Where do you park at Disneyland?

As you embark on your journey to the Happiest Place on Earth, navigating the realm of Disneyland’s parking can feel like embarking on an adventure of its own. Luckily with a little preparation, you have nothing to fear! Let’s navigate the ins and outs of parking at Disneyland together, ensuring that your journey from car to castle is as smooth as possible.

Understanding the Parking Options

Disneyland offers several parking options:

• Mickey & Friends Parking Structure: This massive parking facility is located adjacent to the Disneyland Resort, offering convenient access to both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. It’s the primary parking option for most guests and provides easy access to the parks via Downtown Disney District and the Tram. 
• Pixar Pals Parking Structure: Though it is connected to MIckey & Friends and shares the parking plaza, the Pixar Pals Parking Structure is considered its own entity and has its own entrance off of Magic Way. When the Mickey and Friends entrance is blocked off on Disneyland Drive, they divert you to the Pixar Pals entrance.
• Toy Story Parking Lot: Just a short shuttle ride or 15 minute walk away from the main entrance, the Toy Story Parking Area is another popular choice. It offers ample parking space and complimentary shuttle service to and from the parks, making it a convenient option, especially during peak times. This is the only Disney-owned parking lot that will allow RVs, trailers, and oversized vehicles.

Prices for the three theme park lots are as follows:

• $35 for standard parking – car or motorcycle
• $55 for preferred parking – car or motorcycle
• $40 for oversized vehicles – RVs, motor homes  (Toy Story Lot only) 
• $45 for buses (Toy Story Lot only)

In addition to the Disneyland-owned parking structures and parking lots, you have a few more options:

• GardenWalk Parking Structure (400 Disney Way, Anaheim CA): The Anaheim Gardenwalk has a 6-story parking structure located just a quick 15 minute walk from the main entrance of Disneyland.The daily maximum for this lot is $30.
• Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (2626 E. Katella Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92806): The transportation center has free parking except for during events at Angel Stadium. From there, take the ARTIC 15X express line bus to the Disneyland Main Transportation Center. The fare for this bus is $6 per adult per day and $2.50 per child per day.
• If you haven’t already booked a hotel, choose one within walking distance to the entrance or with a shuttle services. For example, the Majestic Garden Inn has a shuttle service for guests that takes you directly to the Disneyland Main Transportation center.

Parking Tips

To make your Disneyland parking experience hassle-free, it’s essential to plan ahead:

• Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and secure a prime parking spot by arriving early, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons or holidays. Mickey and Friends, Pixar Pals, and Toy Story open one hour before the park opens for the day. Aim to arrive at least 30-60 minutes before the park opening to avoid long lines at the parking toll booths.
• Pre-pay Parking: You can pay for your parking spot in advance through the Disneyland website. While they don’t guarantee a parking spot on crowded days, they do make it easier to get through the parking line. Parking vouchers are good for two years after they are purchased. If you’re worried about losing cell reception, you can print your voucher to scan at the ticket booth.
• Keep Track of Your Parking Location: With vast parking structures and lots, it’s easy to forget where you parked. Take a photo of your parking space or make a note of the location to avoid wandering around later.
• Utilize Tram Services: If you park in the Mickey & Friends Parking Structure or Pixar Pals Parking Structure, take advantage of the tram service to reach the parks’ entrance quickly. The trams run regularly and are a convenient way to transport guests between the parking structures and the main entrance plaza.
• Be Patient: Most guests coming to Disneyland will be parking in these structures. Depending on the time of day, it could take over 30 minutes to get through the line to pay and enter the structure. Know what to expect and be kind to the cast members – they are doing all they can.

Overall, parking at Disneyland doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With proper planning, knowledge of your options, and a few insider tips, you can navigate the parking process with ease, leaving you free to immerse yourself in the magic of Disneyland. So pack your bags, grab your Mickey ears, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure at the Happiest Place on Earth!