Your Disneyland Adventure: A Tip Sheet from Vincent Vacations
To learn more techniques and how to become a travel agent, sign-up to become a travel agent today!
As travel agents, our role extends far beyond simply booking a vacation — it’s about creating magical, stress-free experiences that your clients will treasure forever.
This detailed Disneyland Tip Sheet is an essential tool for ensuring your clients feel fully prepared, empowered, and excited for their trip. By proactively addressing key steps like ticket linking, park reservations, dining, transportation, and time-saving services, we help eliminate surprises and reduce the risk of missed opportunities.
Sharing this guide with clients not only positions us as trusted experts, but also reinforces the value of personalized service — setting you apart in a competitive travel market.
Dear [Client Family Name],
We are thrilled you've chosen us to help plan your magical family vacation to Disneyland! To ensure you have the most seamless and enjoyable experience, we've compiled this extensive guide outlining everything you need to know and do after booking your trip. Consider this your go-to resource for maximizing your time and creating unforgettable memories at the Disneyland Resort. We are dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and support you need for a truly exceptional vacation.
Your Essential Pre-Trip Disneyland Preparations
To kick off your Disneyland adventure, there are several key steps to complete before your arrival. Firstly, it is crucial to link your park tickets to your MyDisney account on the official Disneyland website or through the Disneyland mobile app. This step is foundational for accessing many other planning tools and features. Following ticket linkage, you should check the availability of park reservations for your intended visit dates. Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park both require a valid ticket and a corresponding park reservation for entry. This can be done through the Disneyland app or the website's park reservation calendar. Once you have confirmed availability, the next critical step is to make your park reservations for each day you plan to visit. Without a reservation, entry to the parks cannot be guaranteed.
If you have any interest in dining at Disneyland's table-service restaurants, we strongly advise you to book your dining reservations well in advance, as reservations open up to 60 days prior to your visit and popular locations fill up quickly. To further enhance your planning, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the Disneyland app. Download it to your mobile device and explore its features, including park maps, real-time attraction wait times, show schedules, and mobile food ordering options. You might also want to consider the optional Genie+ service and Individual Lightning Lane selections, which can potentially save you significant time waiting in lines for popular attractions. Finally, it's wise to review the transportation options available at and around the Disneyland Resort to plan how you will get to and from the parks, whether you intend to drive, use hotel shuttles, or other means. As your trip approaches, you can also begin thinking about what items you will need to pack for comfortable and enjoyable park days.
Understanding Disneyland Park Reservations: Your Key to Entry
To ensure a smooth entry into the magic of Disneyland Park or the thrills of Disney California Adventure Park, it's important to understand the park reservation system. Currently, every guest aged three and older must possess both a valid park ticket and a park reservation for the specific park they intend to visit on that particular day. This system allows Disneyland to manage park capacity and provide a better overall experience for all guests. Simply having a ticket does not guarantee entry; a corresponding park reservation is also mandatory.
Park reservations for standard theme park tickets can be made up to 180 days in advance of your planned visit. This generous window provides ample opportunity for you to secure your preferred dates. For guests who are Magic Key holders (Disneyland's annual passholders), the reservation window is slightly different, allowing reservations to be made up to 90 days in advance. It's advisable to check the official Theme Park Reservation Availability calendar on the Disneyland website or within the Disneyland app regularly to ascertain which dates and parks still have reservation availability. This calendar is the most reliable source for up-to-the-minute information on reservation availability.
Without a valid park reservation that is linked to your ticket, you may be denied entry to Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park. Therefore, it is paramount to make your reservations as soon as your travel dates are finalized. Should your plans change, Disneyland offers the flexibility to modify or cancel your existing park reservations through the My Theme Park Reservations section of the Disneyland website or via the app. It is important to note that any modifications are subject to the availability of reservations for the new desired date and/or park.
Enhancing Your Culinary Journey: Mastering Disneyland Dining Reservations
A significant part of the Disneyland experience is the diverse and themed dining options available. To ensure you have the opportunity to dine at specific table-service restaurants that capture your family's interest, we highly recommend making advance dining reservations. Due to the popularity of many dining locations, particularly those offering unique experiences or character interactions, reservations are often essential to secure your preferred dining times.
Dining reservations at select restaurants throughout the Disneyland Resort can be made up to 60 days in advance of your visit. This 60-day window is a crucial timeframe to keep in mind as you plan your itinerary. For guests who have chosen to stay at one of the Disneyland Resort hotels, there may be an added benefit of preferred access to a limited number of dining reservations at select hotel table-service restaurants during their stay. This preferred access requires linking your hotel confirmation number to your MyDisney account.
