Melissa M, Illinois
- 12/29/2024
About Me
I've grown up in the Midwest my entire life, and I've been working in professional sports for over 15 years. Most days I channel my inner Elastigirl, being stretched between work and my other role as a proud hockey, baseball, and dance Mom! When we're not dreaming up our next Disney adventure, I love to cook, try new restaurants, and spend time with family and friends.
About My Family
We are a rope drop loving family of four, and you'll usually find us in Avengers Campus or riding Big Thunder Mountain Railroad! We also love to snack our way through the Disney Parks, so just follow the trail of popcorn and churro pixie dust to catch us at our next attraction. Seeing the magic of Disney through our kids' eyes is something that we will cherish forever. Our Disney memories will truly last a lifetime, and I cannot wait to share our magical tips with your family!
About My Disney Experience
My family visited Walt Disney World when I was young, but we fell in love with the Disneyland Resort on trips with our kids while visiting friends! Since I'm not local to any parks, I really have to do my research to maximize time on our trips. I love to strategically plan out each day with our priorities to get the most out of our trip!
Our favorite part of the Disney Parks are the amazing attractions that transport us to our favorite stories and movies. One of my can't-miss activities is to watch the neon signs light up in Radiator Springs during the evening in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park! I've done trips with family including traveling with babies and toddlers, as well as adults-only trips where we've enjoyed the wonderful festivals, food, and culture. I'm truly looking forward to helping you plan your BEST DAY EVER!
Questions I’ve Answered
- On Nov 18, 2024
Emily from CA asked“I have a $200 gift card and i want to buy a ticket which is $207 can i use my debit card for that $7 ?”Melissa AnsweredHey there Emily!How exciting that you'll be making a trip to the "Merriest Place on Earth" here soon! I have loved seeing all of the adorable and festive holiday decorations that have found their... - On Nov 18, 2024
Camryn from CA asked“How would I go about making reservations for the Blue Bayou restaurant for a party of 8?”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Camryn, we're so glad you're here!Blue Bayou Restaurant in Disneyland Park is one of our favorite restaurants and dining experiences at the Disneyland Resort! We've always had... - On Nov 17, 2024
Mary from ON asked“Hello! My family and I will be doing the Park Hop from animal kingdom to Magic Kingdom. Will the bus still be available to get back to animal kingdom where our car will be, since animal Kingdom closes before Magic?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Mary, welcome to planDisney!How exciting that you have a trip to the "Most Magical Place on Earth" coming up soon! I am loving all of the beautiful and festive holiday decor in all of... - On Nov 17, 2024
Dyan from NCR asked“Is it okay if my child 7 years old didn’t include in the booked room? Is he still allowed to check in?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Dyan! Thanks for bringing your great question to planDisney!How exciting that you have a trip planned to the Disneyland Resort coming up soon! I recommend reaching out to a helpful Cast... - On Nov 16, 2024
Jennifer asked“Hi! We will be visiting next week and wondering if there is a character experience or meal where we might see Moana? ”Melissa AnsweredHello Jennifer! Welcome to planDisney!My favorite place to see what characters are in Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park is in the Disneyland app. Open up the app and navigate to... - On Nov 14, 2024
Brenda from CA asked“After Christmas, when does it’s a small world close for holiday clean up? Planning on going January 20 and 27th with new friends and would hate to now have it opened :(”Melissa AnsweredHello there Brenda, welcome to planDisney!How exciting that you have a few trips planned to the "Happiest Place on Earth!" It always gives me something to look forward to, especially right after the... - On Nov 11, 2024
Elisa from ON asked“Hello, we are planning to book the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique experience with our three year old. We are hoping to bring her own dress for the makeover but don’t want to miss out on the photo ops. Can we add on the photo shoot to the basic package?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Elisa, welcome to planDisney!There are not many experiences more magical than the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Disneyland Park! My daughter has loved every minute of her makeovers with... - On Nov 11, 2024
