, you walk through jungle-like paths with temples, palm trees and mysterious sounds. The atmosphere feels tropical and adventurous. The big crowd pleaser is Indiana Jones Adventure, an exciting ride full of surprises.
- Frontierland - Here you step back into the days of cowboys, steamships and dusty trails. The setting is reminiscent of the Wild West: wooden buildings, cacti and a river with a nostalgic boat. Don't forget the roller coaster Big Thunder Mountain Railroad along.
- Fantasyland - Around Sleeping Beauty's castle, Disney's fairytale world really comes to life. You'll find colorful attractions for all ages, from old-school dark rides to merry boat rides. It's a Small World remains a classic that cannot be ignored.
- Tomorrowland - Tomorrowland is all about the future, space travel and technology. Futuristic buildings, smooth metal and neon lights set the mood. The iconic Space Mountain is a fast-paced ride through the stars and one of the audience favorites.
- Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge - Like stepping into a Star Wars movie yourself. This vast area, also known as Black Spire Outpost, is full of details, from droids to food stalls. Don't forget Rise of the Resistance, a groundbreaking attraction where you fight the First Order.
- Mickey's Toontown - This cheerful, cartoony area is entirely dedicated to Mickey & Minnie Mouse. Go on an adventure in the surprising attraction Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway is a surprisingly fun ride that still feels exciting without a roller coaster.
Across the street lies Disney California Adventure Park, which puts a contemporary twist on the Disney feel. The areas are modern, energetic and focus on Pixar stories, superheroes and the atmosphere of California.
Theme areas & highlights
- Avengers Campus - Here you step into the Marvel universe. You will see superheroes fly by, meet characters and discover interactive places. At WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure use your own arms to shoot virtual web, fun for all ages!
- Cars Land - This area feels like you drove straight into Radiator Springs. The rock formations, neon signs and Route-66 atmosphere are recreated in detail. Radiator Springs Racers is the star of the area, with a combination of darkride scenes and fast-paced racing.
- Pixar Pier - Along a colorful boardwalk, you'll find attractions revolving around Pixar heroes like the Incredibles and Toy Story. The IncrediCoaster is the crowd pleaser here: a fast-paced roller coaster full of energy.
- Grizzly Peak - This area is reminiscent of California's national parks, with tall pines, wooden bridges and views of the great Grizzly Mountain. Grizzly River Run is a whitewater course where your team spirit and luck determine how wet you end up.
- San Fransokyo Square
Inspired by the world of Big Hero 6. Here you will find street food with Asian influences, colorful details and meet characters like Baymax. An attractive area to stroll through and have something to eat.
- Buena Vista Street
Buena Vista Street is the atmospheric entrance to the park and is inspired by Los Angeles in the 1920s and 1930s, the time when Walt Disney took his first steps here. You'll find stores, cafes and the Red Car Trolley that drives gently down the street.
- Hollywood Land - Hollywood Land is all about movies and entertainment! Think studio buildings, neon signs and shows for the whole family. Especially for young children, the Disney Junior Dance Party a fun, interactive experience.
- Paradise Gardens Park - This quiet waterfront stretch has a relaxed atmosphere, street music and family-friendly attractions. A nice place to catch up and have a bite to eat. The Little Mermaid - Ariel's Undersea Adventure takes you through familiar scenes from the film.
Between the two parks is Downtown Disney District, a lively area with stores, cafes and entertainment. Even without park admission, you can enjoy the Disney atmosphere here, grab a bite to eat or buy souvenirs.
Hotels near Disneyland Resort Anaheim
Staying close to the parks will make your trip to the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim extra relaxing. You can choose official Disney hotels or comfortable accommodations in the immediate area.
Disney hotels within the resort
The official hotels of the Disneyland Resort offer convenience, thematic details and additional benefits such as early access to the parks. All three hotels are within walking distance of the entrances and do not require their own shuttle buses. You walk to the parks or Downtown Disney via safe, well-marked routes in no time!
Popular options include:
- Disneyland Hotel - This classic hotel combines Disney nostalgia with modern rooms and plenty of comforts. The family pool is a favorite, with a Monorail slide as a joyous centerpiece. You can walk right into Downtown Disney from the hotel, which gets you to restaurants, stores and the parks quickly.
- Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa - This stylish hotel feels spacious and cozy, with warm colors and plenty of comforts. Guests here have a private entrance to Disney California Adventure Park, making it very easy to walk into the park. Rooms are spacious and pleasantly decorated, and there are several good restaurants. The large pool and spa are nice places to relax after a day at the parks.
- Pixar Place Hotel - A cheerful and modern hotel centered on the colorful Pixar movies. The rooms are playfully decorated and there are fun details throughout the building for Pixar fans. On the roof of this hotel you will find a large pool with Finding Nemo area!
Hotels near Disneyland Resort
Anaheim is also home to many comfortable hotels within walking distance of the entrance. These accommodations are often a little more affordable with fewer Disney references, but still offer quality and convenience.
Recommendations include:
- Candlewood Suites Anaheim - Practical hotel with rooms equipped with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays or families. It is located a short distance from the Disneyland Resort, getting you there quickly.
- Anaheim Resort Suites - Modern hotel with spacious family rooms and an outdoor area with several pools and slides. You'll find several dining options and walk to the resort entrance in about 15 minutes.
- Fairfield Inn by Marriott Anaheim - Fine hotel within walking distance of Disneyland Resort. Rooms are fresh and comfortable, and there are plenty of dining options nearby for a quick bite before or after your park visit
Florivida will help you choose the hotel that best suits your needs. Whether you want to stay close to the magic or are looking for a practical base for your tour of California, we'll make sure everything is taken care of down to the last detail. Visit contact with us for all possibilities!
Food and drink at Disneyland Anaheim
There are plenty of choices at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, from quick snacks to full dinners. Popular treats such as Mickey pretzels, churros and Dole Whip can be found throughout the resort. For table-service restaurants, such as Blue Bayou in Disneyland Park, Lamplight Lounge in Disney California Adventure Park and Carnation Café on Main Street, advance reservations are wise. This can easily be done through the Disneyland app.
Highly recommended is Café Orleans in Disneyland Park, known for the Monte Cristo Sandwich: a warm, airy sandwich filled with ham, turkey and cheese, lightly fried and served with powdered sugar! Carnation Café is another cozy spot, located on Main Street, U.S.A. here you can enjoy American favorites in a relaxed atmosphere!
Count on a mix of classic American food, international dishes and themed snacks, providing a tasty option at any time of day.
Practical information about Disneyland Resort Anaheim
A visit to the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim may require some preparation, but we prefer to call it pre-fun! The tips below will not only make your visit easier, but also a lot more fun. Plus, it's an ideal stop during a roundtrip through the American West Coast.
Best travel time - Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are the most pleasant times to go. Summer is busier and warmer, but extra atmospheric with evening shows.
Tickets and admission - You can choose from a day ticket, a multi-day pass or a Park Hopper Ticket that lets you visit both parks. With Disney Genius plan your attractions smartly and you won't have to wait as long. Are you staying at a Disney Hotel? Then you also benefit from early access to the parks.
How many days - If you want to take the time to really experience both parks properly, we recommend a minimum of four days: two days per park. That way you can do the biggest attractions, enjoy shows. Read in our blog about Disneyland Anaheim How to get the most out of your day!
Useful apps - The Disneyland app shows wait times, shows and reservations. A power bank is handy to charge your phone.
Clothing and comfort - Wear comfortable shoes; you will be walking a lot. A sweater or cardigan is nice for evenings.
Transportation and parking - Shuttles run from Los Angeles and surrounding cities. By car, you can park in lots near the entrance. Are you staying at a hotel nearby? Then you can use the ART (Anaheim Resort Transportation) shuttle or walk to the parks.
Book your trip to Disneyland Resort with Florivida
A trip to the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim is a dream for many travelers. At Florivida, we'll help you make it a reality. Because we know the parks ourselves well, we know exactly what's handy: from choosing the right travel time and tickets to fine hotels within walking distance and practical tips for your day at the park.
This destination is also ideal to combine with other Los Angeles theme parks, such as Universal Studios Hollywood or Six Flags Magic Mountain. This is how to turn your vacation into a complete theme park experience in California. View here the theme park trip to Los Angeles!
Want to know what's possible? Make a (online) appointment To put together your dream trip together!