General tips

No matter how long you are staying, there are a few general things to know.

FASTPASS: The Disney fastpass system is quick and easy to use, you just stick your ticket into the slot, and you get an “appointment ticket” to go on the ride. You are only allowed to hold one ticket at a time. While you wait you can go on another ride or two, then get on the ride in which you have the fastpass ticket pretty quickly. Fastpass is available for the rides that have the largest lines, making them not so large. Since you will probably find it on another sight anyway, Ill let you in on a little secret, often the fastpass system is a little messed up, so get a pass for the ride you really want, then try another if you go by one. Also, the two parks are not connected; however, unless you are attending the park at a peek day (we will get to that later) I don’t suggest taking advantage of that.

EAIRLY BIRD: you know the expression early bird catches the worm; well it goes for Disneyland too. Find out ahead of time when the park opens, and at opening time, be there. I can’t tell you how much I have said this, or express how wide this knowledge is, yet somehow people neglect it. DON’T! People like to sleep in during their vacations, I understand that, but naps are great too. It is well worth it to be there for the first two hours of each park.

EAT IRREGULAR: as a local I rarely eat at the park at all, and I can tell you that the lines are slightly shorter between 6pm and 8pm. Lunch is probably not as big of a deal because a lot of people arrive at that time, but eat dinner before. What I really suggest is to eat a BIG breakfast before you arrive at opening, get a snack as soon as you get a rumbley in your tumbelly, eat a big meal around 4, and if you need a snack (you probably will) get one anytime after the 4pm meal. Trust me snacks are better then meals because you don’t waist so much time in your day. You can even bring in snacks (just don’t go overboard) the people who check the bags aren’t looking for food. While we are on the topic of food, forget your diet, you will be burning lots and lots of calories, so have a little fun, you will be more happy.

ALWAYS COCA COLA: Although I haven’t had any problems, I have heard that there are a few cast members (Disney employees) who will stop you at the gate if you have soda in your bag. This can be avoided if you have a hopper ticket, (or you’re a really good liar) by bringing Coke. Trust me on this too, you will save a whole lot of money by lugging a little soda (or minute made lemonade, which is endorsed by coke, as well as power aid) they sell inside both parks for just less then $3.00 a pop.

LET THE KIDS RULE: I am not a parent myself, but I have had the opportunity to take a few kids to the park while babysitting for long periods of time. Seeing kids on those rides has been some of the best moments of my life. One girl I took asked me if I was scared at points I knew she was, I lied and said yes, and she went on about how it was good she was around to protect me. Adorable. The best thing is to let them chose. Do a baby pass for a few things, but give them at least 2/3rds of the decision-making, and at least put one of their choices in between each thing they have to sit out of.

Whatever you do, take lots of pictures! You can even buy a frame in the park (almost anywhere) & Disney scrap booking stuff in the photo shop & Emporium.