Melissa M, Illinois
- 2/15/2026
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 Jan 7, 2026
Alex from CA asked“If I have a Disneyland pass can I request to get one more reservation added to my account? I want to go 3 days in a row to Disneyland with my pass”Melissa AnsweredHi there Alex, I'm so glad you stopped by planDisney with your great question. It sounds like you are a current Disneyland Resort Magic Key Holder, and I hope you're enjoying being able to unlock... - On Jan 7, 2026
Karen from CO asked“Can I bring a backpack into Disneyland? Are there lockers inside the park & where are they?”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Karen! I see that your magical trip is just around the corner, let the countdown begin!You absolutely can bring a backpack into Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure...View Related Videos
- On Jan 7, 2026
Loretta from AZ asked“Can you use the Disney Dining card for a character meal at Goofy's Kitchen?”Melissa AnsweredWelcome back to planDisney Loretta, we're so glad you're here!The good news is that you are definitely able to use a Disney Dining Card at Goofy's Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel, as well as many...View Related Videos
- On Jan 6, 2026
Geoff from CA asked“Can we use Disney gift card at the Blue Bajou restaurant?? Where can we find a list of dining options in or near the park where we can use gift card.”Melissa AnsweredHello there Geoff! You've come to the right place to discuss all of the delicious dining options throughout the Disneyland Resort! Blue Bayou Restaurant is one of our favorite places to dine during...View Related Videos - On Jan 5, 2026
Brittney from CA asked“I need help switching my reservation for one of my tickets”Melissa AnsweredHey there Brittney! It looks like the magic of the Disneyland Resort is just around the corner for you!You are able to modify your theme park reservation prior to your arrival as long as there is...View Related Videos - On Jan 4, 2026
Isabella from CA asked“How to change a payment method on a ticket purchased ”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Isabella! We're so glad you're here!If you've already paid for your theme park ticket for your upcoming trip, you cannot go back and change the payment method since it's...View Related Videos
- On Jan 1, 2026
Tess from CA asked“Hi there - I’m planning to purchase a CA Resident 3-Day Park Hopper and see that it says it can be used on non-consecutive days within the promotional dates. Does this mean I can use one day and then my other two a month or so later? Thanks for your help!”Melissa AnsweredHi there Tess! Thanks for bringing your great question to planDisney.I'm so glad that you're able to take advantage of the wonderful 3-Day Park Hopper Ticket Offer for California Residents! It's...View Related Videos - On Dec 29, 2025
Perpetua from CA asked“Whats 2pm rule?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Perpetua, welcome to planDisney!I believe you're referring to a time of day when park hopping would begin, but luckily, guests are currently now allowed to park hop starting at 11:00 AM...View Related Videos - On Dec 24, 2025
Jamie from CA asked“If we purchase the southern California city pass to purchase our tickets for a three day hopper, is it the same promotion as you guys are currently offering or you we have to use the days consecutively or within a 14 day window?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Jamie! How exciting that your trip is coming up so soon, I can't think of any better way to start off the new year! The CityPASS is not offered through the Disneyland Resort, you would...View Related Videos - On Dec 28, 2024
Lauren from CA asked“Hi I will be at Disneyland for December 31st and wanted to know if there are any special events, characters, or food items that day.”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Lauren! I can't believe the New Year is almost here!I can't think of a better place than ring in the new year than the Disneyland Resort! There are several special ways to... - On Dec 27, 2024
Crystal from OR asked“We are visiting the park on Friday January 17, 2025. I made reservations for a fantasmic dining package that day, but when I checked the event calendar it says there will be no nighttime entertainment. Which is accurate? Should I cancel my dining package?”Melissa AnsweredHey there Crystal! Welcome to planDisney!How exciting that your trip is coming up so soon! We always love having a fun vacation to look forward to after the holiday season. I am looking at the... - On Dec 27, 2024
Amy from OR asked“When will Plaza Inn parade dining package and world of color dining packages be announced/be available for booking for the last week of February 2025? Right now, only option is for the magic key holder for world of color. No options for Plaza inn parade.”Melissa AnsweredHey there Amy! How exciting that your trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" is coming up so soon!It looks like the entertainment schedule for your trip dates is not up to date quite yet. It usually... - On Dec 23, 2024
Nadine from Sydney asked“Hi, I am looking to make a reservation for a family of 4 to stay at Disney’s Grand Californian hotel from 15-18 July 2025. However when I check reservation availability for July on the link, I am unable to book any date in July. Can You check or help me?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Nadine, welcome to planDisney!Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is one of my favorite places to stay during our trips. You instantly feel at home when you walk into the lobby and... - On Dec 22, 2024
