Castle Talk Radio

Downtown Disney and How Disney Is Opening Parts of the Theme Parks (S2 Ep8)

The Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort is open to guests. The only part of the resort currently open, many wonder if it is worth a visit. Plus, how the district is expanding to include the parks. From eating insects in ice cream, to shopping for Disney merchandise, Downtown Disney district has become a popular spot for Disney fans while waiting for the Disneyland theme parks to be allowed to reopen.  Downtown Disney Fall and Winter 2020 In this episode of the podcast we are talking about what you can find at Downtown Disney, recent and coming expansions, and spilling some tea on how Disney may have accidentally let us know what they plan to do next. For the hearing impaired, you will be able to download the transcript here shortly. In this Episode In this episode, Becca, from This Crazy Adventure Called Life, and Jessica, from The Happiest Blog On Earth, are talking about Downtown Disney at Disneyland Resort, what is open, and how Disneyland is finding creative ways to let us walk through the gates, into the actual theme parks. This episode was recorded on October 29, 2020. Disneyland is releasing new information often. To keep up on the news for Theme Parks Reopening, be sure to join the Disneyland with Kids Group on Facebook. Before we get into this episode, if you are holding onto Disneyland tickets purchased through our partners at Get Away Today, but just can't hold off on a Disney vacation, Get Away Today can now help you switch to a Walt Disney World Vacation. You can call them (fastest option) at 855-GET-AWAY and be sure to mention Disneyland with Kids said they could help you make the switch. If you are like me and hate talking on the phone, you can also use our survey form and a Get Away Today rep will get back with you via email. Downtown Disney District and Opening Parts of the Parks In This Episode We Cover: What is Downtown Disney (currently the only part of Disneyland currently open) How large is Downtown Disney Is everything Disney owned in Downtown Disney Favorite shops at Downtown Disney Favorite places to eat at Downtown Disney Salt n' Straw and the interesting ice cream flavors including those with Goat Cheese and insects in them Black Tap Crazy Shakes Current operations and protocols at Downtown Disney Hollywood Backlot Premiere Shop in Stage 17 The Buena Vista Street Expansion and how you can go into Disney California Adventure Will you need a ticket for Buena Vista Street? Will we see a Food Festival at Disneyland soon? How Disneyland may have accidentally told us what they are planning Become a Supporter! Want to support the Disneyland with Kids community? Shop our Castle People merchandise or you can make a donation to help support our community. Visit https://disneylandwithkids.info/shop You might also like: After listening to this episode you may want to also check out some of our previous episodes and articles on our sites. We suggest: How Disneyland Could Reopen and What Other SoCal Theme Parks are doing Best and Worst Souvenirs at Disneyland Resort Disneyland Reopening Updates (article) What's Open at Disneyland (article) Meet the co-hosts and founders of Disneyland with Kids Disneyland with Kids is an online community of parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and more... who help each other plan trips to Disneyland with the littlest mouseketeers. Disneyland with Kids was founded by four Disneyland experts and travel writers, who all happen to be moms. Each of them gives expert advice on their own sites, this podcast, and in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group. Be sure to check out each of our co-founders sites and social media channels: Leslie- Trips with Tykes Follow Leslie on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Becca - This Crazy Adventure Called Life Follow Becca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Jessica - The Happiest Blog On Earth Follow Jessica on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Julie - Mom Rewritten Follow Julie on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Could Disneyland Do A Partial Reopening? (S2 Ep7)

