Wordless Wednesday - The View from the Top of Mickey's Fun Wheel

(Image taken by Katie)

Wordless Wednesday at California Adventure

Happy Holidays!

Disneyland MouseWait App for the iPhone

I’m the proud owner of an iPhone (and iPod Touch) and whenever I find an App that makes my life easier, I rave about it to anyone who will listen… but when it’s one that makes your day at Disneyland far more productive, well let’s just say it’s priceless! The best part is this one really is a free App and its called Disneyland MouseWait by app316.com (direct link to iTunes store here).

You can get real time waits for all the rides at Disneyland and California Adventure (as entered by other park guests). I love that it tells you what time the wait was posted at so you can make an estimate as to how accurate it still is (i.e. if a Parade has just ended you know a ton of people are going to be making their way to all the rides and will cause an increase in waits). I’ve used this App many times to plan out what rides have the shortest waits so when you head to next ride you don't find out the wait is too long (my husband hates waiting in line, let’s just say it was the boys and I that waited in line for 3 ½ hours on the day the Finding Nemo Submarines opened! I knew there was no way my husband would wait in that line…)

I’ve used this handy App many times trying to figure out how crowded the park is. We frequently head to Disneyland for dinner and a few rides).


One thing that sets this App apart from the other wait time Apps is that this one has far more features than I have seen on the others (I have several now). There are blackout date calendars, live chats and park hours. You can automatically post Facebook status updates, Tweets on Twitter and monitor real time discussions about the parks in a number of ways. You’ll just have to play around to find all the hidden jewels this App has to offer!

More information about the App can be found here.

The reliability of the App is dependent on guests entering accurate wait times, so the more people use the App – the better!

I’m anxious to hear if any of you are also using it!

-Katie

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort

I love Halloween. it has to be my favorite time of year. The crisp weather, fun decorations, candy and costumes- It can't get better than that! Halloween Time is in full effect at Disneyland Resort from now until November 1st.

Some of the fun happenings at the Disneyland Resort include:

• Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy with haunting music and new visual effects
• Haunted Mansion Holiday- My absolute favorite! Enjoy the Haunted Mansion as it transformed into the Nightmare before Christmas.
  
• Main Street Pumpkin Festival- check out the hundreds of pumpkins and meet your favorite Disney Character in their Halloween Costume.
  
• Big Thunder Ranch Halloween Roundup- Meet Woody and Jessie, make fun Halloween crafts, watch a Disney Artist create pumpkin designs
• Mickey's Trick or Treat Party at Disney's California Adventure
  
• And an all new AMAZING Halloween Firework Extravaganza! You can catch the firework show every night during Halloween time.

Still not convinced? Here is a little sneak peek of the Halloween Firework show courtesy of the Disneyland Resort.


I'm going to be hitting the resort at least twice during the next couple of weeks to keep you informed and take pictures of the festivities. Hope you can all make a visit soon!

Mickey's Trick or Treat Party

We had a blast at Mickey's Trick or Treat Party at Disney's California Adventure last Friday night. This annual, special ticketed event happens throughout October on the following nights: 8, 9, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 and 31.

This unique party lets adults and children alike dress up and trick-or-treat inside DCA. The kids loved getting to pick up candy at 25 Treat Stops located throughout the park. There was some terrific candy, including Ghirardelli chocolate! There was also healthy treats like apple slices and Craisins to be had.

My daughter was fond of the princess photo locations, while my son seemed to favor the Disney villains. The kids rocked out at Candy Corn Acres just inside the Sun Plaza, where they were able to dance to all the top 40 hits.

The Pacific Wharf area became Pirate’s Wharf, which featured a photo location, craft area and games. The Hollywood Pictures Backlot also had dancing and characters to meet. All the favorite rides and attractions were also open for the event which ran from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM.

