Best One Day at Disneyland Plan

Last updated on March 13th, 2025 at 02:39 pm

If you’re spending one day at Disneyland, or even several in a row, I have put together my best one day Disneyland Park Plans and tips just for you.One Day at Disneyland Plan
It isn’t easy doing Disneyland in one day and it’s why I recommend getting discount Disneyland tickets for at least 3 days, but today we’re talking all about my best one day Disneyland Plans so you can maximize your time over one day or a few. 

Pre-Trip Tips 

Doing one day at Disneyland takes some major commitment and smart planning. Before you arrive at Disneyland, there’s a few things you need to check off your to-do list.

 

Disney100 ticket Mickey

 

  1. The best way to get ONE day Disneyland tickets is from Disneyland itself, remember that one day ticket prices fluctuate based on demand
  2. Download the official Disneyland App now, and add your Disneyland tickets.
  3. Learn how to use Lightning Lane; this article is the best way to learn.

Morning Plan

Do not sleep in. I know, it’s so tempting but if you’re spending only one day at Disneyland it is vital you get there for what regulars call “Rope Drop.” Disneyland gates

 

  1. Arrive at parking early; here’s where to park and what time to get there
  2. Prepare for a quick security screening and don’t bring any banned items.
  3. All the details on why you actually want to be there that early, for Rope Drop.

Printable Plan

After all the money spent and time committed, the last thing you want to do is show up with no game plan. It’s crazy how quickly several hours can fly by and you realize all you’ve done is a couple rides and wandered around. I don’t want that to happen to you! 

Park Plan Bonus

It’s all a free bonus for readers of The Happiest Blog on Earth who book their vacation with Get Away Today. Learn how to claim your Park Plan Bonus here.

Plan for Food

If your goal is to do and see everything you can possibly squeeze into one day, you might want to skip those leisurely sit down meals, but I do think those are great for a “forced” recharge. 

Lamplight Lounge drinks

Still some meals and/or locations are worth it, even when time is limited. These sit down meals will take about 60-90 minutes of your day. 

Lamplight lounge lobster nachos

 

No time to slow down? Quick service, in combination with mobile ordering will be your best friend! Use the Disneyland App to browse menus and order even while you’re waiting in line. Here are a few of my favorite options for quick meals.

Disneyland cinnamon roll

 

  • Breakfast: Hands down, Jolly Holiday for breakfast croissant or cinnamon roll.
  • Lunch: Corn Dog from the Little Red Wagon on Main Street or mobile order at Stage Door Cafe or Corn Dog Castle. 
  • Dinner: Fried Chicken from Plaza Inn.

 

Fried Chicken at Plaza Inn.

 

Don’t forget there are often seasonal festivals at California Adventure like Food & Wine and Festival of Holidays. These new menu items are some of my favorite things to try and are a quick grab and go options. 

Parades & Shows

If parades and shows like Fantasmic or World of Color are on your list, I have a few time-saving secrets for you. 

  1. The Disneyland App has all the resources for parades and shows. Select the entertainment option for showtimes. 
  2. Upgrades for shows and parades could save you time. On the busiest days, you might want to book something with reserved viewing. Disneyland offers reserved space for parades, World of Color and Fantasmic

 

Halloween World of Color

 

3. Don’t miss the fireworks! Fireworks show most nights throughout the year, but are limited to weekends during the slower season. See what’s playing during your visit here

What’s your one day at Disneyland course of action?

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