Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Susan. I'm so excited for your upcoming stay at a Disneyland Resort Hotel. There are so many
perks to staying on property. For me, I believe the Extra Magic Hour is amazing, as you're able to enter Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park early!
On the day of check-in, you are absolutely able to take advantage of Extra Magic Hour. Hotel registration begins at 6:30am. Once you arrive to your Disneyland Resort Hotel, leave your luggage at the Bell Hop and proceed to Registration. You will be given your hotel room key, even though your room may not be ready. Rooms are guaranteed to be ready after 3pm but we've had instances when our rooms were ready before that time. If you provide them your phone number, they will be able to send you a text message when your room is ready. With your hotel room key and valid park admission, you'll be able to enjoy Extra Magic Hour.
I find that the side entrance at Grand Californian Hotel and Spa is hit-or-miss. Sometimes the wait time is long since there's only a few Cast Members checking bags and scanning tickets. But at other times, it's a fairly swift process.
I hope this information is helpful for you. I wish you and your 'ohana a magical trip to the Happiest Place on Earth. Please visit us again on the Panel if you have further questions.
See ya real soon,
Kiki