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Disneyland Halloween Time: Decorations, Rides, Food & Tips
Planning a Disneyland trip during Halloween Time? See the best Halloween decorations, seasonal rides, Cars Land Haul-O-Ween, treats, Oogie Boogie Bash and our tips for experiencing Disneyland Halloween with kids.
Main Entrance Mickey and Friends Pumpkins
Updated August 2026
Halloween might be one of my favorite times of year to visit Disneyland!
Disneyland completely transforms for fall with pumpkins lining Main Street, Halloween costumes, seasonal rides, spooky treats and some of the BEST decorations of the year. And then you walk over to Disney California Adventure and the Halloween decorations get even better — especially in Cars Land!
I originally wrote this guide after one of my Halloween visits to Disneyland years ago, but Disneyland Halloween Time has grown so much since then. I've visited Disneyland California hundreds of times over the years, and now that I'm visiting with my own kids, I wanted to turn this into a complete guide to Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort — including what comes back year after year, what you shouldn't miss and what to know before visiting.
Updated August 2026: Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort runs August 21 through October 31, 2026. Seasonal offerings can change from year to year, so I always recommend checking Disneyland's current schedule before your visit.
🏰 Planning your trip? If you're visiting with little ones, start with my Disneyland With Toddlers guide for our favorite rides, Rider Switch tips and things we've learned visiting Disneyland with our two boys.
Disneyland Halloween Time at a Glance
When: Usually late August through October 31
Where: Disneyland Park + Disney California Adventure
Best for: Families, Disney fans and anyone who loves Halloween without it being TOO scary
Don't miss: Main Street pumpkins, Haunted Mansion Holiday and Cars Land at night
Separate ticket required? Not for regular Halloween Time. Oogie Boogie Bash is a separately ticketed event.
Most of the Halloween decorations, seasonal attractions and entertainment you'll see during the day are included with your regular park admission.
PRO TIP: If you're visiting Disney California Adventure during Halloween season, check the Oogie Boogie Bash calendar before choosing your park days. California Adventure closes early to regular guests on party nights.
🎃 Related Post: Don't forget to check out the Halloween decor at Disneyland Paris.
Where to Stay Near Disneyland for Halloween Time
If you're coming from out of town — or just don't want to drive home after a VERY long Disney day — staying within walking distance of Disneyland makes a huge difference.
We've stayed at Hyatt House at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center multiple times with our kids. I especially like having the extra space, kitchen setup and breakfast when we're doing Disneyland with little ones.
You can read my full Hyatt House Anaheim review to see the rooms, breakfast, walk to Disneyland and why we keep going back.
Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book through one of my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Is Disneyland Halloween Time Worth It?
YES!
I already love Disneyland, but there's something about seeing the entire resort decorated for fall that makes it feel completely different.
Disneyland Park has more of a classic fall feeling with pumpkins, orange and yellow decorations and The Nightmare Before Christmas taking over Haunted Mansion.
California Adventure gets a little spookier with purple lights, bats, Oogie Boogie and the Headless Horseman.
And then there's Cars Land.
If you're only going to see one area decorated for Halloween, Cars Land would be my pick.
It's fun during the day, but make sure you come back after dark because Radiator Springs — or should I say Radiator Screams — looks AMAZING lit up in green, orange and purple.
Halloween at Disney California Adventure
Disney California Adventure really goes all out for Halloween.
Even before you enter the park, you'll usually see Oogie Boogie welcoming you from above the entrance.
Once you're inside, Buena Vista Street has a completely different feeling from Disneyland's Main Street. Instead of the classic orange harvest decorations, you'll find darker Halloween touches, bats and lots of purple.
After entering the gates, Buena Vista Street had lots of bats and purple banners and lights, which I liked because it differentiated from Main Street at Disneyland that is filled with pumpkins and orange harvest decor.
One of my favorite decorations has always been the Headless Horseman near Carthay Circle.
He's definitely creepier than the pumpkins across the esplanade at Disneyland, but that's part of what I love about California Adventure at Halloween. It feels just spooky enough without turning the entire park into a haunted house.
🎢 If you have extra time in California Adventure, you can also check out my Pixar Pier guide for a look at the rides, attractions and the huge transformation from Paradise Pier to Pixar Pier.
Headless Horseman near Carthay Circle
Halloween Characters at California Adventure
Mickey Mouse in his Halloween Costume
Keep an eye out for Disney characters dressed for Halloween, too!
The exact costumes change over the years — Mickey and friends even debuted new Halloween outfits in 2026 — which makes the character photos especially fun if you visit Disneyland regularly.
Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark
Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark
If you want something a little scarier, head over to Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark.
The Halloween version takes place after the regular Mission: BREAKOUT! storyline. The Collector's creatures have escaped, Groot is still inside and Rocket needs your help getting him out.
One of the things I loved when we rode was that the Halloween theme wasn't limited to the ride itself. Cast Members were looking for the escaped creatures while we waited in line, which made the whole experience even more fun.
NOTE FOR FAMILIES: This is definitely one of the more intense Halloween experiences at Disneyland Resort. If you're visiting with toddlers or younger kids, there is plenty of Halloween fun elsewhere that isn't scary.
Cars Land at Halloween: Welcome to Radiator Screams!
Cars Land Haul-o-ween sign at Halloween time
This is my FAVORITE.
Cars Land becomes Radiator Screams during Halloween Time, and Disney puts Halloween details practically everywhere you look.
Seriously, slow down when you're walking through here.
There are spooky traffic signs, giant spiders made from car parts, Halloween-themed tire displays and all kinds of car-themed Halloween puns.
I LOVE the posters throughout Cars Land. Hocus Spokus still makes me laugh because Hocus Pocus is one of the best Halloween movies out there.
