Hello, Mitesh, and welcome to planDisney! The first trip to the Disneyland Resort is so special! I'm happy to share some tips to help you make the most of your budget as you plan this magical vacation for your family. Let's talk about ways to save on tickets, hotels, dining, and more.
After you decide how many days you'd like to visit, see if you can take advantage of any special offers. For example, since you'll be visiting before September 7, 2026, take a look at the limited-time
Kids' Summer Ticket Offer, which allows children ages 3 to 9 to visit for as little as $50 per day. Remember that a theme park ticket is required for Guests ages 3 and older.
If you'll be spending multiple days at the Resort, you may be able to save by choosing the one-park-per-day ticket instead of adding the
Park Hopper option. Spending a full day in each park can be a great way to experience everything at a more relaxed pace, especially on a first visit.
The
Lightning Lane Multi Pass is a popular add-on that provides access to shorter wait times at popular attractions. However, it's possible to have a wonderful visit without it. Instead, get to the parks early in the morning. The first two hours after the park opens are excellent for experiencing attractions, since the wait times are typically shorter than at other times of the day.
Next up, let's talk about where to stay. Check out
Good Neighbor Hotels. These Disney-approved hotels offer accommodations for any travel size and budget, and are not far from the parks. You can even
book a vacation package to secure your hotel stay and theme park tickets together.
I have some ideas to save in the park, too. You can bring your own food, as long as it doesn't require heating, processing, or refrigeration, and isn't in a glass container. There are bottle-filling stations across the park, so bring a refillable water bottle. Since you're traveling with a toddler, pack a stroller to save on the cost of renting one. Speaking of the little one, head to the
Baby Care Center if you'd like a comfortable place for diaper changes, feedings, and more. It's complimentary to use, and there is a location in each park.
Did you know that your visit will be during
Halloween Time? You can look forward to festive décor, seasonal treats, and special entertainment. As your trip approaches, check the Disneyland Resort
Hours & Events Calendar to see what shows and entertainment will be offered during your visit.
My biggest tip for your first family visit is not to worry about trying to do everything. Pick a few must-do attractions, enjoy the entertainment, and soak up the atmosphere. Even the simplest moments may stand out. To commemorate this trip, make sure to pick up a complimentary "1st Visit" button – many retail locations have them.
Mitesh, please reach out if you have any other questions as you continue planning. We'd love to help you create a magical first
Disneyland Resort vacation.
Wishing you magic,
Kriss