Karen asked“Can I send an eGiftCard to myself and forward it to someone else?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Karen, welcome to planDisney!How lovely that you're thinking of sending a Disney Gift Card to a pal! You definitely can send a Disney Gift Card to your email address and then forward it... - On Dec 20, 2024
Amber from CA asked“Hi I wanted to know what rides are available with DAS?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Amber! Thanks for coming back to planDisney with another great question.Disability Access Service (DAS) supports Guests with a developmental disability such as autism or similar, and are... - On Dec 19, 2024
Andy from Victoria asked“Hi, My daughter is a huge fan of Descendants. We are wondering if there is anything Descendants themed at Disneyland? For example, shows, character appearances or merchandise to buy? Thank You Kindly”Melissa AnsweredHello there Andy! My daughter is also a huge Disney Descendants fan as well, the soundtrack of Descendants: The Rise of Red is often playing throughout our house! As of today, there are not any... - On Dec 19, 2024
Don from TN asked“Can you mail me info on Disneyland ”Melissa AnsweredHey there Don! Welcome to planDisney, we're so glad you're here! There is no longer an option to have Disneyland Resort planning materials sent to your home, but there are so many wonderful... - On Dec 18, 2024
Robyn from CA asked“Husband is away for work often, I want to repurchase a magickey for Disneyland. My twins are 5 months old currently, and wondering if it’s possible to do solo Disney days with them. Is it possible to ride infant friendly rides on my own with two infants?”Melissa AnsweredSeason's Greetings Robyn! I love that you're considering renewing your Disneyland Resort Magic Key Pass, being able to unlock the magic of the "Happiest Place on Earth" is truly a dream come true! ... - On Dec 18, 2024
Zilla from Bromley asked“How does a 5 day park ticket work for Disneyland (if you're staying for 7 days? Do you have to specify that you want to go to a specific park and for specific days when you purchase the tickets or can you say decide the day before? Many thanks”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Zilla! If you have a 5-day theme park ticket in hand, it sounds like you're about to have a wonderful vacation! You will need to make a theme park reservation for your theme... - On Dec 17, 2024
Laura from OR asked“How far in advance can I purchase the new Premier Pass if I am staying at The Grand Californian? We are visiting at Christmas. The website says two days in advance but for Disneyworld onsite guests can buy it seven days in advance. Thanks!!”Melissa AnsweredHello there Laura! Your trip is coming up so soon, how exciting!You are correct that Disneyland Resort Guests are able to purchase Lightning Lane Premier Pass in the Disneyland app up to 2 days in... - On Dec 17, 2024
Athan from NC asked“I’m bringing the family to Disneyland for the first time. We’ve been to Disney World several times & always used the Magic Mobile feature to enter parks and scan into rides. Is this available at Disneyland? I cannot find it in the Disneyland app.”Melissa AnsweredHello there Athan! How exciting that this will be your family's first trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth!" There is not Disney Magic Mobile Service at the Disneyland Resort like you've used at... - On Dec 17, 2024
Cynthia from NV asked“Our family/extended family going to disneyland. Purchased 6 military salute tickets and 3 children's 3 day tickets for a total of 9 3 day tickets. Does each person, besides the children, need to make a reservation on their own disney account?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Cynthia! How exciting that your family trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" is coming up so soon! I'm so glad you were able to take advantage of both the Disney Military Promotional Park... - On Dec 17, 2024
Margaret from NY asked“Does Disney PhotoPass+ One Week still exist? I don't need LL for all 4 of my park days but would like to get pictures on all 4 of my park days, without having to buy it each day.”Melissa AnsweredHi there Margaret! It looks like your trip to the Disneyland Resort is coming up so soon, how exciting!Disney PhotoPass+ One Week does still exist, and it is another great option in addition to... - On Dec 16, 2024
Ryan from CA asked“I purchased my tickets online and I am trying to link my tickets to my disney app on my phone and it will not let me. When i try to scan my tickets it gives me an error message. Is there something you can do to help me? Thank you”Melissa AnsweredHi there Ryan! Thanks for bringing your great question to planDisney!I'm sorry you're having trouble linking your theme park tickets to your Disneyland app. Let's take a look at a few potential... - On Dec 14, 2024
Sandra from NC asked“Can I use my disney magic band at Disneyland in CA? I have tickets for 12/28/24. I purchaed the magic band in Disney World in Orlando, FL.”Melissa AnsweredHi there Sandra, welcome to planDisney!How exciting that you'll be visiting the "Happiest Place on Earth" during the merriest time of year! Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort is truly magical,... - On Dec 14, 2024
