E-ticket attractions and a spectacular fireworks display are two common aspects of Disney that come to mind when thinking about theme parks. A vacation at either the Disneyland Resort or Walt Disney World is full of adventure. Though you might not be able to get your mind off those high-priority attractions, there are a few extra surprises you need to make space for. Here are five things to make time for on your next visit to Disneyland Park. Believe me, you won’t regret them.
A Moment With the Dapper Dans
If you can get past the crowds and let the ambiance seep into your pores, Main Street, U.S.A. is a staple experience as you enter the park. The area is filled with old-world Hollywood charm, and aside from the incredible shopping opportunities and snack stops, the space is home to another very important Disneyland must-do. The Dapper Dans are a barbershop quartet to be reckoned with. Talented beyond belief, these cast members will knock your socks off with classic tunes and Disney favorites. Even though you are no doubt very busy, please take a few minutes and listen to the Dapper Dans and let them set the cheerful tone for the rest of your day.
Try Your Luck With the Sword in the Stone
As you make your way through Fantasyland, do not miss your chance to try your luck and pull the Sword in the Stone from its home in front of King Arthur’s Carrousel. The activity is made unique by the 1964 Disney animated film release of the same name, and guests in the park can now see if they have the magic touch to lift the sword. While the activities are notoriously difficult to succeed in, if you are one of the chosen few, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Despite some tall tales slithering around the depths of the internet around signal lights in nearby windows, there is no sure way to trigger its release, so take a few moments and give it a try, just in case. If nothing else, it makes a great photo!
Make a Stop at the Tiki Juice Bar
With all of your rushing around, there isn’t anything quite like a refreshing treat to help you refuel on the go. On your way in or out of Adventureland, make a stop at the Tiki Juice Bar and get your Dole fix! Dole Whip is synonymous with Disney snacking, and this is the perfect place to get yours on your way through the park. Use mobile order to get your order in the system as you make your way there, then enjoy your snack on the way to your next attraction or as you wait for the next viewing of the Enchanted Tiki Room.
Don’t Miss Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Recently, I’ve taken note of how many people I know who aren’t big on Star Wars and skip this area of the park entirely. Whatever you do, don’t miss Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. It’s a must-see for any Disney fan who can appreciate The Walt Disney Company‘s attention to detail and respect the highest level of immersion. If you have younger children or simply never found your way into the galaxy far, far away, it’s no excuse to miss making your way to the newest land in Disneyland Park and enjoy everything this space has to offer. Wandering droids, characters, decoration, and theming transform you to the planet of Batuu, and even if you don’t take advantage of the two attractions in the area, you will be missing out if you don’t experience this land.
Do a Lap on the Monorail or Disneyland Railroad
When everyone has tired legs and needs a break without feeling like they are compromising park time, try going for a lap of the park on the Disneyland Railroad. The full loop takes roughly 20 minutes and offers a different view of the park with some of my favorite photo spots! If you need more time off your feet or, perhaps, a convenient lift back into Downtown Disney, the monorail is the place to be. It takes a bit longer to board, but the air conditioning and high-rise views of the park and surrounding area are a great way to take a time out and still enjoy the ride.