Catharina from DF asked“Hi, We are planning to visit Disneyland on Christmas Day and I was wondering if the Fantasmic! will be running on this date? Thank you!”Melissa AnsweredHello there Catharina, welcome to planDisney!How exciting that you'll be visiting the Disneyland Resort on the merriest day of the year! I can't imagine a more magical place to wake up than the... - On Nov 11, 2024
We asked our panelists…“My extended family and I are planning a trip to Disneyland Feb 23 2025 and were wondering if there is a discount or special deal for large families who book together?”Melissa AnsweredHello there! Welcome to planDisney!A trip with extended family sounds like the perfect vacation for a large group! My family and I love visiting during the month of February when the weather is... - On Nov 10, 2024
Viviana from IL asked“Both parents and a 3y old. Going to DL last week of January. I need some guidance on tickets and reservations. Looking for kiddie rides for my daughter and a nice lunch with beloved characters to celebrate her 4th birthday which is the day before we leave.”Melissa AnsweredFrom one Illinois resident to another, welcome to planDisney Viviana! How exciting that you'll be visiting the "Happiest Place on Earth" so soon! If you're also in need of a place to stay during... - On Nov 8, 2024
Rajeanne from CA asked“When will reservations for Thanksgiving dinner be available to book online?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Rajeanne! Thanks for bringing your great question to planDisney.The great news is that dining reservations for Thanksgiving are currently available to book now on the Disneyland site or... - On Nov 8, 2024
Lorne from CA asked“Hi Melissa, I read your tip from July 2024 about potentially getting World of Color Dining Packages by making a standard reservation at Wine Trattoria or Storytellers Cafe on a first-come-first-served basis. Is this still true?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Lorne! How exciting that your trip to the Disneyland Resort is coming up so soon!You are correct that the World of Color Dining Packages at Wine Country Trattoria at Disney California... - On Nov 8, 2024
Sallie from PA asked“If I purchase a magic band+ will it send me notifications constantly? I like most of the features but not interested in constant info from it.. Is there someone to help me link it when I arrive? or directions? How do I know if I need park reservations?”Melissa AnsweredHello Sallie! Thanks for bringing your great question to planDisney!I actually love my MagicBand+ since it's so different from the watch that I wear every day that is always sending me... - On Nov 8, 2024
Elena from CA asked“How do I get a magic key decal for my car? ”Melissa AnsweredHi there Elena, we're so glad you stopped by planDisney!Congratulations on becoming a Disneyland Resort Magic Key Holder! There is so much to look forward to at the "Happiest Place on Earth"... - On Nov 7, 2024
Mei-heng from NSW asked“Is there a way I can Book a full day guide?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Mei-Heng, welcome to planDisney!How exciting that you're interested in a Disneyland Resort VIP Tour! These exclusive and customized tours are truly a dream come true, I can't imagine a... - On Nov 7, 2024
Gaby from CA asked“Hello, my magic key doesn’t expire until March. Would I still be able to renew my pass later on before it expires?”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Gaby! I hope you've been enjoying unlocking the magic of the Disneyland Resort with your Magic Key Pass! I wish I lived closer so I could take advantage of the valuable... - On Nov 7, 2024
Aundrea from CA asked“Hi, I recently bought a magic key, but i did not receive the contract in an email as it stated. where can i access my contract for the monthly payments?”Melissa AnsweredHello Aundrea! Welcome to planDisney!Congratulations on becoming a Disneyland Resort Magic Key Holder! If you did not receive the confirmation email, my first recommendation is to check your spam... - On Nov 7, 2024
Jordan from CA asked“My wife and I want to use our new imagine passes but she doesnt have a government ID with our current address, can we use her passport and a piece of official mail?”Melissa AnsweredHey there Jordan! We're so glad you stopped by planDisney!Congratulations on becoming a Disneyland Resort Magic Key Holder! The Imagine Key is such a wonderful opportunity for Southern California... - On Nov 7, 2024
