Disney California Adventure "Summer Nightastic"

Disney California Adventure (Name Changed earlier this summer) has added a bunch of new elements to the Summer season with the addition of World of Color and Glow Fest.  The concept started last year with Disneyland adding a new fireworks show and the re-launch of Fantasmic! and The Electrical Parade at California Adventure.  Here are some tips to get you through the busy summer season and still have some sanity. 

"World of Color"

Guests who want to maximize their day of fun at the park AND make plans to enjoy “World of Color” that night in Disney's California Adventure have some new options. To see the show, guests will obtain a special FASTPASS for “World of Color” or they can select from several Dining and Picnic packages that include reserved viewing. In addition, a new immersive “Summer Nightastic!” party, “Glow Fest,” will bring added evening excitement for Disney's California Adventure guests of all ages. “Glow Fest” will be filled with dancing, music and fun, highlighted by special color, sound and light effects, starting in the Sun Plaza at 6:00 pm nightly and continuing in Hollywood Pictures Backlot until park closing.

“World of Color” will be presented twice nightly throughout the Disneyland Resort “Summer Nightastic!” season, June 11 through August 29 (except June 16-17 when Disney's California Adventure will be closed for Grad Nights). Guests will stand during the shows – at 9:00 and 10:15 pm – and they may bring strollers into the viewing area.

 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VA4iRV_52_A
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOnaKB2tfUM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62RyhNop4R0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyN_XfuYNCI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BRGQlxmytow

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZKOkVzwMRQ

A Few Tips To Help You Secure a Spot and Enjoy The World of Color:

• Seating is extremely limited. If you arrive without a plan, you aren't like to secure a spot.
  
• Option 1 - Make a WoC dining package reservation ($36.99 per person at Ariel's Grotto or $39.99 per person at Wine Country Trattoria), you'll get dinner and a viewing spot for the show. Call 714-781-3463 to secure your World of Color dining package.
  
• Option 2 - Book a Box lunch reserved spot. Buy a box lunch and receive reserved seating for World of Color (1st show of the night). Boxed lunch can be purchased online, Disneyland Resort | Welcome To The Magic! You may be able to buy a limited number of the picnic lunch boxes at the park on the day of the show which come with reserved tickets to the 2nd showing of the night. Walk-up purchase can be made at the Sonoma Terrace of the Golden Vine Winery for $14.99 (special passholder rate is $12.99). The World of Color picnic boxes offer an assortment of options:
  
  
  
  

  All American:
  
  

  • Cold-honey stung fried chicken
  • Green and red cabbage cole slaw with apple cider dressing
  • Old fashioned potato salad with sweet onions and dill relish
  • Apple pie
  • Choice of bottled Coca-Cola® product or Dasani® water

  European Antipasto:
  
  

  • Cured meats, regional cheese, pepperoncini, artichoke heart and sun-dried tomatoes
  • Carr's® water crackers, balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil
  • Caprese salad skewers, fresh mozzarella and baby heirloom tomatoes
  • Chocolate-dipped tiramisu
  • Choice of bottled Coca-Cola® product or Dasani® water

  Taste of Asia
  
  

  • Chilled miso-glazed salmon, Asian greens, soy-rice wine dressing
  • Vegetable spring roll with Thai mango sauce
  • Soba noodle salad and julienne vegetables with sesame dressing
  • Mandarin orange cake
  • Choice of bottled Coca-Cola® product or Dasani® water

  Mediterranean Vegetarian:
  

  • Marinated grilled vegetables in a whole wheat wrap with roasted garlic hummus
  • Raw zucchini and squash spaghettini with first-press lemon-infused olive oil
  • Vegetable couscous with toasted coriander vinaigrette
  • Lemon layer cake
  • Choice of bottled Coca-Cola® product or Dasani® water

  Here is the All American lunch.  You get a nice re-usable tote bag and the food was very tasty.
  
  
  
• Option 3 - The FASTPASS for “World of Color” will be available each morning at the Grizzly River Run FASTPASS terminals. Guests can insert their park tickets into the terminal to obtain a FASTPASS ticket for the show, and they will be assigned a specific show time. As with other FASTPASS attractions, a limited number of passes are available for “World of Color.” When all of the day’s “World of Color” FASTPASS allotment has been distributed, Grizzly River Run terminals will convert back to distributing the Grizzly River Run FASTPASS tickets. Guests arriving before park opening to line up for the “World of Color” FASTPASS may park in the Pumba parking lot on Disney Way and, beginning at 7:00 am, gather at the Main Entrance to Disney's California Adventure. When Disney's California Adventure opens to the public, guests lined up for FASTPASS will be walked into the park and over to the FASTPASS terminals.
  