As Disneyland's closure surpasses the 7-month mark, with no end in sight, some are beginning to wonder if there is any way that Disneyland could reopen, at least partially. Learn what other Southern California Theme Parks are doing to let guests in their gates, and what we would love to see Disneyland do. Could Disneyland Do A Partial Reopening? Today we are discussing some creative ways that Theme Parks have been able to open their gates, even though the rides are not operating. We also talk about past rumored guidelines, how Disneyland could reopen the gate, safety protocols and more. For the hearing impaired, you will be able to download the transcript here shortly. In this Episode In this episode,  Julie, from Mom Rewritten, and Becca, from This Crazy Adventure Called Life, are talking about the creative ways California Theme Parks have been able to reopen their gates, and what Disneyland could possibly do to reopen parts of their parks. A quick note, this episode was recorded the morning of October 19, 2020, and Theme Park guidelines were released October 20, 2020. To keep up on the news for Theme Parks Reopening, be sure to join the Disneyland with Kids Group on Facebook. Before we get into this episode, if you are holding onto Disneyland tickets purchased through our partners at Get Away Today, but just can't hold off on a Disney vacation, Get Away Today can now help you switch to a Walt Disney World Vacation. You can call them (fastest option) at 855-GET-AWAY and be sure to mention Disneyland with Kids said they could help you make the switch. If you are like me and hate talking on the phone, you can also use our survey form and a Get Away Today rep will get back with you via email. How Theme Parks - Including Disneyland - Could (And Are) Partially Reopen In This Episode We Cover: Which Theme Parks in Southern California have partially reopened Theme Park health and safety protocols How SeaWorld is partially reopen How LEGOLAND is Partially Reopen Knott's Berry Farm started it all What Downtown Disney is doing What creative ways we think Disneyland could reopen partially Become a Supporter! Want to support the Disneyland with Kids community? Shop our Castle People merchandise or you make a donation to help support our community. Visit https://disneylandwithkids.info/shop You might also like: After listening to this episode you may want to also check out some of our previous episodes and articles on our sites. We suggest: Best and Worst Souvenirs from Disneyland Other Southern California Attractions to add to your vacation Disneyland Reopening Updates (article) SeaWorld Halloween Spooktakular (article) LEGOLAND Hotel Room Tours (YouTube video) Meet the co-hosts and founders of Disneyland with Kids Disneyland with Kids is an online community of parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and more... who help each other plan trips to Disneyland with the littlest mouseketeers. Disneyland with Kids was founded by four Disneyland experts and travel writers, who all happen to be moms. Each of them gives expert advice on their own sites, this podcast, and in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group. Be sure to check out each of our co-founders sites and social media channels: Leslie- Trips with Tykes Follow Leslie on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Becca - This Crazy Adventure Called Life Follow Becca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Jessica - The Happiest Blog On Earth Follow Jessica on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Julie - Mom Rewritten Follow Julie on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Best and Worst Disneyland Souvenirs and Extras (S2 Ep 6)

How much will you spend on souvenirs? Is a $200 lightsaber really worth it? What are some of the best and worst souvenirs at Disneyland? That is what you will find out in this episode of the Disneyland with Kids podcast as we tackle the best and worst souvenirs and extras at Disneyland Resort.  Best Souvenirs at Disneyland - And The Worst One of the most popular questions in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook group is - How much should I budget for souvenirs? Followed closely by "Is ______ worth the money?" Today, we are attempting to give you the answers. From what to budget, to which souvenirs we love, and which ones we totally regret we are spilling all of it. We even share some of our favorite free souvenirs, added experiences and Julie gives the best tip we have ever given on this podcast! For the hearing impaired, you will be able to download the transcript here shortly. In this Episode In this episode,  Becca, from This Crazy Adventure Called Life, and Julie, from Mom Rewritten, are talking about the best and worst souvenirs and additional experiences at Disneyland Resort. We break down budget expectations, some ground rules we have for souvenir shopping with kids, and the best souvenirs for not only our kids but ourselves. Of course, it wouldn't be a best and worst if we didn't include some of the biggest misses. Plus this is the episode where you finally find out about those $200 lightsabers! While you listen, be sure to join our Facebook group for all things Disneyland.  Best and Worst Souvenirs at Disneyland  In This Episode We Cover: Disneyland souvenir budgets Setting rules for your kids with souvenirs Best souvenirs to purchase BEFORE you go on vacation Our favorite souvenirs for parents Best souvenirs for kids Steer clear of these souvenirs Julie gives the best tip we have ever given on this podcast Free souvenirs at Disneyland Added extras that are worth the cost Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge souvenirs You might also like: After listening to this episode you may want to also check out some of our previous episodes and articles on our sites. We suggest: Save Money On Disneyland Vacations Disney Princess Dining Adventure (Character Brunch) Items You Should Never Buy At Disneyland (article) Cute and Comfortable Clothing for Disneyland (article) Meet the co-hosts and founders of Disneyland with Kids Disneyland with Kids is an online community of parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and more... who help each other plan trips to Disneyland with the littlest mouseketeers. Disneyland with Kids was founded by four Disneyland experts and travel writers, who all happen to be moms. Each of them gives expert advice on their own sites, this podcast, and in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group. Be sure to check out each of our co-founders sites and social media channels: Leslie- Trips with Tykes Follow Leslie on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Becca - This Crazy Adventure Called Life Follow Becca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Jessica - The Happiest Blog On Earth Follow Jessica on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Julie - Mom Rewritten Follow Julie on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Why You Need the Disneyland App (S2 Ep5)

