Disneyland™ guide for parents: Top tips to save time and money

Visiting Disneyland™ with kids is magical, but it can also be overwhelming. From long lines to high food prices, the happiest place on Earth requires some serious planning. Even if this isn’t your first visit, these parent-approved tips will help you save time, avoid stress, and make the most of your Disneyland™ adventure.

1. Choose the right time to visit

Timing is everything at Disneyland™. Crowds fluctuate throughout the year, and picking the best time can make or break your experience.

• Best months: Mid-January to mid-March and mid-September to mid-November – these timeframes typically have smaller crowds and mild weather.

• Best days: Tuesdays through Thursdays typically have lighter crowds.

• Avoid: Holidays, school breaks, and special event days like Oogie Boogie Bash in October.

2. Buy tickets smartly

Disneyland™ tickets can be pricey, but with a little planning, you can find great ways to save and make the most of your budget:

• Buy in advance: Prices go up at the gate.

• Consider multi-day tickets: More cost-effective than single-day passes.

• Skip the Park Hopper unless necessary: If visiting for multiple days, dedicate one day to each park to save money.

• Use authorized discount sites: GetAwayToday and Undercover Tourist are two examples of where you may be able to save money. 

3. Plan your Lightning Lane strategy

Lightning Lane (formerly known as Genie+) is a game-changer for avoiding long lines, but to get the most value, you’ll want to use it strategically:

• Buy Lightning Lanes early: It may sell out on busy days.

• Prioritize high-demand rides: Indiana Jones Adventure, Space Mountain, and Rise of the Resistance.

• Stack Lightning Lanes: Book the next one as soon as your current window opens.

4. Arrive early (rope drop is your best friend!)

Making the most of rope drop — the moment when Disneyland™ officially opens — sets the tone for a smoother, more magical day. Arriving early gives you a golden opportunity to enjoy top attractions with minimal wait times before the crowds build up. To make the most of this head start, plan to:

Be a financially smart family!

Be a financially smart family!

From saving for the future to understanding credit, see how families are thriving with Greenlight.

Try Greenlight today

• Arrive at security 45 to 60 minutes before park opening.

• Head straight to your must-do rides first.

• Schedule a midday break to avoid afternoon fatigue.

5. Make a flexible ride plan

Disneyland™ can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key. Instead of a rigid schedule, create a priority list of must-do rides based on wait times and crowd flow. Use the Disneyland™ app to check live wait times and adjust your plan on the go. Also, have a few backup attractions or activities in mind so you’re never stuck waiting too long without a plan.

6. Pack strategically

Bringing the right essentials can save you time, money, and hassle. Pack smartly with these must-haves:

• Refillable water bottles: Stay hydrated with free refills available at designated stations throughout the park.

• Snacks: Disneyland food is pricey, and having your own snacks can cut costs and keep kids happy between meals.

• Ponchos: Rain showers or water rides like Splash Mountain can leave you soaked, so cheap ponchos from home can be a lifesaver.

• Battery packs: The Disneyland™ app is essential for navigating the park, managing Lightning Lane passes, and checking ride times, so make sure your phone stays charged.

• Cooling towels or fans: If visiting in warmer months, stay cool to avoid mid-day fatigue.

• Ziploc bags: Great for protecting phones from water rides and storing leftover snacks for later.

7. Mobile order your meals

Waiting in line for food can eat up valuable park time. Use the Disneyland™ app to mobile order meals at restaurants throughout the park. Plan ahead by checking menus in advance and setting reminders for pickup times during non-peak hours to avoid long waits. Many quick-service restaurants have dedicated pickup windows, making it even easier to grab your food and get back to the fun.

8. Use rider switch for younger kids

If you have little ones who can’t ride certain attractions, rider switch is a useful perk. This system allows one parent to ride while the other waits with the child, then swap without rejoining the full line. Check with a cast member at ride entrances to confirm availability. Some of the best rides for this feature include Indiana Jones Adventure, Space Mountain, and Rise of the Resistance — so parents don’t have to miss out on the thrills!

9. Take advantage of Disneyland’s™ baby care centers

For parents with infants and toddlers, Disneyland’s™ Baby Care Centers are lifesavers. Located on Main Street, U.S.A., these centers provide a clean, quiet place for essential baby needs. Take advantage of:

• Changing tables with plenty of space.

• Private nursing rooms for a comfortable feeding experience.

• Microwaves and high chairs for warming up meals and feeding little ones.

• Baby essentials for sale, including diapers, formula, and wipes in case you run out.

10. Stay nearby for mid-day breaks

Disneyland™ can be exhausting for little ones, so planning a midday break can help everyone recharge. Staying at a nearby hotel allows for quick naps, a dip in the pool, or simply a quiet moment away from the crowds. If staying offsite, consider heading to a shaded park area, like Tom Sawyer Island or the Animation Academy, for a less hectic alternative to keep kids rested and happy for the evening festivities.

11. Save money on souvenirs

• Buy Disney merchandise in advance: Stores like Target, Amazon, and Walmart sell Disney-themed items at a fraction of the cost, so grab essentials like Mickey ears, autograph books, and character shirts before your trip.

• Use discounted Disney gift cards: Retailers like Sam’s Club, Costco, and Target often sell Disney gift cards at a slight discount, helping you save money on in-park purchases.

• Set a souvenir budget: Give kids a set dollar amount or use a prepaid Disney gift card to encourage smart spending.

• Trade Disney pins: Instead of buying expensive souvenirs, let kids participate in Disney pin trading. Purchase a starter pack online before your trip to get more value.

• Look for free souvenirs: Complimentary buttons from Guest Relations, attraction maps, and pressed pennies make great keepsakes without breaking the bank.