Tickets purchased in advance are $32 most days, while tickets purchased on the event day are $39. For Oct. 30 and 31, all tickets are $42. If you are an annual passholder you can purchase tickets for $26. Special Passholder Discount are available for these Dates: October 8, 15, 21, 22, 28



And don't forget that now through Dec. 19, 2009, you can save $400 when you book a 4-Day/4-Night Disneyland Resort vacation package, featuring either Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Disneyland Hotel or Disney’s Paradise Pier. Each of theses packages includes four-day park hopper tickets and includes one Magic Morning admission per person. Mickey's Trick or Treat Party tickets must be purchased separately.

Fun for all! (note: this is not our family!)

Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure Baby Care Center

The Disneyland/Disney's California Adventure Baby Care Center is one that every parent with infants or young children should become familiar with. This is a place that might be overlooked or unknown.

Those of you visiting Disneyland or DCA with babies and/or small children should definitely take advantage of the baby care center. It is located down a sidewalk at the end of Main Street on the right hand side just past the photo store. Disney's California Adventure baby care care center is located directly next to their first-aid station which is found by the Mission Tortilla Factory in the Pacific Wharf area.

Inside, there are toddler sized toilets, changing tables and in my opinion best of all, glorious air conditioning. It is the perfect place to rest with the little ones on a hot summer day.There is a cast member that makes sure only a few people come in at a time to ensure this peaceful and non-chaotic place remains that way.

They sell about every baby necessity you may need. Everything from bottles, pacifiers, formula, diapers, diaper rash ointment, baby food and more. There are even bottle warmers if you need them.

My son is not yet potty trained and we use the Baby Care Center often to change his diapers. My daughter who is 4, loves using the toodler sized toilets and sinks. The centers are usually not crowded and you can change your baby or take your toddler to the restroom without having to worry about a thing.

It is also the perfect place to nurse a baby. I have nursed both of my babies at the center. It provides a calm private setting where you can lull the little ones to sleep.It also an ideal place to feed babies. There are a couple of high chairs at your dispoal and a kithcen area to wash up.

My son has sensory issues and he can be over stimulated easily and have horrendous meltdowns. The baby care center has provided an invaluable service to us. The place is a wonderful retreat when your baby or child has to calm down from a day of over-stimulation. I can't tell you enough how many times I have used the baby care center. It has been a lifesaver.

I love the Baby Center and I can't recommend it enought. It's an essential when you have the little ones.

Mickey's Trick or Treat Party at Disney's California Adventure

This October, Disney's California Adventure will hold it's fifth year of Mickey's Trick or Treat party, a special ticketed event. The park adds additional decoration, special entertainment and trick or treat stations throughout DCA as it closes the park to the general public.

In the Sun Plaza, there is a giant candy corn and a DJ playing music that you can dance to and several other dance party stations. We have had the opportunity to attend almost every year and have had a blast. One of my favorite parts of Mickey's Trick or Treat Party is that there are several character greet and meet photo locations throughout the park. Our daughter's dream came true last year as she was able to meet Cinderella, who took her hand, posed with her and walked around a bit of the park with her. Needless to say it made her night and she was thrilled.

Be prepared for a couple of bagfuls of candy. You are given a bag at the entrance of the park and you will easy fill it up. My kids love trick or treating and this was definitely the highlight for them. Of course the fact that the park limits the amount of guests and it is closed down to the general public doesn't hurt to the appeal. It's my favorite part of the evening. Here is a tip -if you can, make sure to buy tickets for a weeknight. I've gone on both a weekend and a weeknight and we had a better experience on the weeknight. There are less crowds and the party has more of an exclusive feel to it.


This event invariably sells out every single year. Tickets go on sale in the beginning of summer and are usually sold out by the end of September. It is an amazing event for the kiddos. Kiddos and adults are encouraged to wear their Halloween costume to the park. I love it because it allows the kiddos to wear their costume on more than one night. It runs for four hours either from 6:30 to 10:30 or 7:30 to 11:30 PM depending on the night of the week.

If you have never had the opportunity to attend Mickey's Trick or Treat Party, make this the year. Your kiddos are going to love it!

