The Ultimate 2025 Disneyland Planning Guide

Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, is where Walt’s original dream began—and it’s still the gold standard for theme park magic. With two parks, a vibrant Downtown Disney district, and a host of new attractions and events for 2025 (including the 70th Anniversary celebration), there’s never been a better time to plan your Disneyland trip. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, from tickets and hotels to dining, transportation, and insider strategies.

Why Plan Your Disneyland Vacation?

Disneyland is beloved for its charm, history, and ever-evolving experiences. But with high demand, limited reservations, and so much to see and do, smart planning is the key to a magical, stress-free trip. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Mouseketeer, this guide will help you navigate the latest updates, maximize your fun, and create memories that last a lifetime.

1. When to Visit Disneyland in 2025

Best Times for Lower Crowds and Great Weather:

• Mid-January to mid-March: Cooler temps, lighter crowds, and special ticket offers for Southern California residents and kids.

• Late April to mid-May: Pleasant weather and fewer crowds before summer.

• Mid-September to mid-November: After summer rush, enjoy Halloween Time and Plaza de la Familia.

• Early December: Holiday magic with lighter crowds before winter break.

Peak Times to Avoid:

• Spring Break (late March–early April)

• Summer vacation (mid-June–mid-August)

• Thanksgiving week

• Christmas through New Year’s

Major Events & Festivals in 2025:

• 70th Anniversary Celebration: May 16–August 14, with new shows, merchandise, and a new attraction, “Walt Disney – A Magical Life.”

• Lunar New Year: Jan 17–Feb 16 at Disney California Adventure.

• Food & Wine Festival: Feb 28–April 21 at Disney California Adventure.

• Season of the Force (Star Wars): March 28–May 11.

• Halloween Time: Aug 22–Oct 31.

• Holidays at Disneyland: Nov 14–early January 2026.

Pro Tip: Check the Disneyland events calendar before booking to catch your favorite festivals and avoid unexpected closures.

2. How Many Days Do You Need at Disneyland?

With so many new offerings and events, 2025 is the year to extend your stay. Three days is the minimum to experience both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, but four to five days is ideal—especially if you want to enjoy special events, try new dining, or take a rest day. Consider a rest day in the middle to relax at your hotel, visit the beach, or explore Downtown Disney.

Why Three Days Is the Minimum

Three days is generally the minimum recommended for a Disneyland trip in 2025. With two parks—Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure—you’ll want at least one full day in each to experience the headline attractions, classic rides, and signature entertainment like fireworks and parades. The third day gives you flexibility to revisit favorites, catch anything you missed, and enjoy more shows, character meet-and-greets, or simply take things at a more relaxed pace. If you’re visiting during a busy time or want to experience special events, three days helps ensure you aren’t rushed and can actually enjoy the atmosphere and details that make Disneyland special.

Why Four to Five Days Is Ideal

For most guests, four or five days is the sweet spot—especially in 2025 with so many new offerings and limited-time events. Here’s why:

• Deeper Park Exploration: With four days, you can spend two full days in each park, allowing you to experience not only the most popular rides but also the hidden gems, unique shows, and seasonal overlays.

• Special Events: The 70th Anniversary brings exclusive entertainment, specialty food, new merchandise, and limited-time décor. You’ll want extra time to enjoy these offerings without sacrificing classic Disneyland experiences.

• Dining and Downtown Disney: With more days, you can enjoy table-service meals, try new snacks, and explore Downtown Disney’s expanding dining and shopping scene without feeling like you’re missing out on park time.

• Rest and Flexibility: A longer trip allows for a rest day in the middle—perfect for relaxing at your hotel pool, visiting a nearby beach, or leisurely exploring Downtown Disney. This break can be a lifesaver, especially for families with young children or anyone looking to avoid burnout.

• Re-Rides and Spontaneity: Extra days mean you can re-ride your favorites, catch nighttime shows more than once, or simply wander and enjoy the immersive environments.

Sample Trip Breakdown

• Day 1: Disneyland Park – focus on classic rides, Fantasyland, and evening fireworks or parade.

