If you’ve ever been to Disneyland, you know that every moment is filled with excitement, wonder, and a fair share of photo opportunities. Naturally, you’ll want to capture these magical moments with your smartphone.

However, as any avid Disney-goer knows, a day at the park can quickly drain your phone’s battery. I know that I’m constantly taking pictures, using Disney Genie+, or checking our ride photos in the app.

So, the pressing question for many visitors is: Where can I charge my phone at Disneyland?

Fret not, for Disneyland has embraced the digital age, offering various charging options to ensure that your device stays powered up and ready to capture all the enchantment.

Where can I charge my phone at Disneyland?

Charge at Charging Kiosk Stations

Disneyland has got you covered with their charging kiosk stations. For $30, you can pick up one of their charging sticks, and when it runs out, just head to another charging station and trade it in. This is a one-time fee, so you can bring it to every trip.

They include:

• One fully charged portable battery
• One 3.5” USB to micro-USB cable (for most Android devices)
• One USB C Adapter (needed for some Android Devices)
• One 3.5″ Apple Lightning to USB cable (for iPhone generations 5+)

I personally don’t think they are the highest quality chargers, but if you want the ultimate convenient option, this might work for you.

You’ll typically find them near restrooms, dining areas, and other high-traffic spots. These charging stations are a handy way to top up your battery while taking a brief break from the magic.

Disneyland App

Disneyland offers its very own app, which is a must-have for navigating the park efficiently. Alongside ride times, maps, and dining options, the app also provides useful information about the location of charging stations.

You can use it to plan your charging breaks strategically, ensuring you’re never too far from a power source when you need it.

Bring Your Own Power Bank

One of the easiest solutions to keep your phone charged throughout the day is to bring your own power bank or portable charger.

Disneyland allows visitors to carry these devices, and you can use them while waiting in line or enjoying a meal. It’s a smart way to ensure your device stays juiced up without needing to find a charging station.

We have used this one for YEARS, and it has ever let us down. It keeps its charge for quite some time, and it has built-in charging cables. It can easily be recharged with a wall outlet. It’s expensive, but it’s bene one of our best purchases.

Outlets throughout the Park

There are actually some outlets available for public use throughout the park. They aren’t heavily advertised, but they are definitely available. This article tracks all of them, so be sure to check that out for more tips.

Guest Services

Don’t hesitate to ask Disneyland’s helpful Guest Services for assistance with your charging needs. They can direct you to the nearest charging station or provide valuable advice for keeping your phone powered up.

Plan Ahead

Lastly, the best way to ensure your phone stays charged is to plan ahead. Start your day with a fully charged device, close any unnecessary background apps, and lower screen brightness to conserve battery life. We always put our phones on low power mode before we get to the park.

Consider using airplane mode when you don’t need a data connection, as this can significantly extend your battery’s lifespan.

Disneyland recognizes the importance of staying connected and capturing memories, so they’ve made it relatively easy to charge your phone within the park. By utilizing charging stations, the Disneyland app, or your own power bank, you can ensure that your device is always ready to capture the magic of this extraordinary place. So, go ahead, snap those pictures, and share the enchantment with the world. Disneyland is waiting, and your phone will be fully charged to make the most of it!

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Disneyland, the iconic theme park located in Anaheim, California, is a place where dreams come true. For many Disney enthusiasts, visiting the park on their birthday would be a dream come true as well.

The idea of receiving a special birthday gift in the form of free admission to Disneyland is indeed enticing.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of this tradition, any current offerings, and alternative ways to make your birthday at Disneyland a magical experience.

Book your next magical family adventure through our friends at Get Away Today! They are truly the Disney experts and can make planning your trip a breeze for both Disneyland and Disney World. You can browse their website or call 1-855-GET-AWAY. Make sure you tell them Magical Family Travel Guide sent you or use the code MFTG for $10 off a Southern California

Does Disneyland really offer free entry on your birthday?

Unfortunately for all us Disney lovers- No, Disneyland does NOT give free tickets on your birthday.

The History of Disneyland Birthday Freebies

For years, Disneyland did have a tradition of allowing visitors free entry on their birthdays. This policy was part of the “What Will You Celebrate?” campaign, which ran from 2009 to 2010. During this time, guests could receive a free, single-day admission to Disneyland or Disney California Adventure Park on their actual birthdate.

However, this generous promotion came to an end when the campaign concluded.

It’s essential to check the latest updates on Disneyland’s official website or contact Disney directly to confirm if any new promotions or changes have occurred since then.

