Usually the less crowded of the two Disney theme parks, Disney California Adventure has a lot to offer guests of all ages from shows and musical entertainment to world-class rides and attractions. Take a look at some of our favorite rides, shows and attractions below to make the most of a family trip to California Adventure!
NEW AND SEASONAL EVENTS
Plaza de la Familia at Paradise Gardens. From Sept. 1-Nov. 2, guests will enjoy an immersive celebration of family with the characters and music from the Pixar hit film "Coco." You definitely don't want to miss the "Musical Celebration of Coco" starring Miguel's family and friends. The dancing, singing and amazing puppeteers bring the story of "Coco" to life. In between shows, fans will also get a chance to take photos with Miguel, post personal notes to loved ones on The Memory Wall and enjoy the amazing musical talents of The Mariachi Divas on the bandstand outside of Paradise Garden Grill.
PIXAR PIER
The Little Mermaid–Ariel's Undersea Adventure. Dive “under the sea” in a clamshell carriage with Ariel, Skuttle and their crustacean friends. Pro tip: If you don't plan to watch World of Color, that is a great time to do this ride.
Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind. Hop aboard one of eight "memory movers" from the hit Pixar film "Inside Out." This is a great alternative to Silly Symphony Swings for younger kids who want a similar experience but aren't ready to brave the bigger ride.
World of Color is a must-see nighttime spectacular, though you will need a virtual queue reservation for the best viewing. During busy times reservations can be hard to get so a little planning goes a long way. Another option is to make a reservation for a World of Color dining or dessert package (available at select restaurants), which includes premier viewing of the show. We recommend arriving at your assigned section as early as possible for the best view. The dining packages can be quite pricey but definitely worth the expense if you've never seen the show.
HOLLYWOOD LAND
Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! Hail a taxi and join Mike, Sully and Boo on an exciting adventure through the streets of Monstropolis. Keep an eye out for Randall lurking in the shadows!
Younger kids will love the Disney Junior Dance Party! Put on your dancing shoes and join Disney Junior characters as they wiggle, shimmy and sing along to songs from your favorite Disney Junior shows.
The Disney Animation Building might be the best-kept secret for guests who need some time to relax and recharge. Inside you'll find several unique spaces including the Disney Animation Academy where guests can learn how to draw like a Disney animator. Classes are every 30 minutes with a rotating list of characters. Check the schedule at the entrance to the Animation Academy to find out what characters are featured that day. You can even take your artwork home as a souvenir!
Turtle Talk with Crush. Spend some much-needed downtime with Crush and his underwater friends from "Finding Nemo." Little grommets get to sit up front for the best viewing while Crush interacts with the audience leading to some pretty hilarious conversations. Every show is different so it's a great thing to do more than once if you have the time.
SAN FRANSOKYO SQUARE
Meet Baymax and Hiro from "Big Hero 6." Formerly Pacific Wharf, the newly re-imagined San Fransokyo Square is a destination in itself with updated dining options, merchandise and photo ops that will transport you to Hiro's hometown.
For a real taste of San Francisco, take the Boudin Bakery Tour to learn how sourdough bread is made from the company that put sourdough on the map. You'll get to see behind the scenes as fresh sourdough is made from scratch before it's distributed around the park for guests to enjoy. You can even buy a fresh sourdough loaf shaped like Baymax!
REDWOOD CREEK
Kids love running through the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail—an expansive outdoor obstacle course with swinging bridges, rope nets, log slides and fun nature-themed activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
For tickets and reservations visit https://disneyland.disney.go.com/admission/tickets
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Adrienne Sigeti is a native San Diegan and lifelong Disney fan who grew up going to the parks with family and friends. At California Adventure, you'll find her riding Luigi's Rollickin' Roadsters in Cars Land and trying to hunt down the newest seasonal snack.
Updated: October 2023
