Disneyland as Adults – Is It Worth It?
Post updated January 2025
Disneyland as an adult is awesome, with or without kids. I often hear people say that they haven’t been to a Disney resort because they don’t have kids so I felt compelled to write a post about why Disneyland is not just a place for families with small children. I’m here to give you not just one, but five reasons why Disneyland is awesome without kids.
I have been to Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, Disney’s California Adventure, Disney World and the Animal Kingdom as an adult. And I have had a blast every single time.
Here are 5 reasons why you should visit Disneyland as an adult.
We all know that Disney parks are great for families, but I’m going to give you five reasons why Disneyland is an awesome place to go with your partner or a group of friends as adults.
5 Reasons Why Disneyland as an Adult is Awesome
1. You can avoid the crowds
If you don’t have your kids in tow, you can go when school is in session and avoid the crowds. When your vacation schedule isn’t determined by your kids’ school breaks, you have the freedom to travel in the off-season. This is huge.
Without needing to plan your vacation around a school schedule, you can avoid Spring Break and Christmas times, aka the horror of 3+ hour line-ups. I once went to Disneyland the week before Spring Break; the longest line I waited in was 20 minutes.
We were through the whole park and went on every ride before the day was over, it was absolutely amazing. I didn’t think that was possible, but when you go to Disneyland as an adult without children, it’s possible.
If you can manage to plan your Disney vacation during the shoulder season when the kids are in school, you will have an amazing time. I guarantee it. Not only do you not have to worry about your own kids, but you won’t hear anyone else’s kids crying or screaming.
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2. Go on the rides you want
You can go on all the rides you want, and none of the ones you don’t (read: every ride in Toon Town) Sure Dumbo the flying elephant is cute, but it’s not exactly a ride you want to line up a half hour for. Space Mountain? Now that’s a roller coaster that’s worth the wait.
There are no shortage of roller coasters and ‘big kid’ rides at each of Disney’s parks. Bonus: you’re tall enough to ride them all so there’s no taking turns sitting one out with small children. Lines are part of the deal at Disney, but without kids, you can skip all of the rides you don’t fit into want to do. It’s safe to say that we’d all skip It’s a Small World, am I right?!
Depending on the age of your children, you may not be able to go on the fastest rides at Disneyland, but if you’re there as an adult, you can go on all the rides you want and none of the ones you don’t.
3. Eat when and where you want to
You can eat when and where you want. You won’t be forced to endure a diet of chicken fingers, french fries and mini donuts. Unless, of course, you want to. The highlight of my girlfriend and I’s trip to the Animal Kingdom in Florida was our dinner at Tiffins. Everything from the service to the food and wine, was divine.
Sure, you could dine at Tiffins with kids, they do offer a kid’s menu; however, it is a fine-dining experience that’s best enjoyed without little ones who tend to not be as patient when it comes to a two-hour dinner. Not having to rush through dessert or my second glass of wine made for a very relaxing and enjoyable dinner.
When visiting Disney’s California Adventure, I enjoyed a leisurely lunch at the Wine Country Trattoria, a beautiful winery with outdoor seating tucked away from the crowds and noise of the park. With its Tuscan villa setting, you almost forget you’re in a busy Disney park.
Sipping bubbles in a Tuscanesque restaurant? I bet you’re starting to see why Disneyland as an adult without kids can be an incredible vacation. It’s the best of both worlds. You can ride all of your favourite rides, including the roller coasters, and then relax with a glass of wine before hitting the haunted houses.
4. Stay and play all day and night at Disneyland as an adult
As an adult, you have the stamina to stay all day and night at the park (without crying). Seeing the fireworks show is one of the highlights for me.
If you’re at Disney bright and early with your kids for breakfast with the characters, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll still be there that late. Kids simply can’t stay at the park all day, it’s too much for them.
Yes, you can take a break mid-day so the kids can nap and then return later after dinner, but without kids, you can do whatever you want. I have definitely put in some marathon days at Disney, lol!
The light show they put on at Cinderella’s castle the last time I was there was incredible. I never want to miss out on the evening shows at Disney. They are amazing.
5. We are all kids at heart
Disney is magical through the eyes of a child, but we are all just big kids, aren’t we? Not having children is no reason to miss out on a trip to the happiest place on earth. My last visit was nothing short of magical. It was pure magic. As an adult who does not have children, I have enjoyed several vacations at Disney and loved them all!
To fully indulge in the Disney spirit, and save some money, purchase your Disney Ears before you go. They are much cheaper outside the parks, plus this way you can wear them there. You can also shop for official Disney store merchandise before you go so you can dress the part.
Last time, I stayed at a Disney resort attached to Disney World in Orlando and I highly recommend doing this. They offer shuttles to their resort parks for fast and convenient transportation back and forth. Disney has it dialled in and it gets better every time I go.
From the moment the Disney envelope arrived at my house containing our colourful MagicBands, to the seamless check-in and luggage delivery that happened while we were poolside, to the wifi that ranged from our hotel throughout all the parks, to their well-designed meal plan that kept us from ever getting hungry – it was all magical.
