Almost Free Traveling

In order to buy Disneyland tickets, learn this four-step process, including how Disneyland reservations work (read more about how to use points and miles for hotel, airfare and Disneyland tickets):

Step 1: Check the Disney Reservation Calendar

Because of pandemic realities, Disney created a reservation system to crowd control the parks. Check this calendar for availability before purchasing tickets: it will look like this:

This indicates that the 11th and 12th are sold out for the pictured month, so plan around those days and proceed to choosing a ticket type.

Step 2: Choose Type of Tickets

There are two basic types of Disneyland tickets: one-park-per-day which, as the name suggests, are good for one park for one day, and the more costly park hopper, which allows passage between the two California parks. When deciding between the types of tickets, one primary consideration is how many days will the trip be? If it’s a one day trip, consider a park hopper ticket in order to experience both Disneyland and California Adventure parks, keeping in mind that any single-day-ticket is subject to tiered pricing. If visiting for a minimum of two days, consider less expensive one-park-per day tickets and dedicate one full day to each park. Lastly–if money is no object–just splurge on park hoppers: the California Disney parks are close together.

Can Disneyland be done in one day?

The answer is: yes, of course you can do Disneyland in one day. Any time at Disneyland is a magical time. You might not be able to ride every ride or enjoy every treat, but if one day is all you have, go for it!

Which Disneyland Park is best?

Deciding between the two California parks is subjective and based on many variables. California Adventure is smaller, has less attractions, and is generally geared towards older kids. Themed with Pixar and Marvel in mind, Teens will love rides like the Incredicoaster and Guardians of the Galaxy, and there are entire lands dedicated to Avengers and Cars (Cars Land and Radiator Springs Racers are the highlight of the park!). California Adventure can be conquered in one day.

Disneyland is the original, classic park that holds many of our Mouseketeer hearts. You really need at least two days to explore all of Disneyland, especially now with the addition of Rise of the Resistance in Galaxy’s Edge.

Once you’ve chosen which type ticket to buy, you can buy Disneyland tickets:

Step 3: Purchase Tickets

1. Purchasing Tickets Direct from Disney

You can purchase tickets right from the source, but keep in mind that they will usually be full price (unless Disney is running a rare deal), and not refundable (but you can typically use them for a later trip.)

2. Purchasing Tickets From a Third Party The best way to save on tickets is by using points and miles, or purchasing from a third party. With Undercovertourist, five-day-one-park-per-day refundable tickets for a family of five costs ~$100 less total, and the tickets are refundable:

Step 4: Make Reservations

Whether you purchase your tickets straight from Disney, using points and miles, or through a third party, remember the crucial fourth and final step: start your Disney experience here by making reservations with your tickets. Check park hours and current park hopper restrictions–certain parks stay open later on certain days, and sometimes you can only park hop after a set time.

Have a magical trip!

follow us on Instagram @almostfreetraveling

Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.