The first trip to Disneyland can be such a magical experience but it can also feel really daunting. There's so much to know about before you go and so many different things to choose from. One of the most common questions I get is "What do you recommend for our first time?" Although everyone's preferences will vary, there are some experiences that really need to be at the top of your list and help you really feel like you've become a Disney pro!

Sometimes it happens that you plan your trip specifically during a time of year when crowds are historically not that bad and no one, not even Disneyland themselves, is expecting a huge influx of guests but you arrive and see hoards of people anyway. Don't panic, though, because this does not mean your whole day is going to be a wash. There are last minute things you can try that will ensure you get as much done as possible even with insane amounts of people everywhere!

I've noticed a lot of complaints from guests at Disneyland over a MaxPass that "doesn't work." I've used the MaxPass many times and have had a few issues myself, but everything has been very fixable. If you find yourself in this situation just follow some of these suggestions and they will very nearly always solve your problem. After all, you don't want to spend $50 a day and have nothing to show for it, right?

If you're not using the MaxPass then you'll need to figure out where all the FastPass distribution kiosks are located. For many it's easy because they're right by the attraction entrances, but others are not so clear and may not be near the queue at all. To save you time and frustration trying to locate them yourself here are some handy guides so you'll know where to go to get your next FastPass in Disneyland Park!

It's likely that you've seen a lot of people, myself included, drone on and on about the importance of arriving at the parks early. This is certainly true, but it can seem like no matter what your afternoon surely must be prone to long lines and hours in the hot California sun. Rest assured, that it certainly not the case! There are many things that are best done in the afternoon at Disneyland when many lines are at their longest - but you won't be in them! Here's what we like to do in the middle of the day.

After months of waiting, the MaxPass is finally here!  The big question for guests has been whether or not the MaxPass is worth the additional money - and that's a totally valid question.  We finally got the chance to try out the parks both with and without the MaxPass and have come to a conclusion.  While trying it out, we also found some not-so-advertised perks (and setbacks) that are important to be aware of so hopefully now you can make a decision. ​UPDATED - 3 Aug 2019

The number one thing guests need to know more about at the Disneyland Resort is the FastPass system, and with the latest changes made to its operation many guests are finding themselves somewhat confused and wasting time at attraction entrances unwittingly.  From what I've observed, there are a few things you should know that will speed things up and allow you to get less frustrated.