If you are planning a trip to Disneyland, you will need the Disneyland App! From ordering food, to checking wait times, cutting lines, and more, the Disneyland App is your key to an amazing, magical Disneyland visit. Check out the best parts of the app in this episode of the Disneyland with Kids podcast. The Disneyland App - Why You Need It Today we are talking about some of our favorite tips and tricks for the Disneyland App. If you are planning a Disneyland trip, grab your smart phone, make sure you have the app downloaded (we talk about which app it is if you can't find it) and explore the app with us as you listen in.  We will talk about how you can use the app to find wait times, mobile order food, find bathrooms (super important with younger kids) and use the app to cut lines. This is a great introduction to how to really maximize your vacation with the Disneyland App. We even give a few of our more advanced, secret uses of the Disneyland App.  For the hearing impaired In this Episode In this Episode,  Jessica, from The Happiest Blog On Earth, and Leslie, from Trips with Tykes, are talking about the Disneyland App. As Disneyland regulars, who are always trying to get as much into their vacation as possible, these two have learned that the Disneyland App is a big part of making the most of your vacation. To put it in Leslie's words "it is pretty clutch!" We suggest downloading the Disneyland App as you listen to this episode and following along in the app if you are not familiar with it. Disneyland App - Things You Need To Know In This Episode We Cover: Where to get the Disneyland App - and which app is the right one Tickets and the Disneyland App - including why you should not buy your tickets in the app Using the App to find wait times How to cut the line (legally) with the Disneyland App* Virtual Queues - like the one we live streamed obtaining for Rise of the Resistance Making Dining Reservations via the Disneyland App Mobile Ordering Entertainment and Fastpass viewing How to find characters on the Disneyland App PhotoPass Service on the Disneyland App Other important things on the app - such as bathrooms Why the app will play an important role as Disneyland Reopens. *In this episode we talk about MaxPass a paid upgrade, but we want to be clear that at the time of this recording FREE Fastpass is still available to guests. You might also like: After listening to this episode you may want to also check out some of our previous episodes and articles on our sites. We suggest: MaxPass vs Fastpass Rise of the Resistance  Disneyland Dining Reservations (article) Top Disney MaxPass Questions Answered (article) Meet the co-hosts and founders of Disneyland with Kids Disneyland with Kids is an online community of parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and more... who help each other plan trips to Disneyland with the littlest mouseketeers. Disneyland with Kids was founded by four Disneyland experts and travel writers, who all happen to be moms. Each of them gives expert advice on their own sites, this podcast, and in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group. Be sure to check out each of our co-founders sites and social media channels: Leslie- Trips with Tykes Follow Leslie on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Becca - This Crazy Adventure Called Life Follow Becca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Jessica - The Happiest Blog On Earth Follow Jessica on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Julie - Mom Rewritten Follow Julie on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Disneyland with Teens (S2 Ep4)