• Day 2: Disney California Adventure – hit headline attractions, enjoy a festival or show, and sample unique dining.

• Day 3: Park Hopper – revisit both parks, catch any missed attractions, and enjoy nighttime entertainment.

• Day 4: Leisure day – rest at the hotel, visit Downtown Disney, or use as a flex day for more park time.

• Day 5 (optional): Repeat favorites, enjoy special events, or take a day trip to nearby Southern California attractions.

Two-Day Trips: Still Magical, But More Rushed

If your schedule or budget only allows for two days, you can still have an amazing time—just be prepared to prioritize. Plan one focused day in each park, arrive early, and use Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Genie+ to maximize your time. You may need to skip some shows or less popular attractions, but you’ll still experience the highlights.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Days

• Arrive Early, Stay Late: The first and last few hours of the day have the lowest crowds and shortest wait times.

• Use Genie and Lightning Lane: These tools help you optimize your schedule and minimize waits.

• Check Park Hours and Events: Watch for early closures due to special events or after-hours parties, and plan your days accordingly.

• Take Breaks: Even with a packed itinerary, short breaks for meals, snacks, or simply people-watching can help keep everyone happy and energized.

• Balance Rides and Entertainment: Don’t miss out on parades, fireworks, and live shows—they’re a huge part of the Disneyland experience.

3. Disneyland Tickets: Types, Prices, and Tips

Ticket Types:

Important Ticket Tips:

• Theme Park Reservations: Required for all guests in 2025. Book as soon as possible—up to 180 days in advance.

• Special Offers: Take advantage of anniversary or seasonal ticket deals, but note blackout dates and reservation limitations.

• Park Hopper: Great for flexibility, especially if you want to catch nighttime shows or hop for meals.

4. Disneyland Hotels and Top Off-Site Options

On-Site Disneyland Hotels

• Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: Direct entrance to California Adventure, luxury amenities, and immersive theming.

• Disneyland Hotel: Classic Disney nostalgia, monorail pool, and proximity to Downtown Disney.

• Pixar Place Hotel: Newly reimagined with Pixar theming, rooftop pool, and quick access to California Adventure.

Top Off-Site Hotels (All within a 10-minute walk)

Pro Tip: Off-site hotels on Harbor Blvd are often closer to the gates than Disney’s own hotels and can be more budget-friendly.

5. Making Reservations: Park, Dining, and More

• Planning ahead is essential for a smooth and magical Disneyland experience in 2025. Reservations are required for park entry, highly recommended for dining, and often necessary for popular attractions and entertainment. Here’s an expanded look at how to handle each type of reservation and maximize your chances for success.

  Theme Park Reservations

  Why They Matter:
  Every guest visiting Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure must have both a valid admission ticket and a theme park reservation for each day of their visit. This system helps manage attendance and ensures a comfortable experience, especially during high-demand events like the 70th Anniversary Celebration.

  When to Book:

  • Reservations open 180 days in advance for regular ticket holders (90 days for Magic Key pass holders).

  • Popular dates, weekends, holidays, and special events can fill up quickly—book as soon as you purchase your tickets.

  • Flexibility with your travel dates can help you snag reservations on days with lower ticket prices.

  How to Reserve:

  • If you buy tickets directly from Disneyland, you’ll select your reservation dates during purchase.

  • If you buy from authorized sellers (like Undercover Tourist), use the Disneyland Park Reservation System to select and manage your dates.

  • You can modify or cancel reservations if your plans change, but availability is not guaranteed.

  Important Notes:

  • Both a park reservation and valid admission are required for entry.

  • Park reservations are limited and subject to availability.

  • Reservations are non-transferable and not guaranteed until confirmed.

  Dining Reservations

  Why They Matter:
  Dining at Disneyland is a highlight for many guests, with popular table-service restaurants and character meals booking up quickly—especially during festivals and special events.

  When to Book:

  • Dining reservations open 60 days in advance, typically at 6:00 AM Pacific Time.

  • Highly sought-after locations like Blue Bayou, Lamplight Lounge, and Carthay Circle can fill up within minutes of the window opening.

  How to Reserve:

  • Use the Disneyland app or Disneyland.com to search and book reservations.