Ticket Prices and Event Dates*

Advance purchase by Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members and Disney Visa card holders for selected dates: $26.00

Annual Passholder/DVC/Disney Visa discount is available for the following dates: October 2, 8, 15, 21, 22, 28

Advanced Purchase Ticket Prices
$32 Regular Admission Price for These Dates — October 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29

Day-of-Event Ticket Prices
$39 If Purchased and Used on These Dates — October 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29
$42 If Purchased and Used on These Dates — October 30 and 31

Ages Two and Under: No Charge

For additional information head over here

Disneyland Resort FASTPASS System

If you are heading over to the pass and want to avoid waiting in long lines make sure to take advantage of the FASTPASS system. Basically a Disney FASTPASS allows you to cut your wait time at certain attractions by standing in line for you electronically. The FASTPASS system is included with your admission/annual pass and one that you will want to use whenever you are heading over to the Disneyland resort.

Here is how it works- You head over to one of the rides(I included a list at the end of the post) that uses the FASTPASS system. Once you are there look for the distribution area near the entrance of the attraction. Check the return time (be sure to get your passes early because on very busy days they run out!) and insert your ticket or annual pass into the FASTPASS machine. Once you insert your ticket/annual pass a ticket will print out with your return time. When it's time to return to the attraction enter through the FASTPASS line/queue and you will avoid the long wait.


It's simple, painless and will save you time!Once you have your ticket in hand head out to enjoy the other attractions. We usually grab a FASTPASS and catch a show or ride an attraction with a minimal wait line.

Here are two things that you should also know about FASTPASS.

1. You can only have one FASTPASS ticket to one attraction at a time. This means you can't head over to Splash Mountain and pick up a FASTPASS then walk over to Big Tunder Railroad and pick up another while you wait. You can grab another FASTPASS as soon as your return time comes up.
2. Your FASTPASS tickets don't expire. I met my sisters at the park a little late last week only to find them complaining about their FASTPASS tickets expiring. There is no such thing. Your recommended time is printed on your ticket but you are always welcome to come after that time on the day of your visit.

Here is the list of attractions at both parks that utilize the FASTPASS system.

Disneyland

• Autopia
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
• Indiana Jones
• Haunted Mansion(holidays)
• Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin
• Splash Mountain
• Space Mountain

Disney's California Adventure

• California ScreaminGrizzly River Run
• Mulholland Madness
• Soarin Over California
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

Have a terrific rest of the day and use a FASTPASS next time you are heading over to the parks!

Flik's Flyers

One of our favorite attraction's at Disney's California Adventure is Flik's Flyers. The attraction which is located inside A Bug's Land is a must ride attraction when visiting the park with the little ones.

Flik's Fliers is a spinning bucket attraction. The buckets are all made to have the appearance of various containers including a Chinese food box, animal cracker box and a raisin box. The ride is approximately 90 seconds long. There are 8 boxes that can seat up to 4 people.

Kids of all ages will enjoy this fun little ride. It is primarily geared to younger children but I've yet to meet anyone that does not love this fun little ride.

Wait time is minimal and less than 5 minutes. I have never had to wait (even on New Year's Day) longer than 10 minutes. If you are heading to DCA make sure to stop and take a ride. You will love it!

Disney's Electrical Parade

Happy Sunday everyone! I hope you are all having a fantastic Sunday with plenty of fun and relaxation. For this week's installment of Disney Sunday I wanted to write about my favorite parade - Disney's Electrical Parade in Disney's California Adventure.


The parade is back this summer big and better than ever. Among the new surprises is the new lead float featuring Tinkerbell. She sprinkles her pixie dust along the parade path and it can be seen sparkling along the sides of many of the floats.


Another fabulous feature is the return of the Pinocchio floats and the Seven Dwarf's mine float. Both of these went MIA after the parade's visit to Tokyo Disneyland. If you are a fan of the Parade you will also notice that the music has a new layer on the background and I think it's better than ever.


