Kellie! Welcome to planDisney! I could not be more excited for your family's special trip to the Happiest Place on Earth coming up so soon! I bet you're all counting down the days.
Where to stay during your visit to Disneyland is a big decision, Kellie, and I'm honored you trusted me with your question. Thank you!
My family loves staying at Good Neighbor Hotels - the convenience and comfort they provide have always been a great experience, for us. A few perks of the
Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel you mentioned are the close location to Disneyland Resort (just over a 10-minute walk) and the hotel's elaborate pool area. Your kids will love the pirate-themed, water playground with a huge pirate ship, slides, and water cannon. The recently renovated rooms are also spacious with a beautiful mid-century modern feel.
For assistance on booking your hotel, Kellie, I recommend you enlist an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner (travel agent) who specializes in planning trips to Disney parks. These experts have in-depth training specifically in Disney destinations and can assist in so much, including hotel searches, and can help you find the best fit for you and your family. What I love most about these amazing individuals is that their pixie-dusted services come at no additional charge to you than if you booked it yourself.
Oh boy! I also adore your idea of having a special one-on-one day with your 7-year-old, Kellie! Without the hustle and bustle of family dynamics and navigating a theme park, I have found it easier with my own boys to enjoy the moment and give extra attention when we're one-on-one, even if it's just to share a sweet treat together. These special moments help me realize the reason why we're at Disneyland in the first place, to enjoy each other and make memories together. I love this for you and your kiddo.
And there's also a very big milestone for 7-year-olds that you must know - they are officially old enough to utilize
Single Rider! Single Rider is a separate line on select attractions that usually moves much faster than the standard stand-by line. Single Riders fill up empty seats that aren't occupied by parties in the stand-by line. Ask the friendly Cast Member at the front of the attraction if there is a Single Rider option and, if there is, they can direct you to the designated queue. My boys were initially a little nervous about the possibility of not sitting next to my husband or I, but after we experienced the ride once all together, and decided on a meet-up spot at the attraction's exit, they were thrilled with the idea of not waiting as long to ride it again!
I hope I was able to provide some helpful information for you, Kellie! As you continue to prepare for your visit to the Happiest Place on Earth, don't hesitate to come back and
ask another question! I'd love to share more of my tips and recommendations for a truly magical time in Disneyland for you and your family, like maybe where to find the best Disneyland snacks or some strategies to make sure you hit all your top priorities.
See you real soon!
Warmest wishes,
McCayla