Disneyland Resort Attractions and Experiences
Family Fun Beyond the Rides at California's Premier Theme Park
Aug 29, 2009
Disneyland creates a lifetime of magical memories for young and old alike. What makes Disney so special is the magic created beyond the rides. Disney makes magic come alive for kids and adults with a lot of subtle touches and unique experiences. There is so much to do beyond the rides that considering these options while planning a vacation to the Magic Kingdom is a must.
Celebrating Birthdays Disney Style
A day at Disneyland is like one big celebration. From holidays to birthdays, Disney loves an excuse to celebrate. The theme for this year is "What will you celebrate?" as Disney launched a campaign to encourage visitors to come on their birthdays for free. With park tickets starting at $72 for an adult admission, this is a great deal to take advantage of if you are planning to be at Disneyland on your birthday. To take advantage of this deal, be sure to bring valid ID or a copy of a child’s birth certificate. Beyond the free admission, guests celebrating their birthdays are given buttons to identify their special occasion. Reportedly, guests with these buttons may be allowed to skip to the front of a line or may be given other surprises.
Searching for Hidden Mickeys
One activity that is has gained popularity is searching for "Hidden Mickeys". A Hidden Mickey is the image of Mickey Mouse concealed in the design of an attraction or ride at one of the Disney parks. Many Hidden Mickeys take the shape of the classic tri-circle head with ears, but they can also include other Mickey shapes including full figured animated Mickeys. A Hidden Mickey should be in plain view but takes some effort to find. Much excitement and friendly competition can be had in trying to find the most Hidden Mickeys. Once the search begins, the entire family will be hooked.
Become a Disney Princess and Go to the Royal Ball
For little girls, make the most of their imagination by indulging in a few fairy tales just for them. A visit with the Disney Princesses at the Disney Princess Fantasy Faire can mean lines that reach in excess of an hour to meet three of the classic princesses.
There are two other options, however, experience the life of a Disney princess. For around $50, book an appointment at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique located in Sleeping Beauty's Castle. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is a salon that turns little girls into princesses by styling their hair, giving them a sparkle with make-up, and accessorizing their princess gown with jewels. Book an afternoon appointment at the boutique and immediately follow this with dinner reservations to Ariel's Grotto located in Disney's California Adventure Park. At Ariel's Grotto, all of the Disney Princesses will go table to table to pose for pictures. While the entertainment is perfect for children, the delicious food will please adults. For both experiences, be sure to make reservations well ahead of time as they fill up quickly.
Become a Jedi Knight and Save the Star Wars Universe
One unique experience that will appeal to young boys is the opportunity to become a Jedi Knight. Located at the Tomorrowland Terrace Stage near the Finding Nemo Submarine ride, guests aged 4 - 12 are randomly selected from the audience to take part in the live action Jedi Academy Training. As young Jedi Padawan, children take the Jedi oath, learn to master the light saber, and help battle the evil forces of the Empire including Storm Troopers and Darth Vader. The show is scheduled several times during the day. Be sure to check the park's entertainment schedule and plan to arrive early to get the best chance of being chosen to participate.
Start a Disney Pin Collection for the Family
If this Disney vacation will be one of many, consider beginning a Disney pin collection. Disney themed pins are available at gift shops all over the park and come in a wide range of themes from classic characters to celebrating special dates and experiences. Pins make great souvenirs that offer a great way to reflect back on the memories your family made while at Disneyland and they are easy to pack Also, pins appeal to all ages so let each family member pick out a few. Picking out pins can be used as a reward for children with good behavior while on vacation.
Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure Park have from classic rides to iconic characters. A key to any Disney vacation is to experience some of the Disney magic. Taking part in a few of these unique experiences will undoubtedly create a little bit of Disney magic for the entire family.
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