• Option 4 - If you don't mind a severely limited view, wait for the 2nd or 3rd showing and attempt to watch the show from the bridge near Ariel's Grotto Restaurant. You might also watch the show from behind near Midway Mania, the Sun Wheel, or even on the side by Silly Symphony Swings. You won't see as much or experience the show as it was intended, but you will get a sense of the size and scope of the show and see some pretty fountains. 
• Spots nearest the Golden Zephyr offer the most restricted viewing experience. Gravitate toward the water play fountain in the center of the stadium or even up toward the upper levels of the stadium. Boardwalk viewing is more immersive and WET (especially toward the right hand side of the boardwalk - as you are facing the lagoon)
  
• Be prepared to queue up in the Hollywood Pictures Backlot for hours before your show time. This will also be the location for a special glow party, so you will be entertained and food will be available for purchase.
  
• Although only 2 shows may be on the schedule, keep your ears open for an added 3rd show. It will be added on busy nights and may be your best shot at viewing the show.
  
• Be prepared for VERY busy conditions. This may well prove to be a packed and uncomfortable crowd situation. Pack your best attitude and just go with the flow. There is no use fighting a mob, you'll only succeed in ruining your own evening and possibly that of others. If it isn't important to see the show as soon as it opens, you may wish to wait until later this Summer. 

 

"Glow Fest"
Music, dancing and “drumming down the sun” will launch “Glow Fest” every night through August 29, beginning at 6:00 pm in the Sun Plaza in Disney's California Adventure. After 8:00 pm, this newest addition to the Disneyland Resort “Summer Nightastic!” entertainment lineup will move into Hollywood Pictures Backlot, providing the kind of immersive excitement for adults and children alike that can only be found in a Disney theme park.

Souvenirs and Treats
Guests who prefer a treat or snack, perhaps with a souvenir “World of Color” takeaway, may choose from a number of bright and colorful options available at food locations inside Disney's California Adventure:

·         “Spectrum Splash”: Beverages in light-up souvenir glasses with a colorful choice of flavors – strawberry red, blueberry blue, or sour Granny Smith apple green.

·         “Light-Up Cotton Candy”: White cotton candy with a colorful swirl, on an illuminated wand that lights the cotton candy from inside.

·         Multi-Colored & Flavored Popcorn: A delicious treat that comes in three flavors – red cherry, blueberry and purple grape – and mixed in with regular kettle corn, all served in a Disney California Adventure see-through “World of Color” souvenir popcorn bucket.

·         Tropical Mist Cocktail (for adults): A passion fruit and mango liqueur with coconut rum – and a light-up swizzle stick. Available at the Cove Bar and Ariel’s Grotto restaurant.

·         Even More Fun: Light-Up Balloons – transparent balloons with light-up “World of Color” art inside; Light-Up Bangle Bracelets; and souvenir “World of Color” travel mugs and sipper cups. 

*Reserved Viewing:
Each guest entering the reserved viewing area must have reserved viewing area admission. Children (ages 3-9) must be accompanied by an adult. Guests may only enter the viewing area during designated times and no early or late admission will be allowed. Guests in large parties may not be guaranteed admission within the same reserved viewing area. Separate theme park admission is required.

*World of Color Road Show*
During the month of July Disney took the World of Color Show on the road to four cities in California.  Here are the videos from their presentations.

San Francisco

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCtw0xOlhd4

Sacramento

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-2xiEXTK-A

San Diego

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OXTHpfM_xY

Los Angeles

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2tlc9NVr1c

Dining In and Around the Park, Part 4

Our first recommendation is Cafe Orlean's in New Orlean's Square.  Since it was the first time eating here we had no idea what to expect. 

