Similar to getting away from crowds at Disneyland, there are plenty of tucked away places in Disney California Adventure to sneak away from the hustle and bustle. The added bonus is that many of these places offer up the best views of the park and make it feel like you aren’t even in a crowded theme park at all. Be sure not to miss some of these spots on your next visit to catch your breath and simply enjoy the scenery around you.
Grizzly Pass Trail
Next to the entrance of Grizzly River Run you will notice a path veering off from the main walkway. It is an uncrowded picturesque trail that allows you to get up close with a waterfall and feel like you are in a national park rather than a theme park. The trail reconnects to the main walkway near The Little Mermaid attraction.
Redwood Creek Challenge Trail
Similar to Tom Sawyer’s Island in Disneyland, The Redwood Creek Challenge Trail has many places to explore. There is a rock climbing wall, suspension bridges, a spirit cave, and much more. Even if you aren’t the adventurous type, there are plenty of places to sit and take in the forested greenery around you. There are plaques around the trail with representations of famous redwood trees located in Northern California.
Lower Level of Silly Symphony Swings
Put this in the category of hidden in plain site. Silly Symphony Swings is easy to spot in Paradise Bay. The ride is located on the second floor. Below the ride is a covered, open space with plenty of benches overlooking the water. It’s a great place to relax and there is rarely anyone there.
Hollywood Backlot Stage
With one ride, a theater that is only used half of the year, and a bunch of empty buildings in this tucked away corner of Hollywood Land, the Hollywood Backlot is by far the least crowded area of the park. The Hollywood Backlot Stage is used for special event performances. When not in use it provides a covered, open space to get off your feet for a bit.
Mendocino Terrace and Sonoma Terrace
Across from the main entrance to Cars Land is an elevated terrace celebrating the famous wine culture of California. For a meal, go to Wine Country Trattoria for fine wine and Italian food. Otherwise, Sonoma Terrace and Mendocino Terrace are quick service places with plenty of seating to take a break from the crowds descending on Cars Land a few feet away. Being on an elevated terrace with some trees providing a visual block between you and the main walkway of the park makes this area particularly peaceful.
A Southern California native, Matt has been going to Disneyland his whole life. After developing a love of travel, he combined his loves of theme parks and travel. Matt has visited theme parks all over the world including every Disney theme park around the globe.