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Disneyland as Adults – A Bonus Reason to Visit
One more reason why visiting Disneyland as an adult is awesome is that we are better at getting over jet lag than kids are. If your Disney trip has you flying off to Disneyland Paris or Tokyo, the time change can really affect the start of your vacation. This is especially true if you have kids with you.
Jet lag is no joke and if you are travelling with children, your Disneyland vacation abroad may not be as magical as you hope. Arriving a few days before you plan to visit the park is the best way to ensure that everyone is over jet lag and feeling up for the incredible adventures ahead.
The History of Disneyland
Disneyland’s journey began in the mind of Walt Disney, who envisioned a place where families could come together to experience the magic of storytelling and imagination. The park opened its gates on July 17, 1955, in Anaheim, California, and has since grown into a cultural phenomenon. Once you’ve been, it’s easy to see why.
Walt’s vision was to create an environment that combined the wonders of animation with real-life experiences, leading to the construction of a park unlike any other. The innovative design and immersive attractions set a standard for theme parks around the world, paving the way for Disney’s expansion into various forms of entertainment.
The initial opening day was marred by various challenges, including overcrowding and technical difficulties with rides, but those early obstacles did not deter Disney’s ambition.
Over the years, Disneyland has undergone significant transformations, including the addition of new attractions and lands that reflect changing times and tastes. The park’s continued evolution showcases Disney’s commitment to providing unique experiences that resonate with both children and adults alike.
As Disneyland grew, it became a symbol of joy and nostalgia for millions. It has hosted countless visitors who have formed lifelong memories within its gates. The legacy of Disneyland is rooted in its ability to adapt and innovate while maintaining the core principles of imagination and wonder that have always defined it.
Today, it stands as a testament to Walt Disney’s vision, inviting guests to step into a world of fantasy and rediscover the magic that lies within. He was a true visionary who refused to let his dreams die – thank goodness for that!
Tips For Navigating Disneyland as an Adult
Visiting Disneyland as an adult can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, especially given the vast array of attractions and experiences available. To make the most of your trip, it is essential to plan ahead and prioritize your must-see attractions.
Take it from me, utilizing the Disneyland app can be a game-changer! It provides real-time information on wait times, show schedules, and dining reservations. This tool allows you to strategize your day and maximize your time in the park without feeling rushed.
Another valuable tip is to consider visiting during off-peak times. When you don’t have kids in tow, yo don’t need to visit during school holidays or on a weekend. Weekends and holidays tend to be the busiest, so planning your visit during the week or during the off-season leads to shorter wait times and a more enjoyable experience.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to indulge in the park’s various dining options and entertainment offerings. Make dining reservations in advance for popular restaurants to avoid long waits, and take advantage of the diverse food festivals that occur throughout the year.
Allow yourself to enjoy the shows and parades, as they are integral to the Disneyland experience. Embracing spontaneity and taking the time to savour each moment will enhance your visit and allow you to fully appreciate the magic of Disneyland.
Why Disneyland is Not Just For Kids
In case I haven’t convinced you yet, Disneyland is a magical realm that transcends age, inviting visitors of all generations to experience its wonder. While many associate the theme park with childhood memories and family outings, its allure is equally potent for adults.
The park is a masterclass in storytelling, with immersive environments that captivate the imagination of anyone willing to embrace their sense of wonder. This is a place where nostalgia meets adventure, offering an escape from the often mundane realities of adult life.
As adults, we often find ourselves caught up in responsibilities and daily routines, which can stifle creativity and joy. Disneyland serves as a sanctuary, reminding us of the importance of play and imagination. And it’s SO important!
The sights, sounds, and experiences encountered within the park can evoke feelings of happiness and freedom reminiscent of a simpler time. It is a space where one can momentarily shed the burdens of adulthood and reconnect with the carefree spirit of childhood.
Disneyland actively caters to its adult audience by providing experiences that go beyond the typical theme park offerings. From sophisticated dining options to thrilling attractions that cater to adrenaline-seekers, the park has crafted an environment that invites adults to explore their passions and interests.
Whether it is indulging in gourmet cuisine, enjoying unique themed events, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Disneyland ensures that it remains a cherished destination for visitors of all ages.
Conclusion – Is Disneyland Worth it For Adults?
Whether or not you have children, Disney is a place I feel everyone should experience in their lifetime. I hope you liked my reasons why Disneyland is awesome even if you don’t have kids. I hope that I have given you enough reasons to check it out if it wasn’t currently on your list.
It is crucial to find moments of joy and creativity. A trip to Disneyland provides the perfect opportunity to step away from the daily grind and reconnect with the sense of imagination that often gets lost in adulthood. The park’s ability to transport us to a world of fantasy and nostalgia serves as a reminder of the importance of play and exploration.
So, whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for the umpteenth time, remember to embrace the magic of Disneyland as adults. Allow yourself to be swept away by the enchantment, savour the experiences, and create lasting memories that will stay with you long after you’ve left the park.
After all, the spirit of Disneyland is not confined to childhood; it lives on in each of us, waiting to be unleashed. I’ve been to the various Disney parks 8 times, so you could definitely say I love them. Writing this makes me want to plan another Disney trip, maybe to the park in Japan next time… ;)
If you’re not sure what to bring with you, check out my packing checklist to ensure you don’t forget the essentials.
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