Stephanie from CA asked“Hello, I just moved down to southern California and purchased a SoCal pass. Unfortunately, my driver license does not have my updates so cal address. Is there other proof I can bring to verify I am a so cal resident? Such as a pay stub or something.”Melissa AnsweredHello there Stephanie!How exciting that you are now a Southern California resident and a Disneyland Resort Magic Key Holder! The Imagine Key Pass is a great opportunity for Southern California... - On Nov 7, 2024
Emily from CA asked“If I have the Imagine Key for California Residents but I don’t have a California ID because it hasn’t been sent in the mail yet, am I able to enter with a birth certificate?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Emily, welcome to planDisney!How exciting that you've been able to secure a Disneyland Resort Magic Key Pass! Being able to unlock the magic of the "Happiest Place on Earth" is truly a... - On Nov 7, 2024
Juliana from CA asked“How can I update my pass payment method for your monthly payment?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Juliana, welcome to planDisney!It sounds like you're looking to update your payment method for your Disneyland Resort Magic Key Pass! I'm glad you're on top of this, no one wants an... - On Nov 4, 2024
Anna from CA asked“I recently moved to Long Beach and would like to buy the SoCal magic key pass when it becomes available. I know I need the address to be in my profile at the time of purchase, but I can’t figure out how to update my profile with my new address”Melissa AnsweredHi there Anna! Thanks for bringing your great question to planDisney!How exciting that you've recently moved to Southern California, I would love to be able to enjoy that sunshine all year long! I... - On Nov 4, 2024
Jedi johnny from CA asked“Can I upgrade my pass through the Disney app?”Melissa AnsweredBright Suns Jedi Johnny! Welcome to planDisney!How exciting that you're looking to upgrade your Disneyland Resort Magic Key Pass! I'm sure you've been loving the opportunity to enjoy the magic of... - On Nov 3, 2024
Sheridan-lee from Glenreagh asked“I am trying to contact disneyland in the USA, how can I email them please?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Sheridan-Lee, welcome to planDisney!How exciting that you're planning a trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" soon! You can reach out to a helpful Cast Member via email. You will... - On Nov 3, 2024
Leticia from DF asked“Hello we want know how os the better day to visit disneyland park december 24 or 25? What day all parades and xmas stuff are open? And park hours”Melissa AnsweredHi there Leticia, welcome to planDisney, we're so glad you're here!I don't think you can ever go wrong with choosing which day to visit Disneyland Park! It's truly magical every single day, I still... - On Nov 2, 2024
We asked our panelists…“Are there any military discount tickets that can be used the week of Christmas? Would also be interested in staying at a Disneyland resort hotel if discount is available that week. Thank you!”Melissa AnsweredHello there! Thank you for your service, and welcome to planDisney!At the current time, there is not a special offer for eligible US military members during the week of Christmas for Disneyland... - On Nov 1, 2024
Nikki from CA asked“I had 2 kids and 2 adults. Now it only shows 2 adult. Do I have credot fpr the balance??? How much are and how do I buy 2 kid tickets?”Melissa AnsweredHello Nikki! Welcome to planDisney, we're so glad you're here!Oh gawrsh, it sounds like you're having a bit of trouble with your theme park tickets! If you are having trouble accessing theme park... - On Oct 31, 2024
Martha from CA asked“Do only kids wear pajamas to Storytellers Cafe for Mickey's Holiday Pajama Party Brunch? Or do the adults also wear pajamas?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Martha, welcome to planDisney!Mickey's Holiday Pajama Party Breakfast and Brunch sounds like the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit! Storytellers Cafe at Disney's Grand Californian... - On Oct 31, 2024
Adriana from WA asked“My family is going to Disneyland in March. We need 2 rooms so we are doing 2 vacation packages. We usually get DAS Pass cause of our kids autism. Is it a problem our reservations are separate? Can we link them so the whole family can use it?”Melissa AnsweredHello Adriana, thank you for bringing your important question to planDisney!The Disneyland Resort is committed to ensuring an inclusive and welcoming environment for all Guests, and Disability Access... - On Oct 30, 2024
