Hidden Gems and Secrets to Explore at Disneyland

Experience the Magic of the Rope Drop Ceremony

The Disneyland rope drop is perhaps one of the park’s lesser-known yet most delightful experiences. The reason for this may stem from its spontaneous nature, as it is not a scheduled event, and you must arrive early to see if it will take place.

When the rope drop occurs, guests can access the Disneyland gates thirty minutes prior to the official opening time. The excitement commences before the gates open, with everyone encouraged to chant together: “Let the Magic Begin!” Subsequently, guests begin to flood in.

A brief stroll down Main Street U.S.A leads to the ropes, which stretch across various entrances surrounding the hub, preventing entry until the designated opening time. At this point, a welcoming message is announced, and you can join the throngs of eager guests rushing in, potentially overwhelmed by the enchantment of the moment.

Your optimal strategy would be to queue in the center line leading towards the castle, enabling you to proceed directly to Peter Pan’s attraction, usually resulting in the shortest wait time of the day.

Celebrate Your Birthday Any Day of the Year

Many are aware that Disneyland provides birthday buttons, and cast members extend birthday wishes throughout the day to those wearing them. Occasionally, other visitors join the celebration as well.

However, it may be less known that you can commemorate your birthday on any day throughout the year, not solely on your actual date of birth. You may even celebrate multiple times within a year. Simply inform the cast member at City Hall about your birthday celebration, and you will receive a button – no proof is necessary.

Order from Secret Menus

The ice cream nachos depicted in the image are merely one of the off-menu items that can be requested. Originally a Halloween specialty, these offerings, much like the spirits of the Haunted Mansion, persist in popularity. While they may not appear on the menu at the Golden Horseshoe, all that is necessary is to ask.

At Carthay Circle in California Adventure, there is a vegetarian off-menu item known as the Vegetable Tower. Additionally, there are whispers of an off-menu cherry milkshake at Carnation Cafe, along with the possibility of ordering the Monte Cristo sandwich from the Blue Bayou at dinner time, despite it typically being a lunch dish.

Try New Rides and Attractions Before Their Grand Opening

Upon the debut of a new ride or attraction at Disneyland, an official Grand Opening is typically scheduled. One might assume the chances of experiencing it prior to the official launch are slim.

However, here’s a little insider insight: rides often undergo testing intermittently for a week or two preceding the Grand Opening to ensure optimal functionality. This period is referred to as a “soft” opening. Announcements about the days and times are generally not made in advance, yet if you are present in the park during this timeframe, it is advisable to pay attention to the new attraction and engage with fellow visitors to gauge any discussions surrounding it.

Though you may encounter minor glitches as a first-time rider, you will gain bragging rights if you are fortunate enough to be present during the right moments.

Do the “Goat Trick”

This seemingly whimsical tip applies to riders of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

The technical reason behind the “Goat Trick” lies in G-forces and the balance of your inner ear. Nevertheless, the practical approach is straightforward.

Position yourself in the back row of the last car for the most pronounced effect. Upon being pulled up a hill for the second time, fixate on the goat standing upon a rock, clutching a stick of dynamite in its mouth. As you ascend, keep your gaze locked on it as long as possible.

Be advised, the dizzying sensation may leave you feeling slightly unwell.

Trade Pins with a Cast Member

Should you encounter a Disneyland cast member adorned with a lanyard filled with various trading pins, you are welcome to engage in trading for any pins they have. This opportunity allows you to exchange a standard Mickey Mouse pin for something unique and memorable. The cast members often possess pins that are unavailable for purchase, enhancing the overall experience.

It is worth noting pin trading etiquette advises against touching another individual’s lanyard. Instead, it is courteous to request a closer look at their offerings.

To participate in pin trading, you will need a qualifying pin. The criteria can be found online, but essentially, any pin purchased at Disneyland will suffice.

Pint-Sized Toilets at the Baby Care Center

According to parents, the kid-sized toilets situated within the Disneyland Baby Care Center provide a special highlight for many young visitors. These amenities are exclusively designed for children under 42 inches tall and greatly enhance the convenience of attending to little ones as opposed to using standard adult facilities.

At the Baby Care Center, a serene environment is provided for changing diapers, feeding bottles, or nursing. There is also a kitchenette equipped with a sink and microwave oven to assist parents.

In Disneyland, the Baby Care Center is located adjacent to First Aid, just off Main Street USA, near the corn dog cart. At California Adventure, it can be found at Paradise Pier, near the Boudin bakery.

Enjoy an “Adult” Beverage

While Disneyland may not seem like a destination for adult refreshments, it indeed offers several options.

At Disneyland, guests can visit Oga’s Cantina in Galaxy’s Edge, where a variety of galactic beverages await, including the Jedi Mind Trick cocktail, Bad Motivator IPA, and Toniray wine.

In California Adventure, cocktails are available at the Carthay Circle Bar or Lamplight Lounge, located near Paradise Pier. Alcoholic beverages, including beers and wines, can also be enjoyed in multiple locations throughout the park. For the most current selections, it is advisable to refer to the park map.

Time Travel at Starbucks

Many guests pass by the two retro-styled telephones located just inside the entry of Starbucks on Main Street U.S.A, and even fewer choose to pick up the handset.

However, you are now informed. These antiquated phones serve as a charming time capsule leading to an era when households shared the same phone line, referred to as a “party” line. The amusing gossip shared by the women utilizing these lines is truly entertaining!

Get Things for Free

Given the high cost of tickets to Disneyland, one might assume that the expenses extend to all aspects of the visit. However, there are indeed numerous items available for free, provided you know where to ask and what to request.