We found some terrific seats just outside the Golden Vine Winery facing the Fisherman's Wharf area, just 30 minutes before showtime. I've usually caught it at the entrance of California Adventure and it usually one of the busiest locations to catch a glimpse. If you head further down the parade route there are plenty of seats and in my opinion a better view.

We sat down and waited for a few minutes for the parade and as we waited you could feel the anticipation and excitement in the crowd. There is nothing quite like experiencing the parade up close with the kiddos. My family loved every single minute of it.

I want to hear from you. Do you love the parade? If you do what is your favorite part of it? Where do you usually sit? Would you love to see it return to Disneyland?

The parade is running nightly through August 23, 2009. It's the perfect excuse to head over to California Adventure. It then will go on a hiatus for a time. Rumor has it that it could wind up back at Disneyland next year as part of the 55th park anniversary. We'll have to wait and see.

Parking at the Happiest Place on Earth

I love going to Disneyland and DCA, as you have probably figured out. The one thing that I do not like is having to deal with parking. I usually don't mind parking in the Mickey and Friends parking lot(the big structure) unless it is a busy day. On busy days parking and then riding the tram to the entrance of the resort can feel like a bad nightmare. I can't tell you how many times I have seen people almost scuffle over their place in the "stroller line".

The stroller line is found on the very first car of the tram and the very last car. It allows you to ride without having to fold your stroller. It is very popular and the wait for a spot in the first or last car is usually long. In fact the wait on a busy days for a tram can take a long long time. It is definitely not what you want to be doing when you have tired and cranky kids and have to be around other cranky people. It's just not a good combination.

Here are a couple of alternatives to parking in the Mickey and Friends parking lot($12.00) and taking the tram.

My favorite option for parking on nights when I know that I will be spending less than 3 hours is to park in Downtown Disney. If I'm heading over for the evening- I will usually park in the Downtown Disney lot. Parking is free for the first 3 hours. When I park in the DD parking lot I either take the monorail to Disneyland or walk through the Grand Californian Hotel to the DCA hotel entrance. It's easy, painless and only a short walk.

My second option would be to park in the Mickey and Friends parking structure. Take the tram in but on the way out, only have the driver in your party head on the tram(they will usually be able to squeeze right on to a tram). The rest of the party will head over to the 15 minute parking on Harbor blvd(just follow the walkway to Harbor Blvd- it's the parking lot on the right hand side) and be picked up from there. This is what we usually do on a busy day.

The last option is to park in the Mickey and Friends parking structure. Take the tram on your way in and at the end of the night, walk the path back to the structure. It's a nice walk and on a busy night you will get to your car faster walking, then waiting and loading for the tram.

Favorite restaurants at Disneyland/Disney's California Adventure

Today I wanted to write about my favorite places to eat inside the park. I've pretty much tried every restaurant or stand in the park and I wanted to share with you my favorite places at both parks.

Top picks for Disneyland
1. Tastiest and filling treat- This is a seasonal item- The yummy turkey legs!
You can find the delish turkey legs in Frontierland. The cart is usually located directly across from the Mark Twain Landing and next to Rancho Del Zocalo Mexican restaurant. They sell for $7 and the carts only take cash. You can also find them by the Matterhorn entrance. They are very filling and make a great lunch!

2. Favorite dessert- Funnel Cakes! - The Hungry Bear Restaurant
Disneyland's fruit topped funnel cakes are out of this world! You will love them. I also love pretty much anything that The Hungry Bear serves. It's a great place to relax and catch a bite to eat in a beautiful setting(you can watch the ducks and boats go by- it's lovely in the evening- perfect for date night! ). The Hungry Bear Restaurant is located in Critter Country - you can't miss it!

3. Favorite restaurant- Rancho Del Zocalo- Pretty good Mexican Food!
I love Rancho Del Zocalo. As a girl that grew up on fresh homemade Mexican food - I have to say that I find the food at Rancho Del Zocalo to be quite tasty. My favorite is their enchilada plate. It's really good. A little on the pricey side-(around $9-13) but the food is great, excellent seating and one of my favorite places to hang out on a cold night-wonderful heating lamps! My born in Mexico parents love the carne asada plate.

