Greetings, Tracey, and welcome to planDisney! I love
Pixar Place Hotel – the whimsical decor, bold colors, references to beloved films, and the amazing pool deck make for a great stay. Let's talk about how to access the theme parks from this hotel.
The side entrance into California Adventure that you are referring to closed in early 2026, and there are no current plans to reopen it. However, you still have a
convenient option for accessing the park – use the special entrance at the
Grand Californian Hotel. Cross Disneyland Drive at the intersection and enter the hotel's pedestrian gate using your Disneyland Resort hotel key. The California Adventure entrance is near Napa Rose, and you'll find yourself near Grizzly River Run once you scan into the park. If you prefer to enter from the front of the park, or if you're heading to Disneyland, access the
Downtown Disney District from the Grand Californian Hotel.
When I have a theme park reservation for Disneyland, I like to
ride the Monorail into the park if I'm staying at the Disneyland Hotel or Pixar Place Hotel. Just use the Downtown Disney District entrance located to the side of the hotel. You’ll be on your way to Tomorrowland before you know it! The Monorail is currently
closed for refurbishment, so check the
Hours & Events Calendar in advance of your visit to see if it will be running. If it's not operating, you can simply walk through the Downtown Disney District entrance until you reach the Esplanade.
One of the things I love most about Pixar Place Hotel is the rooftop deck. It provides an excellent view of the Disneyland fireworks, and the music is even simulcast over speakers, so you get to experience the show without having to leave the hotel. If you're traveling with young kids or don't want to be in the parks late, this is an easy option. This area also has
interactive games, fire pits, plenty of seating, and a
pool area. My kids and I spent a lot of time here during our last visit.
If you're visiting soon, I have exciting news to share! The Disneyland Resort just announced that
WALL-E and EVE will appear at Pixar Place Hotel on Wednesdays during Earth Month this year (April 2026). You can check with the Front Desk to see who else may stop by for a visit – perhaps Bing Bong or Joe Gardner will visit, too.
Tracey, I hope you have a wonderful time visiting the Happiest Place on Earth! If you think of any other questions, please reach out – we're always happy to help here at planDisney!
Your pal,
Kriss