Alternative Ways to Celebrate Your Birthday at Disneyland

While free birthday admission may not be available as of my last knowledge update, there are still various ways to make your birthday at Disneyland extra special:

Birthday Buttons

Visit City Hall at Disneyland or the Chamber of Commerce at Disney California Adventure Park to pick up a complimentary “Happy Birthday” button. Wearing this button can lead to cast members and fellow guests wishing you well throughout the day, adding a sprinkle of Disney magic to your celebration.

Character Dining

Consider booking a character dining experience at one of the park’s restaurants. It’s a memorable way to enjoy a special meal while meeting beloved Disney characters and receiving personalized attention on your special day.

Birthday Treats

Disneyland has a reputation for creating delightful treats. On your birthday, indulge in a special dessert or snack from one of the park’s many food stalls, bakeries, or ice cream shops.

Photo Opportunities

Make use of Disneyland’s numerous picturesque settings to capture memories of your special day. Don’t forget to ask photographers for a birthday-themed photo!

While the tradition of free admission to Disneyland on your birthday has ended, the park still offers a plethora of ways to celebrate your special day in true Disney style.

With a “Happy Birthday” button, character interactions, delicious treats, and special packages, you can create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Remember to check Disneyland’s official website or contact Disney directly for the most up-to-date information on birthday promotions and offerings.

Ultimately, whether or not you receive free entry, Disneyland remains a magical place to celebrate your birthday.

More Posts You Might Enjoy:

• The Best Rain Ponchos for Disney + Rainy Day Tips (2021)
• Where to Stay: Hotels Around Disneyland
• Disneyland Transportation: Getting Around In AND Outside the Park

The post Do You Get Into Disneyland For Free on Your Birthday? appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

Choosing the best days of the week to visit Disneyland can greatly impact your overall experience at the park. While the popularity of Disneyland means that it can be crowded throughout the year, certain days tend to be more manageable in terms of crowds, wait times, and overall enjoyment.

Planning your visit on the right days can make a significant difference in your ability to explore attractions, enjoy shows, and have a magical time.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the considerations for selecting the optimal days to visit Disneyland and help you make the most of your trip.

Book your next magical family adventure through our friends at Get Away Today! They are truly the Disney experts and can make planning your trip a breeze for both Disneyland and Disney World. You can browse their website or call 1-855-GET-AWAY. Make sure you tell them Magical Family Travel Guide sent you or use the code MFTG for $10 off a Southern California

What are the best days of the week to visit Disneyland?

The best days to visit Disneyland can vary depending on factors like crowd levels, park hours, and special events.

However, some general guidelines can help you choose the optimal days for your visit:

Midweek Days (Tuesday to Thursday)

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are often the least crowded days at Disneyland. Most people visit during weekends or extend their trips to include Mondays and Fridays, leaving the middle of the week relatively quieter. This means shorter wait times for popular rides and a more enjoyable overall experience.

Off-Peak Seasons

Aim for times when schools are in session to avoid the large crowds associated with school vacations and holidays. The months of January, February (except Presidents’ Day weekend), September, and early December usually see lower attendance.

Avoid Holidays and Special Events

Major holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, Thanksgiving, and the Fourth of July tend to attract large crowds. Additionally, during certain events like Halloween and Christmas celebrations, the parks can be busier due to their unique offerings.

Check Crowd Calendars

Many online resources provide crowd calendars that predict attendance levels at Disneyland on specific days. These calendars take into account historical data and trends to help you plan your visit during quieter times.

Consider Weather

Southern California generally enjoys mild weather, but rain can sometimes deter crowds. If rain is forecasted, you might experience shorter wait times for attractions.

Rope Drop and Park Hopping

Arriving at park opening (rope drop) allows you to experience popular attractions with shorter wait times before the crowds arrive. Additionally, with the Park Hopper ticket option, you can start your day in one park and then switch to the other once it gets busier.

Use Disney Genie Plus

Use Disney Genie Plus to reserve access to select attractions, minimizing your time spent waiting in line.

Remember that even on the best days, Disneyland can still have some level of crowd activity.

Planning ahead, arriving early, and use resources like Disney Genie Plus can help you make the most of your visit, no matter when you decide to go.

More Posts You May Enjoy:

• Disneyland Balloons: Everything You Need to Know
• The Best Places to Buy Disney Clothes for Your Disney Vacation
• Where Can You Buy Rain Ponchos at Disney World? Your Complete Guide

The post What Are The Best Days of the Week To Go to Disneyland? appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

A trip to Disneyland isn’t complete without indulging in the iconic and refreshing treat known as Dole Whip.