Here is their menu:

French-Quarter Thirst Quencher

Tinker Bell and Friends or Lightning McQueen Raceway Punch - Minute Maid Light Lemonade served in a souvenir Fairies or Cars Cup with a glowing Tinker Bell or Lightning McQueen clip-on light. $6.49

Starters
French Onion Soup - Sauteed sweet-onion medley in a traditional broth with melted Gruyere cheese. $7.99

New Orleans Gumbo - A rich, flavorful stew with chicken, andouille sausage and tasso ham, served with Cajun-style "dirty rice". Cup $3.99, Bowl $7.99

Pommes Frites - Traditional French-fried potatoes tossed with Parmesan cheese, garlic and parsley, served with a Cajun spice remoulade $4.99

La Salade de Maison - Our Cafe Orleans signature house salad, featuring tossed baby greens in a raspberry vinaigrette, topped with cherry tomatoes, crumbled goat cheese and caramelized pecans. C'est bon! $3.99

Entrees
Split Plate Charge $4.00

Monte Cristo Sandwich - Sliced turkey, ham and Swiss cheese fried in a light batter and served with berry puree dusted with Powdered Sugar. $15.99

Three-Cheese Monte Cristo - Swiss, mozzarella and Double Creme Brie fried in a light batter and served with Berry Puree dusted with Powdered Sugar. $15.99

Mardi Gras Chicken Sandwich - Blackened Chicken Breast with Cajun Spices and Avocado Relish on a Multigrain Roll served with a tossed Mixed Greens Salad. $15.99

Creole Ratatouille - A N'awlins twist on a French favorite! Vegetable ragout with Eggplat, Red Onions, Bell Peppers, Squash, Zucchini, and fresh Garlic served with Corn Cakes topped with Grana Padano Cheese. $13.99

"Crescent City" Salmon Salad - Pan-seared Atlantic Salmon on top of fresh Spinach and Mixed Baby Greens, tossed with Carmelized Pecans, Red Grapes, Navel Orange Segments, Caramelized Onions, Chopped Green Onions, Roasted Sweet Corn, and Orange-Cilantro Vinaigrette. $15.99

French Quarter Caesar Salad with Blackened Chicken - Romaine Hearts tossed in a traditional Caesar Dressing topped with Blackened Chicken and shaved Grana Padano Cheese. $13.99

Freshly Prepared Crepes
Delicate crepes - made to order. Served with sauteed asparagus and new potatoes.

Chicken Gumbo Crepe - Sauteed chicken, Andouille Sausage, Tasso Ham, and Creole Gumbo Sauce. $15.99

Seafood Herb Crepe - With a traditional Mornay sauce and Mozzarella. $15.99

Desserts
"Mickey" shaped Beignets - Topped with Powdered Sugar served with Raspberry Coulis and vanilla Bean Creme Anglaise $6.99

Royal Street Banana-Bread Pudding - Freshly Baked Bread Pudding with Bananas served with a drizzle of Vanilla Bean Creme Anglaise and Caramel Sauce finished with Whipped Cream. $6.99

St. Charles Mixed-Berry Crepe - Delicate, hand-made Crepe, filled with Raspberries and Blueberries tossed with a Warm Spiced Apple Glaze and topped with a Balsamic-Orange Reduction Sauce. $6.99

Beverages
Coke, diet Coke, Sprite, Lite Lemonade, or Fanta Orange $2.99

Coffee, regular or decaf $2.79

Hot Tea $2.79

Hot Chocolate $2.79

Espresso - $2.99

Cappuccino - $4.19

Caffe Latte - $4.19

Caffe Mocha - $4.29

Here is the French Quarter Caesar Salad with Blackened Chicken.  It was quite a bit of salad and it tasted delicious!

We also got the Mardi Gras Chicken Sandwich, which was also very good.  It is pictures above.  The price for the quality of the food was good.

This restaurant is known primarily for the Monte Cristo Sandwich.  Click here to see a picture and a recipe to make it at home. 

We would definately eat at this restaurant again.  What is not to love about New Orlean's Square

Lucky Fotune Cookery

We were excited to try the newly located and reopened Chinese food in California Adventure.  Here is their menu:

Asian Rice Bowl - Each bowl contains steamed rice and seared asian vegetables - $9.49

Step 1 - Choose Your favorite - Chicken, Beef Tofu
Step 2 - Choose Your Sauce - Mandarin Orange, Spicy Korean, Thai Coconut Curry, Teriyaki
Disney's Munch, Inc.

