Teens Taking Selfie with Donald Duck; in front of the castle during the day; front of bridge
  • On Dec 8, 2025
    Elijah from CA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    So I’m taking 5 other 21+ year olds to Disneyland/California Adventure, and it will be most of their first time ever going. I want them to feel the magic and feel like a kid again, so what attractions/rides/restaurants/shows should I prioritize going to?

    Hi Elijah! Welcome to planDisney! To all who come to this happy place, welcome! When Walt Disney created Disneyland, he wanted it to be a place for all ages and where everyone could feel like a kid again. Planning for what your friends will do at The Happiest Place on Earth is going to be so fun, so let's get started!

    I can't help but think about the classic rides in Fantasyland at Disneyland Park as a great place to start the day. I highly recommend a spin in teacups at the Mad Tea Party, soaring off to Neverland on Peter Pan's Flight, and sailing on the Happiest Cruise on Earth, "it's a small world"! There's also something so fun about driving a mini car on Autopia, and then heading over to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad for the wildest ride in the wilderness! 

    At Disney California Adventure Park, take a stroll down Route 66 to Cars Land and plan to ride everything there!! My two favorite attractions, Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: BREAKOUT! and Incredicoaster, are also not to be missed at California Adventure! 

    For dining, there's nothing quite like a character meal to make you feel young at heart! You could choose to have breakfast with Minnie and Friends at Plaza Inn, or enjoy a meal at Storytellers Cafe, where the characters vary based on the meal time you choose. I also love Lamplight Lounge for the views, vibes, and menu! You can make Advanced Dining Reservations up to 60 days in advance from the date you wish to dine.

    For entertainment, I can't say enough about the nighttime spectaculars! Wondrous Journeys and World of Color Happiness! are great ways to end a perfect Disney day. I also love Paint the Night Parade and Fantasmic! at Disneyland Park!

    Be sure to pick up complimentary "1st Visit" buttons for your friends! These can be found at City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland Park or at Guest Services in Disney California Adventure Park. I also suggest having a group photo taken in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle to capture the memory of your visit.
     
    If you have any other questions before you arrive, please feel free to send them to us at planDisney. We're all ears, and we would love to help!

    Wishing you magic,
    Lisa
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Meet the Panelist: Lisa, Colorado

Hi everyone! I’m Lisa from Colorado where I live Happily Ever After as a mom, wife, and kindergarten teacher! I was raised on all things Disney and fell in love with Walt Disney World Resort on my first visit at six years old. I'm lucky to be an annual Passholder at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World and I love visiting my laughing places as often as possible! I’m so excited to help you plan special memories at The Happiest Place on Earth and The Most Magical Place on Earth! Learn More About Lisa

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