Making dining reservations is a straightforward process that can be completed either online through the official Disneyland website or by using the Disneyland mobile app. Both platforms allow you to check the availability of restaurants for your desired dates, times, and party size. When making a reservation, you will likely be asked to provide a credit card to guarantee your booking. Some popular dining locations that frequently require advance reservations include the Blue Bayou Restaurant and Carnation Cafe in Disneyland Park, Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lamplight Lounge in Disney California Adventure Park, and Goofy's Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel, among many others. Additionally, you may want to explore dining packages that offer a meal along with a reserved viewing area for popular parades or nighttime spectaculars.
It's also important to familiarize yourself with the dining reservation cancellation policy. Each restaurant at the Disneyland Resort has its own specific cancellation guidelines, which are typically outlined when you make your reservation online or within the Disneyland app. Generally, if you need to cancel your reservation, doing so at least 2 hours prior to your scheduled dining time will usually avoid any cancellation fees. However, it's always best to confirm the exact policy for your specific reservation, as certain premium dining experiences or restaurants located in the Downtown Disney District may have different cancellation windows. Failure to cancel within the specified timeframe or not showing up for your reservation may result in a per-person cancellation fee.
Save Time, Ride More: Understanding Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass
To help you maximize your time experiencing the attractions and minimize time spent in standby lines, Disneyland offers two optional paid services: Lightning Lane Multi Pass (the new name for Disney Genie+) and Lightning Lane Single Pass (formerly known as Individual Lightning Lane). These services provide access to expedited queues at select attractions, allowing you to enjoy more of what the parks have to offer.
Lightning Lane Multi Pass grants you the ability to make Lightning Lane selections for a wide array of attractions available in both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. This service operates on a one-at-a-time selection basis. Once you have entered either park for the day, you can make your first Lightning Lane Multi Pass selection using the Disneyland mobile app. After you have either used your current Lightning Lane entry or two hours have passed since making the selection, you become eligible to book your next Lightning Lane Multi Pass attraction. A valuable perk included with the purchase of Lightning Lane Multi Pass is unlimited digital downloads of all your Disney PhotoPass photos taken throughout the day.
You can begin making Lightning Lane Multi Pass selections after you have physically entered a theme park for the day. This is done directly through the Disneyland app. While you have the option to purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass in advance as an add-on to your park tickets, the actual process of selecting specific attraction times begins once you are inside either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park.
For some of the most popular and in-demand attractions that are not part of the Lightning Lane Multi Pass lineup, Disneyland offers Lightning Lane Single Pass. This option allows you to individually purchase access to the Lightning Lane entrance for up to two different attractions per day, subject to availability. Similar to Lightning Lane Multi Pass, booking these individual selections is done through the Disneyland app after you have entered a park. Examples of attractions that are typically available as Lightning Lane Single Pass selections include Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance in Disneyland Park and Radiator Springs Racers in Disney California Adventure Park.
The cost for Lightning Lane Multi Pass starts at $32.00 USD per ticket per day, although the price can fluctuate based on the specific date of your visit. The prices for Lightning Lane Single Passes vary depending on the date and the particular attraction you choose. For the most current and accurate pricing information for both Lightning Lane services, we recommend checking the Disneyland app on the day of your visit.
Getting Around the Magic: Your Guide to Disneyland Transportation
Navigating the Disneyland Resort is an integral part of your vacation experience. Here's a comprehensive overview of the various transportation options available to help you move around with ease:
For guests choosing to drive to the Disneyland Resort, several convenient parking facilities are available. The primary parking locations for theme park guests are the Mickey & Friends Parking Structure and the Pixar Pals Parking Structure. Both of these large structures offer efficient tram service that will transport you directly to the Main Entrance Esplanade, situated between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Another parking option is the Toy Story Parking Area, which is located a bit further from the main entrance but provides regular bus transportation to the parks. The daily parking rates are as follows: $35 for a car or motorcycle, $40 for an oversized vehicle, motor home, or tractor (without a trailer) in the Toy Story Parking Area only, $45 for a bus or tractor (with an extended trailer) also in the Toy Story Parking Area, and $55 for Preferred Parking, which is available at the Mickey & Friends, Pixar Pals, and Toy Story parking areas and offers closer access to elevators and escalators. For those with electric vehicles, a limited number of ChargePoint charging ports can be found in the Mickey & Friends, Pixar Pals, and Toy Story parking areas. Using these ports requires a ChargePoint card. To help you remember where you parked, the Disneyland mobile app features a helpful car locator tool.
