If you can, do visit Disneyland with your kids before they’re too old. I’ve blogged about Disneyland before: about staying at a Disneyland property hotel versus off, and five reasons to visit the Park BEFORE your child is 5 years old and my must-do‘s for your first visit to Disneyland.
I am so excited to be attending the Disney Social Media Moms Conference in Disneyland this April which inspired this post.
I found that even though we have been there, I was doing all the research again. Figuring out which rides Ivy (my youngest) would be able to ride, what my husband will do with the girls while I’m at conference sessions, where to eat and more. These are my best resources and suggestions for any Disneyland visitor (novice or not):
1 | The Disney Parks Video
We thoroughly enjoyed watching the ‘Disneyland Resort: Behind the Scenes’ video together as a family. It brought back some memories but more importantly, showed us some behind the scenes of rides and attractions that we haven’t done before. It got us excited for new things to try, and park information we hadn’t known about. We borrowed this video from our local library.
2 | Book: Disneyland 2013 The Unofficial Guide
This book outlines Touring Plans and a lot of information on making the most of your time. Not only does it have piles of tips on saving time, but also 50 restaurant reviews, plus rankings of all the local hotels. You can also see at a glance if a ride or attraction is ideal for your child’s age. Get it here or at your local library.
3 | The Disneyland Website
Disney does everything well, every detail is considered. Their website has plenty of detail on every ride, schedules, parade times, character meal information, it’s all there. If you have favourite rides, be sure to check before you leave if they may be closed for refurbishment. You can also reserve dining times for character meals (highly recommended). The Disney Parks blog also has daily information about everything Disney Parks (including Walt Disney World).
4 | Mousesavers Website
This is a must-visit site for coupons and discounts. They also list plenty of detailed information on bargain hotels and more. The site has been around for over a decade and is a reliable source of money saving information for Disneyland.
5 | Message Boards
Message boards or forums, are a fantastic way to get real reviews, recent information and post specific questions for others who have been there, are going there too, or are local experts who visit the parks often. Below is a list of forums we found that have recent activity (the key to a great message board is a lot of recent activity).
Micechat (also has articles)
Disboards
Mousepad
6 | Disney Blogs
Fellow parents are the BEST resource, of course. These blogs are full of great insider information, personal experiences and funny stories plus plenty of information about visiting Disneyland with your brood! Check them out.
Babes In Disneyland
Disney Sisters
Growing Up Goofy
5 Minutes For Mom
OC Mentor