Halloween Posters in Cars Land
Even the Cars characters get into the Halloween spirit with their own "car-stumes."
And some of the regular Cars Land attractions get Halloween makeovers too.
Fun Halloween Radiator Springs Makeover activity for kids
🎃 Bring Radiator Springs Halloween Home
Love Cars Land at Halloween? We were so inspired by Radiator Screams that we gave our own Radiator Springs play set a Halloween makeover! Using a few inexpensive pumpkins, lights, trees and spiderwebs, we turned it into a mini Halloween town for less than $10.
→ See our easy Halloween Radiator Springs activity for kids
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS CARS LAND
Radiator Springs Stanley at Halloween Town Hall
Mater's Graveyard JamBOOree
Mater's Junkyard Jamboree becomes Mater's Graveyard JamBOOree, complete with Halloween music and spooky decorations.
This is a great Halloween ride for younger kids because it's festive without being particularly scary.
Halloween time Flo’s V8 Cafe
Luigi's Honkin' Haul-O-Ween
Luigi's Rollickin' Roadsters also gets a Halloween transformation and becomes Luigi's Honkin' Haul-O-Ween with Halloween-themed songs and decorations.
Both of these seasonal overlays have returned year after year, although Disney can always change its Halloween offerings.
Don't Miss Cars Land at Night
Even if you've already explored Cars Land during the day, GO BACK AT NIGHT.
I loved how everything was lit up in green and purple when we visited. Looking back at my pictures, I realized there were details on the buildings I hadn't even noticed while we were standing there.
This is probably my favorite place in either Disneyland park to walk around during Halloween Time.
Cars Land lit up at night for Halloween
Trunk or Treat… Get it?
We had to try the Slow Burnin’ Mac & Cheese Cone and got lemonades with pomegranate limeade on top! Review: Mac & Cheese = good, edible cone = bad. It definitely had a nice spice to it but I was expecting more both palate wise and by size. The crushed chile-cheese puffs were a nice touch. As for the lemonade, you had the option to add vodka to it!
Cute Halloween Decorations
Mickey's Trick and Treat
If you're visiting with younger kids, this is much more their speed!
Mickey's Trick and Treat is a family-friendly interactive show at Disney California Adventure with Mickey, Minnie and friends, dancing, Halloween fun and treats.
Disney's seasonal entertainment changes, so check the entertainment schedule for your dates before planning your day around a particular show.
If you're bringing toddlers or preschoolers, I have a LOT more about planning a Disney day with little kids in my Disneyland With Toddlers guide.
Plaza de la Familia
Halloween season at California Adventure also overlaps with Plaza de la Familia, a celebration inspired by Día de los Muertos and the bonds of family.
You'll find colorful decorations, entertainment and touches inspired by Coco.
Plaza de la Familia typically extends a little beyond Halloween into early November. In 2026, it runs from August 21 through November 2.
Halloween at Disneyland Park
Walk across to Disneyland Park and the entire feeling changes.
Disneyland's Halloween decorations are much more pumpkins + fall + classic Halloween, and I LOVE it.
Main Street, U.S.A. is covered in fall foliage, orange bunting and pumpkins.
And there are SO MANY PUMPKINS!
As we were walking around before the fireworks started, we walked right by the Walt and Mickey statue that had carved pumpkins that were carved from the front and back (they weren't real, but they looked like they were)!
The Giant Mickey Pumpkin
The Giant Mickey Pumpkin
You can't really say you've done Halloween at Disneyland until you've taken a picture with the giant Mickey jack-o'-lantern at the entrance to Main Street.
It's one of the most recognizable Disneyland Halloween decorations and an easy family photo stop.
But don't just take the picture and rush toward the rides.
Look around Main Street!
One of my favorite parts of Disneyland Halloween is seeing all the different carved pumpkin faces decorating the buildings. Disney puts so much detail into the decorations that it's easy to miss half of it if you're racing to your first ride.
Haunted Mansion Nightmare Before Christmas Haunted Holiday
Haunted Mansion Holiday
This is one of the biggest reasons to visit Disneyland during Halloween Time.
Every year, Haunted Mansion gets taken over by Jack Skellington, Sally, Oogie Boogie and the residents of Halloween Town for Haunted Mansion Holiday, inspired by Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas.
I LOVED The Nightmare Before Christmas as a kid, so this is always one of my favorite seasonal Disneyland attractions.
The transformation isn't just a few pumpkins outside, either. The attraction gets an extensive holiday makeover inside and out.
And because Haunted Mansion Holiday continues into the Christmas season, it's one of those funny Disneyland attractions that manages to be perfect for Halloween AND Christmas.
Sing it with me: THIS IS HALLOWEEN, THIS IS HALLOWEEN.....
Don't Forget Galaxy's Edge
Halloween decorations aren't the reason to head into Galaxy's Edge, but if you haven't explored this part of Disneyland yet, definitely leave some time for it while you're in the park.
I have a complete Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge guide with our favorite things to see, do and eat in the land.
Halloween Screams
If it's showing during your visit, stay for Halloween Screams!
The nighttime spectacular features Jack Skellington, Zero, Disney villains, projections and Halloween music.
Fireworks are included on select nights, but the schedule can vary, so this is another one I would check in the Disneyland app on the day of your visit rather than relying on an old showtime you found online.
FRONTIERLAND Halloween Time
Dias de los Muertros took over Frontierland!
Last Year’s BAT WING RASPBERRY SUNDAE at Clarabelle’s Hand Scooped Ice Cream
Halloween Food at Disneyland
Okay, now we need to talk about one of my favorite parts of ANY Disneyland event:
THE FOOD.
Disney goes crazy with seasonal Halloween treats.
Over the years I've tried everything from Halloween churros and spooky ice cream creations to a spicy mac and cheese cone in Cars Land.
