subject: Why Disneyland California Is The Perfect All-Round Family Vacation [print this page] Why Disneyland California Is The Perfect All-Round Family Vacation
Even the park's name is synonymous with good, wholesome family entertainment, but with four theme parks and two water parks to explore, Disneyland really does have something for everyone. However, though the famous amusement park is designed to appeal to children on all levels, from fantasy landscapes to hair-raising log flume rides, it is by no means only for kids. Not only are a lot of the rides specifically for adults, but the range of entertainment, restaurants and relaxation areas make this the ideal family getaway.
So while the kids are off enjoying anything from meeting the life-size Mickey Mouse or taking on rides like The Indiana Jones Adventure, Splash Mountain or Tarzan's Treehouse, grown-ups can sneak off for some respite at one of the Downtown-style establishments. There is a Disney monorail that traverses the whole park too, so when lunch or dinner time comes, families can head to one of the park's many restaurants. Probably most famous is The Blue Bayou; a French/Cajun style restaurant which serves real Louisiana cooking, like Tesora Island Chicken and jambalaya, right next to the slow sway of The Pirates of the Caribbean ride, which famously inspired the hit movie franchise. This outdoor eatery is a great all-rounder, but for something a little more elegant, perhaps try The Napa Rose in the Grand Californian Hotel, or The Wine Cellar in the Disneyland Hotel.
Once your kids are either exhausted from all the adrenalin or have simply been on every ride, then a recommended tour that everyone can enjoy is In Walt's Steps'. This is a real behind-the-scenes style tour of the park, seen through the eyes of a young Walt Disney as he was planning his magical paradise. Find out the history of the park's development, get let in on a few secrets and then finish it off with a private lunch included in the price.
To get the excitement back on track, look for an attraction that everyone can enjoy, rather than just the most thrilling ride. The park features many stunning stage shows which are all something a little different from the usual theatre productions you can see back home. Shows like Aladdin & Jasmine's Story and Disney Princess Fantasy Fair tread entertaining love story ground, but cooler and more interactive shows like Honey I Shrunk the Audience and the Jedi Training Academy are far more hands-on and fun.
Probably out of most visitors' reach, but for the super-elite experience, try joining Club 33. Located directly above the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, this exclusive members only club requires that potential members make an inquiry and then wait for a space to become available - which can take years apparently. However, there are many hotels near Disneyland and in the park itself which are great retreats from a hard day's fun.