4. Favorite drink-Mint Juleps(non-alcoholic)- Mint Julep Bar
I love love the Mint Juleps that are found at the Mint Julep Bar in New Orleans Square. They go for around 2.50 and they are a yummie and refreshing treat. The Mint Julep Bar is located across from the New Orleans Square train station.

5. Tastiest and least expensive way to feed a family- Redd Rockett's Pizza Port in Tomorrowland.You can buy a whole pizza for $31.99- not bad for a theme park. It's a good way to feed the family and the pizza is actually really good! The Hawaiian is one of my fav's!

6. Soup to die for!- Clam chowder sourdough bowl- Royal Street Veranda
The soup at the Royal Street Veranda is amazing. A little pricey($9) but so worth it. The Royal Street Veranda is located in New Orleans Square. It's that little place across from the parasol cart and visible while you wait in line for Pirate's of the Carribean.

7. Last but not least- my absolute favorite treat- Dole Pineapple Whip
I love love DPW. It is a must in the summer. Yummie. You can buy one at the entrance to Adventureland, right next to the Enchanted Tiki Room,

Top picks for Disney's California Adventure

1. So good but so bad for you treat- Full Throttle Fries- Taste Pilot's Grill
These frieds are amazing. Perfect for sharing and incredible. The fries are loaded with cheese, chilli, onions, tomatoes and sour cream. The downer- probably not good for the waistline or your heart!

2. Best Hot Dogs- Award Wieners
I love the hot dogs at Award Wieners. The hotdogs come with chips and the combo's are under $6. A tasty and reasonable treats. Award Wieners is located directly across from Playhouse Disney in the Hollywood Back Lot

3. A refreshing treat- Schmoozie's Smoothies!
I'm all about fun drinks and Schmoozie's Smoothies are made to order and absolutely delish! You can find Schmoozie's Smoothies in the Hollywood Back lot- Directly across from the animation building

4. Favorite Ice Cream- Burr-Bank Ice Cream-
My family loves the ice cream at DCA. It's less crowded than it's Disneyland counterpart and just as tasty! You have to try their sundaes- Delish! Burr-Bank Ice Cream is located near the entrance of Disney's California Adventure.

Free Stuff at Disneyland/Disney's California Adventure

I wanted to list a couple of fun and FREE things you can pick up while visiting Disneyland or Disney's California Adventure. Make sure to try or pick up one of the freebies next time you are at the park. Enjoy!!

1. Free entrance to either park on your birthday. Just register online and show up with your birth certificate or ID. If you already have an annual pass- head to the ticket booth to pickup your $69 gift card for merchandise or a family pack of 6 fast passes to every attraction at the park of you choice. Another tip- turn your free admission at the end of the day into an annual pass. All you will have to do is either pay the difference or sign up for the installment plan. It's a great deal!!
2. Pick up a free pin from City Hall in Disneyland, DCA guest services or the information booth. You can get a Happy Birthday pin, Happy Anniversary,Just Married,Family Reunion,1st Visit,Happily Ever After and the I'm Celebrating button which could be used anytime!
3. Pick up a fresh, warm and delicious tortilla from the Mission Tortilla Factory tour in Disney's California Adventure. If it's your birthday make sure to pick up your free dozen.
4. Try a taste of Sourdough bread from The Boudin Bakery tour in DCA. It's located right across from the Mission Tortilla Factory Tour.
5. Animation Academy- Head over to DCA's Hollywood Backlot and try your drawing skills at The Disney Animation building. You are provided with drawing pencils and pads and taught by Disney animators a series of simple steps that enable you to create your own character drawings. You can take your drawings home or better yet- ask nicely and usually the Disney Animator will be more than willing to give you their fresh character sketch.
6. Head over to Disneyland's Tomorrowland and ride Buzz Lightyear's Astro Blasters. While you ride you will have your photo taken and at the end of the ride you can e-mail your Astro Blaster score and photo home. It's a fun and free souvenir!
7. Free stickers - make sure to head over to Toontown and meet Mickey and Minnie. You will receive a free sticker when you meet them.
8. Free beads at New Orleans Square- Head on over to New Orleans Square when the bands are playing. The beads are usually thrown out by cast members and are a fun treat. Best of all they are Free!!
9. Last but not least- My daughter's Favorite- Head over to Autopia and pick up a Free License. This is sometimes hit and miss. However, I've received one every time I have ridden Autopia.