Disneyland Halloween Food - Minnie Witch Shake at Schmoozies (Minnie Witch Shake - Mint Chocolate Chip Shake with Whipped Cream and Chocolate Cream-filled Cookie ears)
One year I found a Minnie Witch Shake at Schmoozies made with mint chocolate chip ice cream, whipped cream and cookie ears, and obviously I had to get it.
We've also tried the Haul-O-Ween Churro in Cars Land, which was covered in cookie crumbs, green icing, gummy worms and candy.
And then there was the Slow Burnin' Mac & Cheese Cone.
My review at the time?
Mac & cheese = good. Edible cone = not so good.
Disneyland's Halloween menus change every year, which is actually part of the fun. Instead of planning around a treat you saw from several years ago, check the current seasonal food guide or Disneyland app before your trip.
And if you're like me and Disneyland snacks are a major part of your itinerary, I have an entire guide to Disneyland food and sweet treats you can't miss.
My strategy is usually to pick a few things that sound REALLY good rather than trying to eat everything Halloween-themed in one day.
Although I am always willing to make room for Halloween ice cream.
Haul-O-Ween Churro - rolled in Crumbled Chocolate Creme-filled Cookies, Green Icing, Gummy Worms and Candies
Schmoozies Caramel Apple Smoothie - Apples, Ice Cream, Caramel Sauce and a Caramel Apple Lollipop
What Is Oogie Boogie Bash?
This is an important distinction if you're planning a Disneyland Halloween trip.
Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party is NOT the same thing as regular Halloween Time at Disneyland.
Halloween Time happens throughout both parks during regular operating hours and most of those seasonal decorations and attractions are included with regular admission.
Oogie Boogie Bash is a separately ticketed after-hours Halloween party held on select nights at Disney California Adventure.
The party includes trick-or-treat trails, special characters, entertainment, costumes and other exclusive experiences.
CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE Halloween Time Oogie Boogie MAIN ENTRANCE DAYTIME
Oogie Boogie Bash 2026
For 2026, Oogie Boogie Bash is being held on select nights from August 18 through October 31.
The event officially runs from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and party tickets allow guests to enter Disney California Adventure beginning at 3:00 PM.
Ticket prices and dates change every year, and popular nights can sell out, so I wouldn't build your plans around pricing or dates from a previous year. Check Disney's current Oogie Boogie Bash information when you're planning your trip.
IMPORTANT: Even if you're NOT going to Oogie Boogie Bash, you need to know when it's happening. California Adventure has adjusted operating hours on party nights.
CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE Halloween Time MAIN ENTRANCE NIGHTTIME
Do You Need Oogie Boogie Bash Tickets to Enjoy Disneyland at Halloween?
Absolutely not.
This is probably one of the biggest misconceptions about Disneyland Halloween.
You can see the Main Street pumpkins, explore Cars Land's Haul-O-Ween decorations, ride seasonal attractions and enjoy lots of Halloween entertainment without attending Oogie Boogie Bash.
If you're taking a Disneyland vacation anyway, Halloween Time is still worth experiencing without buying another event ticket.
Oogie Boogie Bash is more of an extra Halloween experience.
Electrical Parade Alice in Wonderland - 2019
Disneyland Halloween With Toddlers and Young Kids
For the most part, Disneyland Halloween is very family-friendly.
This isn't the kind of Halloween event where actors are jumping out and trying to scare you.
There are definitely darker decorations and villains — especially around California Adventure — but there's also a TON for little kids.
If you're visiting Disneyland Halloween with toddlers, I'd prioritize:
Main Street's pumpkins
Cars Land during the day
Mater's Graveyard JamBOOree
Luigi's Honkin' Haul-O-Ween
Halloween character photos
Mickey's Trick and Treat
Seasonal snacks
Then you can decide how your child feels about things like Haunted Mansion Holiday and the nighttime decorations.
Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark is in an entirely different category and is intended to be thrilling!
For everything else — toddler rides, Rider Switch, naps, stroller tips and what we've learned taking two little boys — head over to my complete Disneyland With Toddlers: 10 Tips We Learned Visiting With Two Little Boys.
Make a Disneyland Halloween Weekend Out of It
If you're traveling to Anaheim rather than just coming for the day, you can easily turn Halloween Time into a Southern California weekend.
I'd give Disneyland at least one full day — and preferably more if you want to explore both parks without rushing — and then add another family-friendly Southern California activity before or after your Disney days.
Affiliate disclosure: I may earn a commission if you book an experience through one of these links, at no additional cost to you.
My Tips for Visiting Disneyland During Halloween Time
Go to Cars Land twice. See it during the day and come back after dark.
Check Oogie Boogie Bash dates BEFORE buying your park tickets. This is especially important if you're planning a California Adventure day.
Don't assume an old Halloween food guide is current. Disney changes the specialty food every year.
Check entertainment times in the Disneyland app. Seasonal shows and fireworks aren't necessarily offered every night.
Look up! Some of the best Halloween decorations are on buildings, light fixtures and signs rather than at eye level.
Take your Halloween photos early. You'll inevitably say, "We'll get that picture later!" and then discover that everyone is exhausted and it's dark.
Give yourself time to wander. Halloween at Disneyland is one of those times when getting from attraction A to attraction B as quickly as possible means missing half the fun.
Is Disneyland Better at Halloween or Christmas?
Don't make me choose!
Disneyland at Christmas has MORE decorations overall, but I think Halloween Time has some of the most creative transformations — especially Cars Land.
If you love pumpkins, fall colors, The Nightmare Before Christmas and Halloween without anything TOO scary, I'd choose Halloween.
And Southern California doesn't exactly give us a lot of changing leaves and crisp fall weather, so I'll take my fall wherever I can get it!
Disneyland Halloween Time FAQ
When does Halloween Time start at Disneyland?