  • You can filter by meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner) or see all available times across multiple days.

  • If your preferred time or restaurant is unavailable, check back frequently—cancellations happen, and new slots open up.

  • Many restaurants now allow same-day cancellations up to two hours before your reservation (with some exceptions).

  Tips for Success:

  • Set an alarm and be ready to book right when the window opens.

  • Consider less popular time slots or off-peak days for better availability.

  • Use the app’s Walk-Up List feature for last-minute openings if you missed advance reservations.

  • Let the restaurant know of any dietary needs when booking or upon arrival.

  • For special dining packages (like Fantasmic! or World of Color), confirm if you need to book through a special page or can upgrade in person.

  Entertainment & Virtual Queues

  Virtual Queues for Attractions and Shows:
  Some of Disneyland’s most popular attractions and entertainment offerings use a virtual queue system instead of traditional standby lines. This system allows you to reserve your spot in line via the Disneyland app, freeing you up to enjoy other experiences while you wait.

  How Virtual Queues Work:

  • Check the App: Virtual queues open at set times (often 7:00 AM and/or noon). Check the Disneyland app for the latest schedule and participating attractions.

  • Eligibility: All members of your party must have valid tickets and a park reservation for the appropriate park.

  • Join Quickly: Virtual queues can fill up within seconds. Open the app a few minutes before the queue opens, refresh often, and be ready to tap “Join” the moment it becomes available.

  • Boarding Groups: If successful, you’ll receive a boarding group number. The app will notify you when it’s your turn, and you’ll have about an hour to return to the attraction.

  • One Per Day: Typically, you can only join the virtual queue for a given attraction once per day.

  • Participating Attractions: These change throughout the year but have included Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure. Some nighttime spectaculars, like World of Color, may also use virtual queues for reserved viewing areas.

  Tips for Virtual Queues:

  • You do not need to be inside the park to join the first virtual queue of the day, but you must have scanned into the park to join later queues.

  • If you don’t get a spot, keep checking the app—sometimes additional boarding groups are released later in the day.

  • If you have a Park Hopper ticket, pay attention to which park your reservation is for, as this can affect your eligibility to join certain virtual queues.

  Entertainment Reservations:

  • For special shows, parades, or nighttime spectaculars, look for dining packages or reserved viewing options. These often require a separate dining reservation and may include a meal plus access to a premium viewing area.

  • Check the entertainment schedule in the Disneyland app or on the website a few weeks before your trip, as showtimes and offerings can change seasonally or for special events.

  Summary of Key Steps

  1. Book Park Reservations: As soon as you buy tickets, secure your park reservations up to 180 days in advance.

  2. Make Dining Reservations: Set a reminder for 60 days out and book early for the best selection.

  3. Plan for Virtual Queues: Download the Disneyland app, link your tickets, and be ready to join virtual queues for popular attractions or shows at the designated times.

  4. Stay Flexible: If you miss out on a reservation or virtual queue, keep checking the app for cancellations or additional openings.

  5. Check Schedules: Entertainment and show schedules are updated frequently—review them in advance and during your trip.

  By planning ahead and using Disneyland’s reservation systems, you’ll maximize your time, minimize stress, and ensure you don’t miss out on the magic!

6. Disneyland Genie and Lightning Lane Multi Pass

Disney Genie (Free):

• Built into the Disneyland app, Genie creates a personalized itinerary based on your preferences, favorite rides, and dining choices.

• Offers real-time updates, wait times, and suggestions for maximizing your day.

Lightning Lane Multi Pass (Paid):

• Skip the regular line at select attractions by reserving return times.

• Purchase as an add-on to your ticket; select rides in advance or on the day of your visit.

• Most popular rides (like Indiana Jones, Rise of the Resistance, and Radiator Springs Racers) are included, but some may require a separate Individual Lightning Lane purchase.

Tips for Success:

• Use Genie to plan your day and adjust on the fly.

• Book Lightning Lane selections for the most in-demand attractions early.

• Arrive early (rope drop) for lowest standby waits.