Pixar Play Parade at Disney's California Adventure

My kiddos are big Pixar Movie fans. In fact, we play at least one Pixar movie a day in our home, sometimes even two or three. As you can probably imagien Disney's California Adventure's Pixar Play Parade is a big hit with my kiddos.

The parade is led by Lightning McQueen from Cars. It then goes on to feature a Monsters inc float that is driven by Sulley. It's followed by the Incredibles foat, Ratoutille float, a Finding Nemo float that features everyone's favorite turtle- Crush, A Bug's life float and ends with a Toy Story float that is out of the world. It is a three part float. The first part features the green toy soldiers, the second features Buzz Lightyear and the final section of the float holds Woodie, Jesse and Slinky Dog. My kids absolutely adore Toy Story and the end of the parade is their favorite.

The parade has a water element that is a welcome surprise in the summer. The floats feature small water jets that shoot water into the crowds. The parade entertainers also squirt the crowd with water guns. The kids go bonkers over this and love getting "hit" by the floats/entertainers. A warning to those that don't want to get wet-If you are sitting or standing in the front of the crowd- You will get wet!! If you don't want to get wet, head over towards the back of the crowd.

The Parade runs from The Sunshine Plaza to the Paradise Pier. We usually like to catch it in The Sunshine Plaza and we will usually plant a blanket and sit down to enjoy the fun. I would recommend you do this about 15-20 minutes before the parade starts. The parade averages about 12 minutes. There is usually only one parade and it usually happens around 5pm. Check your entertainment/parade guide for exact time.

It's Tough to be a Bug

It's Tough to be a bug is a 9 minute 3D experience that is located inside Disney's California Adventure's - A Bug's Land. The show gives you and your kiddos an insight on what life is like as a bug. Flick is the host of the show and introduces us to a different point of view- Why we should view bug's as friends vs enemies.

I personally like this ride for two reasons. On hot days it is perfect place to beat the heat and because of minimal wait lines. I also love the special effects that the show produces. However, it can be a little too intense for the little ones. My two year old son hates this show and I avoid it when we visit the park. My 4 year old daughter however loves it and thinks it's a riot. I would definitely skip It's Tough to be a Bug if you have a child that is 3 and under. If your kiddo is between 4-5 - I would still be a little cautious. I think this is attraction is best suited for 6 yrs olds and up.

It's a great little show and a little tip- sit towards the middle and latter part of the theater to enjoy the best visual effects. Enjoy!!

What to pack when heading to the Disney Resort

What to pack when heading to the Disney Resort.

I try to head over to one of the parks at least twice a week during the summer. Through much trial and error I have learned what to pack with me to be able to enjoy a day at the park and not shell out much money. Here is my essential list-

