Welcome to planDisney, Jennifer!
As a parent of two little Mouseketeers, I know the importance of returning to the hotel quickly at the end of the evening. By that time, I'm just trying to get the kids into bed as soon as possible before they have a monumental (anti-magical) meltdown!
If you're staying on the Disneyland Drive side of the Disneyland Resort, you'll be pleased to know that it's super easy to walk to the theme parks. In fact, Guests staying at
Disneyland Hotel and
Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel have to enter through this side too. Depending on your hotel location, Jennifer, you'll want to make your way to Downtown Drive. Right next to Disneyland Hotel is an entrance to
Downtown Disney District. You'll need to go through security at this point. Once you do that, walk through Downtown Disney District until you arrive at Disneyland Esplanade. If you look left, you'll see the entrance to
Disneyland Park. If you look right, you'll see the entrance to
Disney California Adventure Park. Magic waits! You can then take the same route home at the end of the day.
I hope that's helpful, Jennifer. What a fantastic way to celebrate a birthday. If you're looking for a special way to celebrate, my own children really enjoyed dining at
Goofy's Kitchen at Disneyland Hotel. They were able to meet Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Chip 'n' Dale, and of course Goofy! The food was pretty great too.
Have a great trip! Thanks for stopping by planDisney.
Mike