If a yearly, monthly or—if you’re really lucky—daily trip to the Disneyland® Resort is part of your regular schedule, this is the guide for you! You already know about the Disneyland® app and where to buy the best ears—you’re a pro. So we’ve curated these insider tips and tricks for seasoned visitors to help make your next visit your best yet.
1. Unleash the Magic of Disney Genie service
This complimentary new service creates your best Disney day inspired by your top interests. It grants you new planning features, including a personalized itinerary creator. You’ll love how it saves you time by seamlessly mapping out your special day, with updates that continue from morning to night—just like a favorite navigation app.
2. Stay Informed of the Latest Updates
Bookmark the Experience Updates page for easy access so you know what to expect on your next visit. You’ll find the latest on face coverings and health requirements, plus links to additional information about updates around the theme parks and more.
3. Save Time in Line with Lightning Lane Entry
Save time in line, capture memories and more when you purchase the Disney Genie+ service! Have one attraction you just can’t miss? There is also an “á la carte” option to purchase individual Lightning Lane entrance arrival windows for highly demanded attractions, like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, that are not included in Disney Genie+ (subject to limited availability).
4. Purchase Parking in Advance
Parking opens 60 minutes before the theme parks. By purchasing your parking voucher in advance, you can park, head right to security and get ready for the rope drop! And remember, before you can have an enchanting day, you’ll also need theme park admission and a park reservation for the same park and the same date for park entry. Book your reservation in advance via the Disneyland® Resort’s online reservation system.
5. Visit Walt’s Apartment
Explore the life and legacy of Walt Disney on a “Walk in Walt’s Disneyland® Footsteps” Guided Tour, a magical journey through his personal history and the development of Disneyland® Park. You’ll hear all about what inspired the creative mastermind and the challenges that he faced along the way, peeking into parts of the park not typically open to the public. Visit classic attractions significant to Walt’s past and end the experience with a delectable meal along Main Street, U.S.A®. Cardmembers receive 15% off the non-discounted price of tickets.12 Reservations recommended; call 714-781-8687. All offerings and experiences are subject to change without notice.
6. Get the Ultimate VIP Treatment
For special occasions, get the Disney day of your dreams with a fully customizable VIP experience, including a personalized tour, a peek at behind-the-scenes details and a treasure trove of premium benefits.
7. Stay Dry-ish on Splash Mountain
Want to experience Splash Mountain, but don’t want to get too soaked? Redeem your Disney Rewards Dollars toward a poncho from one of the park’s shops and enjoy the drenching. 3
8. Snag Souvenirs
You already know the Disneyland® Resort is home to amazing shopping. The options are endless at stores like the Emporium, which offers the largest selection of souvenirs in all of Disneyland® Park. Plus, merchandise mobile checkout is a convenient way to scan and pay at select stores right on your phone. And if you’d rather be prepared in advance, check out gear options online at shopDisney.com.
9. Strike a Pose in your Complimentary Magic Shot
Say cheese! Visit the private Cardmember location in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure® Park or Star Wars Launch Bay in Tomorrowland at Disneyland® Park for your complimentary photo downloads, digitally enhanced with some favorite Characters appearing right next to you.1
10. Prepare for Action with The Avengers
New recruits, get ready to team up with some of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes at Disney California Adventure® Park. Be sure to scope out some favorite Super Heroes at the Avengers Headquarters and Ancient Sanctum. You can even train with the Black Panther’s loyal bodyguards and discover what it takes to join the Dora Milaje!
11. Redeem Disney Rewards Dollars Toward Iconic Snacks
Whether you’re biting into a Mickey Mouse-shaped pretzel or savoring a spoonful of DOLE Whip®, make snack time even more delicious by redeeming your Disney Reward Dollars toward your treats. Be sure to load your Disney Rewards Redemption Card before you hit the parks so you can enjoy what you’ve earned!3
12. Maximize Card Convenience
The Disney® Visa® Credit Card’s tap-to-pay feature allows for convenient, contactless payments instantly throughout the Disneyland® Resort. You can also add your Disney Visa Card as a payment method within the Disneyland® app for easy, cash-free purchases. Learn more about contactless payment on our FAQ page.
13. Get Meals via Mobile Orders
Deliciousness is on demand when you place mobile orders via the Disneyland® app. Peruse the menu and order ahead for the family. Then, you can pick up your food and get back in action!
14. Capture the Enchantment with Disney PhotoPass+ Products
Save all those unforgettable moments in your photo album with professional shots taken by Disney photographers when you purchase Disney PhotoPass+ products. You can receive photos from around the parks, including attractions, dining, Magic Shots and Animated Magic Shots. Digital downloads make it easy to share and treasure those precious moments for years to come.
15. Build Out-of-this-World Wonder
If your family includes sworn members of the Resistance, be sure to plan ahead and make separate reservations for legendary Star Wars experiences like customizing your own lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers and tinkering with your own sidekick at Droid Depot. (Note: These experiences require a purchase.)
16. Get Savings to Match Your Cravings
Save 10% on memorable meals on most days at select dining locations throughout the Disneyland® Resort when you use your Disney Visa Card.17 See our Disney Rewards Dining Perks Guide for the full list of restaurants. And as mentioned above, consider taking advantage of mobile ordering for added convenience!
17. Don’t Miss Sunset at Cars Land
Take a moment to enjoy the lights of Cars Land as they come alive at dusk. Get the whole family together to appreciate the neon glow and a sweet rendition of “Sh-boom.” It’ll be a sunset you’ll never forget.
18. Light up the Night
Check out fan favorites like Main Street Electrical Parade, Disneyland Forever, World of Color, Fantasmic! and Mickey’s Mix Magic. Disneyland® Park’s wow-worthy nighttime shows are often viewed on Main Street®, U.S.A., but depending on the show, you can also get spectacular views from “it’s a small world,” the Rivers of America or other locations.
Fireworks occur on select nights only, so be sure to check the Entertainment Schedule when planning your trip. For more top viewing spots in the park, check out our guide to fireworks at the Disneyland® Resort.
19. See Sleeping Beauty Castle Against the Night Sky
Be sure to catch Disneyland® park’s iconic sight by day and by night. When evening falls, the castle’s spires are lit to spellbinding effect, making for yet another unforgettable photo opportunity—with an extra sprinkling of pixie dust when there are fireworks!
20. Explore Outside the Parks
Don’t miss out on even more delectable dishes, awesome sights and fun details at the Downtown Disney® District. Take advantage of Cardmember perks that allow you to save on select merchandise and bites at participating locations, from Wetzel’s® Pretzels to Curl Surf and more.19
21. Start Dreaming of Your Next Visit
It’s always exciting to look ahead to your next Disney vacation. If you’re searching for ideas and guidance to make your dream getaway come true, check out our Vacation Planning Timeline for more valuable information.
With these pro tips, you’ll be navigating the Disneyland® Resort like an insider. And best of all, you can maximize your vacation by using the Disney Visa Card to get special vacation financing!10
