Hey Tori!
Thanks so much for stopping by with your question. I'd be happy to help you plan a route to the parks today. I can understand wanting to conserve that pixie-dusted energy, especially with so much to see and do in honor of the 70th Anniversary!
I took a look at the park map to orient myself to where I believe you are staying, near the Simba lot. I think your estimated travel time of 25 minutes sounds about right if you are walking to the Main Entrance Esplanade. Depending on which park you are going to, my recommendation would be to walk up Disneyland Drive to the entrance of
Downtown Disney near the Disneyland Hotel. You will go through security and walk just a few feet to catch the
Disneyland Monorail straight to Tomorrowland in Disneyland Park! Not only is this a fun way to travel, but you will get to rest your feet going both to and from the parks that day.
Generally speaking, I would recommend this route through Downtown Disney, whether or not you decide to take the Monorail. There is a lot to see and do while you stroll. One shortcut that might shave a few minutes off your commute is to wind through the Grand Californian. I say might because it is a winding route. You can enter through the front door on Disneyland Drive and then follow the signage to the Downtown Disney entrance from within the hotel. The
Grand Californian also has a designated entrance for hotel Guests to California Adventure Park. After park opening, other Guests may be able to enter and exit via this entrance, but it is at the discretion of the Cast Members. Either way, all Guests can use the entrance to Downtown Disney from within the hotel.
I will say that taking a midday break at the Grand Californian is one of my best Disneyland tips. The hotel is beautiful and grand, and the lobby is cool and comfortable. There are tons of places to sit, and you can even grab yourself a sweet treat from the Grand Californian Great Hall Cart to enjoy while you rest and recharge. My planDisney pals and I love to grab a reservation at the
GCH Craftsman Grill out by the pool. The food is delicious, and it feels a bit off the beaten path and out of the park hustle and bustle. I highly recommend the Poke Bowl or the Hot Dog of the Month!
Tori, I sure hope this has been helpful as you put the finishing touches on your planning. We love talking all things Disneyland, so feel free to drop by with another question or two!
Wishing you a magical visit!
Tara