Here’s an ideal itinerary for visiting Anaheim, particularly Disneyland, over 3 days or 5 days to make sure you experience the best attractions, shows, dining, and nearby sights while keeping the trip balanced and enjoyable.
3-Day Disneyland Itinerary
Day 1: Disneyland Park
Morning:
- Arrive early and start your day with a visit to Main Street, U.S.A. for a classic Disneyland experience.
- Head straight to Fantasyland to enjoy iconic rides like Peter Pan’s Flight, It’s a Small World, and The Matterhorn Bobsleds.
- Make sure to experience Space Mountain and Star Tours in Tomorrowland.
Afternoon:
Take a break for lunch at Café Orleans or the Plaza Inn, where you can enjoy their famous fried chicken.
Explore Adventureland, experiencing Indiana Jones Adventure and Pirates of the Caribbean.
Wander through Frontierland, where you can ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and relax with a fun snack.
Evening:
Don’t miss the Parade and Fantasmic! nighttime show at the Rivers of America.
Explore Main Street, U.S.A. again for evening shopping, enjoying the glowing lights and magic.
Day 2: Disney California Adventure Park
Morning:
- Head to Buena Vista Street and start your day with a ride on the Red Car Trolley.
- Visit Cars Land and enjoy the stunning Radiator Springs Racers ride.
- Explore Pixar Pier with rides like Incredicoaster and Toy Story Midway Mania.
Afternoon:
Have lunch at Lamplight Lounge or Carthay Circle Restaurant for a higher-end dining experience.
Head over to Avengers Campus for thrilling attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout! and Spider-Man Web Slingers.
Evening:
Day 3: Downtown Disney District and Relaxation
Morning:
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Downtown Disney, where you can grab coffee and pastries at Starbucks or a unique bite at La Brea Bakery Café.
- Explore the shops and boutiques in Downtown Disney.
- Visit Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa for a relaxed stroll and to check out their themed areas.
Afternoon:
Have a relaxing lunch at Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria.
Spend the afternoon at Disneyland Resort’s Downtown Disney District, enjoying street performances or just soaking in the atmosphere.
Evening:
5-Day Disneyland Itinerary
Day 1: Disneyland Park – Classic Experience
Morning & Afternoon:
- Follow the same plan as Day 1 in the 3-day itinerary, ensuring that you don’t rush. Take more time to explore Main Street, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, and Frontierland.
- Stop for leisurely meals and snacks, and try to catch special moments like character meet-and-greets.
Evening:
Day 2: Disney California Adventure Park – Full Immersion
Morning & Afternoon:
- Visit Pixar Pier and Cars Land early, so you can enjoy the popular rides before the crowds.
- Have a sit-down lunch at Carthay Circle Restaurant, one of the park’s most exquisite dining spots.
- Take your time with Avengers Campus and Marvel-related attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy and Spider-Man Web Slingers.
Evening:
Day 3: Disneyland Park – Relaxed Exploration
Morning & Afternoon:
- Revisit your favorite rides from Day 1 or explore the more relaxed areas like Mickey’s Toontown, where you can meet characters and enjoy child-friendly rides.
- Take breaks at Cafe Orleans or Blue Bayou for unique, quieter meals.
- Experience classic attractions like Jungle Cruise, Mark Twain Riverboat, or The Disneyland Railroad.
Evening:
Watch the Fireworks Show from Main Street, U.S.A. or near Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Enjoy a light dinner and dessert at Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop in Downtown Disney.
Day 4: Relaxing and Exploring Anaheim
Morning:
- Start with a relaxing breakfast at Downtown Disney or a nearby hotel.
- Visit Anaheim Packing District to explore local food and crafts, a great place to spend a few hours.
- Take a scenic walk at Yorba Regional Park or visit Oak Canyon Nature Center.
Afternoon:
Evening:
Day 5: Last Day of Disney Fun and Shopping
Morning:
- Start your final day at Disneyland with any rides you missed or want to repeat, such as Indiana Jones Adventure or Space Mountain.
- Explore areas like Tomorrowland and Adventureland again for last-minute fun.
Afternoon:
Evening:
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a top Disney restaurant, such as Napa Rose or Storytellers Café.
End your visit with a final evening stroll down Main Street, U.S.A. and watch the evening parade or fireworks.
Conclusion:
- 3 days is ideal for those who want a packed schedule, focusing primarily on the parks with some relaxation time.
- 5 days provides a more leisurely experience, allowing time to explore the parks thoroughly, relax, and enjoy the local area without feeling rushed.
Both itineraries allow you to experience Disneyland in depth, enjoy nearby attractions, and have time to unwind between the magic!
