Disneyland Local Tips

Always arrive at the parks early and enjoy the attractions before the crowds hit. Take an afternoon nap or a time-out at the pool if you need to, but always start the day at park opening.

If Disneyland is your only Southern California destination, you won’t need a car once you’re on the property.

After standing in line to ride the Matterhorn, the last thing you want to do is wait for a table to open up at a restaurant in the park. Call Disney Dining (714-781-3463) to arrange complimentary priority seating for all sit-down eateries in the park.

Spend the money on a park hopper for easy back-and-forth access between the two parks. One-day hoppers are $91 per adult/$81 per child.

Take advantage of Disney’s free FastPass system, which allows you to make a reservation for the most popular attractions so you can skip the long lines; details in the park maps you receive on arrival.

In-park purchases can be held for you at the exit; if you’re staying in one of the resort hotels, packages can be delivered right to your room.

Pets can be left in the Disney Kennel Club during Park hours.

During the low season, park hours are shorter and there are fewer opportunities to catch the parades and fireworks shows; attraction refurbishments are often slated for the quieter times as well.