If you’re wondering where to find this tropical delight within the magical confines of Disneyland, look no further. I

n this article, we’ll guide you to the best spots where you can get your hands on a delicious Dole Whip, ensuring you don’t miss out on this delightful experience.

What is a Dole Whip?

This delectable soft-serve pineapple dessert has become a must-have for visitors of all ages.

A Dole Whip is a popular frozen dessert that originated at Disneyland in the 1980s. It is a soft-serve treat known for its creamy texture and refreshing, tropical flavor. The classic Dole Whip flavor is pineapple, made from a pineapple-flavored powder mix and water, creating a smooth and creamy pineapple-infused soft-serve.

Why are Dole Whips so popular?

Dole Whips have become an iconic treat at Disney parks and have gained a dedicated fan base. They are often enjoyed on their own, served in a cup or cone, or as a float, where the soft-serve is combined with pineapple juice or another beverage.

The combination of the sweet pineapple flavor and the creamy texture makes Dole Whips a favorite among visitors, especially on hot days.

Over the years, the popularity of Dole Whips has grown, leading to variations of the dessert, including different fruit flavors like orange, raspberry, and mango. However, the classic pineapple Dole Whip remains the most widely recognized and sought-after option.

Dole Whips can now be found not only at Disney parks but also at various other locations and events, often served in places with a tropical or Hawaiian theme.

The delightful taste and unique experience of enjoying a Dole Whip have made it a beloved treat for Disney enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike.

Where can you find a Dole Whip at Disneyland?

Aloha Isle (Adventureland)

Located in Adventureland, Aloha Isle is a popular destination for Dole Whip enthusiasts. This charming tropical-themed spot offers classic pineapple-flavored Dole Whip, served in a cup or as a float. Indulge in this delightful treat as you explore the nearby attractions and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Adventureland.

Tiki Juice Bar (Adventureland):

Adjacent to the enchanting Enchanted Tiki Room, the Tiki Juice Bar is another fantastic location to satisfy your Dole Whip cravings. T

his outdoor kiosk offers both pineapple and pineapple-orange swirl Dole Whip, allowing you to experience a delightful combination of flavors. Take your Dole Whip to-go or enjoy it at the nearby seating area while immersing yourself in the tropical vibes.

Tropical Hideaway (Adventureland)

For a unique twist on the classic Dole Whip experience, head to the Tropical Hideaway.

Nestled within Adventureland, this charming eatery offers an array of delectable treats, including the beloved Dole Whip.

Besides the traditional pineapple flavor, you can also find seasonal variations, such as raspberry or mango, adding a burst of fruity goodness to your Disneyland adventure.

Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar & Grill (Disneyland Hotel)

If you’re staying at the Disneyland Hotel or simply want to explore outside the park, Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar & Grill is the perfect destination.

This Polynesian-inspired restaurant serves up a variety of mouthwatering dishes and, of course, Dole Whip. Enjoy your Dole Whip by the poolside or relax in the cozy seating area while savoring the tropical flavors.

Disneyland Mobile Ordering

To save time and skip the lines, take advantage of Disneyland’s mobile ordering feature.

Through the official Disneyland app, you can browse menus and order Dole Whip from select locations, including Aloha Isle and Tiki Juice Bar.

Simply place your order, choose a convenient pickup time, and enjoy your Dole Whip without the wait.

Don’t forget to snap a photo of your Dole Whip creation and savor every spoonful of this iconic dessert.

Embrace the magic and enjoy the perfect blend of pineapple goodness as you create memories that will last a lifetime at Disneyland.

More Posts You May Enjoy:

• Disneyland Balloons: Everything You Need to Know
• The Best Places to Buy Disney Clothes for Your Disney Vacation
• Where Can You Buy Rain Ponchos at Disney World? Your Complete Guide

The post Where To Get a Dole Whip At disneyland appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

Are you planning a family vacation to the happiest place on Earth? Disneyland should be your go-to destination!

From parades and character meet-and-greets to thrilling rides, there’s something for everybody.

But if you have an infant in tow, it can be tricky navigating which attractions are best suited for that age group. Luckily, we’ve got you covered –From Dumbo The Flying Elephant to King Triton’s Carousel, your infant will be enchanted by all the larger-than-life Disney characters and exciting attractions on offer.

