Your Family-Friendly (and budget-friendly) Guide to Disneyland

Welcome to the magic of Disneyland—where dreams really do come true!

Imagine going about your average Seattle day like it’s any other—until suddenly, you’re on your way to Disneyland. That’s exactly how it played out for our kids (ages 3 and 9). We didn’t tell them a thing. No hints, no clues—just the ultimate surprise. And when they finally realized where we were headed? The shock, the excitement, the sheer disbelief on their little faces? Pure magic.

Pulling it off was no easy feat, but we had help. We worked with a Pacific Northwest travel agent who made planning our trip so simple. She took our ideal budget and gave us tailored suggestions on where to stay and how to tackle Disneyland as first-timers. Honestly, having an expert guide us through the process (and the app!) made all the difference.

Now I’m here to share what we learned and help you plan your own unforgettable, budget-friendly Disneyland adventure. Because the hype? It’s real. Disneyland truly is one of the most magical places on Earth!

Where to Stay: The Best Family-Friendly (and Budget-Conscious) Hotel

When traveling with kids, location is everything. After much research, we landed on the Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel, which turned out to be a total win. It’s an easy 8-minute walk to the park, meaning no dragging exhausted kids through endless parking lots at the end of the night (you know, when their legs mysteriously stop working). Plus, it won’t break the bank.

But there’s more to love! The Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel (or HoJo, as many Disney fans call it) is not just close—it’s fun. Their Castaway Cove Water Playground is a mini water park featuring slides, fountains, and splash areas that are perfect for little ones to burn off extra energy before or after a park day. There’s also a separate Garden Pool for a more relaxed swim if you need a break from the Disneyland crowds.

The rooms are spacious, modern, and family-friendly, with many offering views of Disneyland’s fireworks right from your balcony. The hotel has recently been renovated, so everything feels fresh and clean. Another huge plus? Free Wi-Fi, free parking for Disney Magic Key holders, and in-room fridges and microwaves, which make it easy to store snacks and quick breakfasts before heading out. Want to rent a stroller or scooter? Ask the front desk, they make it incredibly convenient for families with young kids or anyone who needs assistance getting around the parks.

Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, comfortable, and ultra-convenient place to stay near Disneyland, Howard Johnson Anaheim is a fantastic option. You can check out more details and book your stay here.

Top Tips to Maximize the Magic

First things first—download the Disneyland app. It’s your best friend. You can check ride times, mobile order food, book Genie+ Lightning Lane passes, and even locate bathrooms (which, if you have a potty-training toddler, is absolutely essential). It’s also where you can join virtual queues and check out showtimes and parades, so you don’t miss a thing. Also, bring a portable phone charger (or two!). Using the Disneyland app all day—plus taking photos, videos, and navigating—will drain your battery fast.

Pro tip: Mobile order your food EARLY. Don’t wait until your kids are in full meltdown mode to order that Mickey pretzel. Some popular snacks and quick-service meals can have long wait times, especially during peak hours. Order ahead, schedule a pick-up time, and thank yourself later.

And while we’re talking food—bring your own snacks and even pack lunches! Yes, Disneyland does allow you to bring food into the parks. We packed sandwiches, fruit, granola bars, and plenty of water bottles. It saved us a ton of money and made it easy to have a quick meal without leaving our spot in line or scrambling to find a table. There are designated picnic areas just outside the gates, but we often just found a shady spot and had a mini picnic right in the park. Plus, having your own snacks means you can avoid the “angry” moments that tend to strike just as the lines get long.

Bring a stroller—even if you think you don’t need it. Disneyland is a lot of walking, and even big kids (and let’s be real, adults too) get exhausted. Having a stroller means tired little legs get a break, and you have a place to stash snacks, water bottles, and all the random souvenirs you’ll inevitably collect throughout the day. Bonus: you can clip a portable fan or bring a small cooling towel to help with hot afternoons.

Speaking of souvenirs, save money by buying Disney gear before you go. You’ll find Mickey ears, Disney shirts, and princess dresses at a fraction of the cost at stores like Target, H&M, or Amazon. Surprise your kids with their Disney outfits before the trip and avoid spending triple the price in the parks. Glow sticks, bubble wands, and autograph books are also great to buy in advance!

Get to the park early for rope drop. If you want to ride the most popular attractions with minimal wait, you have to be there before the park officially opens. Aim to arrive at the gates 30-45 minutes early so you can be among the first inside. Once the rope drops, head straight for your must-ride attractions before the crowds build. It’s also a great time to snap those iconic castle photos while the park is still relatively empty.

And trust me, you MUST purchase a Lightning Lane pass (Genie+). Yes, it’s an extra investment, but if skipping the long standby lines for top rides like Rise of the Resistance, Indiana Jones, or Space Mountain sounds appealing (spoiler: it is), it’s absolutely worth it. You’ll spend more time experiencing the magic and less time standing in line. Just remember to book your first Lightning Lane selection early in the day—those prime spots go fast!

