5 Essential Tips for Your First Visit to Disneyland

Planning your very first trip to Disneyland? Get ready for a magical adventure! Whether you’re going solo, as a couple, or with the whole family, the experience can be unforgettable—but also a little overwhelming. With so much to see, do, and eat, it helps to have a game plan.

Here are 5 must-know tips to make your first Disneyland visit as smooth and magical as possible:

1. Download the Disneyland App Before You Go

The official Disneyland app is your best friend in the park. It lets you:

• Check real-time wait times for rides

• View showtimes and character meet-and-greets

• Mobile order food from quick-service restaurants

• Join virtual queues (like for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance)

• Purchase Genie+ for Lightning Lane access

You can even use it as your park ticket and PhotoPass! Download it ahead of time and get familiar with the layout—you’ll thank yourself later.

2. Arrive Early (Like, Really Early)

Disneyland mornings are magical—and strategic. The first few hours after the park opens are the best time to hit popular rides with shorter wait times. Aim to arrive at the security entrance 30–45 minutes before official park opening. This gives you a head start before the crowds roll in.

Pro tip: Early birds can ride headliners like Space Mountain, Indiana Jones Adventure, or Peter Pan’s Flight with minimal waits.

3. Prioritize Must-Do Rides (And Be Flexible)

You probably won’t be able to do everything in one day—and that’s okay! Make a short list of your “must-do” attractions, and aim to knock those out first.

Some top picks for first-timers include:

• Pirates of the Caribbean – a classic Disney adventure

• Haunted Mansion – spooky, fun, and iconic

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – the “wildest ride in the wilderness”

• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway – charming and family-friendly

• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance – one of Disney’s most immersive rides ever

But remember: things change. Rides can break down, weather can shift, and lines can fluctuate. Go in with a plan, but be ready to pivot and explore.

4. Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart

You’ll walk miles during a full Disneyland day, so hydration and snacks are key. Bring a refillable water bottle—there are plenty of refill stations throughout the park. And pack light snacks like granola bars, trail mix, or fruit to avoid constant food lines (and hangry meltdowns).

Of course, treat yourself too! Try fan-favorite snacks like:

• Dole Whip (Adventureland)

• Mickey-shaped beignets (New Orleans Square)

• Churros (practically everywhere)

• Corn dogs from the Little Red Wagon

Eating is half the fun—just pace yourself!

5. Take Breaks (You’ll Need Them)

   
   

Disneyland is exciting, but also tiring—especially for first-timers. Don’t try to power through every second. Schedule breaks throughout the day to rest, recharge, and soak in the atmosphere.

Great spots to chill out:

• The Disneyland Railroad for a scenic ride around the park

• Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln for a cool, quiet show

• The Enchanted Tiki Room—classic Disney charm and air conditioning!

• Shady benches in New Orleans Square or Fantasyland

Even 10–15 minutes off your feet can make a huge difference in energy and mood.

Bonus Tip: Enjoy the Little Moments ✨

Yes, the big rides are incredible. But Disneyland’s real magic is often in the details—the music, the cast members, the smells of churros in the air, the surprise character sightings. Don’t rush so much that you miss it.

Look around. Smile. Take it in. This is the kind of magic you’ll remember for years.

Final Thoughts

A first trip to Disneyland is something special—and with a little preparation, it can be truly unforgettable. From navigating the park with the app to finding quiet corners to rest, these simple tips can help you focus less on the stress and more on the magic.

Now grab your mouse ears and get ready… because your Disney adventure awaits!