Disneyland Halloween Time typically begins in late August or early September and continues through October 31.
For 2026, Halloween Time runs August 21 through October 31.
When does Disneyland decorate for Halloween?
Disney begins its Halloween transformation around the start of Halloween Time. Exact dates can change each year, so check the current year's Disneyland Halloween schedule before your trip.
Is Disneyland Halloween included with regular admission?
Most Halloween Time decorations, seasonal attractions and regular entertainment are available with standard theme park admission.
Oogie Boogie Bash is a separately ticketed event.
Is Cars Land decorated for Halloween?
YES! And it's one of my favorite parts of Disneyland Halloween.
Cars Land becomes "Radiator Screams," complete with Halloween decorations, costumed Cars characters and seasonal versions of Mater's and Luigi's attractions.
Is Haunted Mansion different during Halloween?
Yes. Haunted Mansion transforms into Haunted Mansion Holiday, inspired by Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Does Disneyland have Halloween fireworks?
Disneyland presents Halloween Screams on select nights during Halloween Time. Fireworks are included on select nights, so check the entertainment calendar for your visit.
Is Disneyland Halloween good for toddlers?
Yes! Most of Halloween Time is designed to be family-friendly rather than truly scary. Cars Land, Main Street pumpkins, characters and Mickey's Trick and Treat are especially fun with younger kids.
Do you need Oogie Boogie Bash tickets?
Only if you want to attend Oogie Boogie Bash itself. You do not need a party ticket to experience regular Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort.
Final Thoughts: Is Disneyland Halloween Worth It?
If you already love Disneyland, Halloween Time gives you a completely different reason to visit.
For me, the best part isn't one particular ride or treat. It's walking through Main Street surrounded by pumpkins, discovering all the ridiculous Halloween details in Cars Land and then seeing everything light up after dark.
Disney changes the food, costumes and entertainment from year to year, but that's why I wanted to make this guide more evergreen. The details may change, but the things that make Disneyland Halloween so much fun come back year after year.
And if I had to give you just ONE piece of advice?
Don't leave Cars Land before seeing it at night.
Happy Halloween! I can't wait to go back! Hurry baaacccckkkk, hurrry baaaaaaaaaccccckkkk!
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More Disneyland Tips & Guides
Planning more of your Disneyland trip? Here are some of my other Disneyland guides:
Disneyland With Toddlers: 10 Tips We Learned Visiting With Two Little Boys
Planning Disneyland with toddlers? Here are our favorite Disneyland tips, Rider Swap hacks, toddler rides, hotel recommendations, and California Adventure favorites from visiting with our two boys.
One of my favorite parts of Disneyland with toddlers isn’t even the rides — it’s watching them take it all in. ✨
Disneyland with toddlers is one of those trips that feels equally magical and slightly chaotic at the same time.
We’ve now visited Disneyland multiple times with our two boys and every trip we learn something new. We’ve learned where to start, which rides are actually worth it for little kids, when Rider Swap saves the day, and which waits are absolutely not worth it with toddlers. Don’t miss our Southern California ticket hack too!
If you’re heading to Disneyland with little ones, these are the tips that have worked best for our family.
Look closely - Mary Poppins and Bert are often found in Fantasyland!
1. Bring ALL the Snacks (and Don’t Feel Like You Have to Take the Tram)
My number one Disneyland tip for toddlers? Snacks. So many snacks. Don’t forget to bring some for you too.
We usually load up before heading into the parks because little kids seem to become hungry approximately every 17 minutes at Disneyland.
We always bring a stroller because it ends up carrying everything — snacks, water bottles, jackets, souvenirs, and occasionally tired children. Also, you might want to put an Airtag in the stroller in case you forget where it is!
One thing to know though: if you take the tram from the parking garage, you have to fold the stroller. Our stroller is a pain to fold so we usually skip the tram entirely and walk through Downtown Disney to the parks instead. It’s an easy walk and saves us the stroller fold-up process.
Sleeping Beauty's castle decorated for the 70th Anniversary celebration at Disneyland.
2. Get There Right When the Park Opens
If you only take one piece of advice from this post, let it be this:
Get there early!
The first few hours of the day are magic at Disneyland with toddlers.
Wait times are shorter, it’s cooler outside, kids still have energy, and you can knock out several rides before the crowds build.
Rope drop is absolutely worth it for families. Besides, aren’t you up at the crack of dawn anyway?!
3. Start in Toontown
If you have toddlers, Toontown is our favorite place to start.
Our boys love:
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Gadget’s Go Coaster
Exploring Toontown
Meeting Mickey in his house
Meeting Mickey first thing in the morning has usually meant shorter waits for us too.
Toontown just feels made for little kids and is such a fun way to start the day.
There is a stationary Dumbo when you get off the ride so you can get that picture perfect shot!
4. Keep an Eye on Fantasyland Wait Times (or Head to Big Thunder!)
Fantasyland is obviously classic Disneyland toddler territory, but don’t forget to watch the wait times. Don’t wait more than 40 mins for anything. Dumbo is great but only when the line is 20 mins or less.
And if you happen to have a little thrill seeker…
Big Thunder Mountain might surprise you.
Our son LOVES Big Thunder.
A 20–30 minute wait for Big Thunder is pretty good in our book, and it has become one of his favorite rides. There is a 40 inches height requirement for this one! Check before you go!
We also LOVE Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters.
5. Learn Rider Swap — It Is the Parent Hack Nobody Told Us About
Rider Swap is one of the best things Disneyland offers for families with little kids.
Here’s how it works:
If one child is too small (or doesn’t want to ride), one parent rides first while the other waits with the younger child.
Then the second parent gets to ride without waiting in the full line again.
You just need to talk to the Cast Member at the ride entrance before anyone gets in line.