When you say Disneyland with Kids, you probably think of younger children, but today we are talking about taking your teenagers to Disneyland. Disneyland with Teens - is it a good idea? What is there for teens to do at Disneyland? What tips should parents of teens know before their vacation? Answers to all this and more from our experts and parents to teens! Disneyland with Teens While many of our listeners and Facebook group members have younger kids, we know that plenty of us have teenagers. Maybe you are wondering if your kids will still enjoy Disneyland once they hit those tween and teen years. Perhaps 2020 has you postponing your previously planned Disneyland vacation, and you are wondering "will my kids be too old for Disneyland?" when you are able to go again. We don't think so.  From thrill rides to new-found independence, shopping to dining, and everything in between, listen in as we share everything parents need to know about Disneyland with Teens. Hearing impaired, or prefer to read? Download the transcript for this episode here: In this Episode In this Episode,  Julie, from Mom Rewritten, and Jessica, from The Happiest Blog On Earth, are talking about Disneyland with teenagers. As moms of teens, they know that it is a different experience going with teens than with toddlers and young kids. So today they are sharing some great tips for making sure your teens have a great time at the happiest place on earth. From why teens will enjoy going (including a quote from Julie's son that will pull at your heart-strings) to how to make sure teens have a great time, they cover the best tips and must-know information for your vacation. Disneyland with Teens - What Parents Need To Know In This Episode We Cover: Will teens enjoy Disneyland What specific lands teens might enjoy Letting teens go alone to Disneyland, or at least take off in their own direction Why the Disneyland App is great for teens Rides that teens tend to love Best dining options for teens - including Crazy Shakes Shopping options for teens Closing out the park with teens Hotels with teens - including which Disneyland pools they will love Other activities teens may enjoy at Disneyland Is it better to go with a teething baby or a moody teenager (in our traditional would you rather) You might also like: After listening to this episode you may want to also check out some of our previous episodes and articles on our sites. We suggest: MaxPass vs Fastpass Avengers Campus Preview Episode Tips for Taking Vacations With Teens (article) Disneyland for Teens (article) Letting Kids Ride Solo at Disneyland (article) Meet the co-hosts and founders of Disneyland with Kids Disneyland with Kids is an online community of parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and more... who help each other plan trips to Disneyland with the littlest mouseketeers. Disneyland with Kids was founded by four Disneyland experts and travel writers, who all happen to be moms. Each of them gives expert advice on their own sites, this podcast, and in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group. Be sure to check out each of our co-founders sites and social media channels: Leslie- Trips with Tykes Follow Leslie on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Becca - This Crazy Adventure Called Life Follow Becca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Jessica - The Happiest Blog On Earth Follow Jessica on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Julie - Mom Rewritten Follow Julie on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Take a Break From Disneyland at These SoCal Destionations (S2 Ep3)

We hate to say it but there is a lot more to do in Southern California than just Disneyland. From other Theme Parks (like one with a wizard) to beaches, zoos and beyond, you can find a lot to do when you need a break from Disneyland. In this episode of the podcast we are talking about things to do in Southern California on a non-Disneyland day. After listening to this, we really think you will want to add some of these attractions on to your Disneyland vacation. Things to do in Southern California with Kids Besides Disneyland There are a lot of things to do in Southern California with kids during your Disneyland vacation. Whether you take a break mid-week to relax at the beach, or just head to dinner and a show, there are plenty of options besides Disneyland. Be sure to check out this episode when planning your vacation and how many days you want to spend in Southern California. We even spill some of our secret beaches that are rarely crowded. In this Episode In this Episode, Becca from This Crazy Adventure Called Life, and Julie from Mom Rewritten are talking about ways to take a break from Disneyland and enjoy some other Southern California Attractions. It is hard to believe we are suggesting it, but yes, there are other things to do in Southern California. Julie is a SoCal native and Becca makes sure to explore other attractions nearly every single visit, so today they are breaking down some of their favorites for you. From other theme parks to beaches, museums to dinner shows, what is worth checking out while you are at Disneyland with Kids for a break from the Disney bubble. Between the two of them, they have visited dozens of beaches and can tell you the best beaches in San Diego area, or the closest beaches to Disneyland, while telling you the pros and cons of each location. Of course, there are other theme parks, zoos and attractions you may want to visit and purchase tickets to for your vacation.  Buying Tickets to other attractions Did you know that many other locations also sell tickets through our preferred partner Get Away Today? From discount tickets to other locations, and creating custom bundles, Get Away Today is happy to help add on other attractions to your Disneyland vacation.  Other Attractions to Add On To Your Disneyland Vacation In This Episode We Cover: Other theme parks and which age groups they are best for (Knott's Berry Farm with toddlers? We weigh in!) Beaches in San Diego and Orange County (including one Becca almost didn't want to share because it is never busy) The parking situation at the beaches and which ones have the best parking Zoos, specifically the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park (Spoiler: They are not located next to each other) Museums, Aquariums, and more What kids will love about these locations Pirate's Dinner Adventure (and the blue pirate fandom!) Medieval Times  Plus, find out if we would pick Pirate's Dinner Adventure or Medieval Times in this episode's Would You Rather You might also like: After listening to this episode you may want to also check out some of our previous episodes and articles on our sites. We suggest: Staying offsite at Disneyland with Kids (podscast) How many days do you need at Disneyland with Kids (podcast) Things to do in San Diego with Kids (article) Universal Studios - Tips for your first visit (article) Meet the co-hosts and founders of Disneyland with Kids Disneyland with Kids is an online community of parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and more... who help each other plan trips to Disneyland with the littlest mouseketeers. Disneyland with Kids was founded by four Disneyland experts and travel writers, who all happen to be moms. Each of them give expert advice on their own sites, this podcast, and in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group. Be sure to check out each of our co-founders sites and social media channels: Leslie- Trips with Tykes Follow Leslie on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Becca - This Crazy Adventure Called Life Follow Becca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Jessica - The Happiest Blog On Earth Follow Jessica on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Julie - Mom Rewritten Follow Julie on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Big Differences Between Disneyland and Disney World (S2 E2)

