Tiana and little girl at DLR
  • On Aug 30, 2026
    Ashlyn from TX Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Buying through Disney website a good neighbor hotel package with tickets for Disneyland. Check in on 18th, first park day 19th. Daughter turns 3 on 19th. Will she need a ticket or is she still free since check in is before her birthday.

    Greetings, Ashlyn, and welcome to planDisney! I love that you're planning a visit to the Disneyland Resort for your daughter's third birthday. What a special celebration. Good Neighbor Hotels are a great way to stay close to the magic, and it's convenient to book everything through a vacation package.

    Ashlyn, that third birthday is a unique milestone when it comes to Disney Parks. Once she turns three, your daughter will need a valid theme park ticket and reservation to enter Disneyland or California Adventure. Theme park admission is required for all children ages three and older. You can purchase your daughter's theme park ticket separately from your vacation package for the 19th.

    I'm sorry if that news comes as a Bibbidi Bobbidi Bummer. Let's turn this pumpkin into a carriage with some fun ideas to make this birthday visit extra special:

    • Pick up a complimentary birthday button at the start of the day for your daughter to wear. Many retail locations and City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A. have them. We've had Cast Members, Characters, and even other Guests wish us a happy birthday after noticing the button.
    • Consider Character Dining. It's fun to be visited by Disney Characters during a meal, and the food is great!
    • Let your daughter pick out a special souvenir, like a bubble wand, plush toy, or doll. You can also treat her to something sweet, like an ice cream sundae or crispy churro!
    • Once your daughter turns three and has a theme park ticket, she'll be eligible to visit Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, which is a fun experience for little ones. One of the Fairy Godmother's Apprentices would help your daughter transform into a princess with styled hair, makeup, and more. Advance reservations are highly recommended, so check available dates and times if you're interested in doing this during your trip!
    Don't forget about your Walt Disney Travel Company vacation package perks. Present the voucher included in your Travel ePackage at the designated Disneyland Resort location to receive your exclusive Walt Disney Travel Company collectible pin and lanyard (supplies limited). You'll also have an opportunity to get discounts at participating locations in the Downtown Disney District.

    Ashlyn, on behalf of all of us at planDisney, I'd like to wish your daughter a very happy birthday. I hope you and your family enjoy a truly magical visit. If you'd like to talk with a Cast Member about your upcoming travel plans over the phone, you can give the Vacation Packages line a call. Of course, you can also reach out to us here at planDisney again – we're always happy to help!

    Your pal,
    Kriss
thumbnail image for Kriss

Meet the Panelist: Kriss, California

Hi, there! I’m Kriss, a wife, mom of two mini Mouseketeers, and lifelong Orange County local. As a Magic Key holder who visits the Disneyland Resort often, you have a friend in me when it comes to tips and tricks for making the most of your magical visit. Plant-based dining, navigating the parks with kids, transportation, pin trading, itineraries for various preferences – I’ve got you covered! Learn More About Kriss

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