12. Know the best parade and fireworks spots

• Parades: While Main Street offers a classic view, watching near It’s a Small World is often less crowded and offers easier access to rides afterward.

• Fireworks: The front of Sleeping Beauty Castle is iconic but often packed. Consider watching from Rivers of America or near It’s a Small World for an equally great view with more breathing room.

• Stake out your spot early: For the best views, claim your spot at least 45 minutes in advance and bring a small blanket to sit on.

• Use dining packages for reserved seating: If you plan to splurge on a meal, look into dining packages that offer VIP viewing areas for shows like Fantasmic! and World of Color.

13. Keep kids entertained in line

Waiting in line is inevitable when you go to Disneyland™, but you can still make it fun:

• Bring small games or toys: Travel-sized card games, fidget toys, and sticker books can help pass the time.

• Download the Disneyland™ Play app: Some attractions, like Space Mountain and Peter Pan’s Flight, offer interactive in-line experiences.

• Snack breaks in line: Keep kids happy and occupied with small snacks like trail mix, granola bars, or fruit pouches.

• Play classic waiting games: Simple games like I Spy, 20 Questions, or Disney trivia can keep the family engaged.

14. Download the Disneyland™ app

This app is your best tool for a seamless visit:

• Check real-time ride wait times so you can plan your next move efficiently.

• Mobile order meals to skip long food lines and maximize time on rides.

• Manage Lightning Lanes to ensure you make the most of your time.

• Locate characters, parade times, and bathrooms for a smoother experience.

• Enable notifications to get important updates on ride closures and virtual queue openings.

15. Use park lockers to lighten your load

Carrying everything around the park all day can be exhausting. Renting a Disneyland™ locker allows you to store extra gear, snacks, jackets, and souvenirs so you can move freely without being weighed down. Lockers are available in various sizes and can be found near the park entrances. They are a great way to keep essentials handy while minimizing what you need to carry.

16. Utilize Disneyland's™ free activities

Not everything at Disneyland™ costs extra! Take advantage of these fun and free activities:

• Animation Academy: Learn to draw Disney characters with step-by-step guidance from professional Disney artists. It’s a great keepsake and a fun way to rest while still being entertained.

• Hidden Mickey scavenger hunts: Make waiting in line more exciting by searching for Hidden Mickeys around the park. Look for them in ride décor, walkways, and even in restaurant designs.

• Tom Sawyer Island: A fantastic place for kids to run around, climb, and explore caves, bridges, and secret hideouts — all without standing in line!

17. Take advantage of single rider lines

If your kids are old enough and don’t mind riding separately, single rider lines can significantly cut wait times on certain attractions. This is especially useful for:

• Radiator Springs Racers (Disney™ California Adventure): One of the most popular rides, often with long waits, but the single rider line moves quickly.

• Matterhorn Bobsleds (Disneyland™ Park): Avoid long standby waits and hop on much faster.

• Incredicoaster (Disney™ California Adventure): Experience Pixar Pier’s thrilling coaster without the extended queue time.

• Smugglers Run (Disneyland™ Park): The single rider option is perfect if you don’t mind being assigned a random crew role on the Millennium Falcon.

18. Consider bringing a stroller (even for older kids)

Even kids who no longer use strollers at home might appreciate one after hours of walking. Keep in mind:

• Disneyland™ requires a lot of walking — miles each day! Even school-age kids might need a break.

• Bringing your own stroller saves money compared to renting one at the park ($18 per day).

• A stroller doubles as storage for snacks, water bottles, extra layers, and souvenirs.

• Compact, lightweight strollers are best, as Disneyland™ has size restrictions (must be no larger than 31” wide and 52” long).

19. Know where the quiet spots are

Disneyland™ can be overwhelming, especially for little ones. If they need a break, these quieter areas provide a calm retreat:

• Near Hungry Bear Restaurant (Critter Country): A shaded riverside seating area with fewer crowds.

• The pathway behind Grizzly River Run (California Adventure): A peaceful area with benches and a view of the waterfall.

• Second floor of Star Wars Launch Bay (Tomorrowland): A cool, air-conditioned space with seating and Star Wars exhibits to explore.

• Main Street Opera House (Main Street, U.S.A.): Home to Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, this spot offers a quiet indoor escape with comfortable seating.

20. Use PhotoPass photographers for free pictures

Even if you don’t purchase the official PhotoPass, you can still get professional-quality photos at no cost. Here’s how:

• Ask a PhotoPass photographer to take pictures using your phone or camera. They’re happy to do so, ensuring the whole family gets in the shot.

• Look for photographers at iconic locations like Sleeping Beauty Castle, Pixar Pier, and Galaxy’s Edge.

• Take advantage of character meet-and-greets, where photographers capture candid moments with Disney characters.

• If you decide to purchase PhotoPass, consider the Lightning Lane Multi Pass upgrade, which includes unlimited digital downloads of your photos for the day.

Enjoy your experience

A little preparation goes a long way toward making your Disneyland™ trip smooth and stress-free. By using these tips, you’ll save time, money, and energy — allowing you to focus on what truly matters: enjoying magical moments with your family. Plan ahead, stay flexible, and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Teach money skills for life. Kids learn by doing — and Greenlight’s all-in-one family app helps you weave money management into daily life. Try Greenlight, one month, risk-free.†

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.

†Valid for new customers only. Subject to identity verification and minimum load requirements. Your first monthly fee will be billed to your parent wallet seven days after successful registration. To receive a refund of your first monthly fee, you must request to close your account on or before the day immediately preceding your first Monthly Billing Date. See the ‘Account’ tab of Settings by tapping the gear icon on the Greenlight app home page to confirm when your risk-free trial ends. See Terms for details.