This year we went a little later than normal. It was packed!!!! I’m just glad that we were able to head down there on points from Southwest.
A few tips to enjoy your trip and save a little money along the way. Last years tips are available here
Hotel Stay
A hotel of choice should be one close to the park. I would also recommend that you choose one that offers a continental breakfast or breakfast buffet. One of my top choice hotels is Embassy Suites. They offer a nice selection in the morning for breakfast - buffet style and they also have a cocktail hour from 5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. with free drinks and snacks.
Parking, Shuttles, Transportation
Pick a hotel that has a shuttle to the park or my first option is to take Lyft. It is easier to ride privately and not be on a schedule. The Lyft drivers will drop you off right at the park or Downtown Disney and pick you up where ever you set the location and within minutes.
LYFT Discount Code
Buy Your Tickets Online
Save time and purchase online. You don'e need to stand in the ticket booth line. Head straight over to the park of choice and give them the paper print out or your mobile ticket.
Security Check
Disneyland has increased their security so be prepared to wait in a longer line than normal to enter the park area including Downtown Disney. I recommend getting to the park before it opens or at least 30 minutes prior to reservations etc.
- No Glass
- Selfie Sticks
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Larger Strollers
- Large Coolers, Suitcases etc
See full list of prohibited items here
Disney MaxPass
One thing I regret not purchasing. The MaxPass you can purchase for $10 each per day. With this pass you're able to manage your FastPass from either park not having to run from ride to ride from your mobile phone. Plus, you'll be able to get unlimited Disney PhotoPass downloads for a day. These passes you can purchase with the Disneyland app. Season pass holders can purchase for an additional $75
1. Open up the app
2. Tap the circular Disney character at the bottom of the screen
3. Sign in with your Disney account
4. Tap " Get FastPass with Disney MaxPass
5. You can add multiple tickets and purchase for anyone who doesn't have MaxPass
6. Get your FastPass and enjoy your PhotoPass Downloads
Meet Santa Claus at Disneyland
This year Santa Claus was over by Splash Mountain. Get there early to meet him and take your family photos for your Christmas card.
Character Experiences
We've done the character dining experience several times. I highly recommend the Plaza Inn inside Disneyland Park for first timers or those of you with little ones. You can easily knock out 5-8 characters while you eat.
Another option is to download the Disneyland app and you can see where characters are real time.
Don't forget to bring an autograph book and pen. I use the same one until it's completely full instead of purchasing a new one each time. I just add in my dates of the trip to the first page after our last.
Pack Your Own Lunch
A small cooler or backpack cooler comes in handy to have soda, water, fruit, sandwhiches and snacks to save money.
Make Dining Reservations Prior to Your Stay
Make reservations to any restaurant in Disneyland, California Adventure and even Downtown Disney prior to your stay. I suggest doing this as early as possible you can book 60 days in advance.
Disney Dining
Be Prepared for the Weather
Typically during Christmas time it may still be warm for jeans and sweaters during the day. Be sure to check out how the weather will be during your visit. Pack in layers and also be sure to bring a poncho or umbrella in case it rains.
14 day weather check
Do you have any tips you'd like to share? Leave it in the comments! I hope you found this useful for your next trip to the most magical place on earth!
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