Here is a list of some of the absolutely perfect Disney rides for babies and toddlers!

Book your next magical family adventure through our friends at Get Away Today! They are truly the Disney experts and can make planning your trip a breeze for both Disneyland and Disney World. You can browse their website or call 1-855-GET-AWAY. Make sure you tell them Magical Family Travel Guide sent you or use the code MFTG for $10 off a Southern California

The Best Rides at Disneyland For Infants

Disneyland is such a magical place for young children – even for babies! While they may not understand all the characters and rides they are seeing, it’s a very stimulating experience that they often are mesmerized by.

Many wonder if it’s even worth taking an infant to Disneyland – and we believe with the right planning and expectations, the answer is YES!

While all of the rides at Disneyland are great, there are some that are better suited for infants than others. You should always use your best judgment when it comes to taking your baby on any ride.

But to help you make the decision the following rides do not have height limits and should be fine to ride with infants or toddlers. We have noted some of the louder rides so you can make proper arrangements for those. Always use your best judgment though- you know your child best and what they can handle!

Disneyland Rides for Infants

• Tiki Room
• Winnie the Pooh
• Mad Tea Party (can be loud)
• Tarzan’s Treehouse (walk through only)
• Sleeping Beauty Castle (walk through only)
• Tiki Room
• Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride (can be loud)
• it’s a small world
• Mark Twain Riverboat
• Tom Sawyer Island
• King Arthur Carrousel
• Peter Pan’s Flight (can be loud)
• Pirates of the Caribbean (can be loud and has a drop)
• Haunted Mansion
• Alice in Wonderland
• Casey Jr. Circus Train
• Dumbo
• Pinocchio (can be loud)
• Snow White’s Enchanted Wish (can be loud)
• Storybook Land Canal Boats
• Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters (can be loud – you will want a baby carrier for this one
• Disneyland Monorail
• Finding Nemo Submarine

Rides for infants at California Adventure

• Monsters Inc.
• Sorcerer’s Workshop
• Turtle Talk with Crush
• Toy Story Mania (we have taken our infant on this, but be aware that you are jerked around a bit. Can be loud)
• Jessie’s Critter Carousel
• Pixar Pal-a-Round (we would opt for a non-moving cart)
• Golden Zephyr
• The Little Mermaid
• Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind
• Web Slingers

Our Favorite Ride for Infants

it’s a small world is perfect for infants because it is slow-moving and has gentle music. We absolutely LOVE this one for all ages, including infants. Our older infants are always so mesmerized Another great ride for infants is Dumbo the Flying Elephant because it goes up high enough to give them a birds eye view of the park without going too fast or too high.

Other tips:

Noise Cancelling Ear Muffs

You may want to consider packing noise-cancellation ear muffs for your baby to wear on some of the rides that may be loud. These can also be really helpful for the fireworks shows. You can find several options on Amazon here.

Baby Carrier

Also, strollers are great but using a baby carrier makes it a lot easier to get around and on and off rides. Some rides require you to take your baby out, but most of the time, you can just let them hang out in the carrier! Check out some of the best baby carriers for Disneyland for our favorite options!

Take breaks

Babies can get worn out easily, even if they aren’t participating as much in the rides and activities. It’s important to stop and rest and also to let them wiggle around and get some energy out.

Stay close by

I’m a big believer in taking a midday break/nap at the hotel, which can be inconvenient if you are staying really far away. I highly recommend staying in a hotel that’s super close to the park. Here is a great article that discusses the best hotels that are ACTUALLY within a reasonable walking distance of the parks. You won’t regret staying at one!

Take Advantage of Rider Switch

Rider switch is an amazing option where you can get a pass (which is now digitally loaded) for rides that aren’t suitable for infants. It allows you (or another member of your party) to wait outside the ride and then go straight to the front of the line after the rest of your party gets off. Usually, they will allow you to take 1-4 others with you!

Keep baby hydrated

Whether you are breast or bottle feeding, or your baby is older and can drink milk – keep them hydrated, especially during the warmer months of the year. It’s very easy to get dehydrated at Disneyland, especially for a small little body. Pack a few bottles of water, formula or milk, and make sure your baby is drinking throughout the day.

Monitor temperature

You also want to make sure your baby doesn’t get too hot or too cold. Dressing them in layers is a great way to go, as you never know when there might be a sudden drop or increase in temperature. Babies can overheat quickly!

