Disneyland: Top Picks!

Disneyland is truly one of my favorite places on earth, and even when the crowds are high and the weather is hot, I have a wonderful time. I spent a few years living in Southern California when I was a kid, which is when I got to experience my first trips to Disneyland. I remember walking down Main Street and the excitement as we made our way towards the Sleeping Beauty Castle. I remember enjoying parades and performances with characters from Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Hercules (which were all new films at the time). I marveled at the fireworks at night as my mom or dad carried me as my feet grew tired. My favorite land as a child was Toontown, where I felt like I was being transported to an animated world. I loved meeting my favorite characters Goofy and his son Max there and couldn’t resist heading to Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin (which I found out later in life my mom dreaded…haha!).

While Toontown isn’t my favorite anymore (but still holds a place in my heart), I sincerely believe that Disneyland is for people of all ages to enjoy (as long as you have a bit of patience!). I have been back three times since I lived in the area and I am confident that I really appreciate it more as an adult. It is nice to meet all the height requirements (there were quite a few years I wondered what could possibly be inside the Indiana Jones ride that I couldn’t go on) as well as enjoy the food and atmosphere more. 

I am so thankful Disney exists, because not only do the movies bring me happiness, but Disney inspired my love of art and animation. Whenever I have a bad day, I can think about a memory I have had at Disneyland and it makes me a little less sad. 

Disneyland Entrance

A few weeks ago though, I got to experience my first trip to Disney World. I honestly didn’t think much about wanting to go until later in life, but as a Disney fan, it seemed like something I would have to do sometime in my life. My mom and I talked about going in the fall for about 5 years, and this year we finally did it. Although it was very sweaty and hot, I had a wonderful time and walked away with many new happy memories. It was amazing to finally see all four parks in person especially since I had wondered for years what places like Epcot and Animal Kingdom were really like.

I will share my favorite moments from Disney World later, but today I want to focus on Disneyland. I’ll share my favorite attractions and food (since I think food is part of the Disney experience!). My photos aren’t the best here, but I think that just means I always have so much fun that I’m not thinking about taking photos. :)

Downtown Disney:

Refried Beans and Cheese Burrito and Tableside Guacamole at Tortilla Jo’s: This is a prefect way to start your trip, although you will be incredibly stuffed and say you won’t be able to eat ever again. I ordered just a basic bean and cheese burrito, but found it so yummy (they also have chicken, beef, and pork burritos). There are music and performers around and having fresh guacamole is one of my favorite snacks, so it is hard to pass it up since it is made tableside here.

Caramel Apples at Marceline's Confectionery: The caramel and candy apples at Disneyland are amazing. They are practically works of art and there is usually a featured flavor each month. I always say that when I retire, I want to work at Disney part-time helping to make the caramel apples for the rest of my life. You can also get these on Main Street in the park, but it is a little more convenient to pick up one of these during a walk around Downtown Disney. They will also slice it for you if you are ready to eat it!

Disneyland:

Firstly, I must say that after my trip to Disney World, I came away favoring Disneyland. This might be out of nostalgia, since  it was the first Disney Park I went to and I have been there more times, but I overall find Disneyland to be more charming and classic. What I like about it is that it doesn’t need to be a huge vacation, it can be just a day or two of fun. While it is a smaller space, there is still so much to do and it really does feel like you are walking around Walt’s dream.

Walt and Mickey statue near Sleeping Beauty Castle

Main Street USA is the epitome of that charming feel. Northing really beats walking down Main Street, looking at the beautiful window displays, smelling the tasty treats, seeing the Mickey balloons, and witnessing all sorts of people from many different places come together to one magical place. After journeying down Main Street and taking the obligatory castle photos, my overall favorite land in Disneyland is New Orleans Square. There is just something so special about it. I go on The Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean each time, and always have a childlike, joyful feeling as I walk around. Plus there are Mickey beignets to enjoy!

ATTRACTIONS:

My top favorite rides are a few that Disney World also has, but must say I prefer the version at Disneyland (but don’t worry Disney World fans, there are a few I favored there too!).

