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  • On Apr 20, 2023
    Emily from MD Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Looking forward to taking my kids (ages 8 and 6) for their first visit to Disneyland Resort this summer. What are some movies and shows we should watch before our trip to get ourselves pumped up to be fully immersed in the Parks?

    A warm welcome to you, Emily!

    Hello again from all of us at planDisney! Your question put a huge smile on my face because one of my favorite things about the Disney Parks is their ability to completely immerse you in the magic and detail of their worlds. I know that you and your kids are going to have a fantastic time at the Disneyland Resort, and it's my pleasure to make some show recommendations for you! Since you are a Walt Disney World veteran, I'll be focusing on Disneyland Resort specific themes. All of these recommendations may be found on Disney+ currently.

    • Cars: This tops my list because it'll prepare you and your kids for an entire land and one of the best attractions there: Radiator Springs Racers! The theming is second to none and for something special, try to be there around sunset (ask a Cast Member what time the Neon Lighting will be). You'll see a wonderful recreation of the scene at 1:25:00 from the movie!
    • Marvel: You'll have to judge for yourself whether your kids are ready for this content, but having some familiarity with Marvel will help them appreciate Avengers Campus. Specifically, the Guardians of the Galaxy, Dr. Strange and Spider-Man are all featured prominently. You'll also be visiting over the premiere of 'Rogers: The Musical' at the Hyperion Theater in Disney California Adventure! The breakout song "Save The City" can be seen during the first episode of Hawkeye and was also performed during the D23 Expo last year.
    • Mickey Mouse shorts: Mickey's Toontown just reopened and is a wonderful place for your kids to play and enjoy a picnic! The actual ride portion of Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway is nearly identical to Disney Hollywood Studios, but the queue is truly wonderful! You'll see props from the shorts Lonesome Ghosts, Steamboat Willie, The Sorcerer's Apprentice and Mickey and the Beanstalk, among many others. 
    • Chip 'n Dale Rescue Rangers: if your kids are interested in Chip 'n' Dale's GADGETcoaster in Mickey's Toontown, just watching one episode should familiarize them with the characters.
    • Alice in Wonderland: This is one of my favorite dark rides in Fantasyland. It sits next to the Mad Tea Party and the whole area gives off wonderful Alice vibes.
    • The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad: Mr. Toad's Wild Ride is my son's favorite!
    • Monsters, Inc: The dark ride Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! located in Disney California Adventure recreates the plot from this movie.
    • Who Framed Roger Rabbit: Your kids will better appreciate Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin in Mickey's Toontown.
    • Mary Poppins: No attraction is tied to this wonderful film, but if you ride King Arthur Carrousel, tell them about the lead horse Jingles and how the idea of Disneyland came about because of a carousel. In fact, the bench upon which Walt Disney was sitting when he first thought of Disneyland can be viewed in the foyer of The Disneyland Story presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.

    Emily, I hope that was helpful for you. I could go on and on about this and I'd be happy to help you further if you'd like! Feel free to write back to me or any of my pals at planDisney!

    “So hurry back, we would like your company.”
    -Al

thumbnail image for Al

Meet the Panelist: Al, California

Ahoy there from the heart of Steinbeck Country in central California! I've been visiting the Disneyland Resort since childhood and fell in love with the sense of absolute immersion that the Imagineers have achieved. My favorite attraction is Pirates of the Caribbean because where else can you go from a California day to an evening boat ride in the bayou with "salty old pirates"? I'm a veterinarian and an all-around Disney geek and enthusiast. I'd love to help you plan your next Disneyland trip! Learn More About Al

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