Located in Orlando, Florida, is the massive Walt Disney World Resort. This resort has so much to do that spending three days there would still likely feel like not enough time to do everything. However, this Article is focused on Disneyland in the Los Angeles area of California. This park opened in 1955 making it the first Disney park to ever open.
The resort is separated into two parks that are placed directly across from each other. Disneyland is considered the more family-friendly park due to more attractions aimed toward younger children. Disney California Adventure is seen as a stronger choice for adults and thrill seekers as it has more adrenaline pumping attractions.
While it is possible to book a stay at the Disneyland hotel, which is located in LA, it is more worth it to book a hotel on the Disneyland property and not further away from the park.
Fortunately, unlike the Disneyland hotel experience in Shanghai, these hotels are located right next to the parks. This closeness is what makes the stay worth it as you are able to make a very short walk back to the parks at any time.
When visiting during the winter, I was greeted at the lobby of the hotel by a giant beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
The room view was also impressive, the heated whirlpool was very enjoyable, and looking at the drop tower from the room was nice.
One of the draws of going to Disney is the long lines that you will have to waiting. Thankfully, the lines at the park were very clean and the staff made a positive experience. Everyone from the performers to security seemed warm and welcoming. Their smiles were real, and it seemed that they were all enjoying the magic as well.
You absolutely have to go on the Ferris Wheel. I know this seems ordinary but this is one is extraordinary.
Now focus on the big wheel!
You will notice the gondolas that are on the rim are the ordinary ones, but the ones on the inside are on a mechanism that makes them quickly slide back and forth. This ride also includes the fun of hearing the screams of passengers on other cabins. My friend and I were shaking, and a calm six-year old blonde girl sitting right across from us was asking her parents if it was thrilling enough and if she could go ride the drop tower after this. I don’t know how some foreign kids can be so brave, but regardless of all this, the ride is really fun.
Must do 2: Fast roller coaster
Coaster enthusiasts are going to love this one. The ride has a proper 360 degree inversion! The train goes in a launch at a really high speed, and with no warning, which is what gives the ride the most thrill.
Must do 3: Lightning McQueen racing
All ages can enjoy this attraction. It is a more exciting version of the Peter Pan ride in Shanghai. Guests board yellow vehicles that pass through a beautifully created racing factory and a warm indoor family setting. Then the doors open and the vehicles burst outdoors into a steep racing arena. It is the kind of ride that makes you want to go again.
Here’s a small tip, during the accelerator and banking sections, hold yourself firmly in position to avoid straining your back. \nPrepared to Depart!
\nHome of Cars\n\nThe characters of the racing pit crew have incredibly realistic mouths and eyes. Now it’s time to race!\nWith hills and banked sections, it is a thrilling ride.\nMust-do 4: Soarin' Over California\n\nThis attraction is essentially the original version of Shanghai Disneyland’s popular Soaring Over the Horizon, though Shanghai includes scenes from various locations worldwide. The realistic 4D imagery gives the illusion of flying over the beautiful scenery of California from a helicopter. The line was about 60 minutes. It’s quite similar to Soaring Over the Horizon, so if you’ve already done the version in Shanghai, this one may not be worth your time considering the long wait.\nOptional 5: The terrifying elevator\nA haunted drop tower is exactly what it sounds like, and even more frightening. It operates in near-complete darkness, and not only does it drop you, but you experience sudden weightlessness. Eerie sounds and ghostly figures heighten the experience, and the overall sensation is sheer terror. If you’re easily scared, pass on this one.\nMust-see 6: The waterscreen spectacular color show\nThe color show is a must-see. The combination of excellent sound design, and lasers, and water projections creates an impressive spectacle of over thirty minutes. There will be hundreds, if not thousands, watching, so grab a good spot early.\nDisney in the United States is massive. While Shanghai Disneyland is also massive, the amount of attractions is noticeably smaller. Traversing from one attraction to another requires long walks, and by the end of the day, guests are left exhausted.
California’s greatest strength is the large number of experiences that are close to one another. You will find many rides as well as character meet and greets and parades to entertain you while you wait in line.
