Hi Shawnee! Welcome back to planDisney! Thanks so much for sending us another great question. I'm happy to help!
You're heading to The Happiest Place on Earth AND you get to stay at
Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa?! I'm so excited for you! This hotel happens to be my favorite of all the
Disneyland Resort Hotels. I have some fun ideas for your tweens and your family's first visit! The three pools at this beautiful hotel are amazing, and I highly recommend spending as much time at them as possible. The Redwood pool has a waterslide and you can enjoy lots of great food and beverage selections from the pool menu. The pools are heated this time of year and there is also a hot tub if you want another option to unwind and relax.
If your stay extends through the week, Movies at Night are currently offered on Thursday nights this month. I also spoke to a Cast Member who confirmed there is a "Create Your Own Animation" activity offered at the
Disneyland Hotel if you don't mind a short walk. This activity does require reservations and more information is available at the front desk if you are interested. Having stayed at this hotel many times, I also suggest spending some time in the spacious lobby. This is one of my family's favorite ways to end the day when staying at the hotel. There is a roaring fire you can cozy up to and a piano player throughout the day that plays classic Disney songs. Currently, there is a Disney100 character display to check out too! If you want to enjoy some snacks and drinks while spending time in the lobby,
GCH Craftsman Grill is located near the lobby and has a great selection of grab-and-go items. The blondie brownie is amazing!
Hearthstone Lounge also has a fantastic menu if you have late-night cravings.
Because this is your first visit to the Disneyland Resort, be sure to ask for "First Visit" buttons at the front desk. I also recommend downloading the
Disneyland Mobile App before you arrive to have all of the information and offerings at your fingertips.
I'm wishing you a magical vacation filled with fun, food, and wonderful memories! I hope you will stop by
planDisney again when you're ready to plan your next Disney vacation!
See ya real soon!
Smiles,
Lisa