Maybe you are a Disneyland regular who is planning their first Walt Disney World vacation? Or maybe you frequent Walt Disney World, but are making a voyage to the original Disney theme park. Either way, if you are planning a vacation to the "other park" there are going to be some big differences. From size, to how far in advance you can make reservations... today we are covering some of the biggest differences between Disneyland and Walt Disney World. In this Episode In this Episode, Leslie from Trips with Tykes, and Julie from Mom Rewritten are comparing the differences between Disneyland and Walt Disney World, and what it will mean for planning your vacation with your family.  Both Leslie and Julie spend time at both parks, Leslie visiting Walt Disney World since she was little before moving to California and becoming a Disneyland regular (but still making a trip to the east coast nearly annually) and Julie growing up going to Disneyland, and just starting annual Walt Disney World trips in the last 5 years or so. Between the two of them, they talk about several differences that you will want to take note of between Disneyland and Walt Disney World vacations. It is worth mentioning, if you are planning a Walt Disney World vacation, Leslie is also a host of the Disney Deciphered podcast, which focuses much more on Walt Disney World.  Differences between Disneyland and Disney World Vacations In This Episode We Cover: Booking your vacations  The difference in size and how this will effect your vacation Transportation options to get to the resort, including why we call it the Tragical Express Transportation options at the resort, and the one that both Leslie and Julie can't wait to try The hotel situation (PS- Leslie has a great article on picking the right Disney World Hotel) On Site Perks - why does Walt Disney World get so many Visitor demographics and how that effects the parks How long should you plan for your first Walt Disney World vacation Cutting the line options - what is different about them (please note that this is talking about pre-pandemic times) Disneyland has more of this line cutting option than Walt Disney World... Dining at Disneyland versus Walt Disney World, when to book and more What rides are the same and which are different at Disneyland and Disney World  Now Booking... While Disneyland is still closed our partners at Get Away Today are now booking 2021 vacations to Disneyland Resort. While you cannot yet include tickets, you can lock in your hotel. Use code DisneyKids to save extra on hotel stays of 2 nights or more. Once Disneyland ticket sales reopen, you can easily add them to your package. Get Away Today can also take care of all of your Walt Disney World vacation needs. They also have some amazing booking offerings, so be sure to price your Walt Disney World Vacation with them. If you just need to get your Disney fix, they are booking vacations now for Walt Disney World and offer a full concierge service for your trip. Fill out this form to get a personalized quote for your vacation. You might also like: After listening to this episode you may want to also check out some of our previous episodes. We suggest: Fastpass vs MaxPass  Flying to Disneyland with Kids Road Trip to Disneyland with Kids How Many Days To Spend at Disneyland Meet the co-hosts and founders of Disneyland with Kids Disneyland with Kids is an online community of parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and more... who help each other plan trips to Disneyland with the littlest mouseketeers. Disneyland with Kids was founded by four Disneyland experts and travel writers, who all happen to be moms. Each of them give expert advice on their own sites, this podcast, and in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group. Be sure to check out each of our co-founders sites and social media channels: Leslie- Trips with Tykes Follow Leslie on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Becca - This Crazy Adventure Called Life Follow Becca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Jessica - The Happiest Blog On Earth Follow Jessica on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Julie - Mom Rewritten Follow Julie on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

What Ride Describes 2020? (S2 Ep 1)