We’ve used Rider Swap on so many attractions and it makes a huge difference.
It’s especially helpful if you have one toddler who loves bigger rides and one who isn’t ready yet.
Galaxy’s Edge ended up being way more toddler-friendly than we expected. Meeting Chewbacca was a huge hit for our little Star Wars fan. ✨
6. Don’t Skip Galaxy’s Edge if Your Kids Love Star Wars
Our boys are huge Star Wars fans and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run was a massive hit.
Honestly, Galaxy’s Edge ended up being way more toddler-friendly than I expected.
Even walking around the land was fun for them. Give Chewbacca a high five and say hi to Han Solo!
If you have little Star Wars fans, definitely add this to your Disneyland day.
Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree is the best toddler ride and relatively short line!
7. California Adventure Has Some Great Toddler Rides Too
We love Disneyland, but California Adventure has become one of our boys’ favorites too.
Our must-do rides are:
WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure
Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
The Little Mermaid
Mater is always a hit.
And The Little Mermaid is such a nice break when you need air conditioning and a slower ride.
Eat at Flo’s and catch Lightning McQueen an Mater roll by!
8. Don’t Wait in the Radiator Springs Racers Line
This may be my slightly controversial Disneyland opinion…
Don’t wait in the regular Radiator Springs Racers line.
We have almost never seen it under an hour and it breaks down fairly often.
If it fits your budget, this is the ride I would consider buying Lightning Lane for.
And if you can combine it with Rider Swap? Even better.
Pro Tip: Our favorite place to eat is Flo’s Cafe. If you sit in the back patio area, Lightning and Mater drive by! Chicken nuggets and fries for the kiddos is one of our favorite meals there.
Meeting Mater and Lighting McQueen was DEFINITELY a highlight for our little Cars fan!
9. Pixar Pier Is Great for Toy Story Fans
If your kids love Toy Story, don’t miss Pixar Pier.
Toy Story Midway Mania is one of our family favorites and is always a hit.
There’s just something about competing for points that keeps everyone happy — kids and adults included. I will beat Josh one day… I swear!
10. Don’t Miss the Spider-Man Show in California Adventure
One thing that surprised us was how much our boys loved the Spider-Man training show near the entrance of California Adventure.
The show runs pretty frequently (about every 50 minutes or so) and lasts around 10 minutes.
You don’t need a huge strategy here.
We usually just walk over when it’s about to start.
Bonus: you can often meet Spider-Man nearby too.
Buzz Lightyear greeting our toddler at the beginning of the ride.
What We Pack for Disneyland With Toddlers
A few things we always bring:
✔ Snacks (LOTS!)
✔ Refillable water bottles
✔ Stroller
✔ Portable charger
✔ Change of clothes
✔ Hats + sunscreen
✔ Small toys for line waiting (always Hot Wheels cars - we have them everywhere)
✔ Extra wipes (always)
For quieter moments back at the hotel, we also usually pack a few screen-free activities.
Lately our boys have loved bringing books from The Trucks That Saved series and truck activities for downtime between park days.
Disney days are amazing, but having a little quiet hotel reset time has helped us a lot.
More Disneyland Posts You Might Like
Planning a holiday Disney trip?
→ Read our 🎃 Disneyland at Halloween guide or 🎄 Disneyland at Christmas guide
Need a sweet break between rides?
→ Check out our favorite 🍦 Disneyland desserts
Disney fan?
→ Check out 💼 Walt Disney’s Office
Southern California Parent Hack: Use the 3-Day Resident Ticket
If you live in Southern California, this is one of our favorite Disneyland hacks.
Disneyland often offers a Southern California resident 3-day ticket between January and mid-May, and one of the best parts is that the days typically do not have to be consecutive.
We love this because it makes Disneyland feel so much more manageable with toddlers.
Instead of trying to squeeze everything into one long weekend, we can spread visits out and move at toddler pace.
Just make sure to check Disneyland’s current offers because they change year to year. Costco also sometimes offers a 3-day pass!
Our Favorite Family Hotel Near Disneyland
We almost always stay at Hyatt House Anaheim Resort / Convention Center and honestly… I think it might actually feel closer to walk from there than the parking structure.
It has become one of our favorite family hotel stays because it checks so many boxes for traveling with kids.
What we love:
✔ Walking distance to Disneyland
✔ Large rooms for families
✔ Small kitchen area
✔ Sitting space to spread out
✔ Free breakfast
✔ Hyatt free night certificates or points can work here
The breakfast isn’t the most amazing hotel breakfast we’ve ever had, but not paying for one extra Disney meal is a win in my book.
I’m planning a full review because this has honestly become our go-to Disneyland hotel.
Hyatt House Anahiem Resort Convention Center
1800 S Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92802, United States of America
Final Thoughts: Disneyland With Toddlers Is So Worth It
Disneyland with toddlers definitely looks different than pre-kid Disney trips.
There are more snack breaks, slower mornings, stroller parking, and bathroom stops…
But there’s also seeing Mickey through their eyes for the first time, watching them light up on their favorite ride, and hearing them talk about the trip for weeks afterward. 🥹
And honestly? That magic is pretty hard to beat.
Veiw of Lightning McQueen driving through Radiator Springs in California Adventure from Flo’s V8 Cafe
More Disneyland Posts:
Disneyland food you can't miss - where to find the best food and sweet treats!
Attention Disneyland Foodies! In this post, we’ll tell you all the places you must go to try Disneyland Resort’s best food and dessert options! Want a Mickey-shaped milkshake or sundae? Check-out where to go! Did someone say ice cream?
See our top Disneyland dessert picks!
Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlour
Two of my favorite things in the world make a perfect combo: Disneyland & ice cream!!! I am such a Disney nerd and have been to Disneyland (literally) hundreds of times since I was little. Josh and I have even ventured to Hong Kong Disneyland and Paris Disneyland. We still have Tokyo and Shanghai to visit!