Teriyaki Chicken and Rice served with fruit cup and choice of drink - $6.49

Sides
Edamame - $2.99
Fresh Mango Slices - $3.49

Beverages

Souvenir Sipper - $8.99

Coke, Diet Coke, Coke Zero, Sprite, Minute Maid Lemonade, PEAK Ice Tea - $2.79/$3.29
Bottled Water - $2.79
Minute Maid Apple or Orange Juice - $1.59
Nesquik Chocolate Milk - $2.69
Hot Cocoa - $2.79
Coffee - $2.79

Hot Tea - $2.79

Low-fate Milk - $1.59
Sapporo - $6.50

Here is how the food is served.  Below is a picture of the Manderin Orange Beef.  It is nice that you can carry it out with you if you can't finish.  That is the only good thing we can say about the food.  It was very processed and the flavor was not very good.  We do not recommend this restaurant when eating in the park.

If you do plan on eating at any of the places listed on this website, make sure to check on current prices and make reservations at the nicer restaurants.  This will ensure you can eat when you want to.

Snacking in the Parks

You will find many carts throughout the parks that offer lots of healthy options when you need a good pick me up.  They sell apples, oranges, bananas, waters, and fruit drinks.  In some areas pineapple spears and pickles are also sold. 

Guided Tours of the Disneyland Resort

The following information is taken from Disneyland's Official "Guided Tours" pamplet.

The image of the Tour Guide became synonymous with the wholesome image of Disneyland.  Through an extensive survey of park Guests, which reflected a desire to be toured around Disneyland with a knowledgeable Tour Guide, the program debuted in September of 1958. 

Tour Guides were Walt Disney's personal representatives and exemplified the standards of excellence for the rest of Disneyland to follow.  Not only were tours informative and entertaining, but proved to be a good value to Guests when experiencing attractions and learning the best way to navigate through their day.

Today, the Guest Relations department takes pride in upholding the standards set for us in 1958.  Although our tours have changed and grown to reflect the growth of the Disneyland Resort, each of our guided tours has something that will appeal to everyone.  Whether you enjoy Disney history, uses of todays technologies, having fun with children or simply wanting to know the best way to experience the Disneyland Resort, we have a tour for you!

Current offerings...

A Walk in Walt's Footsteps
- $64 a Guest; Premium & Deluxe Annual Pass Holders, AAA & Disney Visa Members receive 20% discount.
- Approximately 3.5 hours

• Take a historical look back into Disneyland Park and understand the vision, challenges, and hard work that went into creating everything we associate with Walt Disney.
• Hear Walt Disney talk about Disneyland in is own words.
• Have a peek into the Lobby of the exclusive members-only Club 33.
• Enjoy a private lunch on Main Street, U.S.A.
• Take home an exclusive, collectible tour pin.

Discover the Magic
- $59 for the first two tickets, $49 for each additional ticket in the same transaction.
- Premium & Deluxe Annual Pass Holders, AAA & Disney Visa Members receive 20% discount.
- Approximately 2.5 hours.

• Sharpen your sleuthing skills as you work with your guides to discover clues, explore with a treasure map and hunt for hidden treasure!
• Become a part of the magic as your entire party works together to save the day and have a fun-filled experience!
• Enjoy 6 classic Disneyland attractions.
• Receive a delicious frozen treat and a soivenir collectible pin.
• This experience is recommended for kids ages 3-9 and the young at heart!
• Guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult of legal guardian.

Welcome to the Disneyland Resort!
- $25 a Guest; Premium & Deluxe Annual Pass Holders, AAA & Disney Visa Members receive 20% discount.
- Approximately 2.5 hours

• Get a Disney-style welcome as you journey through Disneyland Park and Disney's California Adventure Park learning fun facts and great tips for making the most of your visit.
• Enjoy priority seating at one of our sensational stage shows and dining locations for any day of your stay (selected locations).
• Utilize Disney's FASTPASS service with instruction and receive two bonus FASTPASS tickets!

Cruzin' Disney's California Adventure Park
- $99 a Guest; Premium & Deluxe Annual Pass Holders, AAA & Disney Visa Members receive 20% discount.
- Approximately 3 hours.

• Embark through Disney's California Adventure Park before it opens and learn behind-the-scenes information as you cruise around on a Segway Personal Transporter.
• Relax and learn the basics of how to ride the Segway while enjoying a light breakfast.
• Take home a complimentary tour photograph and exclusive, collectible pin after your adventure.
• This tour has specific requirements.  Please inquire at the Tour Gardens Kiosk in Disneyland Park or the Ticketing & Reservation Line for further details.

