By D’land Diva
1. The History
Disneyland was the first Disney theme park and Walt Disney had his hand in its creation. Pieces of Walt can be seen from the specially designed building of Main Street, to the relaxing atmosphere of New Orleans Square to the music that fills the air in each land. Walt even had two apartments, one on Main Street and one in New Orleans Square that he stayed at when overseeing the park.
2. Main Street Vehicles
Most folks simply breeze through Main Street on the way to rides like the Matterhorn. Main Street has a lot to offer, though! The Horseless Carriage, the Double Decker Bus, the Horse-drawn Carriage and the Old Firetruck are more than just modes of transportation to get you from one end of Main Street to the other- the drivers are full of knowledge about Disney history and Main Street facts. Check them out the next time you are there!
3. The Snacks
That’s right! I’m talking about Dole Whips, Churros, Pretzels, Turkey Legs, Popcorn and Ice Cream. If I have one of each that counts as lunch, right?
4. Watching People Go Down the Flume at Splash Mountain
This sounds totally random, but go watch folks heading down the mountain. Their screams of joy (and maybe some of fear who knows?) will bring a smile to your face. Some of the riders wave and some laugh. One thing is for sure- it is entertaining!
5. The Smells
Main Street has a bakery kind of smell. There is a horse kind of smell in Fronteirland. Over in New Orleans Square there is a chlorinated water smell that I love. Yes, that is right, I love the smell of chlorinated water. Why? Because that smell has been there for as long as I can remember and it reminds me of all the times I visited when I was a kid. Pirates has always been one of my favorite rides.
6. Eating at the Hungry Bear Restaurant And Watching the Boats Go By
Sure you can feed the ducks here, and the water on the Rivers of America make everything seem relaxed and calm. But you know what is really fun? Waving to folks on the Mark Twain, the Canoes and the Sailing Ship Columbia as they go past.
7. The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn is something unique to Disneyland and it is majestic. It sits smack dab in the middle of the park and can be spotted throughout the park. It is fun to walk around the mountain and take in the tracks of the ride, hear the sounds of the Yeti from inside the mountain, and watch the splashing waterfalls.
8. The Disneyland Railroad
There is nothing like a late afternoon ride on the railroad when you are hot, tired and your feet need a rest. ‘Nuf said.
9. Characters on Main Street
While characters can be found throughout the park, there is something special about seeing Mickey Mouse on Main Street. I will confess-I love seeing the characters I love giving them a hug and a high five. I don’t even use my little ones as an excuse to stand in line to see a character.
10. The New Fantasyland Addition
This area at the end of Main Street is just pretty. The theater has beautiful pink and purple colors and it is so nice that the princesses have their own meet and greet inside! Each princess has her own room which makes the meet and greet more private and special. D’land Diva daughter LOVES it.
11. The MOO
The what? The Marine Observation Outpost. This is a room just off of the Finding Nemo Submarine ride where riders who are not able to board the subs can view the film used in the ride. It’s awesome. It is a themed, air conditioned room, and the wait is usually less than 5 minutes. This is an excellent alternative to the subs ride if you have small children, or don’t like enclosed spaces, or hey, just need an air conditioned place to nurse!
12. Haunted Mansion Holiday
For about four months of the year, the Haunted Mansion is magically transformed by the characters from the Nightmare Before Christmas. It is a lot of fun and the catchy tunes will be in your head all day!
13. It’s a Small World Holiday
The holiday season is a time of peace, and seeing this ride receive the holiday treatment reminds you of the reasons for the season. The traditional song has even been altered slightly to include some traditional holiday carols.
14. The Lair at Tom Sawyer’s Island
The best place in the park to run, climb and explore. Oh, and it is the place where D’land Diva hubby proposed to me so it’s extra extra special for me!
15. Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port
I am a sometimes Vegan, so finding places to eat can be a challenge. Red Rockett’s has a variety of salads in which items can be added or taken away. I would not say it is a build your own salad or pasta place, but the folks behind the counter are always good about accommodating your unique eating needs.
16. The Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters Competition
That’s right, I can score higher than you! Unless you’re D’land Diva hubby who has managed to score over a million points several times. My quest continues.
17. People Watching Just About Everywhere
It’s just fun to watch families, new couples, and older couples having fun. Just try not stare too long and freak someone out.
18. The Pure Joy on My Kids’ Faces on Rides
This may be my favorite thing about Disneyland nowadays. My kids see wonder where I have become jaded a lot of times. I love to see their smiles, hear their belly laughs and feel their small hands reach for mine on rides. Nothing beats it.
19. Parades
I grew up watching the Electrical Light Parade. It will always be my favorite. But, I REALLY enjoy the Soundsational Parade at Disneyland right now and at holiday time there is a Christmas Fantasy parade that is also a lot of fun.
20. The Way the Park Looks All Lit Up at Night
All lit up, Disneyland is breathtaking. I actually like the way it looks at night better! Just don’t stay too late because you have to drive home.
