Planning your very first trip to Disneyland? Cue the happy tears and excited squeals! Whether you’re taking the kids, going as a couple, or finally checking “Visit the Happiest Place on Earth” off your bucket list, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to make your first visit smooth, magical, and totally unforgettable.
As your Disney-loving duo at Mickey Planning, we’ve been through allll the trials, errors, wins, and churro-fueled adventures—so consider this your ultimate “I wish I knew this sooner” guide.
Let’s get started! ✨
1. Purchasing Your Tickets
Disneyland doesn’t sell traditional walk-up tickets anymore—you’ll want to buy in advance. You’ll need two things for each park day:
✔️ A valid ticket
✔️ A theme park reservation
We highly recommend booking through Get Away Today, our trusted partner. Not only do they offer discounted tickets and incredible service, but you can also save $10 off vacation packages with our exclusive code: DLTTPF10.
And don’t forget: ALWAYS add Lightning Lane Multi Pass when buying your tickets. It locks in pricing, saves you tons of time in line, and is honestly a game-changer.
2. Park Hopper vs. 1-Park-Per-Day
If you’re wondering which ticket type is best, here’s the quick breakdown:
Park Hopper
Super convenient and flexible. Disneyland Park and California Adventure are only steps apart. If you want maximum food options, more shows, and the freedom to bounce between favorites—this is for you.
1 Park Per Day
Great for families with young kids or those staying on budget. You can still have an amazing time focusing on one park at a time.
For first-timers, we suggest Park Hopper if the budget allows—it lets you experience so much more in fewer days.
3. How Many Days Should You Spend?
While you can do Disneyland in one day, first-time visitors will get the best experience with:
✨ 3 days — the sweet spot.
- 1 day at Disneyland
- 1 day at California Adventure
- 1 extra day to catch everything you missed or re-ride your favorites
If you’re coming from far away or want a slow-paced trip, a 4–5 day visit makes everything even more magical.
4. Arrive Early — “Rope Drop” Is Everything
Rope drop = arriving before official opening.
This is your superpower.
Why?
- Shortest wait times of the day
- Cooler temperatures
- You can knock out 3–5 rides in the first hour
Arrive 30–60 minutes early, go straight to your highest-priority ride, and watch the magic unfold.
5. Use the Disneyland App
Download the Disneyland app before you arrive and log in. You’ll use it for:
- Mobile ordering food
- Checking ride wait times
- Reserving Lightning Lanes
- Viewing PhotoPass pictures
- Finding bathrooms, food, characters, & more
- Navigating the parks like a pro
This app is basically your digital fairy godmother.
6. What to Eat (aka Most Important Section)
Disneyland is overflowing with iconic snacks and treats. First-timers should absolutely try:
- Churros (The cart by the castle is the best)
- Dole Whip
- Mickey pretzel
- Corn dog from the Red Wagon
- Ronto Wraps (Galaxy’s Edge)
- Beignets
Mobile ordering helps you skip the long food lines—use it often!
7. What to Pack
A well-planned bag saves your feet, sanity, and wallet. Bring:
- Comfortable shoes (seriously, don’t test this)
- Water bottles (Disney has free refill stations)
- Portable chargers
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- A lightweight jacket for evenings
- A sturdy backpack — or our personal fave, a Loungefly for easy access to essentials
If you’re bringing little ones, add diapers, wipes, extra outfits, and stroller rain covers.
8. Stroller Tips for First-Timers
If you’re bringing a stroller, make sure it meets size rules and leave wagons at home—they’re not permitted unless medically approved.
Lightweight, easy-fold strollers are best, especially when using trams or navigating crowds. The Joovy, Baby Jogger City Mini GT2, and Baby Trend Sit N Stand are park-proven winners.
9. Shows, Parades & Fireworks
Don’t skip the entertainment—it’s a core part of the Disneyland magic.
First-timers should prioritize:
- Fantasmic!
- Fireworks over the castle
- Magic Happens Parade
- World of Color
Pro tip: Watch from slightly off-center to avoid the major crowds but still get a great view.
10. Kid-Friendly Must-Knows
If you’re traveling with littles:
- Use Rider Switch for rides with height requirements
- Baby Care Centers are incredible (changing tables, nursing rooms, toddler toilets!)
- Bring snacks—lots of snacks
- Build in downtime; the train or the Mark Twain Riverboat are great breaks
11. Don’t Miss These First-Timer Essentials
Every first-time visitor should:
✔️ Take a castle photo
✔️ Ride Pirates of the Caribbean
✔️ Try a churro (yes, again)
✔️ Walk through Main Street slowly
✔️ Look for hidden details & Easter eggs
✔️ Just be in the moment
Disneyland isn’t just rides—it’s a feeling.
12. Unexpected Magic: Slow Down & Soak It In
Your first trip only happens once.
Don’t rush through trying to “do it all.” Some of the best memories happen:
- Sharing a snack
- Wandering through Fantasyland
- Catching an unexpected character
- Watching the lights twinkle at night
Let the magic breathe.
✨ Final Thoughts
Your first trip to Disneyland will be full of joy, surprises, and a little pixie dust in every moment. With the right plan—and this guide—you’re already starting off on the right foot.
And remember, if you need help planning, budgeting, or choosing hotels, our friends at Get Away Today can save you money and stress. Don’t forget to use code DLTTPF10 for an extra $10 off your package!
Now go make some core memories.
The magic is waiting for you. 🏰✨