2020 has been a wild and crazy ride, especially in the Disneyland realm. Today we are giving an update of Disneyland info and talking about which ride describes how we each feel about 2020. Welcome, to season 2 (yes... season 2) of the Disneyland with Kids podcast! 2020 really has been a wild ride... Mr Toad should be worried his attraction may be rethemed as an ode to this year. From an unprecedented closure, to ever changing reopening dates, it seems like 2020 keeps even the main mouse on his toes.  In this Episode In this Episode, Jessica from The Happiest Blog On Earth, Leslie from Trips with Tykes, Becca from This Crazy Adventure Called Life and Julie from Mom Rewritten are all back. That is right, all four of the hosts are here, talking about the closure and what to expect when Disneyland Reopens. Disneyland in 2020 - What we have seen and what to expect In the season 2 kick off, we cover: What ride is 2020? (Tell us who you think had the best answer, plus give your answer, in a comment.) That disappearing reopening date. When Disneyland reopens should we travel? Leslie talks about Traveling Responsibly during this time.  Should you take your kids to Disneyland when it reopens? Disneyland Reservations... how will they work, and did the date you put when you booked your trip get you a reservation. Downtown Disney is now open! What to expect if you visit. Now Booking... While Disneyland is still closed our partners at Get Away Today are now booking 2021 vacations to Disneyland Resort. While you cannot yet include tickets, you can lock in your hotel. Use code DisneyKids to save extra on hotel stays of 2 nights or more. Once Disneyland ticket sales reopen, you can easily add them to your package. If you just need to get your Disney fix, they are booking vacations now for Walt Disney World and offer a full concierge service for your trip. Fill out this form to get a personalized quote for your vacation. You might also like: After listening to this episode you may want to also check out some of our previous episodes. We suggest: Disneyland is closed! Sick at Disneyland Movies to watch before going to Disneyland Movies to watch before going to California Adventure Meet the co-hosts and founders of Disneyland with Kids Disneyland with Kids is an online community of parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and more... who help each other plan trips to Disneyland with the littlest mouseketeers. Disneyland with Kids was founded by four Disneyland experts and travel writers, who all happen to be moms. Each of them give expert advice on their own sites, this podcast, and in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group. Be sure to check out each of our co-founders sites and social media channels: Leslie- Trips with Tykes Follow Leslie on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Becca - This Crazy Adventure Called Life Follow Becca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Jessica - The Happiest Blog On Earth Follow Jessica on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook Julie - Mom Rewritten Follow Julie on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Road Trip to Disneyland with Kids (S1 Ep29)

The great American Road Trip! One of the best destinations to road trip to is Disneyland. And that is exactly what we are talking about in today's episode of the Disneyland with Kids Podcast. From how to pack your car for a road trip, to how to keep the kids entertained, our road trip warrior experts are helping you plan to that everyone is still smiling when the vacation is over. After listening to this episode, will you join Becca in team #roadtripsforlife?  Disneyland Road Trip Tips! While flying to Disneyland is a popular option, many of our Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group members have chosen to make the journey to The Happiest Place on Earth an adventure all its own via a road trip. Thankfully, between other group members, and our co-founders we have all of the best road trip tips for you.  In This Episode Before we get into the show notes, just a note that we are currently looking for a transcription service for our episodes. We are working to make our information accessible. In the meantime, most (if not all) of the information from the podcast may be found on our websites within the links in the show notes. Here is what you can look forward to in this episode of the Disneyland with Kids Podcast Best Tips for Taking a Disneyland Road Trip In this episode, Jessica, from The Happiest Blog On Earth, and Becca, from This Crazy Adventure Called Life, discuss their best tips for driving to Disneyland for your vacation. As moms who have made the drive often, from Utah and Idaho respectively, we have come together to offer our best tips. From planning, to packing, and how to keep everyone happy along the way, we have you covered.  If you are looking for specific tips, like where to stop along the way for your route, be sure to join the Disneyland with Kids Facebook group. Many of our members are happy to share their favorite places to stop and rest, stretch, and get a bite to eat. Before we get to the show notes, let's talk about planning your Disneyland vacation. If you are hoping to head to Disneyland Resort when ticket sales resume, we suggest booking through our partners at Get Away Today. As a reminder, ticket sales have been paused while Disneyland works to reopen. However, you can still book hotels, and Disneyland will open ticket sales again when they are able to. Not only do they have amazing discounts for our followers, they offer a Peace of Mind Plan, so you can book now, getting the best deal, but knowing that they will take care of you should you need to cancel or reschedule. They are currently booking vacations through 2021! They have discounted tickets, free hotel nights and more. Be sure to use code DisneyKids when booking a hotel stay of 2 or more nights to save even more!  They also have partners in areas like St George - where my family likes to stop overnight on our drive down to Disneyland. In this episode we talk about road trips to Disneyland: Why Becca is team #roadtripsforlife How to decide if Disneyland is too far for a road trip Why Becca thinks you might want to rent a car for your road trip Tips to save you major money on your car rental Things to have checked on your vehicle before a road trip to Disneyland Tips for packing your car for a road trip and how to make the most of your space What to pack where you can easily grab it Packing snacks and the agricultural check point Tips for electronics and other entertainment Why you should never drive from Vegas to SoCal on Sunday And more of our best tips for road trips to Disneyland After listening to the episode, you may want to check out: Our episode about Flying to Disneyland with Kids Our episode about Getting Sick at Disneyland Jessica's Disneyland area hotel reviews Want to talk more about your road trip for your Disneyland vacation? Be sure to share with us in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group. Plan Your Disneyland Vacation: If you want to book a Disneyland vacation we suggest booking through our partners at Get Away Today. Want to connect with other Disneyland with Kids community members, receive and share tips, and more? Join the Disneyland with Kids Group on Facebook. Connect With The Hosts: You can connect with the hosts of Disneyland with Kids at the following locations: Leslie - Trips with Tykes Connect with Leslie on: Facebook Instagram Twitter   Julie - Mom Rewritten Connect with Julie on: Facebook Instagram Twitter   Becca - This Crazy Adventure Called Life Connect with Becca on: Facebook Instagram Twitter   Jessica - The Happiest Blog On Earth Connect with Jessica on: Facebook Instagram Twitter