Be careful about germs

Disneyland is a pretty germy place. While your baby might not be touching surfaces, you will be, so be careful to practice good hand hygiene. There are so many bad viruses out there, and you don’t want your baby to bring one home!

Do you have any other suggestions for great Disneyland rides for infants? Let us know in the comments below!

More Posts You Might Enjoy:

• 6+ BEST Toddler Shoes for Disney World and Disneyland Vacations
• The Best Disneyland Rides For Pregnant Women + Tips for Success
• The Best Legoland Rides for Toddlers in Florida and California
• 20+ Airplane Snacks for Toddlers + Expert Tips for Success
• The Best Rides for Toddlers at Disney World + Disneyland

The post The Best Disneyland Rides For Infants appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

If you’re like me, then you love everything about Disney but the thought of waiting in line for hours on end really puts a damper on things. 

It’s no secret that one of the biggest downsides to visiting Disney is having to wait in long lines for your favorite rides and attractions. With the discontinuation of FastPass services over the past few years, many of us have been anxiously awaiting its replacement.

The new Disney Genie Plus service is just that! This new service allows guests to obtain their new fast pass without having to physically go to the location of the ride. Plus, there are so many other great benefits that come with this service!

The question everyone is asking the most is if the Disney Genie Plus service is worth the cost so here is my personal option and everything you need to know. We’ve used it in both Disneyland and Disney World, so hopefully, our experience will be helpful!

Book your next magical family adventure through our friends at Get Away Today! They are truly the Disney experts and can make planning your trip a breeze for both Disneyland and Disney World. You can browse their website or call 1-855-GET-AWAY. Make sure you tell them Magical Family Travel Guide sent you or use the code MFTG for $10 off a Southern California

You might want to get Disney Genie+ If…

😊 Disney Genie + is great for…People who are taking advantage of park hopping

😊 Busy days at the park

😊 Families who enjoy the rides available the Disney Genie+ (keep reading to find out what those are

😊 Families who don’t want to wait in long lines (especially those using the Rider Switch).

😊 You only have a couple days in the park (or even just one)

You might want to skip it if…

😞 The park isn’t busy

😞 You don’t mind waiting in lines

😞 If you just want to spend extra money on skipping the lines for more premium rides (this can work well on low crowd days where many of the other rides have shorter wait times).

😞 Your favorite rides aren’t included

😞 You have lots of days in the park and don’t have to rush

What is Disney Genie Plus?

The Disney Genie Plus service is a great way for guests to get their new fast pass while saving time and energy. This service allows guests to obtain a new fast pass by using the Disneyland app, from anywhere on property! You can use this amazing feature from your hotel room, while waiting in line for another ride, or even while you’re eating.s

How Much does Disney Genie Plus Cost?

Disney Genie+ costs $20 per day, per person. This can add a significant cost to a trip cost for those who have large parties.

You also need to keep in mind that in addition to this cost, there are individual lightning lane rides. I’ve seen these range in price from $7 up to $20. This can also add a substantial cost to your trip, especially if you are booking for multiple people.

For instance, on our recent Disney trip, we paid for four members of our party to go on Radiator Springs. It was $7 – so $28. The line was over 120 minutes long, so it felt worth it.

However, for everyone to go on The Rise of the Resistance ride, it would have been over $100, which is a lot more! Instead, we did some strategic planning to get a shorter wait time for that ride (maybe I’ll share that another time).

You can purchase it when you buy your tickets or when you get to the park. When we went to Disneyland, we added it directly to our vacation package that we booked through Get Away Today, which was convenient.

How is Genie+ different from the MaxPass?

There are a few differences:

• MaxPass cost $20 per day, per person, while Genie+ is $15 (plus tax)
• You can only get one attraction per day with Genie+
• MaxPass had 22 rides on it, while Genie+ has under 20
• While MaxPass included premium rides, such as Radiator Springs Riders, Genie+ requires you may extra for some of those top ticket rides.

In addition to there no longer being a MaxPass, Disneyland has also done away with the paper FastPass system, which was free to anyone who wanted to use it. Now, if you want to skip the lines, you’ll have to pay.

How is Genie+ different from the FastPass+ System?

I will admit that I never went to Disney World when they had a FastPass+ system in place, but from what I understand, here are the differences:

• FastPass+ was just included with your Disney reservation, and it wasn’t an additional fee
• You can’t book ride reservations ahead of time like you could with the FastPass+ system (which has it’s pros and cons – but definitely benefits those who book last minute trips)
• Genie+ offers more flexibility – you don’t have to plan your trip months in advance, and it does give you more options for riding.
• There is no limit to the number of Lightning Lane passes you can redeem during your trip (one per ride). With FastPass+, each guest was limited to just three selections per day.