If you have little ones who can’t ride some of the bigger attractions, take advantage of Rider Switch. One parent rides while the other waits with the kids, then you swap without having to wait in line again. This is a total game-changer, especially if you’re traveling with thrill-seekers and little ones who don’t meet height requirements.

Another tip: Consider taking a midday break. Head back to your hotel for a swim or a nap, then return to the park refreshed for the evening shows and fireworks. Disneyland can be overstimulating, and a little downtime can help everyone recharge (and avoid end-of-day meltdowns).

With a little planning and these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making the most of your Disneyland adventure—without the stress. Because at the end of the day, Disneyland is all about magic, and a few smart strategies help you soak up every second of it!

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique: A Magical Makeover

If you have a little prince or princess, a visit to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is pure Disney magic. My daughter loved every second of it! She chose a long clip-in ponytail and a sparkly T-shirt, but you can go as simple or as over-the-top as you like.

There are full princess gowns, makeup, nail polish, and accessories—and princes aren’t left out either. They offer knight makeovers with cool hairstyles, tunics, and even swords. The Fairy Godmothers-in-Training make the whole experience feel so special, and the big reveal at the end is truly magical.

We made a reservation in advance and brought our own outfit to save a little money, but seeing my daughter walk around the park afterward, glowing like royalty, was absolutely priceless. If your kiddo dreams of becoming a princess (or knight!), it’s definitely worth adding to your Disneyland plans. Book this ahead of time!

Food: What’s Worth the Money?

Disneyland food is legendary, but not all of it is worth your cash. Some of our favorite, budget-friendly picks included:

• Raspberry Mickey Macaron from Jolly Holiday Bakery (yes, it’s as delicious as it looks on Instagram)
• Mickey Beignets from Royal Street Veranda (mobile order early because they sell out!)
• Breakfast Chimichanga from Ship to Shore Marketplace (trust me, just get it)
• Cold Brew Black Caf from Docking Bay 7 (because parents need fuel, too)
• For meals, Pizza Planet has huge portions, Rancho del Zocalo serves up solid Mexican food, and if you want something fun, grab a Ronto Wrap in Galaxy’s Edge

Now, about those Character Meals. We personally skipped them—our kids aren’t super into the characters, and they can be on the pricey side (think $40–$70 per person, depending on the meal). But if your little one lights up at the sight of Mickey, Minnie, or the princesses, it might be worth the splurge.

Here’s how they work: You book a reservation at one of the Character Dining locations (preferably well in advance—they fill up fast!). During the meal, a rotating cast of beloved Disney characters makes their way around the restaurant, stopping at every table for photos, autographs, high-fives, and hugs. It’s a fun, relaxed way to meet a bunch of characters without standing in long lines in the park. Most Character Meals are buffet-style (hello, all-you-can-eat Mickey waffles), and the vibe is high-energy and festive—perfect for younger kids who might not have the patience for traditional meet-and-greets.

A few popular options:

• Minnie & Friends – Breakfast in the Park at Plaza Inn (Disneyland Park): Classic characters like Minnie, Chip ‘n’ Dale, and more.
• Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures at Napa Rose (Disney’s Grand Californian): A pricier, more elaborate experience featuring multiple princesses, storytelling, and keepsake gifts.
• Goofy’s Kitchen at Disneyland Hotel: A lively buffet with Goofy and pals, and lots of kid-friendly food options.

If meeting characters is a top priority for your family, this is one of the most efficient (and fun!) ways to do it. Just factor in the cost and make sure it fits into your budget and itinerary!

Nighttime Magic: Fireworks, Shows & Late-Night Rides

Disneyland at night? Pure magic. Mickey’s Mix Magic with projections is a must-see, but don’t stress about getting a front-row castle view. We watched the show at It’s a Small World, and it was way less crowded. Another tip? Don’t rush out right after fireworks—it’s a madhouse. Instead, take your time, shop a little, or sneak in one last ride before the crowds thin out.

Final Thoughts: A Trip We’ll Never Forget

This trip was everything we hoped for and more. Seeing our kids light up with joy, hearing their uncontrollable giggles on Dumbo, and watching them experience Disney magic for the first time—these are the memories we’ll cherish forever. And the best part? It doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a little planning and some smart choices, you can have an incredible Disneyland trip without breaking the bank.

So, whether it’s your 1st trip or your 10th, I hope this guide helps you navigate Disneyland like a pro. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the rides or the snacks (although, let’s be real, those are important). It’s about the core memories you make with your family—the ones your kids will talk about for years to come. And trust me, they will.

Making it all the more special, Disneyland is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year.

Now go make some magic!

Welcome to our family travel series dedicated to (mostly) Pacific Northwest adventures! Join us as we explore top destinations, featuring must-see attractions, delightful dining spots, and activities tailored to the whole family. Writer Kate Neidigh launched this series in 2018 as a new mom, determined to get out and explore with her little one. Fast forward to today, and she’s now a seasoned mom of two, excited to share her travel experiences and insights learned along the way. So, pack your bags, gather the fam, and let’s discover the wonders of the PNW and beyond.