7. Fastest Walking Routes in Each Park

Disneyland Park:

• Main Entrance to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: Enter, head straight up Main Street, turn left at the Plaza, walk through Adventureland and Frontierland, and enter Galaxy’s Edge via the Frontierland entrance for the quickest route.

• Main Entrance to Fantasyland: Enter, walk straight up Main Street, through Sleeping Beauty Castle.

• Tomorrowland to New Orleans Square: Cut through the central hub and follow the path along the Rivers of America for the most direct route.

Disney California Adventure:

• Main Entrance to Radiator Springs Racers: Enter, go left through Buena Vista Street, past Carthay Circle, enter Cars Land, and head straight to the ride.

• Main Entrance to Avengers Campus: Enter, go right at Carthay Circle, past Hollywood Land, and enter Avengers Campus near Guardians of the Galaxy.

• Pixar Pier to Grizzly River Run: Use the walkway past the Little Mermaid ride for a shortcut.

Pro Tip: The Disneyland app map can show real-time walking directions and estimated times. Look at them while waiting in line or eating!

8. Best Transportation Options to Disneyland

• Walking: Most off-site hotels on Harbor Blvd are a 5–10 minute walk to the main gate.

• Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft): Convenient drop-off at Harbor Blvd entrance or Downtown Disney.

• Public Transportation: ART (Anaheim Resort Transportation) shuttles connect many area hotels to Disneyland. Metro Rail and Amtrak offer connections to Anaheim, with local transit to the parks.

• Rental Cars: Offers flexibility for exploring Southern California, but parking fees apply at Disneyland and most hotels.

• Hotel Shuttles: Some off-site hotels offer free or paid shuttles to the parks.

9. Top 3 Off-Site Hotels Closest to Disneyland

All three are directly across Harbor Blvd, making them closer to the main gates than some Disney-owned hotels.

10. Best Dining at Disneyland and California Adventure

Disneyland Park:

• Blue Bayou: Dine inside Pirates of the Caribbean.

• Carnation Café: Classic American comfort food on Main Street.

• Plaza Inn: Famous fried chicken and character breakfasts.

Disney California Adventure:

• Lamplight Lounge: Pixar-themed, waterfront dining on Pixar Pier.

• Carthay Circle Restaurant: Upscale, old Hollywood ambiance.

• Pym Test Kitchen: Creative, oversized and miniaturized food in Avengers Campus.

Downtown Disney:

• Paseo and Centrico: New Mexican-inspired cuisine.

• Din Tai Fung: Famous for soup dumplings and Asian specialties.

• Jazz Kitchen: New Orleans-inspired fare with a fresh menu.

Pro Tip: Mobile order quick-service meals via the Disneyland app to save time.

11. Upcoming Changes and New Attractions

• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: Open now, with Critter Country rethemed to Bayou Country.

• Walt Disney – A Magical Life: New attraction debuting July 17, 2025, at Main Street Opera House.

• Sherman Brothers Tribute: New tribute opens in 2025.

• “it’s a small world” Finale: Third and final verse debuts in summer 2025.

• Downtown Disney Expansion: New dining and retail, including Parkside Market and Disney Wonderful World of Sweets.

• Mandalorian & Grogu Missions: Coming to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in 2026.

12. Insider Tips for a Magical Disneyland Vacation

• Arrive early (rope drop) for lowest wait times and cooler weather.

• Take a midday break at your hotel or enjoy a sit-down meal to recharge.

• Pack layers: Southern California weather can change quickly.

• Stay late: Nighttime shows and fireworks are not to be missed.

• Check the entertainment calendar a few days before your trip for showtimes and special events.

• Download the Disneyland app for maps, wait times, mobile ordering, and Genie/Lightning Lane selections.

• Bring portable phone chargers—you’ll use your phone for everything.

• Consider a rest day if visiting for four or more days.

Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration: “Celebrate Happy” in 2025–2026

Disneyland Resort is marking a milestone like no other as it turns 70, inviting guests to “Celebrate Happy” with a spectacular, year-long party that kicks off May 16, 2025, and continues through summer 2026. This anniversary brings together dazzling new entertainment, nostalgic nods to the park’s history, exclusive merchandise, special food, and immersive experiences—making it one of the most exciting times ever to visit Walt’s original park.