How Do I Sign Up for Disney Genie Plus?

If you are interested in signing up for Disney’s Genie Plus service, it’s pretty simple:

• When you book your tickets, you can add it directly to your tickets, and it will be available in the app
• If you wait until your trip….
  • All you have to do is download the Disneyland app
  • Login with your account information
  • Click on the Genie Plus feature and enter your credit card information

Is there a difference between Disneyland and Disney World’s service?

They mostly work the same, but for some reason, I felt like Disney World’s just worked better.

One of the biggest differences is when you can book your rides:

• At Disney World, you can book your first ride at 7 AM. While it requires an early wake up time, if you don’t make it to the park as soon as it opens, you have an opportunity to get a good start to your Disney Genie+ Day
• At Disneyland, you can’t book your first ride until you have checked into the park (and everyone in your party who wants to ride together have to check in). You can go off site and book rides after the initial check-in, but you can’t book the first one until you are physically in the park.

The other big difference is that at Disney World, they include non-ride attractions in the LIghtning Pass options. At Disneyland, it just includes rides.

What are the Lightning Lane Rides?

Here is a list of all the different rides available through Disney Genie+. If I put at *, that means you have to pay extra in order to ride it.

Disney World Lightning Lane Rides

Hollywood Studios

• *Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
• *Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
• Alien Swirling Saucers
• Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
• Disney Junior Play & Dance!
• For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
• Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
• Muppet*Vision 3D
• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
• See Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight
• Slinky Dog Dash
• Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
• Toy Story Mania!

Magic Kingdom

• *Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
• *Space Mountain
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant
• Haunted Mansion
• “it’s a small world”
• Jungle Cruise
• Mad Tea Party
• Mickey’s PhilharMagic
• Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
• Peter Pan’s Flight
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• See Mickey at Town Square Theater
• See Princess Tiana and a Visiting Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall
• See Cinderella and a Visiting Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall
• Splash Mountain
• The Barnstormer
• The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
• Tomorrowland Speedway
• Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid

Epcot

• *Frozen Ever After
• *Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
• Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival
• Journey into Imagination with Figment
• Living with the Land
• Mission: SPACE – Green
• Mission: SPACE – Orange
• Soarin’ Around the World
• Spaceship Earth
• Test Track
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends
• Turtle Talk with Crush

Animal Kingdom

• Avatar Flight of Passage
• Celebration of the Festival of the Lion King
• DINOSAUR
• Feathered Friends in Flight!
• It’s Tough to Be a Bug!
• Kali River Rapids
• Kilimanjaro Safaris
• Naʻvi River Journey
• The Animation Experience at Conservation Station

Disneyland Lightning Lane Rides

Disneyland

• *Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (this was $20 per person each day we were there)
• Autopia
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
• Haunted Mansion
• Indiana Jones^TM Adventure
• “it’s a small world”
• Matterhorn Bobsleds
• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
• Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin
• Space Mountain
• Splash Mountain
• Star Tours – The Adventures Continue

California Adventure

• *Radiator Springs Races (this was $7 per person when we were there)
• *WEB SLINGERS: A Spiderman Adventure (this was $7 per person. We waited in line two times for it because the wait wasn’t very long, and we could all wait in it together since our toddler could ride it. SUPER fun ride).
• Goofy’s Sky School
• Grizzly River Run
• Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!
• Incredicoaster
• Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
• Soarin’ Around the World
• Toy Story Midway Mania!

What are the pros of Disney Genie Plus?

There are a lot of great benefits to using Disney Genie+:

• It is great for anyone who wants to enjoy more time on rides without having to waste time waiting in line.
• You can use this amazing feature from your hotel room (if you’ve already checked in for the day) while waiting in line for another ride, or even while you’re eating.
• It is great for park hopping – you can check availabilty for other parks and book rides for later in the day, even if you aren’t physically in the park
• It includes some fun features, such as audio experiences and filters for photos to entertain you while you are in the line

What are the cons of Disney Genie Plus?

While Disney Genie Plus does have many great benefits, there are also some cons that you need to be aware of.

