Welcome to planDisney, Sarah! Your Disneyland Resort adventure is almost here, and visiting during the holiday season is one of the most enchanting times of the year. Between the sparkling decorations, the scent of gingerbread wafting through the air, and the festive music around every corner, it feels like stepping into a holiday postcard come to life.
In most cases, you do not have to be a Guest of
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel to use its private entrance into
Disney California Adventure. It’s one of the loveliest ways to enter the park and it instantly immerses you in the atmosphere of Grizzly Peak. However, there are a few important details to keep in mind. You’ll still need to show a valid theme park ticket and a confirmed park reservation for Disney California Adventure on that date. At particularly busy times (like park opening, or the start of a special event such as Oogie Boogie Bash), access through the Grand Californian entrance may be temporarily limited to hotel Guests only.
And here’s a little tip: you don’t need a hotel room key or park ticket to use the Grand Californian’s other entrance that leads into the
Downtown Disney District. It’s a wonderfully convenient way to step out for a bite to eat or a bit of shopping without leaving the magic completely behind.
If you’d like another unique and scenic way to enter Disneyland, consider boarding the
Disneyland Monorail! The station in Downtown Disney is only a short walk from the Grand Californian entrance, and the ride takes you straight into Tomorrowland (talk about traveling in style). Riding at sunset is particularly stunning, with twinkling lights beginning to shimmer across the parks.
Before you head off, I definitely recommend taking a few moments to enjoy the Grand Californian’s breathtaking lobby. During the holidays, the towering Christmas tree, standing about 35 feet tall, fills the entire space with a warm, golden glow. It’s the perfect spot to sip hot chocolate by the grand fireplace while listening to the gentle notes of live piano music drifting through the air.
No matter how you choose to enter or exit the parks, Sarah, I hope your visit is filled with unforgettable memories, cozy holiday moments, and plenty of Disney magic. If you have any other questions as your trip approaches, please stop by planDisney again. We’re always delighted to help make your Disneyland dreams come true.
Wishing you the most magical time,
David