Welcome back to planDisney, Courtney! I'm so excited for you and happy to help you plan your first visit to The Happiest Place on Earth!
There's something so special about being able to visit the place that Walt Disney dreamed of, created, and once walked through! I love visiting Disneyland Resort and
Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is my favorite resort hotel! While a 1-bedroom suite would offer additional space to spread out, this
room selection does not include Club Level access. Having experienced Club Level at a Disney Resort Hotel, I would highly recommend reserving a room that includes Club Level access. For me, the benefits of having this access outweigh a larger room. If it will just be the three of you, a king bed in a Club Level room will help allow for more floor space and you could request a Crib Pack 'n Play for your one-year-old. The close proximity of this hotel to the theme parks makes it so easy to enjoy more time in the Club Level lounge.
Because you are visiting during the summer, I would suggest planning a resort day to enjoy the beautiful pools at your hotel. Of the three pools, my favorite is the Fountain Pool. There are
private poolside cabanas available and you can reserve them in advance by calling (714) 635-2300.
You can also
reserve dining up to 60 days before your check-in. There are so many amazing choices and I have some personal favorites! At
Disney California Adventure Park,
Lamplight Lounge is a perfect choice with beautiful views, great food and drinks, and amazing theming. I also love
Carnation Cafe located at
Disneyland Park. It's an ideal spot to take in the sights and sounds of Main Street, U.S.A. while enjoying some classic recipes that are original to Disneyland!
As a first-time visitor, there are some attractions unique to Disneyland Park that are not-to-be-missed! Be sure to ride
Alice in Wonderland where you'll climb onto a caterpillar and journey down the rabbit hole for an adventure with Alice! Hopefully, you can escape the Queen of Hearts and hop aboard
Casey Jr. Circus Train to take in the views of Fantasyland. Stroll on over to
Snow White's Enchanted Wish to visit Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and then brave
Mr. Toad's Wild Ride through the English countryside! These attractions do not have a height requirement, so you can enjoy these and many others with your little one.
Don't forget to pick up complimentary "1st Visit!" Celebration buttons and be sure to capture all of the magical memories you're going to make by using
Disney PhotoPass.
I'm wishing you and your family an absolutely magical first visit to Disneyland Resort! Please stop by planDisney if you have any other questions.
Happy Planning!
Lisa