Do you love visiting the Disneyland Resort during the holidays?  Then don't miss out on these seasonal favorites!

Disney's Happiest Haunts
- $64 a Guest; Premium & Deluxe Annual Pass Holders, AAA & Disney Visa Members receive 20% discount.
- Approximately 3 hours.

• Follow your mysterious Guide through the Disneyland Resport at dusk and prepare for a night of chilling tales and eerie, other-worldly attractions, sights, and suprise "treats"!
• Enjoy 4 thrilling attractions and take home a special "rememberance" of your visit.

Holiday Time at Disneyland
- $64 a Guest; Premium & Deluxe Annual Pass Holders, AAA & Disney Visa Members receive 20% discount.
-Approximately 2.5 hours.

• Discover the holiday history of the Disneyland Resport and learn how this season is celebrated around the world.
• Experience 2 classic holiday-themed attractions.
• See our "Christmas Fantasy" parade with reserved seating while enjoying a holiday treat.
• Take home an exclusive, collectible tour pin.

Please call Ticketing & Reservations, go online at http://www.disneyland.com/, or visit the Tour Gardens Kiosk loacted in Disneyland Park for current prices and to book your guided Tour experience!

Ticketing & Reservations
714-781-4400

General Information
714-781-7290

Our Favorite Disney Sites

Be sure to check out "Our Favorite Disney Sites" and "Our Favorite Disney Blogs" on the left side of this blog.  Here you will find links to sites we recommend for further reading.  They are organized in alphabetical order but we have broken them down by type here: 

Time Saving
Ridemax (Sign up to receive a daily plan to save you time)

Disney Official Sites
D23 (The Official Disney Fan Club)
Disney Movie Club (Become a member and find hard to find Disney movies)
Disney DVD Official Site (List of all Disney DVD's)
Disney Parks Mobile (See what is going on in the park right now and check out other Travel offers)
Disney Movie Rewards (Receive merchandise by signing up and entering the code from purchased movies)
Disney Parks (The master site for all Disney Parks)
Disney Parks Blog (The Official Disney Blog)
Disney Vacation DVD's (Click here to read our post on these free DVD's)
Disneyland Resorts (Disneyland, Disney World, Paris, Hong Kong, Tokyo)

Cost Saving
Get Away Today (Vacation planning and travel booking)
Mouse Savers (Save on vacation and travel expenses.  Sign up for Email Notifications)

Disney Fan Blogs / Souvenirs
AllEars (News and events at the parks)
Daveland (News and events at the parks)
DISboards (News and events at the parks)
Disney Frontier (News and events at the parks)
Disney Mouse Links (News and events at the parks)
Disney Music Loop (Want to know what music plays in the park?)
Disney Stationary (Want Disney stationary to print from home?)
Disneyland Postcards (See what old postcards were sold at the park)
Hidden Mickeys (See where the hidden Mickey's are hidden throughout the parks)
HV10N90 (Great Youtube site with many great videos from the park)
INTERCOT (Disneyworld Information)
Laughing Place (News and events at the parks)
Miceage (News and events at the parks)
Mickey Avenue (Download Disney fonts on your computer)
Mouseplanet (News and events at the parks)
Name Tag Museum (News and events at the parks)
RU42 Video Production (Purchase top quality videos to remember your trip)
Vintage Disneyland Tickets (See older tickets and programs from years past)
Walt Disney Quotes (Great quotes from Walt Disney)
WDWmagic (Disneyworld News)
Yesterland (See what's changed at the parks)

Check back for updates and changes on the left side of our blog.  As new sites are found we will update.

Don't Forget

Be sure to check out the section "Don't Forget..." on the left side of our blog.  You will find a list of items you will want to remember while preparing for your trip.  You can also click on may of the items to read our blog posts on them or be directed to other sources.

Disneyland Discount Tickets

Here are some things you need to know about Disneyland Tickets:

•Children under 3 get in free, and anyone 10 years old or over pays adult admission for Disneyland tickets.

•The lowest-priced, single-day Disneyland tickets are good for only one park. In other words, you can't visit Disneyland in the morning and Disney's California Adventure in the afternoon of the same day.

