My 2 days and 2 parks LA Disneyland trip
If you’re hitting DLCA, do yourself a favor: skip the one-day rush and go TWO DAYS, TWO PARKS. Trust me, you’ll thank me when you’re not sprinting between Star Wars and Guardians of the Galaxy.
Main Park Must-Rides:
1. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance — The most epic ride ever (thank god for Genie+; the line is always 2+ hours).
2. Matterhorn Bobsleds — Front row is a MUST! Bumpy, fast, and feels like you’re actually racing through a snowy mountain.
3. Space Mountain — Indoor coaster in the dark? Spooky and speedy. Perfect for thrill-seekers who hate the sun (me).
Adventure Park Faves:
1. Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission BREAKOUT — Screamed the whole time. Ride at sunset for stunning views of the park lights—10/10 photo op.
2. Radiator Springs Racers — The ONLY place to drift in a neon-lit canyon at dusk. Literally took my breath away (and my second ride too).
3. Soarin’ Around the World — Chilled vibes after all the coasters. Feels like you’re flying over California’s best spots (pro tip: sit front row for zero head obstruction).
How Did I Surviving 2 Days:
1. Wear comfy shoes (I rocked cute flats and blister patches).
2. Genie+ is worth every penny ($150/day saved us 3+ hours of queue).
3. Bring a refillable water bottle.
4. Grab a free “First Visit” button at guest services and cast members will shower you with magic.
5. Take your time! Meet characters, watch the 9 PM Fantasyland light show, and don’t skip the churro-topped ice cream (yes, it’s a thing).
Anyone else prefer Adventure Park for the thrills? Or have a secret spot for the best park photos?
Okay, so you're planning a fantastic 2-day, 2-park Disneyland adventure, and you're wondering how to keep it relaxed, especially if you're with a large group? I totally get it! My recent trip proved that it's absolutely possible to soak in all the magic without feeling like you're constantly rushing. Here are some extra tips I picked up, particularly focused on making it a smooth, enjoyable experience for everyone involved. First off, for a large group, pre-trip planning is your best friend. Instead of trying to decide everything on the fly, try creating a shared document or group chat where everyone can express their absolute must-do's. This way, you can build a flexible itinerary that balances everyone's desires. In my experience, designating a "group leader" for booking dining reservations is a lifesaver – especially if you want to secure a spot at popular table-service restaurants like Blue Bayou. Mobile ordering is also a game-changer for groups; assign one person to place the order for everyone, and you'll save precious time not standing in line. We found this especially helpful for quick-service meals, letting us enjoy our food without the stress of finding seating for everyone. When it comes to rides, Genie+ is invaluable, as I mentioned in my main post. For larger groups, make sure everyone in your party is linked in the Disneyland app before your trip. This allows one person to book Lightning Lane selections for the entire group, ensuring you all ride together. We found it really cut down on wait times and frustration. Don't be afraid to split up sometimes! If half your group wants to conquer Space Mountain again while others prefer a more leisurely stroll through Fantasyland, that's perfectly fine. Agree on a meeting point and time, perhaps before a parade or a show, to regroup. This flexibility allows everyone to enjoy what they love most without compromising the whole group's experience. A key to a relaxed pace, especially with a group, is scheduling downtime. Seriously, don't try to go from rope drop to park close every single day. We found taking a mid-day break back at our hotel for a swim or just to relax in the AC made a huge difference. It recharged us for the evening magic. Another great strategy is to utilize the slower moments. While everyone else is rushing to the next big ride, consider catching a street performance, grabbing a snack, or finding a quiet bench to people-watch. This is also a perfect time to try and secure a good spot for a parade or fireworks show, especially if you want an unobstructed view without having to camp out hours in advance. Remember, Disneyland is about making memories, not ticking off every single ride. Prioritize experiences that bring joy to your specific group. If your group loves character interactions, dedicate time to meet them. If food is a priority, explore the unique treats available. By focusing on shared experiences and allowing for individual exploration, you'll find that a 2-day, 2-park trip with a large group can indeed be a wonderfully relaxed and magical adventure. It’s all about communication, flexibility, and embracing the spontaneity that comes with a big group!

You want extra fun? look for hidden Mickeys there all over the place, you're not sure. What I'm talking about, check it out on Google every time my cousins come down. They know almost every location. Some are even in the rides too.🥰