Heya, Bourke! All aboard and welcome to planDisney! It sounds like you're on the right track to a fantastic Disneyland Resort visit. There's just something so magical about a good train ride, isn't there?
You're asking specifically about the Lilly Belle Presidential Car, which has traditionally been a highlight of the
Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour. Unfortunately, as of right now, this particular tour isn't currently being offered to Guests. It was paused to make way for the exciting new
A Story of Celebration: 70th Anniversary Guided Tour at Disneyland Resort. I actually had the incredible opportunity to take part in the Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour earlier in the spring with my fellow planDisney panelists,
Kriss and
JoAnna, and it truly was such a unique look into Walt Disney's deep love for locomotives. I sincerely hope this tour makes a grand return in the future so you can enjoy it. It was so cool, especially since it included that special ride in the Lilly Belle!
Bourke, even though the guided tour that featured the Lilly Belle isn't currently operating, there are still wonderful ways to indulge in Walt's lifelong passion for trains during your visit! Of course, you can always take a leisurely grand circle tour aboard the
Disneyland Railroad itself, stopping at different stations to explore the park's various lands. The Grand Canyon scene is my favorite—hop aboard at the Tomorrowland Station if you’d like to experience it! It's a fantastic way to see the park from a different perspective and enjoy the classic narrated journey. For a taste of smaller-scale, whimsical railroading, be sure to hop on
Casey Jr. Circus Train in Fantasyland, offering charming views of Storybook Land Canal Boats. My favorite seat is in the very back—you can watch the scenery drift by as you glide along the track in reverse. And for those who enjoy a more thrilling ride with a distinct train theme, don't miss a wild runaway adventure on
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Frontierland! (Fun fact: This was my very first roller coaster at the Walt Disney World Resort!). Each of these attractions offers its own unique nod to the magic of trains at Disneyland Park.
Beyond the attractions, you can also spot charming details throughout Disneyland Park that pay homage to Walt's fascination with trains. Keep an eye out for the original Disneyland Railroad signs, or consider stopping by the Main Street Station to admire the beautifully maintained locomotives before they begin their journey. Walt truly envisioned the Disneyland Railroad as an essential part of the park experience, circling the lands and offering a moment of relaxation and transition for Guests. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the very heart of his dream. And who knows... you just might catch a glimpse of the Lilly Belle Presidential Car making laps around the park on the Disneyland Railroad during your next visit! While not guaranteed, sometimes she makes an appearance, and it's always a delightful surprise for Guests to see.
I hope this helps you plan your visit, Bourke, and that you have a truly wonderful time at the Happiest Place on Earth! If any other questions chug into your mind, please feel free to steam on back to planDisney!
Cody