Happy Halloween Time, Susan, and welcome to planDisney! Guided tours are a great addition to any Disneyland Resort visit. As a mom of two little ones, I understand and appreciate your question about
Disney’s Happiest Haunts: The Villains’ Trail Guided Tour.
I stopped at Tour Gardens inside Disneyland (which is where Guests go to check in for guided tours) to chat with a Cast Member about this Halloween-themed tour. The Cast Member mentioned that the tour typically includes a telling of the tale of Sleepy Hollow, and there's a photo opportunity with the animatronic Witch from Snow White. However, the tour can be enjoyed by Guests of all ages. The experience sounds fairly lighthearted overall, and I would personally feel comfortable taking my kids along for this tour. Keep in mind that the tour includes a Lightning Lane entry to
Haunted Mansion Holiday, which is a dark attraction that may be a little scary for some kids. My four-year-old loves searching for Jack Skellington, Sally, and even Oogie Boogie as we glide through the attraction.
As you mentioned, Guests who go on this tour also receive reserved viewing for the
Halloween Screams nighttime spectacular. The Cast Member told me that the reserved viewing area is near Sleeping Beauty Castle, closer to the Partners statue. Ideally, you'd take the tour on a date when fireworks are scheduled, which you can look for on the
Hours & Events Calendar. The calendar provides entertainment information as far as six weeks out, so you should be able to see details for your trip within the next week.
Susan, I'm so excited for your Halloween Time visit. Here are some of my favorite experiences that you might want to add to your list:
- Check out Cars Land in California Adventure – it's totally decked out for the season, down to even the smallest details. You might even see Lightning McQueen or Mater in fun costumes! There are seasonal versions of attractions in the area, too.
- Try some of the Halloween-themed eats! There's something for everyone – pumpkin cold brews for parents, sweet treats for kids, and savory menu items for mealtime. Browse through the Foodie Guide on the Disney Parks Blog and make a list of the items that sound the best to you.
- Take the kids to the Mickey's Trick and Treat show in California Adventure. This interactive show features songs, video projections, special effects, and an engaging story centered around Mickey and his pals.
- Grab an autograph book for the kids and make plans to meet Disney Characters all dressed for the season! Character Dining is a memorable experience that your kids may enjoy, too!
Susan, I hope this information has sprinkled a little pixie dust (and pumpkin spice) onto your plans. If you think of any other questions, please reach out. We're always happy to help here at planDisney!
Your pal,
Kriss