When it comes to planning a Disneyland trip, the countdown is half the fun. Those weeks before your visit are filled with anticipation, and what better way to build the magic than with a few themed movie nights? Disneyland is Walt’s original park and home to so many attractions inspired by beloved classics. From fantasy to adventure, brushing up on these films before you go will make every moment in the park feel like you’ve stepped right into the story.
Sleeping Beauty
The Sleeping Beauty Castle is an iconic part of the Disneyland experience and serves as the heart of this magical theme park. Take some time to watch or rewatch this Disney Classic for a new appreciation of this central structure and a general introduction to the Disney Princess legacy. Explore the Castle, grab those family photos, and keep your eyes out for character meet & greets with Aurora herself.
Princess and the Frog
One of the newer additions to the Disney Princess lineup, the story of Tiana is a gorgeous, musical adventure that will have the whole family tapping their toes. This is a great movie to review ahead of your visit to New Orleans Square, a Tiana meet & greet, or a splashing good ride down Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, where the story continues.
Pirates of the Caribbean
Take a boat ride on Pirates of the Caribbean, where Jack Sparrow creates mischief and mayhem. Be sure to catch up on one or two of the movies in this series before you visit to add to that immersive feeling of venturing into the world of pirates with some of your favorite characters.
Star Wars
Disneyland is the home of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, where the world of Star Wars comes to life. Enjoy themed food and beverages, two attractions, and scenery that feels otherworldly. Roaming characters make the area even more enjoyable, and being able to spot and recognize them in the masses definitely helps! Choose your favorite old and new Star Wars story for movie night and reacquaint yourself with a galaxy far, far away.
Jungle Cruise
The Jungle Cruise is another attraction that inspired the movie we suggest. Don’t miss Dwayne Johnson in Jungle Cruise to get a feel for this famous Disney ride. Practice your favorite cheesy Skipper jokes before you arrive and see if you can pick which one will be used during your sailing!
The Sword in the Stone
It’s a Disney classic for a reason, and even though there isn’t too much to tie the Sword in the Stone to the Disneyland Park, you won’t want to miss trying to lift the sword in Fantasyland to see if you are one of the charmed few who can make it budge. Don’t miss this animated icon to ensure the whole family understands the meaning behind it.
Peter Pan
What would a trip to Disneyland be without flying off to Neverland? Peter Pan’s Flight will take you over the rooftops of London and off to see Captain Hook and the Lost Boys. There are so many versions of this timeless tale that you can enjoy, and any one of them will remind you of what we love about Peter Pan, Captain Hook, Tinker Bell, Smee, and Wendy. Don’t miss meeting the fairies in Pixie Hollow before you leave the park!
Alice in Wonderland
Alice in Wonderland is a great family movie to watch before visiting Disneyland Park, as two attractions in Fantasyland follow the story. Spin your way to delight at the Mad Tea Party (preferably before you have lunch) and then face off with the Queen of Hearts in the Alice in Wonderland dark ride. This one is a little further out there and can be helpful for kids to understand what is happening.
Haunted Mansion
Depending on your audience, there is a different introduction to this Disneyland attraction to suit everyone, from the 2003 movie with Eddie Murphy, to the Muppets Haunted Mansion, or even the most recent live-action version, for a creepier approach. Each one will set the scene for your Haunted Mansion journey upon arrival, and they are a fun way to get to know these happy haunts in advance.
Fantasia
If you are planning on enjoying the Fantasmic! presentation while you stay at Disneyland Park, you might want a little context to go with it. While the show is spectacular on its own, it shares its concept with a scene in Fantasia that can be helpful to see in advance.
If you have a favorite movie that relates to the stories of Disneyland Park, add it to the comments below and help your fellow DIS community prepare for their upcoming adventure!
