Hi, Teresa! Thanks for bringing your question to the Disney Parks Moms Panel!
Currently,
theme park tickets are the same price regardless of the time of day they are purchased. The only exception would be if you happen to be visiting the Disneyland Resort as part of a convention, then twilight tickets are usually available for purchase through your convention organizer.
If you don’t want to purchase tickets for that first day, there are lots of things to enjoy outside the parks that don’t require a ticket! The
Downtown Disney District is a vibrant area that offers tons of great shopping options and lots of delicious places to eat. Additionally, there is often live music to enjoy on the stage in front of the Rainforest Cafe. Or, you could enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants located in the Disneyland Resort Hotels. You could even start your Disneyland Resort vacation by dining with Goofy and his pals for dinner at
Goofy’s Kitchen in the Disneyland Hotel. If cocktails are what you are in search of after a day of travel, then definitely head to
Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar. I think everyone should experience Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar at least once to indulge in the unique drink concoctions and all the zany fun that unfolds in this tropical watering hole. Just keep in mind that if you have kids in your party, they are welcome here until 8:00 p.m.
I hope you have a fabulous visit to the Disneyland Resort!
-Linda M.