A while ago we gave you some first steps in preparing your kids for your trip to Disneyland to keep them safe and a little out of your hair. As I've continued to watch other families, and my own, tackle logistics and kids in the parks over the years I've noticed there are a few more things you need to consider before you leave or enter the parks. These simple suggestions should help you avoid unnecessary conflict or heart attacks and ensure a pleasant and magical vacation!

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.

I'll admit, I am not much of a pin trader.  That said, I do love collecting Disney pins whenever I'm in the parks.  Those that do trade can tell you how much of a Disney sub-culture it has become and how much fun they have trading with other guests and CMs as well.  For novices or others who just like to find fun pins, you should know that some stores have better pin selections than others.  If you're in the market, here are the best stores in the Disneyland Resort to find a plethora of pins!

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.

Dining packages have become the newest sensation at Disneyland to help guests enjoy the entertainment offerings, but the latest dining package options for Fantasmic! are the most unique yet.  There are three different options to choose from that fit a variety of budgets.  Keep in mind that these packages are best utilized if you are already planning to eat out at one of the participating restaurants as the costs do tend to be slightly higher.

Disneyland has no shortage of delicious food anywhere in the resort, but some experiences can lighten your wallet a lot more than others.  You can always leave to eat off property and save some money, but there are some great options inside the parks that are a lot more convenient and don't require you to go in and out of security again (which we all know is a huge pain).  These are what I feel are the best cheap places to get a great meal inside the parks - and your wallet will thank you!