We averaged going to Disneyland almost once a month for the past few years, checking out the treats the Food and Wine Festival offered in Spring, Summer specials, Halloweentime in the Fall, and Holiday specials during winter. I present to you my findings of delicious treats around the resort that you can find throughout the year and the seasonal specialties offered.
Note: Most seasonal treats come back each year, but not guaranteed.
Mickey’s Cookies and Cream 90 Sprinkle Milkshake
Schmoozies!
Location: California Adventure - Hollywood Land
Let’s start with my favorite, the Mickey shakes at Schmoozies in California Adventure’s Hollywood Land are not only super cute to look at, but they taste DELICIOUS too! The shakes change with the seasons and are typically made cookies and cream style.
PRO-TIP: Order on the Disneyland mobile app. We’ve waited over 30 mins on a crowded day!
The Churro Shake (Brown Sugar-Cinnamon Ice Cream, Cinnamon Churro Cereal, Whipped Topping and Churro Toffee) can also be found here for you churro lovers!
If you don’t want a milkshake and want a more “healthy” option, there are also smoothies including our favorites Mango Madness and Strawberry Banana Sensation!
Minnie Witch Shake at Schmoozies Halloween
Sorcerer Mickey Shake at Schmoozies
Santa Mickey Shake at Christmas at Schmoozies
Tropical Hideaway - Pineapple Raspberry Swirl
Tropical Hideaway
Location: Disneyland - Adventureland
Located directly behind the Tiki Room, the NEW Tropical Hideaway is open for ice cream business. Orange, Pineapple, or Raspberry are your options here.
Pro-tip: You can even add bacon bits as a topping, which is part of their Secret Menu!
You can even sit and watch the Jungle Cruisers come back from their journey.
Dole Whip Soft Serve
Pineapple Dole Whip Soft Serve
Location: Adventureland Entrance - Disneyland Park
So creamy and fruity, pineapple Dole Whip is the best soft serve around! Lines can be long for this sweet treat, but it is worth it. Makes me want to sing “in the tiki tiki tiki room…”
Pro-Tip: You can order via the Disneyland Mobile app! GENIUS!
Funnel Cake Fries - Award Wieners
AWARD WIENERS
Location: California Adventure - Hollywood Land
Who doesn’t love a hot dog and fries? The key here is Funnel Cake Fries! From flavors like Apple Pie Fries (Coated with Cinnamon-Sugar, topped with Apple Pie Filling, Caramel Sauce, Whipped Cream, and Streusel) to standard funnel cake strips, the toppings are the game-changers.
Throughout the different seasons, toppings vary from Oogie Boogie themed with crushed Oreos and gummy worms at Halloween to cereal and condensed milk with whipped cream. No matter when you go, they’re always tasty!
The CrazyShake
Location: Black Tap Craft Burgers and Beers Restaurant - Downtown Disney
Black Tap is known for their amazing hamburgers and their CrazyShake milkshakes! Dine in or hop in their shake window line to grab one to go!
I would enlist help taking these shakes down because yes, that is an ice cream sandwich hanging off the side of the shake in the picture (in case you were wondering)!
Pictured - The Cookie Shake: Vanilla cookie shake on steroids - vanilla frosted rim with cookie crumbles topped with a ‘cookiewich,’ crumbled cookies, chocolate chips, whipped cream & chocolate drizzle
Black Tap CrazyShake - The Cookie Shake Milkshake
Blue Milk - Galaxy’s Edge
Blue Milk
Location: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland
Do you remember the scene from Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi when Luke squeezes gross milk from the udder of a female Thala-siren (basically an alien sea cow) and gulps it? Yeah, it was disgusting. Anyhoo, Galaxy’s Edge is now serving a Blue Milk and a Green Milk from a machine… not a creature.
Blue Milk: Plant-based Dairy blend of Coconut and Rice Milk with alluring fruity characteristics.
Green Milk: Plant-based Dairy blend of Coconut and Rice Milk with zippy citrus and tropical characteristics.
The consistency is strange, it’s like a smoothie, or somewhere between a slushie and a milkshake! We preferred the Blue Milk, which had a sweet, dessert-like taste. The Green Milk tasted almost floral like as if it were lavender ice cream. These drinks are also one of the hottest commodities right now, so make sure you use the mobile order with the Disneyland app. It’s not worth waiting in line!
Batuu-bon found in Galaxy’s Edge
Batuu-bon
Location: Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo
If you’re traveling to a Galaxy Far Far Away… Batuu is the last stop before entering Wild Space. You must try the Batuu-bon, a decadent chocolate cake with white chocolate mousse and coffee custard. The green sponge-like cake tasted fruity and the coin was a piece of chocolate! You’ll need nourishment before your trip into space, light speed ahead!
Ghiradelli - Lands End Salted Caramel Brownie Sundae with Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream
Ghirardelli's Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop
Location: California Adventure - Wharf
The Ghirardelli headquarters can be found in San Francisco, but I'm not opposed to having some chocolatey goodness in California Adventure. This scoop shop is next to cars land, just as you are entering the wharf (where the food court is).
Their menu will have you drooling. With 10+ sundaes to choose from and 10 of shakes or ice cream scoop combos, you can customize to your tastebuds content.
Our faves:
Lands End Salted Caramel Brownie Sundae - Vanilla Ice Cream, a full-size Ghirardelli® Chocolate Brownie, Caramel Sauce, Sea Salt and handmade Hot Fudge topped with Whipped Cream, Caramel Sauce, Ghirardelli® Chocolate Sauce and a Cherry
Nob Hill Chill - a sundae you can sip (vanilla ice cream, fudge and chocolate chips on top)!