•Multi-day Disneyland tickets and one-day Hoppers allow you to visit both parks on the same day. Park Hopper Disneyland tickets expire 13 days after the first use, no matter how many days you buy.

•An easy way to get Disneyland tickets and stay out of line at the park is to order online from Kijubi.com. They guarantee a rate as low as you'll get by buying direct, offer online and postal mail delivery.

•If you buy from Disney, you can have them held at Will Call or mailed to your home. You'll pay a shipping fee that varies depending on your location and lead time. These tickets come with a risk - they cannot be replaced if they're lost, even if you have a copy. Checked bags can go astray, so pack them in your carry-on luggage.

•A better option is to order online and opt for eTickets which you can print out at home. This saves shipping costs, but even more important, an eTicket can be replaced if you forget or lose it, as long as the person who bought it is present and has the credit card they used with them. If that happens, just head for Guest Services at the Main Entrance Will Call window with the credit card and a photo ID and they can issue a new ticket.

•Order by telephone at 714-781-4400.

•Once you start your Disneyland visit, lost tickets cannot be replaced, even if you have a copy of them. Keep them safely tucked into a secure pocket while you're in the park.

•Southern California visitors will find discount tickets for Universal Studios and Sea World everywhere they look, from tourist magazines to the paper lining their dinner trays at the local fast food joint, but getting Disneyland discount tickets isn't quite as easy. The good news is that you can still get some Disneyland discount tickets, and you'll do best if you plan in advance.

•All Resort tickets can be upgraded to annual passes.  Present your ticket on the last day of your trip (to get the most days possible on the year pass) and pay the difference from the price of your tickets and the price of the annual pass.  There are a few options for annual passes and remember to consider a parking pass for all passes other than the Premium.  If you are not from Southern California and have someone in your party who does have a Southern California zip code, that person can purchase a Southern California pass for you.  They need to be the ones who pay for the pass.

•Learn about the regular prices before you get started looking for bargains. There's more about visiting Disneyland here, too.

Disneyland Discount Tickets - Options

•Free Admission For Volunteer Service: During 2010, you can get into one Disneyland theme park ticket free for one day as your reward for doing a day of volunteer service. Find out how to do it.

•Southern California CityPass: If you're planning on visiting some of Southern California's other attractions during your trip, this one is your best bet. You can get 3-Day Disneyland Tickets, tickets for one day each at Universal Studios, SeaWorld and your choice of a ticket to the San Diego Zoo OR San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park. The total discount is approximately 30%, and you can buy the passes online in advance, or at the gate of any of the participating attractions.  You can also find these at most Costco's.

•ARES Travel offers small discounts on Disneyland California tickets and you can also reserve character breakfasts through them. They deliver by e-mail only. You can order online or by phone at 800-434-7894.

•Buy online not at the ticket booth: You can get Disneyland discount tickets if you buy them online in advance. Prices can be up to $50 per ticket less than what you'd pay at the gate. Print at home or to get them in the mail.

•Disneyland Specials: From time to time, Disney offers special discounts. The most common is adding a couple of extra days to a multi-day ticket for free. See what's available and buy it online.

•Shorten Your Stay: Another way to save money is to spend fewer days in the parks, but this doesn't mean you can't do everything. Normal visitors spend more time in line than doing anything else, but you know better. With an inexpensive subscription to Ridemax software, you can stay out of line and easily do in two days what it takes most people three to four days to cover. In fact, I once used it to do almost all of Disneyland in a single day and had time to spare.

•Stay Away from Auctions: Some people buy 5-Day passes, use two or three days and try to sell the remaining time in online auctions. However, these tickets state in writing, "Not For Sale. Non Transferable, Must be used by the same person, all days," and this practice is not recommended.

•Adults Pay Kids' Price: Some years, Disney offers special pricing for visits from January through early spring, with everyone paying the kids' admission fee

•Southern Californians: If you live in zip codes 90000-93599, Disney offers frequent special deals and discounts for online purchases along with special discounts on annual passes. Your local Costco, Von's or Ralph's store may also offer lower-priced passes.

•California Teachers: Members of ACSA, CTA, CRTA and First Financial Credit Union can get Disneyland discount tickets through TSA Special Services by phone or mail. The excellent discounts they once offered are getting less impressive every year, nearly vanishing when you add their processing fees, and you have to order far enough in advance to allow for mail delivery.