Special Entertainment & Returning Favorites

• Paint the Night Parade Returns: The beloved Paint the Night parade lights up Disneyland Park once again, featuring over a million LED lights, energetic music, and floats celebrating favorites like Toy Story, Frozen, Cars, and more. This fan-favorite, first introduced for the 60th anniversary, is back by popular demand and promises to be a nightly highlight.

• World of Color Happiness!: At Disney California Adventure, an all-new version of the World of Color nighttime spectacular debuts. “World of Color Happiness!” features Pixar characters—including those from Inside Out and Inside Out 2—and interactive elements that let guests participate via the Disneyland app. For the first time, you can vote on which emotion from Inside Out will appear in the show each night, and MagicBand+ will enhance the experience with synchronized lights and vibrations.

• Celebrate Happy Cavalcade: Disneyland Park introduces the “Celebrate Happy Cavalcade,” a lively new character procession featuring Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Max, and rare friends like Duffy and ShellieMay, all in festive 70th anniversary attire. Expect high-energy music, dancing, and plenty of opportunities for photos.

• New Theme Song by the Jonas Brothers: The official anthem of the celebration, “Celebrate Happy,” performed by the Jonas Brothers, will be heard throughout the parks and is available to stream starting May 13, 2025.

Immersive Anniversary Decor & Experiences

• Castle & Park Decor: Sleeping Beauty Castle is adorned with an elegant 70th anniversary medallion, while Main Street, U.S.A. and Town Square burst with vibrant banners, floral displays, and special installations. Between the parks, a striking 50-foot sculpture inspired by Sleeping Beauty Castle features colorful glass panels and golden charms representing Disneyland’s original five lands.

• MagicBand+ Surprises: MagicBand+ unlocks special interactive moments and effects across the park, inspired by opening day attractions and anniversary entertainment—including Paint the Night and World of Color Happiness!

• Key to Disneyland Interactive Experience: This new scavenger hunt invites guests to find interactive “lock stations” throughout Disneyland Park. Complete the quest to earn a special commemorative pin and unlock exclusive in-park surprises, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology.

Attraction Enhancements & Updates

• “it’s a small world” Enhancements: The classic attraction reopens May 9, 2025, with new characters Miguel and Dante from Coco in the Mexico scene. On July 17 (Disneyland’s birthday), a new verse—written by the late Richard Sherman—will be added to the iconic song, honoring its 60th anniversary.

• Projection Shows: Look for new nighttime projection shows on the façade of “it’s a small world” and Carthay Circle Restaurant, adding even more magic after dark.

• Other Attraction Touches: Toy Story Midway Mania! and other attractions will feature subtle nods and overlays to the 70th, rewarding eagle-eyed fans.

Exclusive Merchandise & Collectibles

• Anniversary Collections: Four all-new merchandise collections debut, including collaborations with Loungefly and Dooney & Bourke. Look for spirit jerseys, pins, ear hats, apparel, mugs, and a dazzling array of accessories.

• Vault Collection: Throwback souvenirs from the Disney Vault, including retro bags, park map apparel, and a replica of the original Disneyland sign.

• MagicBand+ and PhotoPass: Special 70th anniversary MagicBand+ designs and new PhotoPass Magic Shots—like the Mickey and Minnie Magic Shot—are available throughout the parks.

• Commemorative Collectibles: Limited-edition pins, jewelry, and home goods, including a Bulova pocket watch and Pandora charms, make perfect keepsakes for this historic celebration.

Specialty Food, Drinks & Dining Experiences

• Limited-Time Treats: Both parks and Downtown Disney offer a bounty of anniversary-themed food and beverages, from specialty churros and cupcakes to unique entrees at Docking Bay 7’s Nighttime Gathering in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

• New Dining Events: Look for exclusive dining experiences and pop-up offerings, especially during major festival weekends.