• The first thing you should know about is that while using this service, your phone needs to be on and in range of the Disneyland app at all times. If your phone dies and you can’t charge it, you won’t be able to get on the rides (it’s always helpful to have more than one member of your party logged in with access to all the tickes!)
• You can only use one Lightning Lane passes at a time (with the exception of the Individual Lightning lane passes)
• You can only get one Lightning Lane pass per ride
• It can be a little tricky to figure out the best strategy for getting the Lightning Pass you want. This is the strategy we used, but I felt like it worked best at Disney World.
• Because SO many people are opting in to purchase the Lightning Lane
• Sometimes, the more popular rides “sell out” of passes quickly, you might miss out on a favorite ride. Or, they might have wait times pushed out to later in the day pretty quickly, so you have to wait to take advantage of your passes until later in the day.

How do I maximize my time with Disney Genie Plus?

The first thing that you should know about this new service is that it isn’t intended to be used for every attraction.

It’s designed to help you get on some of the more popular rides more quickly, so you can have more time for other activities that may not have as long of wait times.

You can still use the old standby system of going to the attraction and waiting in line. We did this for quite a few rides.

I discuss my main strategy in this post, but I think the best overall strategy is:

• Get to the park early and book the most popular lightning lane rides
• Try and get in line for the Lightning Lane rides that cost money so you can avoid that cost. We did find that these rides seemed to open around 9 AM, so it might be worth hanging around those areas so you can jump in line as soon as they open.
• Since ride wait times are lower in the morning, try and take advantage of those rides that aren’t on the Disney Genie+ (or rides that are but you know you want to ride more than once).

I debated whether or not we should buy the Disney Genie+ until we got to the parks to see how busy they were. In the end, I was glad we had it for all three days, especially when we did park hopping. Had I waited until partway through the day, we wouldn’t have gotten nearly as much value.

Can You use Disney Genie+ with Rider Switch?  

Yes, you can! Each person who wants to ride the ride DOES need to have a valid Lightning Lane pass, but you just have to let them know that you wanted to take advantage of the Rider Switch option.

At Disney world when we went, they would let you bring one person along with you on the Rider Switch.

At Disneyland, they let you have up to three people scanned to come back later (so two in addition to the person sitting behind).

They just can three tickets, so it doesn’t have to be anyone specific. For instance

What happens if a ride breaks down?

If a ride closes down that you have a Lightning Lane Pass for, it turns into a magical pass that allows you to go to the front of the line for one of many rides – quite a few of which aren’t even a Lightning Lane option.

For instance, Forrest had a lightning lane pass for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and it closed down. Since it was later at night, it just didn’t open back up. But he got a pass and took the boys to the front of the line for the Alice in Wonderland ride, which was a fun end to the trip.

Can you cancel a Lightning Lane pass?

Yep! You can cancel a Lightning Lane pass so long as it hasn’t expired.

Can You use Disney Genie+ if you have a toddler that does not need a fastpass?

Yes! Because our son is two, we didn’t have to buy a Disney ticket for him. However, if it was a ride that he was tall enough for, he was able to go on with the rest of us.

Do I have to use Disney Genie+?

You do not! This is a 100% optional feature.

How are the Lightning Lane Lines?

Honestly, some of them were really short and some of them were really long. I also found that many of the attendants weren’t even paying attention when you scanned in. I suspect some people took advantage of this and went into the ride without a pass (just at Disneyland. When we went to Disney World, they had two checkpoints for your pass).

How does Disney Genie+ Work with Park Hopping?

One of the best parts of Disney Genie+ is that you can use it with Park Hopping.

The main thing to keep in mind that is you want to make sure you have enough time to get to and from each ride. When we used it on both days, we spent the first part of the day at Disneyland and the second half at California Adventure.

Is Disney Genie Plus Worth the cost?

The question everyone is asking the most is if the Disney Genie Plus service is worth the cost so here’s my personal opinion

I definitely think it can be. We used it at both Disneyland and Disney World, and we found it worth it because:

• Standby longs WERE pretty long for a lot of the rides
• We were traveling with our younger children (including a toddler) – waiting in line can be a lot harder! Because we could use rider switch, it also made it so someone didn’t have to wait off the ride and entertain our toddler by themselves for very long.
• It was hot, and the less time. Ihad. tostand in line, the better.

I think if you have several days to spend at the park where you don’t have to rush, then it might be worth it to not buy it until you get to the park.

If you don’t mind standing in the lines for most of the rides but would like to skip the lines for the premium Lightning Lane rides, it might be worth it to skip the pass and just buy those few rides.

