Hi Navi! Thanks for dropping by planDisney.
First trips are so exciting! It sounds like you want to introduce your friend to all the magic of Disneyland Resort. There are some great things to do that usually require a little planning. Let's see what things we can plan to make your friend's trip extra special. She's obviously got a friend in you!
Outside of the parks, try
Napa Rose in Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. The food is divine and it's a very elevated setting with impeccable service. At Disney California Adventure Park,
Carthay Circle Restaurant on Buena Vista Street is also a very special dining experience with a classic Hollywood-style setting. For an iconic, immersive dining location, go with
Blue Bayou Restaurant in New Orleans Square in Disneyland Park where you'll dine in perpetual twilight in the bayou as boats float by. The cuisine is Cajun and Creole-inspired, and while the menu frequently changes, you'll currently find the popular Monte Cristo on the lunch menu. We've enjoyed our meals at all of these Table Service dining locations and highly recommend them.
Alternately, you could go with a
Character Dining meal, so your friend can meet her favorite Characters, while you dine. There are several different options both inside and outside the park, and different locations feature different Characters. If you happen to know her favorites, it can guide your choice. Or take a peek at the menus if you want to be guided by your appetite!
Goofy's Kitchen in Disneyland Hotel is a really classic choice.
Another idea is to pair your meal with a great view of the fireworks in Disneyland Park.
Tomorrowland Skyline Terrace dining package available in Tomorrowland offers bird's eye views of the nighttime entertainment and the twinkling skyline of the park. When selecting your night, be sure to check the
Entertainment Schedule! Nighttime entertainment varies and is subject to cancelation.
Dining reservations typically open 60 days in advance early in the morning. All of these suggestions are subject to availability and can be hard spots to grab if you're not ready to make your reservation when they open up. Make a reminder on your mobile device for that 60-day mark for each day of your visit!
One last suggestion for some extra special things to consider: Check out the
Enchanting ExtrasCollection. Whether your friend is a big Star Wars fan who would love to build her very own lightsaber or you think she'd enjoy a tour on Main Street, U.S.A., there are a number of offerings that will make your Disneyland Resort trip that much more magical. And don't forget her complimentary
Celebration Button, which you can pick up at Guest Services in Disney California Adventure Park or City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland Park. This complimentary button will let everyone know she's celebrating her first visit, and you never know what magic will happen!
Have a magical day.
Elizabeth