The iconic Disneyland Monorail is not only a classic attraction but also a convenient mode of transportation within the resort. There are two Monorail stations: one situated inside Disneyland Park in Tomorrowland, and the other located in the Downtown Disney District. If you have a valid theme park admission, you can board the Monorail at the Downtown Disney District station and enjoy a scenic ride directly into Disneyland Park, bypassing the main entrance on Harbor Boulevard. The Monorail trains typically operate approximately every 10 minutes , and a complete round-trip journey takes about 13 minutes. It's worth noting that the Disneyland Monorail service may be temporarily suspended to accommodate fireworks performances.
Complimentary bus transportation is also available to shuttle guests between Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and the Toy Story Parking Area. These buses generally run until about one hour after the last theme park closes each night. In addition to the complimentary Disney buses, the Anaheim Regional Transportation (ART) system provides a convenient and affordable shuttle service that connects numerous hotels throughout the Anaheim Resort District with the Disneyland Resort. Many hotels in the vicinity of Disneyland that are designated as Good Neighbor Hotels also offer their own dedicated shuttle services to and from the resort. If you are staying at a hotel near Disneyland, we highly recommend contacting your hotel directly to inquire about the availability, specific schedules, and any associated costs for their shuttle services to the Disneyland Resort. Some hotels, such as the Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel and the Candy Cane Inn, are known for offering complimentary shuttle service to their guests. Other hotels may charge a fee for their shuttle or may utilize the ART system.
Your Digital Companion: Exploring the Disneyland Mobile App
The official Disneyland mobile app is an invaluable tool that can significantly enhance your planning and overall experience at the Disneyland Resort. We strongly encourage you to download it to your smartphone before your trip and familiarize yourself with its many helpful features.
One of the most essential functions of the app is the ability to check the daily operating hours for both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. You can also easily access the schedules for all shows and entertainment, including parades, fireworks spectaculars, and live performances, ensuring you don't miss your favorites. Navigating the parks is made simple with the app's interactive park maps. These maps utilize GPS technology to show your current location and help you find attractions, restaurants, restrooms, shops, and other points of interest in your vicinity. To make the most of your time, the app provides real-time wait times for all attractions in both parks. This feature allows you to see which rides have the shortest lines and plan your next move accordingly. Some functionalities may even offer forecasted wait times to help you strategize your day.
For added convenience, the Disneyland app features a mobile food ordering service at select quick-service restaurant locations throughout the resort. This allows you to browse menus, place your order, and choose a designated time to pick up your food, often bypassing the traditional standby lines. Additionally, you can use the app to make dining reservations at participating table-service restaurants and even check in for your reservations upon arrival.
Beyond these core features, the Disneyland app offers a wealth of other helpful tools. You can use it to link your park tickets and Magic Key passes, access the complimentary Disney Genie service for personalized itinerary recommendations , view and download your Disney PhotoPass photos taken by professional photographers throughout the parks , manage your reservations if you are staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel , and even locate the times and places where your favorite Disney characters are appearing for meet-and-greets.
Essential Tips for an Enchanting Disneyland Visit
To further enhance your family's Disneyland experience, here are some valuable tips to keep in mind:
When preparing for your park days, consider packing essential items such as comfortable walking shoes, as you will be doing a significant amount of walking. Bringing reusable water bottles is a great way to stay hydrated throughout the day, and there are numerous water refill stations available in the parks. Don't forget sunscreen and lip balm with SPF, as the Southern California sun can be strong, even on cooler days. Hats and sunglasses will also provide additional sun protection. A portable phone charger is highly recommended, as you will likely be using your phone extensively for the Disneyland app, photos, and communication. You are permitted to bring small snacks into the parks (as long as they are not in glass containers), which can be helpful for keeping energy levels up between meals. A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages and pain relievers can also be useful. Carry these items in a small backpack or crossbody bag for convenience. If your family enjoys meeting characters, an autograph book and pen might be a fun addition. Dressing in layers of clothing is advisable, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day, especially between morning, afternoon, and evening. Finally, depending on the forecast, you might want to pack a rain poncho. Please be aware that certain items are not allowed in the parks, including selfie sticks, large tripods, and wagons.
Arriving at the parks before the official opening time, often referred to as "rope drop," can significantly enhance your experience. This strategy allows you to take advantage of the shortest lines of the day for some of the most popular attractions before the parks become more crowded. Guests who are staying at Disneyland Resort hotels may also have the added benefit of Early Entry, which allows them to access select parks even earlier than the general public.