Clockwise from left: Cookie Bits Sundae, Nob Hill Chill, Ice cream cone
Ghirardelli Chocolate, Rocky Road and Cookie Dough cone
This rich, creamy ice cream his the spot! But make sure you eat it quickly! Don't let this happen to you!
Huge Chocolate Chip Cookies
Location: Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums on Pixar Pier at California Adventure
If you want a chocolate chip as big as your face, this is your place! Jack-Jack’s cookies are as super as he is! Choose from chocolate chip, shortbread and jam-filled, gluten-friendly cookies.
Pro-tip: Grab one of these to share with your friends and family while waiting for the Incredicoaster!
Jack-Jack and Edna on the Incredicoaster
Pink Strawberry Ice cream!
Clarabelle's Ice Cream
Location: Near Entrance of California Adventure
As you enter the park, Clarabelle's can be found at the end of the Buena Vista Street on your right (next to Starbucks). It isn't homemade but a nice selection of Dreyer's ice cream!
You can always get a chocolate-covered ice cream bar but at Christmastime, you can get a refreshing Peppermint Ice Cream Bar with your ice cream of choice!
Peppermint Ice Cream Bar from Clarabelle’s at Christmastime
At Halloweentime, they serve up a mean raspberry bat sundae, and by mean, I mean YUMMY! See more: Halloween Time at Disneyland
Peppermint Soft Serve - Cozy Cone Motel
Cozy Cone Motel Ice Cream
Location: California Adventure - Cars Land
You can always get vanilla or chocolate soft serve at the Ice Cream Cozy Cone (HUGE PORTIONS) but at Christmas time, you can get also get the peppermint soft serve topped with holiday sprinkles and a star! It’s as pretty as a Christmas tree and VERY MINTY.
Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats - Soft Serve
Location: California Adventure Boardwalk (Pixar Pier)
Formally known as the Paradise Pier Ice Cream stand, Pixar Pier took over and Abominable is serving up some sweet treats! Soft serve lemon flavored ice cream is the ticket here. You may have been warned not to eat yellow snow, but here, it’s perfectly acceptable. See the before and after:
Señor Buzz Churros
Location: Pixar Pier and Carts
Buzz whips up some good churros over on Pixar Pier! Churros taste better while at the parks for whatever reason! Pick up some cinnamon sugary goodness with Buzz or any other cart in the parks.
Pro-Tip: Grab a churro while you wait in line for Midway Mania! It’s the BEST ride in the park!
Buzz’s Churros - Pixar Pier
Cookies, Candies, and Sweet Confections
Locations: Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen on Main Street in Disneyland or Trolley Treats on Buena Vista Street in California Adventure
AP discounts offered
Fresh cookies and confections treats are made daily at the bakeries! Sink your teeth into a Cheshire Cat marshmallow tail or Mickey shaped candy apple. From cake pops to rice krispies, your sweet tooth will be more than satisfied.
If you go on the right day, maybe you’ll find a cookie that matches your manicure.
Ice Cream Cones and Sundaes
Location: Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor on Main Street USA in Disneyland
AP discounts offered
Cones are made fresh daily and seasonal sprinkles along with select flavors of Dreyer's ice cream!
Our favorite is the Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundae with cookie dough ice cream! Comes in a Mickey shape, OF COURSE!
Mickey Ice Cream Sandwiches
Location: Ice Cream Carts
Grab a Mickey-shaped ice cream sandwich to cool down at various ice cream carts and restaurants around the park.
A classic that I have loved since I was a kid! The ice cream sandwiches are so frozen at first, it is so hard to be patient to wait for it to soften!
Artisan Ice Cream
Location: Salt and Straw in Downtown Disney
I love Salt and Straw and I’m excited one has opened in Downtown Disney. Originally from Portland, Oregon, Salt and Straw has the best handmade ice cream made with local ingredients. Every month they feature a handful of unique original flavors.
Experience World of Color from premium seats in Paradise Gardens Park!
After a day at the park, take a load off and enjoy some dessert with VIP waterfront views during World of Color! For $84 per guest (make sure you make reservations ahead of time - up to 60 days prior), make it a party and enjoy the following:
A sweet and savory selection of desserts and appetizers
Beverages
Paradise Gardens Park reserved seating in the World of Color preferred viewing area.
Sounds like the perfect way to end your magical day doesn’t it?!
I’m dying to get back to Disneyland now and craving sweets! Let me know if you get to try any of these!
Don’t forget these guys on your magical day:
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The Best Christmas Sweets, Ice Cream and Treats at the Disneyland Resort 2019
Merry Christmas Eve! See where to find the best Ice Cream and Sweet Treats at the Disneyland Resort. See the best finds at the Festival of Holidays 2019, only a few more days left, don’t miss out!
Merry Christmas Eve! Christmas is my FAVORITE time of the year, especially at Disneyland! Although this post is a little late, I imagine there are still many people going to Disneyland the next few weeks! Here’s a rundown of my favorite desserts at Disneyland during Christmas time!
Peppermint Mickey Shake at Schmoozies
Peppermint Mickey Shake
Found at Schmoozies in California Adventure
This adorable Peppermint Mickey Shake is made with Peppermint Chocolate Crème Cookie Shake, Whipped Topping, Christmas Accents, Chocolate Crème-filled Cookie Ears for only $7.99 (AP and Cast member discount available).
Peppermint Ice Cream Bar
Chocolate Peppermint Bar
Found in Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream Shop
Peppermint and chocolate is my favorite combo, I’m glad there are multiple options this year! Find the seasonal chocolate peppermint ice cream bar at Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream shop in California Adventure!
