Matterhorn mountain peak with waterfall and alpine trees
  • Jul 31, 2026
    Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Dear Panelists, I hope you’re having a wonderful day! How would you suggest I navigate the parks throughout the day to experience the biggest attractions without feeling rushed? Which attractions would you consider absolute “must-dos” for a first-time?

    Hey friend! Welcome to planDisney. I'm so excited to hear that you'll be visiting the Disneyland Resort for the first time very soon. Let's chat about how to make the most of your visit!

    There's nothing quite like the feeling of stepping through the tunnel to leave today behind and enter the world of yesterday, tomorrow and fantasy. Whenever I'm visiting a park for the first time, I like to make a short list of attractions and things that I want to make sure I experience before I leave. For me, this would include Rise of the Resistance, the Matterhorn Bobsleds and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Disneyland Park and Radiator Springs Racers and Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: BREAKOUT! in Disney California Adventure Park. 

    I love the history and nostalgia of the parks, so I would also add Alice in Wonderland to my list as this attraction is unique to Disneyland and can't be found anywhere else. How special is that? I would probably also hop on the Fire Engine and take a ride down Main Street, U.S.A. This is the very truck that Walt himself would often drive around the parks. The last photo of Walt Disney at Disneyland also features him seated next to his pal Mickey on this truck.

    I often find that attraction wait times tend to be lower in the mornings, so I recommend arriving as early as possible. You just might be surprised at how many attractions you can cross off your list. The Single Rider line is also available at select attractions and a great way to often board attractions sooner if you're traveling solo, or even with a group if you don't mind splitting up. 

    Disneyland has so much to offer that it's difficult to experience everything that the resort has to offer in a short amount of time. I love that you're already going in with the mindset that you don't want to be rushed. If you make a list of things that are most important and can accomplish that, the rest is gravy! I encourage you to take a look at all of the attractions and where they are on the map. This can give you an idea of what route you might like to take through the parks for the day. 

    I hope this is helpful as you're preparing for your upcoming visit, friend. Please come back to see us with any other questions that you might have. And be sure to stop into one of the shops on Main Street, U.S.A and ask a Cast Member for a complimentary "1st Visit!" button to commemorate the occasion. Here's wishing you a magical time at the Happiest Place on Earth!

    Michelle
thumbnail image for Michelle

Meet the Panelist: Michelle, Oregon

Hey everyone! I'm Michelle, a Disney loving adult from the Pacific Northwest who loves to travel. Whether I'm adventuring solo, teaming up with my pals and family or making sure my husband is getting the most of his visit with accessibility; I'm here to answer your questions and share that magical feeling you'll get when visiting the Disneyland Resort. Learn More About Michelle

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