Van lea from HI asked“I am going to Disney California Adventures on Nov12 and Disneyland on Nov13. I noticed that the hours for both parks will be closing earlier than usual. Will we not be able to see the fireworks and world of color due to this?”Melissa AnsweredAloha Van Lea, welcome to planDisney! How exciting that your trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" is coming up so soon! Even though Holiday Time doesn't officially begin until November 15, I'm... - On Oct 30, 2024
Michael from KS asked“With posts about LL and Premier Pass, things aren't 100% clear. If I buy the Premier Pass, if I want to use LL once all my single visits on Premier Pass are used up, do I have to purchase regular LL as well or will Premier default to regular?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Michael, thanks for coming back to planDisney!Lightning Lane Premier Pass is another great option for Guests to be able to access each available Lightning Lane experience in both Disneyland... - On Oct 29, 2024
Pamela from PA asked“Have the 2025 refurbishment dates for the skyliner been decided yet? We are staying at the AOA Jan 23-30,2025 because we wanted to use the skyliner for epcot and hollywood studios. Seeing the historical dates, I'm worried it won't be operational.”Melissa AnsweredHi there Pamela, I'm so glad you stopped by planDisney!We love to use the Disney Skyliner to get from our Disney Resorts Collection Hotel to the theme parks! My kids love to see which character will... - On Oct 27, 2024
Flavio from CA asked“Can anyone age 14 and above wear costumes at Downtown Disney?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Flavio, welcome to planDisney!It's a great idea to check the Guest attire policies prior to your trip so you're informed! I spoke to a helpful Cast Member, and they did confirm that... - On Oct 26, 2024
Erin from CA asked“Hi - What do people recommend to do for New Year's Eve 2024 at Downtown Disney in Anaheim? We won't be at the park that day, but wondered if there were any special dinners or events at Downtown Disney. Thanks!”Melissa AnsweredHi there Erin!Thanks for bringing this great question to planDisney, it's never to early to start thinking about ringing in the new year!The Downtown Disney District would be a lovely place to... - On Oct 25, 2024
Lisa from CA asked“Hi, I am trying to plan a trip for February 2025 and with previous visits I keep missing the Haunted Mansion. Do you know when it will be closed in 2025 to go back to its original theme?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Lisa, welcome to planDisney!February is probably my favorite time of year to visit the Disneyland Resort, it always gave me something to look forward to after the holiday season, and the... - On Oct 25, 2024
Nicole from NY asked“Hi— How do I purchase a Southern California ticket to Disneyland? And how does that work?”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Nicole, we're so glad you're here!How exciting that you're planning a trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth!" If you're looking to purchase a standard theme park ticket, you can... - On Oct 25, 2024
Nathan from AZ asked“Will Storyteller's have dining reservations for Christmas Eve?”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Nathan! It sounds like you're planning an exciting trip around the holidays! Storytellers Cafe at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa would be a wonderful spot to dine... - On Oct 25, 2024
Molly from NH asked“will fantastic run thursday 12/19? there are dining packages for friday but not thursday, and we had planned to visit Dl thursday. the app shows some initial park hours but not show times.”Melissa AnsweredHello there Molly! Fantasmic! at Disneyland Park is my family's favorite nighttime spectacular. There's nothing more exciting than seeing Mickey appear on the Rivers of America! It looks like the... - On Oct 24, 2024
Tegan from Qld asked“Is Lightning’s McQueen still appearing in DCA? I have been studying the app and don’t see him out anymore. Taking our obsessed toddler and I just want to be prepared for any disappointment.”Melissa AnsweredHello there Tegan! Your trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" is coming up so soon, how exciting!My son loved the movie Cars when he was younger, I think I've seen it 100 times! From the moment you... - On Oct 24, 2024
Megan from AZ asked“Do you know if or when dinner reservations will be available for Plaza Inn in December? I'm trying to make a reservation for December 10th but nothing is showing. Thank you!”Melissa AnsweredHi there Megan, thanks for coming back to planDisney with another great planning question!Plaza Inn at Disneyland Park is a delicious choice any time of the day! If you're looking to make a dining... - On Oct 23, 2024