The Chocolate Peppermint Bar includes your choice of Ice Cream Bar dipped in Chocolate, drizzled in Peppermint Icing, topped with Crushed Peppermint $5.69
Peppermint Soft Serve
Peppermint Soft Serve
Found at the Cozy Cone Motel in California Adventure
Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree, how lovely are your sprinkles!!! This Christmasy peppermint soft serve can be found at the Cozy Cone Motel in California Adventure! It’s almost too minty (and I LOVE peppermint ice cream) so be prepared. Can be served in a cup or cone for only $5.49!
Cran-Blackberry Mimosa and a Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Macaron
Festive Cran-Blackberry Mimosa and a Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Macaron
Festival of Holidays - Making Spirits Bright Booth At California Adventure
We always enjoy the Festival of Holidays booths, this year seems to offer the best treats yet! I double fisted with a Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Macaron and a Cran-Blackberry Mimosa from the Making Spirits Bright booth.
Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Macaron (Gluten-Friendly) for $5.50 - The macaron was better than is looks! So soft and chocolatey with a marshmallow fluff to it.
Cran-Blackberry Mimosa for $15 - both festive and delicious! There was a flight option along with Apple and Pomegranate for $17
See the full menu here: Festival of Holidays Menu
Trolley Treats
Find these wintery sweet treats including themed Cake Pops, Caramel Apples, and Rice Krispie Treats. Something for everyone!
MERRY CHRISTMAS from us to you and may all your Christmases be sweet!
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Disneyland: Pixar Pier Rides & Attractions (Before and After Photos)
Where can you get a cookie as big as your face? Check out the makeover in California Adventure to the Pixar Pier! Get the latest on your favorite Pixar themed attractions including #ToyStory, Incredibles, and Inside Out. See the pier before and after photos! #disneyland
Pixar Pier Now Open!
Although Pixar Fest officially ends on Sept 3rd, 2018, the new Pixar Pier rides and attractions will remain in California Adventure! Here are some before and after photos:
PARADISE PIER - BEFORE
PIxar Pier After
PIXAR PIER - AFTER
To be honest, not much has changed, Disney just gave everything a bit of a Pixar face-lift!
PARADISE PIER ENTRANCE - BEFORE
PIXAR PIER ENTRANCE - AFTER
RIDES AND ATTRACTIONS ON PIXAR PIER
Best ride, hands up (see what I did there), is the Incredicoaster! If you haven't seen Incredibles 2 yet, I highly encourage watching it before you ride! Jack Jack is on the loose and using all of his new powers throughout the ride causing the family to team up and try to catch this newly super-powered baby.
What's changed? Not much. Same track just moves to the Incredibles theme song and you see the characters in the tunnels. I must say though, adding the red tunnels to the outside of the coaster has kinda made it look like the ride is under construction. I miss the clean look of California Screamin'.
CALIFORNIA SCREAMIN' ENTRANCE - BEFORE
INCREDICOASTER ENTRANCE - AFTER
CALIFORNIA SCREAMCAM - BEFORE
INCREDICOASTER SCREAM CAM - AFTER
CALIFORNIA SCREAMIN' FRONT ROW - BEFORE
INCREDICOASTER FRONT ROW - AFTER
What has really changed is the wait time... We've waited over an hour for the Incredicoaster (twice). That never happened with California Screamin'! BUT while you wait, you have to get a giant warm chocolate chip cookie from Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums!
This cookie is as big as my face!
They heat them up right there!
Thanks for the cookie, Jack jack!
Of all the things to take off the pier, I thought King Triton's Carousel actually fit when it was Paradise Pier with The Little Mermaid Ride and Ariel's Grotto it was a mermaid theme! I feel like they could have made this a Finding Nemo ride and they could have kept some of the underwater elements. No one consulted with me! Jessie’s Critter Carousel is NOW OPEN! Looked like a regular carousel with some Toy Story umph to it! Also, Jessie has a very harsh light on her.
Jessie’s Critter Carousel
Toy Story Mania is still there with a slight adjustment to the front. Basically, Fast Passes were added and changed the entrance around. I still haven't beat Josh at this yet, but I'm still reigning champ at Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters!
The boardwalk games are now Pixar themed. Maybe I'll actually play them! :)
FOOD ON PIXAR PIER
What was on Pixar Pier before it was Pixar Pier? I don't remember either. Nothing stood out on Paradise Pier but now its crystal clear what each food vendor is now serving.
PARADISE ICE CREAM ON PARADISE PIER - BEFORE
ADORABLE SNOWMAN FROSTED TREATS ON PIXAR PIER - AFTER
The line was ALWAYS long for Paradise Ice Cream during the summer but now it's just ridiculous. People were waiting an hour for the new lemon treats! Also, don't try and get ice cream 30 mins prior to closing. They close early and have no mercy.
Everyone loves Disneyland Churros! Pick one up at Senior Buzz Churros! Ole!
HOT DOG! GET YOUR HOT ANGRY DOG!
Turkey Legs are still being served... I still won't get one. Only because I have issues with eating meat on a bone! Josh calls me weird!
How cute is this Zurg?!:
PIXAR FEST - Summer 2018
Summer of 2017 the theme was Hero Up with the release of The Guardians of the Galaxy ride. Last summer, Pixar was the theme applying to a parade, fireworks show, specialty food and decorations, and the launch of Pixar Pier.
Cars land had a few decorations including Buzz and Woody decked out cars with this random girl (check out her Sully popcorn holder):
These posters are my absolute favorite! They are always so clever and make me laugh out loud!
Toy Story can always be found in the Paint the Night parade!
It was a fun summer, Pixar Fest! I wonder what summer 2019 will bring (besides Star Wars!)!
See our related post: Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort
Don’t forget to pack these guys
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Inspired by Cars Land at Disneyland Halloween Time, we turned our Radiator Springs playset into a mini Halloween town with pumpkins, lights, trees and spiderwebs — for less than $10. This easy Halloween activity took about 10 minutes to set up and gave an old favorite toy new life.