Hey there, Mitch. Welcome to planDisney. We're so glad you're here to share your question with us. Woohoo! I'm so excited that you are planning your first visit to the Disneyland Resort this summer. I'm honored and thrilled to help you on your way to your magical visit.
First things first, a valid theme park ticket and theme park reservation are both required for entry into both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. When you
purchase a theme park ticket from the Disneyland site, you will be prompted to select which park you will visit (or your starting park, if purchasing a Park Hopper) and the day(s) of your visit which will then create a
theme park reservation for your visit.
You may also want to consider purchasing your tickets in a
Disneyland Vacation Package. You have the choice of staying on property at a
Disneyland Resort Hotel or at a nearby
Good Neighbor Hotel. When I can, I love staying at a Disneyland Resort Hotel with all the wonderful benefits. The Disneyland Hotel is my favorite - it's such a classic and brings me all of the feelings of nostalgia (also, hello monorail waterslides!). Not only are you staying in the magic, you also gain
early entry into the parks which helps give you a head start on some popular attractions. Alice in Wonderland is one of my go-to's during early entry and a must-do for your first visit (this attraction is unique to Disneyland).
There are other benefits when booking a vacation package like Magical Extra Savings at participating locations in Downtown Disney District and an exclusive Walt Disney Travel Company pin and lanyard for all Guests (aged 3 and up) on your reservation. You also have the option to make payments along the way when purchasing a vacation package.
Now that tickets for your visit are squared away, you may want to start thinking about
making dining reservations for any table service locations on your must-try list (Lamplight Lounge in Disney California Adventure and Carnation Cafe in Disneyland are a couple of my favorites). Advance dining reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance.
Before your visit to the Happiest Place on Earth, I also recommend downloading the
Disneyland app and just peeking around to get familiar. The app is super helpful and I use it every time I visit (I make good use of the
Mobile Food and Beverage Ordering feature). There's a digital map with attraction wait times, entertainment showtimes and even a handy dandy guide to the
Disney100 Celebration. And be sure to visit City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A., or the Chamber of Commerce on Buena Vista Street for a complimentary "1st Visit!" button. These make a fun little keepsake to remember your magical visit.
I hope this gives you a good starting place for planning your magical visit, Mitch. As you continue to plan, please come back and ask us questions.
Even ask me directly, I'd love to share any tips and recommendations for the various parts of your stay. Until then, happy planning!
Michelle