We asked our panelists…“How do I purchase e-card for Disney California”Melissa AnsweredHello there!If you're looking to purchase a Disney Gift Card to use at the Disneyland Resort, you can visit the Disney Gift Card site, or purchase when you arrive on-site to the Disneyland Resort. I... - On Dec 13, 2024
Patricia from Nsw asked“My granddaughter and I are travelling Australia to Disneyland California 26 September 2025-1 October 2025. I understand you have retired the electric light parade. Can you please give me some information about the new show including day and times it runs.”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Patricia! It sounds like you have such a magical trip planned with your granddaughter, how special!As your trip gets closer, you'll want to explore the entertainment schedule... - On Dec 12, 2024
Cecilia from Mexico city asked“Hi panelists! I'm planning my first (ever) Disney trip with my 6-month-old baby, any recommendations related to lodging, attractions and shows? Also how is the weather in January? Any other tips are appreciated”Melissa AnsweredHi there Cecilia, welcome to planDisney!How exciting that you will be taking your tiny Mouseketeer for your first visit! I definitely recommend stopping by City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A. in... - On Dec 6, 2024
Kristin from CA asked“I am living in So Cal now and wanted to purchase tickets but because my credit card billing address is my old home California address so I was unable purchase SoCal deal. How can I still purchase ticket and can I use a utility bill for entrance? ”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Kristin, we're so glad you're here!The Southern California Resident Ticket is such an amazing offer for California residents that reside in ZIP codes 90000 to 93599. I wish I... - On Dec 6, 2024
Dustin from AZ asked“We are planning on going to Disneyland on February 4th, and we didn’t know there would be the After Dark Sweetheart’s Nite and the park will be closing at 8 presumably, so we were curious if we would still have access to the shops on Main Street or not?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Dustin, welcome to planDisney!How exciting that your trip is coming up so soon! We always love having a vacation to look forward to after the holiday season. If you will be visiting... - On Dec 6, 2024
Vicki from ID asked“My son is eligible to purchase military promotional tickets. We are planning a trip to Disneyland in 2025 with my son, using 3 day military hopper tickets. He will be with us the first day. Does he need to be with us to enter the park on day 2 and 3?”Melissa AnsweredHey there Vicki! Thank you to your son for his service, and we appreciate you coming back to planDisney with another great question!The Disney Military Promotional Park Hopper Ticket is such a... - On Dec 5, 2024
Melisa from NM asked“Hello, my family and I will be visiting Disneyland during the January 2025 RunDisney Marathon weekend. We are staying on property. Do you know if early entry will still be offered to hotel guests during race weekend?”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Melisa!How exciting that your trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" is coming up so soon! It is always so nice to have a vacation to look forward to after the holiday... - On Dec 5, 2024
Patty from CA asked“Can I purchase salute the troops military Disneyland Anaheim at the park?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Patty! Thank you for your service, and welcome to planDisney!The Disney Military Promotional Park Hopper Ticket offer is a wonderful way for eligible US military members and their families... - On Dec 4, 2024
Jenny from LA asked“why isn't world of color dessert party available in February 2025?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Jenny! Welcome to planDisney, we're so glad you're here!It looks like the entertainment schedule for February isn't available just yet, and if the World of Color shows aren't scheduled yet,... - On Dec 4, 2024
Clare from Otago asked“Hi. We are coming to Disneyland for the first time. Is it better to buy tickets separately and link them somehow to get the same LL times for rides? Or does one person need to buy the two tickets and book the LL for both people? Thanks”Melissa AnsweredHello there Clare, welcome to planDisney! How exciting that you're already planning a trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" for next year! I see that it will be your first time visiting, make sure... - On Dec 3, 2024
Brittany from OH asked“We are visiting DL in Jan 2025. I see that Haunted Mansion will close on 1/7 for holiday take-down, any idea how long this typically lasts? We're in town 13th-16th but haven't bought tickets yet in hopes it will reopen one of the days.”Melissa AnsweredWelcome back to planDisney Brittany! How exciting that you have a trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" planned early next year!As much as I love Haunted Mansion Holiday, I am excited to experience... - On Dec 3, 2024
Annmarie from CA asked“If I purchase the socal 3-day pass, can I change my reservation after purchasing the ticket? If so, how will I go about that?”Melissa AnsweredHi there Annmarie, welcome to planDisney!That is so great that you were able to take advantage of the wonderful ticket offer for Southern California residents! On the day of your first use, you will... - On Dec 3, 2024
