Possibly the largest
parking structure you'll
ever see
by GingerJ

Most of you will get to the Disneyland parks in one of two ways: you’ll drive and park, or you’ll walk from your hotel. And once you’re there, you’ll walk just about everywhere or ride the “highway in the sky,” the monorail. You’ll see a lot of pavement. Embrace the pavement. Your feet are your friends.

Parking—Once you’ve made it to Disneyland (we give driving directions on page 22), you can park right on property. You’ll be directed into one of several lots: the Mickey and Friends parking structure (northwest of the parks, off Disneyland Drive), Pumbaa (east of Harbor Boulevard, off Disney Way); and soon-to-expand Toy Story (southeast of the park, off Harbor Boulevard). Cast members and signs will direct you to the best parking—lots do fill up and can become congested, so it’s best to allow at least 20–30 minutes extra for parking. Parking fees are $20/day (oversized and recreational vehicles are $25/day and buses are $30/day), but free to Signature and Signature Plus Annual PassHolders. Preferred parking in the Mickey & Friends parking structure is $35/day. Hold on to your parking receipt in case you leave and decide to return later. Lock your car and make a note of where it is parked, including the row number, section letter, and Disney character—jot it down on a PassPocket (Deluxe binder only) or your parking receipt, or take a digital photo. Follow signs to the tram pickup point, board the tram (strollers must be folded), and enjoy the brief ride to the parks. At the end of the day, expect the parking lots to be busy, and allow at least 30 minutes to exit.

Walking—Thanks to the proximity of the parks and Downtown Disney, walking is really the quickest way to get to most spots on property. Be sure to wear well-broken-in shoes—blisters are no fun (but if you do get blisters, bandages are available at the First Aid Centers, or be prepared and bring your own). If you have young kids, you may want to bring your own stroller to help with all the walking you’ll do (see page 102 for stroller tips). For those who have difficulty walking, wheelchairs and ECVs are available for rent at the parks. See Wheelchairs and Strollers on page 35.

Monorail—The famous monorail runs along one 2 1 /2-mile loop through both parks and Downtown Disney. You can only embark and disembark the monorail at two points, alas—in Tomorrowland inside Disneyland Park and beside Rainforest Cafe in Downtown Disney. It’s useful transportation if you’re near Downtown Disney and want to get to Tomorrowland, or vice versa. Beyond that, it’s mostly just a fun attraction (see page 115).

Disneyland Railroad—This is a fun way to travel to certain lands within the Disneyland Park. It may not be much faster than walking, but it gives your feet a rest, offers a cool breeze, and provides fun scenery (see page 100). It’s a real time saver during parades!