What do I bring with me??
1.Make sure to pack a couple of snacks. Some good ideas are - cut up fruit, individual baggies of cookies/chips, grapes(a big favorite of ours)goldfish and fruit snacks. I try to avoid buying snacks at the park at all costs. It can get pretty expensive!! You will also need a good backpack - I'm usually prepared with a great backpack- I never leave home without one .
2. Bring a stroller if you have small children. If you can, make sure to bring a light or umbrella stroller. They are easier to fold up and store. Make sure to have some kind of labeling on you stroller to help yours stand out in the sea of strollers. If you really don't want to hassle with bringing one (although I strongly recommend it)- rent one at the front of the park. I usually avoid this at costs but if you can't bring a stroller and want one this is a good alternative and trust me a stroller is indispensable if you have kids under 5.
3. Make sure to pack a jacket /sweater/blanket. - The nights cool off and I've had to leave once or twice because I had a cold kiddo- I've also had to drop $50 on sweatshirts because mommy didn't prepare efficiently. Learn from my mistakes and pack a sweatshirt or two.
4.Bring a bottle or two of water per person- I usually freeze mine the night before and throw them in a Ziploc bag- I pack them in at the bottom of my bag and they have been a lifesaver!! You can also bring your own insulated water bottles and refill them at the park.
5. Bring your own soda- I usually bring a can for each of us and then head to one of the local restaurants and ask for cups of ice. This has saved us so much money!!
6. Bring baby wipes. I always carry them even if I don't have my youngest with me. They are great for sticky hands and clean ups. I think they are a necessity !!
7. Bring some sandwiches-If you are planning on staying for more than a couple of hours- they are a must. Cheap and easy to transport!!
8. Bring a dollar or two to the park. My kids are used to one tradition when we head over to the park. On the way out we always stop by at the last souvenir kiosk and buy a 50 cent Minnie Mouse heart sucker. I only spend $1.00 and the kids absolutely are happy as clams on the way out. A little sticky but happy- and that's what it's all about!!

My love affair with Disney's California Adventure

Disneyland is a classic and untouchable. There is no debating that. However, when looking at California Adventure- it's important to not compare it to its iconic next door neighbor. When you look at DCA as a whole, by itself - it is a really impressive little theme park and one that I just happen to be in love with.

Here are the top ten reasons why I think Disney's California Adventure is a fantastic place for the kiddos and why I am madly in love with DCA.

1. The kiddos can get wet-We love the Irrigation Station and Princess Dot Splash Pad in the Flick's Fun Fair Area. It is the perfect spot on a hot spring/summer day.
2. I hate waiting in line. I mean really who does?? I love that the attractions in Flick's Fun Fair have minimal waiting lines and are a big hit with my kiddos. They love every single ride - especially Flick's Fun Flyers.
3. If your kids love the Disney Channel's cartoons then they will absolutely love The Playhouse Disney Show- my kids LOVE it!!
4. Who loves Free stuff? I do- I do!! I love that you can get a fresh warm tortilla from the Mission Tortilla Factory tour and a sourdough taste from Boudin Bakery.My kids love the fresh tortillas and I'm not going to lie, so do I. Here's a little tip- on your birthday pick up a dozen free tortillas from the Mission Tortilla Factory. Just show them your birthday pin and you are set!
5. They have an amazing baby center. Not as big as Disneyland's but still great.
6. DCA is home to Disney's Electrical Parade. Love it. It's new and improved and a must see!!
7. They are home to three amazing shows that your kiddos will love-MuppetVison 3D, It's tough to be a bug and Aladdin.
8. In my opinion, DCA is home to one of the BEST(if not the best!!) attractions in the Disneyland Resort, Toy Story Mania.
9. They have a pretty spiffy Ferris Wheel. You can either pick a gondola that moves or is stationary.
10. I love that I can park in the Downtown Disney lot ( free for 3 hours)- walk over to the DCA entrance at the Grand Californian Hotel in Downtown Disney(next to Sephora) , spend a couple of hours there and then I don't have to deal with taking a tram back to the parking lot. I love love that I can do this, especially on a crowded day.

DCA is in the middle of a major expansion - which includes a new water show, a Little Mermaid Ride and sure to be a big hit with my son- A thrill ride- featuring the characters from CARS!! The expansion should be complete by 2012.

There are so many other things I love about DCA but I tried to limit myself to my favorite 10. Next time that you are heading over to the Disneyland Resort make sure to show DCA some love ! It deserves it!

How to keep cool at Disneyland/DCA

My family loves to visit Disneyland/DCA often and yes we are a bit crazy, even in the busy summer season. I've picked up a thing or two from my many visits to the parks on hot summer days. Here are some of the things I've learned to stay cool at the parks on sweltering days.