While there are certain parts of Disney Genie+ I would change, it does make for a more enjoyable trip. There is a good amount of flexibility with it, and it can make your trip run a little more smoothly.

What do you think about The Disney Genie+ option? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments!

More Disney Posts You Might Enjoy:

• The Top 6 Best Baby Carriers for Disney World
• 15+ BEST Family Friendly Disneyland Hotels with Bunk Beds
• The Best Age for Disneyland: The Ultimate Guide to Help You Decide
• The Best Rides for Toddlers at Disney World + Disneyland

The post Disney Genie+ at Disneyland and Disney World: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

Some people think it is a no-no, but the official Disney site does not mention anything about footwear. Flip Flops are a type of sandal that can be quite comfortable and very necessary for those who have problems with their feet. Here’s what you need to know if you want to take them with you on your next trip to the Magic Kingdom.

You can walk pretty far in flip-flops. This is both a pro and a con. On one hand, you can easily get around the park without your feet hurting too much (or at all) for a while. Most people find them to be pretty comfortable. You might find yourself getting blisters or sore feet after walking non-stop for hours on end.

Flip flops also don’t really offer a ton of support, especially if they are less expensive ones. That Old Navy Flip Flops you get for $1 during the summer might not be the best option for hours of walking.

If you like the freedom of flip-flops but don’t want to be cursing your choice at the end of the day, we personally love these two types of sandals. They are similar to flip-flops because they are easy to put on, but they do offer more support. They also have back straps, which can help keep them more secure on rides.

• Sanuk Yoga Sling Sandals
• MEGNYA Sandals – these are seriously AMAZING. I think everyone should have a pair.

Still planning your Disney trip? Be sure to book through our friends at Get Away Today! They have been our Disney travel agent since 2008, and they take care of everything. Use the code MFTG or mention Magical Family Travel Guide to get $10 off an upcoming Southern California trip.

But. the big question is – are flip flops even allowed?

A rumor that is often spread is that you can’t wear flip flops on certain rides such as Splash Mountain, Tower of Terror, or Star Tours.

But is this true? Flip flops are so common for some that it’s hard to believe that they are actually banned at certain Disney rides.

Well, in our research, there is no published guidance from Disneyland or Disney World on what type of footwear is appropriate for the rides.

I did find a couple of instances of people being asked to take their flip flops off for Soarin’ Over California, but it was just for the duration of the ride.

I suppose there may be a cast member who has gone on a power trip and tried to tell people they couldn’t wear certain shoes, but it’s simply not a part of the policy for the parks.

Disney’s official site says this:

“The parks are a casual, family-oriented environment. We suggest you dress comfortably, wear good walking shoes and check the local weather report before you leave for the parks. Review our Pre-Arrival Tips to make sure you come prepared for a fun-filled trip!”

So I guess it’s really up to you to decide what good walking shoes are. Personally, cheap flip-flops are not what I would ever wear to the Disney Parks, but it’s really up to you.

Disney’s official site does not mention anything about wearing flip-flops to both parks. But you are more than welcome to bring them along on your next trip! Just keep in mind that you might want to bring along a slightly sturdier pair of shoes for all the walking you’ll be doing.

Book your next magical family adventure through our friends at Get Away Today! They are truly the Disney experts and can make planning your trip a breeze for both Disneyland and Disney World. You can browse their website or call 1-855-GET-AWAY. Make sure you tell them Magical Family Travel Guide sent you or use the code MFTG for $10 off a Southern California

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The post Can you wear Flip Flops to Disneyland and Disney World? Myth versus Fact appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

A trip to Disney World – especially with children in tow – is magical…but oh so exhausting!

It’s certainly reasonable to want to take a break in the middle of the day and then come back later in the evening – such as for fireworks.

I know that we’ve missed many fireworks shows during our trips simply because we didn’t take a break during the day!

So if you are in the midst of planning your Disney World trip and wondering if you can reenter the parks after you’ve left – there answer is YES!

If you are leaving and re-entering on the same day – and the park hours are still open, then there should be no issue with you leaving and coming back.

You will need to go through security again, as well as scan your card or Magic Band, but you can come and go as frequently as you please during the day.

If you will be leaving in your car, you can rest assured that you only need to pay once for parking for the entire day – you can even go to another park’s parking lot and use their parking instead!

Planning your Disney World trip? Be sure to consider booking through our friends at Get Away Today. They are the BEST when it comes to helping you plan the most magical trip ever, and they can answer every question you have.

The post Can you reenter Disney World on the Same Day? appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.