Disneyland is the “Happiest Place on Earth” so naturally lots of people want to visit. The parks can hold thousands of people and there can be times when lines are just too long for you to want to wait in. I’ve put together my top 10 things to do at the Disneyland Resort when it’s super crowded.
1. Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough
Explore the winding passageways of Sleeping Beauty Castle and view scenes from the beloved Disney classic Sleeping Beauty. The scenes are depicted in 3-D displays and even feature interactive moments. This is a great attraction to do when it’s crowded or when it’s hot because there is no waiting in line and it’s indoors! If you’re unable to handle stairs, ask a cast member about the high-definition video version of the walkthrough.
2. Frontierland Shootin’ Exposition
I’ve never seen a line a the Frontierland Shootin’ Exposition. There’s a small fee to play but it’s a lot of fun to test your shootin’ skills. There are nearly 100 targets and when you hit one you’re rewarded with entertaining lights, sounds and animations.
3. Main Street Cinema
This is an attraction that I just recently took the time to explore. Six classic films play continuously throughout the day. There’s hardly ever any one inside which makes this a great place to get away from the crowds.
4. Disney Animation Building
There are multiple things you can do in the Animation Building that have little to no wait time. You can relax in the main lobby and watch still images and video clips that illustrate the Disney-Pixar creative process. If you want a fun and interactive show you can head over to Turtle Talk with Crush. Enjoy the opportunity to draw your own Disney character sketch at the Animation Academy. Or go in to the Sorcerer’s Workshop where you can create simple animation in the Magic Mirror Realm, uncover your “inner Disney self” in The Beast’s Library, and lend your voice to a classic Disney character in Ursula’s Grotto.
5. Redwood Creek Challenge Trail
There is so much to do at the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail and with no lines to wait in! Climb up a rock climb, slide down a natural rock slide, explore lookout towers, or follow clues, collect badges and become a Wilderness Explorer. There’s also a spirit cave where you can discover your spirit animal. This is also a great place to let your kids get some energy out.
6. Hidden Mickeys
A Hidden Mickey is a representation of Mickey Mouse that has been subtly inserted into the design of a ride, building, attraction or other location. Searching for Hidden Mickeys throughout the parks has become very popular and is something everyone can do at any time. So if the lines are too long for your liking, take a stroll around the park and see how many Mickeys you can find!
7. Watch a Show
There are a couple of shows that you won’t have to wait in line for. One is Mickey and the Magical Map at Disneyland. The other is It’s Tough to be a Bug at Disney’s California Adventure. Mickey and the Magical Map is a live musical show that features appearances by some of your favorite Disney characters. I just recently saw this show for the first time and it was very entertaining and is a great show for all ages. It’s Tough to be a Bug is a 3-D film and live show where you find out what it’s like to be a bug. There are dazzling 3-D movie effects and in-theater 4-D surprises. This is a favorite of mine but it can be scary for younger kids.
8. Photo Ops
When lines are super long, take the opportunity to get some fun pictures! Right now at the Disneyland Resort there are areas to take special photos. Get a shot of you “climbing” the Matterhorn, as a Haunted Mansion bust, or “riding” California Screamin’. Another tip for taking photos-go to the popular spots (in front of the castle/Mickey Mouse flower bed/Partners statue) in the afternoon rather than the morning when everyone else is taking pictures there.
9. Jedi Training Academy
Even if you don’t have a 4-12 year old with you, the Jedi Training Academy is so entertaining to watch! It’s now called ‘Jedi Training-Trials of the Temple’ during Season of the Force. The Jedi in charge of training the younglings is very witty and the villains love to interact with the audience. (We watched Darth Maul knock over a guest’s drink once.) It’s a fun show and you can even enjoy a burger from the Galactic Grill while you watch!
10. Toon Town
Toon Town has multiple line-free attractions. You can explore Goofy’s house and garden, Donald’s boat, and Chip & Dale’s treehouse. Mickey and Minnie’s houses are also there for your enjoyment but the lines to see those characters go through their homes so you’ll encounter more guests there. Tip-if you want to see Mickey Mouse at his home in Toon Town, go just before closing. There will be fewer people there. But remember, Toon Town closes earlier than the rest of the park.
What do you like to do when the parks are super crowded? Let me know in the comments!
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