Updated April 23, 2024 Fuel Rod chargers arrived at Disney World in the summer of 2016. Shortly after, they started popping up at Disneyland. The concept of these chargers is simple and smart. I’ve enjoyed my experience with them so far. There are certainly longer lasting chargers available, but when you’re in the park and without a charger, these work nicely. Take a look at what there is to know about this new option for battery charging. Basic Scoop Visit the Fuel Rod website for lots of info. On the home page, you’ll find exactly what comes with your purchase: A ready to use FuelRod to pow ..read more

Updated April 23, 2024 ***After the demise of a popular animatronic, this show will return May 24, 2024! Fantasmic! is an old school Disneyland gem. Definitely consider it for your visit. As with any big show at Disneyland, good planning will ensure you have a good experience. I’ve compiled this information from what Disney has released to us, what other dining packages typically include and specifically what I know from the dining experiences offered prior to Covid. Current Showtimes First, check this link to see if Fantasmic! is showing during your dates. Depending on when you visit, Fantasm ..read more

Updated April 22, 2024 For many, a visit to Disneyland isn’t complete until they share a meal with a Disney character. I’ve researched your options, below, with details on each so that you can find the best fit for your friends and family. If you’re considering dining with characters, read through this post and let me know what questions you have.  Basic Scoop There are four options for character dining at the Disneyland Resort. Three are within the resort hotels and one is at Disneyland. Theme park tickets are required to enjoy a dining option inside the park. A hotel room stay is not r ..read more

Updated April 21, 2024 Disneyland is so much more than rides and food and that’s a big part of why I love the parks.  We’ve discovered some unique treasures over the years and I know we have many more to learn. I’ve detailed several, below, so you can share in some of the fun, too! Peter & Wendy’s Tree Located to the right of the castle, don’t miss finding where Peter and Wendy carved their initials. This little gem is tucked away behind Snow White Grotto, up a couple of steps and facing the brick. If you listen closely, sometimes you can hear Peter Pan’s Flight nearby! Here is what ..read more

Updated April 19, 2024 “Free” and “Disneyland” are not often used in the same thought sequence, but you might be surprised at what all you can find at the parks that doesn’t cost a dime. Take a look at my list and let me know what I have missed. Ice Water Ask for iced water at any counter service restaurant at Disneyland or California Adventure. There are plenty of water fountains throughout the parks, but sometimes a nice cold cup of water is good, too. Buttons Upon entry, go to City Hall for your button of choice. There is usually a variety to choose from. You can also find these at the par ..read more

Updated April 12, 2024 If you had told me years ago that I would one day not only do a “Yes Day” with my kids, but enjoy it too, I would have insisted you were insane. And, the whole idea of this day might seem ridiculous because a visit to a Disney Park is enough “YES” already. I get that. But, I did it and the day completely surprised me. Let’s take a look at how it works. Basic Scoop I heard about the idea of a “Yes Day” many years ago, well before I started this website. I’ve been over-doing things my entire life (Sorry, Mom) and motherhood is no exception, so this seemed like a perfect fi ..read more

Updated April 12, 2024 People instinctively panic at the thought of rain at Disneyland. The picture perfect visit they had in mind is diminished and the gray skies cloud their mood. Here’s the good news: Rain can be your biggest advantage during your visit. Since Disneyland is so embedded into our life here in Southern California, a good amount of guests are typically locals. And, locals often stay home during the rain. So, take advantage of lower lines and less crowds. Here are some tips on surviving the weather and making the most of the rainy days. Basic Scoop Looking for the weather f ..read more

These are a great option!! Single Rider Lines are for guests who don’t want to wait in line for a long time and don’t mind riding alone or with a guest they don’t know. Basic Scoop Single Rider Lines are utilized to fill in seats on attractions. They’re open to all guests, free of charge. I do not include Single Rider Lines in my strategies for each park, as they don’t work for everyone. And, they’re not 100% in use at all times. But they’re great for filling in rides here and there and for those on solo trips. The Rules Single riders must meet attraction height requirements and be at le ..read more

Welcome! Disney Parks are not easy to navigate right now. Don’t worry. I can help.  Having a good strategy will absolutely give you your best shot at a successful day. My strategies are built for families and do not include single rider lines or other options that are not available to all guests. I have plans for guests who want to use Genie+ and for those who don’t. I’ve got what you need! Let’s go. Basic Scoop I create and test strategies that aim to keep your wait time to 20 minutes or less for both Disneyland and Walt Disney World theme parks. It’s entirely possible to do th ..read more

Updated April 4, 2024 Star Wars Nites at Disneyland are very popular! You’ll find all sorts of fun things to do. Let’s dive in to see what these events are all about. Basic Scoop This is a Disneyland After Dark event themed for Star Wars fans. Per Disney, “For select nights in April and May, Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite will grant Guests of all ages special after-hours access to Disneyland Park with the purchase of a separate event admission ticket. Enjoy Star Wars Character sightings, event-themed menu selections and exciting entertainment—including a lightsaber i ..read more