Jacqueline from BC asked“After Halloween, does Guardians of the Galaxy get a Christmas overlay, or does it just revert to normal?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Jacqueline! Thanks for stopping by planDisney!Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission - BREAKOUT! is one of our favorite attractions! We usually are heading straight to Avengers Campus to... - On Oct 22, 2024
Christine from AZ asked“Is the Christmas Party at Disneyland?”Melissa AnsweredHello Christine! Your trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" is coming up so soon, how exciting!There isn't an official holiday party at the Disneyland Resort, but there are plenty of ways to get... - On Oct 21, 2024
Jason from CA asked“I would like to make a dinner reservation on December 15 at Goofy’s Kitchen. It’s within the 60 day window but I’m not seeing any reservations available (even for days prior or after the 15th). Can you please confirm if there are no reservations?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Jason, welcome to planDisney!How exciting that you and your family will be making a trip to the "Merriest Place on Earth" during Holiday Time! It's such a magical time of year to visit, and... - On Oct 20, 2024
Laura from CA asked“If I don't activate my dland annual pass by the one year mark, can I use the credit to purchase a multi day ticket or resident ticket offer or do I have to use the annual pass credit to purchase another annual pass and pay the difference?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Laura! How exciting that you were able to secure a Disneyland Magic Key Pass!If you do not activate your Magic Key Pass within one year of purchase, then your Magic Key Pass will expire,... - On Oct 19, 2024
Jennifer from AB asked“We just booked our first trip to Disney with our littles and can't believe restaurants are already booked solid for when we want to go. Do you have any tips for getting into a Character Breakfast at the Plaza Inn or a meal at Blue Bayou without resos?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Jennifer! Your trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" is coming up so soon, how exciting!Dining reservations for popular restaurants such as Plaza Inn and Blue Bayou Restaurant in Disneyland... - On Oct 19, 2024
Robyne from SA asked“Hello, we have booked the hotel and purchased the tickets for the whole 5 days but cannot make any reservations (I understand they can only be made ? 180 days ? 120 days prior), but NOTHING for ANY dates from now appears Am I doing something wrong?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Robyne, welcome to planDisney!I'm sorry you're having trouble making your theme park reservations, let's take a closer look at a few potential solutions, and hopefully get you on your way to... - On Oct 18, 2024
Jennifer from NJ asked“I plan to buy multi pass for my entire party. We will do the same first three rides, but then people will do their own rides. Will I have to select the fourth and fifth rides, etc. on the app for them, or will they have access to make plans themselves?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Jennifer, how exciting that your trip to the "Most Magical Place on Earth" is coming up so soon!Lightning Lane Multi Pass is a great way to plan ahead for your trip, and save time during... - On Oct 18, 2024
Tami from SK asked“I bought tickets on get away today, and have linked them to my Disney app, but wondering how I can print them so I don't have to use my phone the whole time we are there for all 4 of us. Coming December 3!”Melissa AnsweredHello there Tami! Thanks for stopping by planDisney with your great question!It sounds like you're in great shape since you've already linked your theme park tickets to your Disneyland app! I... - On Oct 18, 2024
Kaili from BC asked“I live in Canada. I’m going to be in Walt Disney World next year. I’m wondering about the service where you can ship your purchases home. Is it available for non US residents? If so, is there any information available about possible pricing? Thanks.”Melissa AnsweredHi there Kaili! How exciting that you're planning such a magical vacation for next year!At the current time, unfortunately, Walt Disney World Resort does not ship souvenirs or purchases back to... - On Oct 18, 2024
Kristie from HI asked“If I buy my 5 day Dianeyland park hopper tickets on 10/20/2024 through my teachers union when would they expire?”Melissa AnsweredAloha Kristie, welcome to planDisney!Since the Disneyland Resort does not offer a discounted ticket offer for teachers, you would need to check with your teachers union directly on the ticket...
