Hi Holly,
Thanks for visiting planDisney with your question! I'd be happy to share my advice about making your Disneyland Resort park reservations.
As you mentioned, the
park reservation system works a bit differently depending on the type of ticket you have. With a one-day ticket, you’ll select which park you’ll be visiting for that day. If you have a
Park Hopper ticket, you’ll choose your starting park, and then after 11:00 AM, you’re free to hop between Disneyland and California Adventure as much as you'd like!
You’ve definitely done your research!
Early Entry is a fantastic perk that allows Disneyland Resort hotel guests to enter the designated theme park 30 minutes before the official park opening time. Currently, Disneyland Park offers Early Entry on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, while Disney California Adventure Park provides Early Entry on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
So I completely understand your desire to take advantage of not only Early Entry, but also the Grand Californian Hotel’s exclusive entrance into California Adventure. It’s a pro Disney tip that can really maximize your morning, and your park day!
When I checked the
Park Reservation Availability Calendar today, I noticed that for your trip date, park hopping starting at California Adventure is currently unavailable. But don’t let that get you down! Plans change all the time, and reservations can open up, especially in the week leading up to your visit. Make the park hopper reservation starting at Disneyland for now, and keep checking back to see if any California Adventure reservations become available.
Holly, did you know that
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort begins August 22 and runs through October 31? Over at Disney California Adventure,
Plaza de la Familia will also be in full swing from August 22 to November 2, celebrating the vibrant traditions of Día de los Muertos.
Even more exciting? Some of the entertainment and decor from the
Disneyland 70th Anniversary celebration will continue during Halloween Time! That means you’ll get to enjoy a little spooky magic and anniversary sparkle during your visit. It's truly the best of both worlds!
I hope this information was helpful, Holly! If you have any more questions or need additional tips, feel free to reach out to me or one of my fellow planDisney panelists. We’re always here to help sprinkle a little extra pixie dust on your Disney adventure.
Have a magical vacation!
– Melinda