Space Mountain in Tomorrowland: I love to walk over to this ride as soon as the park opens for the day and ride it a few times in a row before the lines start to build. Compared to Disney World, this version feels faster, smoother, darker and, most differently, features memorable theme music. I also personally prefer that it seats two people per row, versus one at Disney World (I guess I like to hold on to someone during roller coasters!). The queue isn’t quite as exciting as Disney World’s, but Space Mountain is probably my favorite ride ever and Disneyland’s just can’t be beat in my opinion (…although I have read that Disneyland Paris’ version is pretty amazing).

Thunder Mountain in Frontierland: Thunder Mountain is such a classic ride, and I always make a point to ride it a few times each time I visit. It also makes me think of my grandma, because this was her favorite ride to go on when she would come to visit us and we would spend a day at the park. While the differences from the Thunder Mountain in Disneyland and Disney World aren’t huge, Disneyland did refurbish the ride a few years ago, which puts this version of the runaway mine train ride in the lead (…back to Disneyland Paris though. I’ve seen that their Thunder Mountain is on an island. Anyone want to by me a ticket?).

It’s A Small World in Fantasyland: Whether you love the song or not, this is a calming ride and also a great way to cool off from the heat. The Disney World version could definitely use the update Disneyland’s version got. Now that they have actual Disney characters throughout the ride, it is so much fun to spot them and smile at the adorable faces and enjoy the happy tune.

Storybook Land Canal Boats in Fantasyland: I’ve always loved miniature toys and sculptures, so this ride is right up my alley. Again, it isn’t the most thrilling ride around, but it is magical as you pass through the mini worlds of your favorite Disney movies. I love when the boat goes through the giant mouth of Monstro the Whale from Pinocchio. 

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride in Fantasyland: Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride is similar to other dark rides like Peter Pan’s Flight, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Pinocchio’s Daring Journey, or Snow White’s Scary Adventures, but I tend to favor this one at Disneyland. It was one of the original attractions available on opening day in 1955 and it is still holding strong. I love the queue with the portraits of Mr. Toad and his friends and the small motorcars you ride in are so endearing.

Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln on Main Street: I have always been facilitated with Abe Lincoln, and being that Walt Disney was inspired by him, it seems right to always take a quick stop here as you take in the Main Street sights. 

Map Tea Party in Fantasyland: Finally, there is something so classic about the tea cup ride. I personally enjoy it for the music, bright colors, and the cute lanterns that hang above as you spin about. 

FOOD: 

Chocolate/Strawberry Twist and Boysen Apple Freeze at Maurices Treats: This is a good stop for your first treat or snack of the day. The twists are a nice pastry swirled chocolate or strawberry (with pumpkin and other flavors available seasonally) and the freeze is a delightful apple slush with a swirl of berry flavor and a passionfruit foam on top. It’s so good!

Dole Whip at the Tiki Juice Bar: The Dole Whip is simply refreshing and the best treat on a hot day. I have yet to try the float version, but every time I go to Disneyland, I feel like I have to get a Dole Whip or the experience isn’t complete. 

Cherry Shake at Carnation Café: This was supposedly Walt’s favorite, which is perfect for me since cherry is one of my favorite flavors. Sipping one of these during an afternoon break really makes you feel like Walt is sprinkling a little magic on you.

Monte Cristo and Pommes Frites at Café Orleans: This is probably one of my favorite meals ever, even though you definitely have to share it with someone. I have still never gone to the Blue Bayou, but it is my goal to go there at some point in my life (I have my eyes on the jambalaya). If you have room left over, you also can’t go wrong with Mickey beignets (which are also often available in seasonal flavors…which means I must start planning a trip for a future autumn or winter trip!) from the Mint Julep Bar around the corner.

So there it is, my favorite Disneyland moments! Although, these are just the beginning of what is offered at the park. Each time I manage to find something I had never noticed before or try something new (the last time I went I tried Autopia for the first time, but it definitely didn’t become a new favorite). Everybody who visits tends to have their own favorites though and there are so many little moments that can turn into something special.

In a few days I will show you my favorites from Disney’s California Adventure park (Radiator Springs Racers for the win!).