Visiting Disneyland with children requires thoughtful planning. If you have young children, be sure to familiarize yourself with the Rider Switch service, which allows adults to take turns riding attractions that younger children may not be able to or want to experience. Disneyland also provides convenient Baby Care Centers in both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. These centers offer clean and comfortable spaces with changing tables, nursing rooms, feeding areas, bottle warmers and other helpful amenities for families with infants and toddlers. It's important to plan for breaks and rest periods throughout the day, especially when traveling with children, to prevent overstimulation and meltdowns. Bringing or renting a stroller can be incredibly helpful for transporting younger children and carrying your belongings. Setting realistic expectations with your children about what the day will involve can also contribute to a smoother experience. Some families find it beneficial to wear matching or brightly colored shirts, which makes it easier to spot each other in crowded areas. Remember to bring snacks and drinks to keep everyone satisfied and energized. Consider taking advantage of play areas specifically designed for younger children, such as the Toontown playground in Disneyland Park, where they can have some unstructured playtime.
To secure a prime viewing spot for Disneyland's spectacular parades, it's recommended to arrive at your chosen location along the parade route at least 30 to 45 minutes before the scheduled start time. You can consult the Disneyland app for the specific parade route and the direction in which it will be traveling. Popular viewing areas include locations near "it's a small world" and along Main Street U.S.A.. When selecting your spot, be mindful of designated pedestrian crossings, as these areas may have people moving through and potentially obstructing your view. For the breathtaking fireworks displays, highly recommended viewing locations include Main Street U.S.A., which offers iconic views of Sleeping Beauty Castle and the accompanying projections on the buildings. Another excellent option is the area in front of "it's a small world", which provides a different, but still impressive, perspective of the fireworks. If your visit coincides with performances of Fantasmic! that include fireworks, the Rivers of America in Frontierland is the ideal place to be. For a slightly less crowded vantage point with a panoramic view, consider heading to the Main Street Train Station.
Important Policies to Note for Your Disneyland Trip
To ensure you are fully informed, here are some important policies regarding your Disneyland visit:
Generally, Disneyland theme park tickets are non-refundable. However, in some cases, wholly unused and unexpired tickets may retain their original purchase value and can potentially be applied towards the purchase of new tickets at the current price. For Disneyland Resort hotel stays, reservations for just the room (room-only) can typically be canceled with a full refund if the cancellation is made at least 4 days prior to your scheduled arrival date. Disneyland Resort Vacation Packages, which bundle your hotel stay with park tickets and other components, have a different cancellation policy. Generally, a full refund is provided if the package is canceled more than 30 days before your arrival. Cancellations made between 4 and 29 days prior to arrival may incur a cancellation fee, and cancellations made 3 days or less before arrival may result in the full price of the package being non-refundable.
You can typically modify your park reservations online through the My Theme Park Reservations portal on the Disneyland website or via the Disneyland app, provided that there is reservation availability for your new desired date or park. For any modifications to your hotel reservations or Disneyland Resort Vacation Packages, you can often make changes online through your MyDisney account or by contacting the Walt Disney Travel Company directly. However, please be aware that change fees may apply, particularly if you are making modifications closer to your arrival date.
The health and safety of all guests and Cast Members is of utmost importance at the Disneyland Resort. It's important to note that health and safety guidelines are subject to change based on the most current recommendations and requirements. We strongly advise you to check the official Disneyland website at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/experience-updates/ for the very latest information before your visit. As of the current information, face coverings are optional for guests in most indoor locations, but they are recommended. Disneyland maintains rigorous standards for cleanliness and sanitation throughout the entire resort. We kindly ask that you adhere to all posted rules and guidelines and show courtesy and respect to your fellow guests and the Disneyland Cast Members.
Conclusion
We are confident that this detailed tip sheet will provide you with the essential information you need to feel prepared and excited for your family's Disneyland vacation. By taking these steps after booking, you will be well on your way to a truly magical and memorable experience at the Disneyland Resort. Should you have any further questions or require any additional assistance in planning your trip, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are always delighted to help make your Disney dreams come true!
Sincerely,
Your Travel Agent
By equipping your clients with this comprehensive Disneyland Tip Sheet, you are not just delivering information — you’re delivering peace of mind, confidence, and a better vacation experience. Thoughtful preparation leads to happier clients, stronger loyalty, and more referrals for your travel business. Use this resource as a strategic part of your client care process to showcase your commitment to service excellence and create lifelong Disney memories for the families you serve.
Learn more about this by signing up for one of our online trainings Learn More
To learn more techniques and how to become a travel agent, sign-up to become a travel agent today!