•Southern California University Students: Some area universities offer discounted, one-park, one-day Disneyland discount tickets for their students. Check with your Student Union.

•Employee Discounts: Some large corporations and government agencies in Southern California also offer discounted, one-day, one-park Disneyland discount tickets to their employees. Ask your Human Resources department.

•AAA and CSAA Members: These California automobile clubs sometimes offer discounts, but grab your calculator before you buy. Some of their "packages" cost the same as the individual parts at full price.  Plus, if you buy only tickets to the park, they include fee parking at the Mickey and Friends Parking Structure!  This will save you over $10 a day!

•Some area hotels offer discount Disneyland tickets with a room rental.

•Military Discounts: Active duty, Reserve, National Guard, Retired, and DOD employees can buy Disneyland discount tickets, with the amount depending on the time of year. Check with your base MWR for information. Bring your military ID to show at the gate.

•United Kingdom Residents: Theme Park Direct offers some good discounts, but check the current exchange rate and which way it's heading before you buy. It may be cheaper to buy in U. S. dollars.

•Hotel Points: This isn't exactly a discount, but you can redeem Hilton HHonors Points for Disneyland passes.

Christmas

Disneyland takes on a special look from Halloween to Christmas with seasonal decorations adding to its already considerable charm. With the kids out of school for their holiday break, it's a fine time to consider making a trip. Years ago, people said Disneyland was not very busy at Christmas, making it an even more ideal time to visit, but that has changed. It's still a great time to go, and our tips for planning ahead will help you make the most of it.

•Christmas Decorations: Christmas decorations appear everywhere in Disneyland and California Adventure, but they're the best in Toontown and New Orleans Square. Town Square at the end of Main Street boasts a 60-foot Christmas tree covered with thousands of lights and ornaments and Sleeping Beauty's Castle sports snow-topped turrets and more than 50,000 lights.  There are many places to take pictures during the holiday season and lots of holiday merchandise to purchase.

•Haunted Mansion: The special Christmas decorations here, based on Tim Burton's "The Nightmare Before Christmas" are extensive, with changes from the attractions' normal sights that range from the ghostly dinner party scene to the hitchhiking ghosts that make this Disneyland's best Christmas spot. Ride it twice to take it all in, and be sure to stop by after dark when candles flicker on the outside.  See my post about Halloween at Disneyland for more pictures.

•Small World: Also specially decorated for Christmas and with a special Christmas music track.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VRcE1pNwe8

•Christmas Fantasy Parade: This special Disneyland Christmas parade runs from Small World along Main Street yo Town Square. Check the entertainment schedule when you arrive to find the parade times and which direction it will be traveling. The most crowded place to watch is along Main Street, but it's also the most beautiful.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vt6Pj8FiX6w

• Fireworks: Believe in Holiday Magic featuring your favorite Christmas music and a wonderful display of fireworks.

•Snowfall: Just as the fireworks end, snow falls in selected spots through the park. Pick up a Disneyland map at the gate to find out where it happens. The best spots for watching the fireworks are taken as much as two hours before the show, especially in the snowfall locations.

•Santa: Frontierland's Big Thunder Ranch becomes a "West Pole" getaway where Santa can unwind with Mrs. Claus and his team of reindeer. In Toontown, Goofy does the honors for Mr. Claus, and over in California Adventure, you'll find Santa wearing a surfer's shirt and waxing his board.

TIP:

We love to go to Disneyland the week before Thanksgiving week.  All the Christmas decorations are up and you may catch the filming of the "Disneyland Christmas Day Parade."  The park is a little less crowded and Christmas time is the most magical time of the year to go to the park.  Do not go the week of Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Years.

 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdJHsDb-O7Y

Hotels in Anaheim

Disneyland has provided some information in regards to what hotels in the area are worth looking into.  Click here to view what they recommend.

We have stayed at many hotels in the Anaheim area.  If you plan on walking into the park you will want to stay somewhere very close to the park.  If you plan on driving in each day it is well worth staying in a place outside of Anaheim (Costa Mesa, Orange, Irvine, etc.)  You can get a better deal and nicer ammenities. 

We also recommend not staying on Katella Avenue. We have had a few experiences where the hotels had bugs and that has made us block the whole street off our list of places to stay.

