Hi there, Betty. Welcome to
planDisney and thanks for bringing this great question to us! I have a good feeling about this trip to the
Happiest Place on Earth, and for good reason. First of all, you’re really thinking about how to make it great. Even if you just show up, you’re going to have a magical experience, but you’re trying to maximize your time for the friends and family in your group. Secondly, it sounds like you’re going to your favorite place with your favorite people. There is nothing better! Don’t underestimate the magic of experiencing Disneyland through the eyes of all those little ones you’re bringing with you! It’s going to be great!
There are many factors to consider when choosing which days will best suit your party. Will your kiddos last until the fireworks? Are the older kids thrill seekers? Are we trying to experience all the attractions, or do we want to have a more leisurely experience? It also really depends on what time of year you plan to visit. If you’re at the parks for Halloween Time or Holidays at the Disneyland Resort, the offerings may be a little different from those when you’re visiting in January or February. Some guests will do anything to avoid crowds, and some would prioritize what’s on the entertainment schedule. It all depends on your preferences!
If you’re visiting during peak times, which are roughly when kids are in school or on a break, the biggest consideration is whether you want to experience the nighttime spectaculars. Since the big shows only play on the weekends during off-peak times, I’d suggest Thursday and Friday so both days don’t have the weekend crowds, but you still get to see Fantasmic! and whichever fireworks show is playing, like Holiday Screams or Believe in Holiday Magic. If you are visiting during peak times, the middle of the week might be better since the shows will most likely play every night and the crowds should be less intense.
I can tell you want to make the most of your day, so be sure that you’re visiting on a day when there isn’t a Disneyland After Dark event or Oogie Boogie Bash. The parks close early to guests who are not attending the special ticketed event that takes place late into the night, which probably won’t be best for the little ones.
Be sure to take full advantage of the
Baby Care Center on Main Street if you need a quiet place to reset or pick up any supplies you’re running low on for your Mouseketeers. I’d also suggest staying close enough to the parks to shoot back to your room for that midday break or nap. That may help your little Hercules go the distance if you’re trying to experience the fireworks at the end of the night. The
Disneyland Mobile App may be your best resource to illuminate the possibilities of your trip. You can check kids' menus and mobile order food to save time, filter rides by height requirements and interests, and keep an eye on ride times and the entertainment schedule. You can even find where and when your favorite characters will be out and about for a picture!
Betty, I hope you have the best time on your visit to the Disneyland Resort. A trip with friendly families sounds like a dream, and a memory your children will cherish forever! If you have any other questions,
let me know, and I’d be happy to help further, or just come on back to planDisney!
Have a magical day!
Corey