When it comes to a trip to Disneyland Resort with family or friends, it’s very easy to get caught up in what everyone wants to do, and there may be some things that you strive to achieve that go unaccomplished. It’s enjoyable to spend that time with others, but sometimes, a pilgrimage on your own is whatever you make it, which is often for the best.
So what are some things to try to accomplish when you’re on your own? Well, the great thing is, it’s all up to you and what you enjoy doing! Plus, you set your own schedule and pace, so you can create goals to do as many rides as possible or eat every type of ice cream in the park (although I wouldn’t suggest that, but that’s just me).
When attractions are your number one agenda, it’s great to find the single rider lines, which will definitely speed you through faster. They’re created to fill in every space on some of the busier rides, but you won’t be able to pick and choose where you will go. While I personally enjoy being at the front of an attraction like California Screamin’, I would gladly take the shorter wait through single rider. This option offered at Screamin’, Goofy’s Sky School, Radiator Springs Racers, Grizzly River Run, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Splash Mountain, and Indiana Jones Adventure. Also, while it is fun to search about randomly, planning may be necessary depending on the state of the weather.
Searching for characters can also be a fun way to spend some time. Often times characters are accompanied by cast members that would be more than willing to take your photo, but if the character is all alone, a fun selfie is a good way to capture the moment as well. You’ll be able to find a full list of characters and schedules, but there are times where characters also make spontaneous visits to several lands as well.
Sometimes it’s nice to not have to worry about any agenda, and what has been said to be a fun way to kill time is by people watching. Often times, you can see folks walking by that are just enjoying their own day, and it created a good feeling to see others being positive. You also could be lucky to see surprises happen all over the park, as well, such as a proposal or reunion!
If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of a busy day in the parks and are looking for a way to unwind, the Mandara Spa in the Grand Californian Hotel is a great escape. While not exactly a cheap way to spend your time, sometimes it’s nice to treat yourself to a bit of pampering. When you finish, the lobby of the Grand Californian Hotel is a fun spot to stop. You can also find a seat near the piano where a Cast Member will tickle the ivories from time to time.
If you’re a sports fan (like me) and usually wind up spending time with friends that don’t care about the day’s games, ESPN Zone in Downtown Disney always proves to be a great escape. There are tons of TVs in the complex, and you can spend your time playing games in the sports-themed arcade upstairs, or enjoy some great food at the restaurants. There’s also an option in the theater-style area where you can fully immerse yourself in front of the 13 TVs with front row, recliner seating, making it feel like the ultimate fan cave.
One of the great things about the entire Disneyland Resort is that there’s seemingly no limit to your shopping options. There’s a LEGO Store for the creative and hands-on, WonderGround for the artistic ones, and lots of Disney merchandise in World of Disney and all throughout the parks. Soon, a few spots will be gone to make way for Splitsville Luxury Lanes, but there’s still lots of shops to choose from.
A personal option that I enjoy is bringing my camera and finding whatever looks interesting to take pictures of throughout the day. Whether it’s a parade or fireworks, scenic areas of different lands, or maybe characters as they bring a scene to life, it’s something that you can enjoy, but can be shared with others as well. Bonus points for selfies with the characters!
What are your favorite things to see and do on a day alone in the parks? Let us know in the comments!