Many hotels also offer shuttle services that will take you into the park for a small fee.  If you plan on bringing food into the park you may also want a hotel with a fridge.  Check the ammenities before booking. 

We typically will place our reservations thru Hotwire.com, Orbitz.com, Travelocity.com, etc.  If you name your price thru a travel website, you can get great deals but the hotels in this area are not known for their cleanliness.  We know many people who have also used Getawaytoday.com.

If you walk into the park you will want to stay on Harbor Boulevard.  This is the easiest way to get into the park.  Take into account that if you walk into the park you will need to bring items that you would normally take in your car. 

Obviously the very best places to stay are at the Resort Hotels (Grand Californian Hotel, Paradise Pier, or The Disneyland Hotel.)  We can't afford these places but someday we will be able to stay at one of these great hotels. 

If you do stay at an economy hotel and you are driving to Southern California you may want to bring your own bedding and some sort of flip-flops or slippers to wear around the hotel room. 

Any hotel is going to work for your stay.  If you have smaller children you will spend more time at the hotel than if you don't have children.  You may want to spend a little more in these cases. 

Also, take and pack the soap and shampoo in the rooms daily.  Nicer hotels will restock it daily and it will give you lots of items to take on your next trip.

Dining In and Around the Park, Part 1

My friend Heidi has the following tips in regards to eating in and around the park.  I have also included some of our own ideas:

-We always split meals in the park. Even the hamburgers and fries.

Outside the Park:

-Subway, just one block up the street (1770 S. Harbor Blvd in Ahaheim), is one of the few places that does not increase their prices. You can still get the $5 footlongs and drinks are reasonable. They also have a very inexpensive breakfast sandwich. We usually bring some drinks with us to cut down on the drinks we purchase in the park and then refill the water bottle. Or take one with you and put ice in it from the hotel and water. The drinks are really expensive in Disneyland. You can also buy a case of water for @ $5 at the 7-eleven on the corner.

-Buy a large pizza from Costco and store it in the fridge at your hotel.  Pizza travels very well in your back pack and it can last a long time.  This is great for lunch in the park.

-Rainforest Café in Downtown Disney:  Call 714-772-0413 for reservations.  My mom and I get the pot roast and split it.  Even half is too much for me to eat.  If you are having a birthday you can purchase the volcano dessert for $15. It's a volcano made out of brownies with ice cream and chocolate sauce. Comes with a sparkler on top. Enough for the whole family to eat or they have a free ice cream sundae.

You can sign up for the Safari Club which allows you priority seating and discounts on your meals.  If you plan on eating here often this is well worth the time and money to fill out an application.  I believe the fee to enroll is very small.  Click here for information on the Rain Forest Café.

Inside the Park: 
It is best to call Disney Dining 60 days before your trip and make a reservation.

-Ariel's Grotto in California Adventure: We purchase our tickets online at Get Away Today and it includes the tax & tip. The park prints out a coupon (looks like your entrance pass but says what it is for) and we just turn that in with our meal ticket. I believe the cost is around $35 but probably the best dining in the park. It comes with a drink, a three tiered appetizer platter with salad, cheese, and veggies, main course (we love the beef tri-tip) and then a dessert sampler tray. You get your picture with Ariel when you go down and then all the princesses come out and go around to each individual table and talk to you, take pictures, and sign autographs.

-Blue Bayou inside the Pirates of the Caribbean:  One of our favorites but definitely need a reservation. We always make reservations for lunch and order the Monte Cristo sandwich. It is the best I've ever eaten. Really rich and the plum sauce is delicious. It is too much for a single individual so we always get one and share it. Cost @ $21 but when you split it not that much. We also get the mint julep to drink and crème brulee for dessert.

-Character Breakfast on Main Street: Also purchased through Get Away Today and just make an early reservation for our early day in the park. Yummy breakfast buffet with Minnie Mouse & Friends. They come around to your table and interact with you. Lots of fun. Usually I eat so much that we skip lunch and have an early dinner.

Treats While Inside the Park:

-My son always gets a Honey Bee Apple at Pooh's Corner: Only place you can get it. It is an apple dipped in caramel and then chocolate. Yummy!

-Pineapple ice cream at the Tiki Room: Always a long line. On a hot day the float is good which is pineapple juice and pineapple soft serve but usually just like the soft-serve on its on.  This is SO good!