1. 
   During peak times I try to avoid waiting in line for any attraction. This is the time when we usually head to catch a show. A favorite of our family is the Enchanted Tiki Room- Nice and cool and a great way to sit back and relax. Other great ones- Honey I shrunk the audience, Bug's life @ DCA.
2. We always take a ride on the Disneyland Train to check out how busy the park is and judge from there. It's also a great way to cool down and I've been known to take it two or three times around the park on a hot summer day. If you have heavy sleepers like I do- great place to let them take a nap.
3. Pack a swimsuit for the kids and head over to the irrigation station at Disney's California Adventure. Let the kids run around at Princess Dot Puddle Station. Make sure to pack towels and an extra set of clothes because the kiddos will get soaked!!
4. Keep hydrated- If you can ,bring a bottle or two of water. I usually freeze mine the night before and throw them in a Ziploc bag- I pack them in at the bottom of my bag and they have been a lifesaver!!
5. If your tots are tired and need a nap- head over to the seating area in the Hungry Bear Restaurant. It's located between New in Critter Country. I head towards the back, grab a little something to eat and enjoy the shade and watching the Mark Twain go by. It's always nice and cool. Usually my youngest falls asleep in the stroller. It's a perfect spot and way relaxing.
6. Make sure to pack a jacket /sweater/blanket. - I've left home without one thinking that there was no possible way that I would be cold on a summer day. Boy was I wrong!! The nights cool off and there is nothing worse than shelling out $50.00 for a sweatshirt because your four year old is cold. Trust me on this one!!
7. Take advantage of the Baby Center if you have little ones. It's a great place to feed the teeny ones and I have even rocked both of my babies to sleep here. Best part- super cool in there!!
8. Peak times are from 2-4pm at both parks. This is the best time to grab a bite to eat and not have to fight for a table.
9. Head to rides that have the least waiting time. Top of our list-all in Adventureland/New Orleans Square- Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, Haunted Mansion, taking a stroll on the Mark Twain and of course a ride on the Disneyland train.
10. Enjoy yourself and remember to take it easy and have fun!!

3 Day Summer Fun Pass for $99

If you are planning on heading over to the Disneyland Resort this summer- there is a deal that is too good to pass up!! The 3 day Summer Fun Pass for $99. Here is basically how it works- The offer is good for Southern California and Northern Baja residents(however if you are out of the area- you can probably have someone in line who is a resident buy it for you- just bring cash!!).

With this special ticket, local residents can play at the Disneyland Resort for three days within a 45-day period, for just $99. Guests who live in zip codes 90000 through 93599, and 21000-22999, will be able to enter both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure, enjoying three days of fun for only $33 per day.

The 3-day Summer Fun Pass is available for sale at Disneyland.com, Disney Stores and at the Disneyland Resort box office. Resident ID is required.
To skip ticket lines and enjoy straight-to-the-gate convenience, the 3-Day Summer Fun Pass is also sold at local supermarket and retail chains such as Vons, Albertsons, Ralphs, Stater Bros., Food 4 Less, Gelsons, Dearden’s and Toys ‘R’ Us.

The best part is that on the last day of your visit you can take your season pass to the ticket booth and upgrade to an annual pass. You can pay the difference or you can make monthly payments- Simple as that!! It's a fantastic deal!!

Rider/Baby Swich Program

Did you know that you can ride attractions at Disneyland/California Adventure with height restrictions even if you have munchkins in tow? There is a rider switch program available at any ride with a height restriction. At the entrance of the attraction there will be a cast member that will be able to assist you and explain the switch program. You will be handed a pass-similar to a fastpass. You will wait in line- while the member/s in your party will be able to sit with the children. Once it is your turn to ride the other member/s in your party can come up. Once you have finished riding you can "switch" the kiddos and the other member can ride. Each pass is good for two riders and is only to be used once per attraction.