Family AA Taking Photo with Mickey and Minnie Mouse
  • On Jan 31, 2026
    Carol from KY Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    This is our first trip to Disneyland; we have been to DisneyWorld 8 times. Do we use our Magicbands in Disneyland? If so, how do we link them?

    Welcome back to planDisney, Carol! Your very first visit to Disneyland is just around the corner, and that is so exciting. We’re always delighted to help Guests like you put the finishing touches on an upcoming adventure, and I’m happy to walk you through this next step!

    Let’s talk MagicBands! If you already have a MagicBand+, I have great news: you can absolutely use it at the Disneyland Resort. If your MagicBand is an older version, however, it won’t be compatible here, and you’ll need to upgrade to a MagicBand+. You can find MagicBand+ options on the shopDisney website or at several locations throughout the Disneyland Resort, including select hotel gift shops and the Downtown Disney District.

    Linking your MagicBand+ is simple using the Disneyland mobile app. Start by signing in to your MyDisney account, then tap the menu icon (the three horizontal lines) in the bottom-right corner of the screen. Scroll down to the Account section and select “MagicBand+.” From there, tap the blue plus sign in the top corner and follow the prompts to link your band. Once it’s connected, you’ll be ready to scan into attractions, access Lightning Lane entrances, and enjoy some fun interactive surprises. During select nighttime spectaculars like Fantasmic!, your MagicBand+ may even light up and vibrate. One of my favorite little details is how it glows red at the end of Haunted Mansion (a perfect reminder to hurry back).

    Since this is your first visit to the Disneyland Resort, I’d also love to share a few Q-Tips for attractions and experiences you won’t want to miss. Disneyland Park is home to several classic dark rides that feel especially charming and intimate compared to their Florida counterparts. Fantasyland is a must, and Snow White’s Enchanted Wish is a standout. After its enhancements, the attraction features updated effects, beautiful projections, and a more hopeful ending that’s sure to leave everyone feeling more Happy than Grumpy. Alice in Wonderland is another favorite, especially because of its unique ride layout that offers a whimsical view of Fantasyland as you travel between levels.

    Over in Disney California Adventure, Avengers Campus and Cars Land are can’t-miss areas. Avengers Campus is buzzing with energy, and you never know which superhero might be recruiting or training nearby. Cars Land, meanwhile, delivers smiles every single time. Whether you’re racing through Radiator Springs Racers, bouncing along on Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, or spinning through Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters, it’s hard not to feel swept up in the fun.

    If more questions pop up as your trip approaches, Carol, please don’t hesitate to stop by planDisney again. We’re always here to help you plan a visit filled with magical moments and unforgettable memories.

    Enjoy your Disney Day!

    David
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Meet the Panelist: David, California

Hey there! My name is David but my friends (like you!) call me "Q." My wife, our twin daughters, and I have been Disney fans our entire lives. In fact, most our major life milestones have been celebrated at Disneyland and California Adventure, from our honeymoon to celebrating our daughters' entrance into elementary school. As an amateur photographer, attention to detail is key and I bring that same spirit to helping you plan the most magical trip. Whatever your question is, I have a Q-Tip for you! Learn More About David

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