Arjane glorianne from Canterbury asked“Hi, I was wondering why the dates on March 3,4 2025 are crossed out. They said we can book tickets valid for 90 days. Thanks!”Melissa AnsweredHello there Arjane Glorianne! How exciting that your trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" early next year! February is one of our favorite months to visit the Disneyland Resort, it always gave us... - On Dec 3, 2024
Vanessa from CA asked“When will annual passes be sold again”Melissa AnsweredHi there Vanessa, welcome to planDisney!I love that you're interested in becoming a Disneyland Resort Magic Key Holder, being able to unlock the magic of the "Happiest Place on Earth" all year long... - On Dec 3, 2024
Bill from TX asked“Please make recommendations for nice dinner dining at Disneyland. ”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Bill! You have come to the right place to discuss all of the delicious dining options throughout the Disneyland Resort! I highly recommend making a dining reservation prior to... - On Dec 1, 2024
Andrew from CA asked“Hello, I am taking my girlfriend to Anaheim Disney and she has always wanted to try the Mickey waffles at the plaza inn. There are currently no reservations available for breakfast so is it possible to be taken in without a reservation?”Melissa AnsweredHey there Andrew! How exciting that your trip to the "Merriest Place on Earth" is coming up so soon!We love to dine at Plaza Inn at Disneyland Park during our trips, and there's no better way to... - On Nov 30, 2024
Yoon from CA asked“Hello, I am currently active duty military. Am I able to buy a two-day hopper at the military ticketing office for a friend as a gift?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Yoon! Thank you for your service, and welcome to planDisney!The Disney Military Promotional Park Hopper Ticket Offer is such a wonderful opportunity for eligible US military members and... - On Nov 30, 2024
Vivian from NY asked“How long is the reservation at Bibbidi bobbidi salon? ”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Vivian! The Bibbidi Bobbibi Boutique at Disneyland Park is one of my favorite enchanting extras that little Princesses or Princes are able to experience during a visit. My... - On Nov 27, 2024
Jennifer asked“For next year (2025), what are the dates for the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort (holiday/Christnas decor)? Thank you!”Melissa AnsweredSeason's Greetings Jennifer! Holiday Time is upon us, I am loving all of the festive decor, Christmas trees, and yummy treats throughout the entire Disneyland Resort!For next year, the dates have... - On Nov 26, 2024
Khas from ON asked“Our family is planning to come florida for Disneyland this December , my sister work at USA Navy so she bought millitry tickets for theme park. She is expecting and she can't make it so , is she need to beii present to activate tickets?”Melissa AnsweredHello there Khas! Thank you to your sister for her service, and welcome to planDisney!It sounds like between the Holidays and a little Mouseketeer on the way, your family has a lot to look forward... - On Nov 26, 2024
Eve from WI asked“Hi, Last week we saw a basket at the gift shop at Animal Kingdom Park with small Muchling plushes that you could trade if you got doubles of the blind Muchling plushes. Are there other Disney stores at Disney Springs or the resorts that offer this?”Melissa AnsweredWelcome back to planDisney Eve! My kids love the Disney Munchlings and all of their fun scents! We have quite the collection of these adorable little plushes, it is always fun to see which one will... - On Nov 24, 2024
Abril from TX asked“Am I able to make a dinner reservation at a Disney hotel if not staying there”Melissa AnsweredHi there Abril! Thanks for bringing your great question to planDisney.It looks like your trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth" is coming up soon! The Disneyland Resort is such a magical place to... - On Nov 24, 2024
Natwalee from CA asked“First time cruising will be in fantasy thinking of doing epcot rather than magic kingdom as im coming fr soCal and wanted to get opinion if thats a good idea. I have a 4 year old who loves princesses. Advice on rides and food appreciated”Melissa AnsweredHello there Natwalee! Thanks for stopping by planDisney!If you're visiting from Southern California and visit the Disneyland Resort often, then you may want to consider visiting EPCOT instead of...View Related Videos
- On Nov 24, 2024
We asked our panelists…“I have a family of 6 and I would like to plan a visit in June of 2025. I would like to visit the one in California. I’m not sure if I will just find a hotel near Disney or rent one from the suggested list.”Melissa AnsweredHello there! Welcome to planDisney, we're so glad you're here!How exciting that you'll be planning a trip for your family next summer! You'll have plenty of time to research and plan for your... - On Nov 23, 2024
Easton from UT asked“I’m trying to book dinner for January 21,2025 in the Disneyland park, but all seem to be closed. Is there a reason? ”Melissa AnsweredWelcome to planDisney Easton!How exciting that your trip to the Disneyland Resort is coming up so soon! I love having a Disney trip to look forward to after the holidays, it really does help beat...