Guided Tours & Immersive Offerings

• A Story of Celebration: 70th Anniversary Guided Tour: This two-hour walking tour takes guests on a journey through Disneyland’s history, from opening day to the present, highlighting Walt’s vision and the park’s evolution. Bookings open April 24, 2025, and park admission is required in addition to the tour fee.

• Photo Opportunities: New Magic Shots, themed photo ops, and exclusive backdrops are scattered throughout the resort, making it easy to capture your 70th memories.

Ticket Deals & Planning Perks

• Special Ticket Offer: A limited-time 4-day ticket offer allows guests to visit for as low as $100 per day between May 16 and August 14, 2025—perfect for families and fans eager to experience the full slate of anniversary offerings.

When & Where to Celebrate

• Dates: The Disneyland 70th Anniversary Celebration begins May 16, 2025, and continues through summer 2026, giving guests plenty of time to join the festivities.

• Where: Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, Downtown Disney, and the Disneyland Resort Hotels—all decked out in celebratory style.

Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary is a once-in-a-decade event filled with new and returning entertainment, immersive decor, exclusive merchandise, specialty food, and interactive experiences. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor, 2025–2026 is the perfect time to “Celebrate Happy” at the Happiest Place on Earth!

Make 2025 Your Most Magical Disneyland Trip Ever

With the 70th Anniversary celebration, new attractions, and a packed calendar of events, 2025 is an incredible year to visit Disneyland Resort. By planning ahead—booking tickets and reservations early, choosing the right hotel, mastering Genie and Lightning Lane, and using insider strategies—you’ll unlock the best of both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. Check out our friends at Yeti Travel for the best trip planning and lowest rates!

Whether you’re savoring churros on Main Street, racing through Radiator Springs, or soaking in the nostalgia of Walt’s original park, your Disneyland adventure will be filled with magic, joy, and lifelong memories. Happy planning, and see you real soon at Disneyland!

• 
  All the Magical 2025 Disney Characters You Can Find at Disneyland
  The holiday season at Disneyland Resort transforms the Happiest Place on Earth into an enchanting winter wonderland filled with festive magic! From November 14, 2025, through January 7, 2026, guests can experience special character appearances you won’t find any other time of year! Whether you’re planning your first Christmas visit… Read more: All the Magical 2025 Disney Characters You Can Find at Disneyland
• 
  New 2025 Disney Advent Calendars
  The magic of Christmas isn’t just about the big day anymore—it’s about savoring every single moment leading up to it. And honestly? There’s no better way to make December feel extra special than with a Disney advent calendar! Picture this: your little one (or, let’s be real, you) waking up… Read more: New 2025 Disney Advent Calendars
• 
  Disney Lorcana Latest Release Dates, Product Updates, and More!
  If you’ve been following the Disney Lorcana trading card game, you already know this isn’t just another collectible card game. It’s become a magical phenomenon that’s bringing Disney fans and card game enthusiasts together in ways nobody expected. Whether you’re a seasoned Illumineer or someone who’s just discovering this enchanting… Read more: Disney Lorcana Latest Release Dates, Product Updates, and More!
• 
  How to Fix the Disney Cruise Navigator App When It Stops Working
  You’re on your Disney cruise, the ocean is sparkling, the ship is magical, and then—bam—the Disney Cruise Navigator app decides to take a vacation of its own. One minute you’re messaging your family about meeting up for dinner, the next minute the app is telling you to “allow access to… Read more: How to Fix the Disney Cruise Navigator App When It Stops Working
• 
  Getting Internet On Your Disney Cruise
  Imagine yourself standing on the deck of a magnificent Disney ship, Mickey-shaped sunset fading into the horizon, and you’re itching to share that perfect moment with everyone back home. But wait—how exactly does internet work when you’re floating in the middle of the ocean? Don’t worry, staying connected on a… Read more: Getting Internet On Your Disney Cruise
• 
  The Disneyland Hotel Magical Review
  If you’re planning a magical Disneyland getaway, you’re probably wondering where to rest your head after those long days chasing down attractions and meeting characters. And honestly? The Disneyland Hotel might just be calling your name! Here’s the thing—staying at the original Disney hotel isn’t just about having a place… Read more: The Disneyland Hotel Magical Review