Greetings, Rhianne! As a mom of a preschooler and a first-grader, I know how important it is to consider the ages and stages of development of your tiny Mouseketeers. So, it will be my pleasure to share some of my favorite recommendations for visiting Disneyland Resort with Little Ones!
Disneyland Resort Hotels: Our family still relies on mid-day naps and recovery so that we can fully enjoy both the early mornings and the nighttime spectaculars at Disneyland Resort. With this in mind, I recommend staying at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa which is just steps away (with its own dedicated entrance) to Disney California Adventure Park. You'll find a wonderful character dining option for breakfast at Storyteller's Cafe, featuring Mickey, Minnie, and their pals dressed in "adventure" outfits. Another great option is the Disneyland Hotel which offers classic and historic Disneyland theming, as well as character dining options at both breakfast and dinner buffets in Goofy's Kitchen. Guests of Disneyland Resort Hotels have the benefit of early entry to the theme parks 30 minutes in advance of regular park opening hours. This is a can't-miss time for our family because you can get so many attractions done early in the morning before the crowds start to filter in.
Disneyland Park: With several attractions with no height requirement, Disneyland Park is wonderful for families of all ages. We love Fantasyland and Tomorrowland for the best attractions for our kids' ages. Plus, you won't want to miss out on Mickey's Toontown and the newest attraction, Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway! Renovations are still taking place around Mickey's Toontown, but there is a beautiful new open lawn that is perfect for sitting down for a snack or getting those wiggles out! There are some fun interactive features throughout this area, too.
Disney California Adventure Park: Just a short walk across the esplanade there are some wonderful family-friendly attractions in Disney California Adventure Park. The immersive theming throughout Cars Land is a favorite for both the adults and kids in our family! If your kids need some space to run free, they can enjoy a wilderness-themed obstacle course and playspace in the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail. It's often shaded and it affords parents a chance to rest their feet while watching little ones play. Priceless!
Rhianne, one of the best things about Disneyland Resort is the proximity of the theme parks and hotels. Young families can maximize all the magic, while still maintaining a pace that works well for everyone in your party. There is so much to experience at the Happiest Place on Earth, but in my experience, the biggest magic is found in the simplest, unexpected moments connecting together as a family. If I can offer any other recommendations for your visit, please feel welcome to reach out again!
Wishing you unforgettable memories,
Tishra