Is Paradise Pier Worth The Cost For Disneyland with Kids? (Ep 1.28)

The Paradise Pier Hotel at Disneyland Resort is one that is appealing to many families who want to stay at a Disney owned property, but don't want to pay the big bucks for the Disneyland Hotel or Grand Californian. But is the Paradise Pier Hotel worth the cost? What is the theming of the hotel? Is it Disney enough? How far is the walk to the parks from Paradise Pier Hotel? We are covering it all for you in this episode of our podcast. The Paradise Pier Hotel at Disneyland Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel is a popular option for families that want all the on-site perks from a Disneyland Resort hotel, but don't want to pay the big bucks. But unlike Walt Disney World, Disneyland's cheapest hotel is in no way a value resort. We are diving into this hotel and covering everything from theming, to room layouts, amenities, and distance to the parks, all in an effort to discover if this hotel is worth it's price tag. And what is that price tag? You might be shocked to find out. In This Episode Here is what you can look forward to in this episode of the Disneyland with Kids Podcast Should You Stay At Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel? In this episode, Julie, from Mom Rewritten, and Becca, from This Crazy Adventure Called Life, discuss Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel. From layout, to dining, and even the price tag, they are sharing everything they know so that you can decide if it is worth the cost to stay at this hotel. The Paradise Pier Hotel is often a draw for travelers who want the perks that come with staying on site, but want a smaller price tag than the other Disney owned properties at Disneyland. The hotel was not originally a Disney owned property, but Disney purchased it in 1995, calling it the Disneyland Pacific Hotel, Renaming it Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel in 2000. Does the fact that it was not originally a Disney property show? Is the hotel up to date? And what is the strangest part about this hotel? Before we get to the show notes, let's talk about planning your Disneyland vacation. If you are hoping to head to Disneyland Resort when ticket sales resume, we suggest booking through our partners at Get Away Today. As a reminder, ticket sales have been paused while Disneyland works to reopen. However, you can still book hotels, and Disneyland will open ticket sales again when they are able to. Not only do they have amazing discounts for our followers, they offer a Peace of Mind Plan, so you can book now, getting the best deal, but knowing that they will take care of you should you need to cancel or reschedule. They are currently booking vacations through 2021! They have discounted tickets, free hotel nights and more. Be sure to use code DisneyKids when booking a hotel stay of 2 or more nights to save even more! This includes stays at the Disney owned hotels, including the Paradise Pier Hotel!  In this episode we talk about the Disneyland Hotel: Where is Paradise Pier located and how long will it take to get to the parks What is the general theming of the Paradise Pier Layout and theming of the rooms What you will find in the closet of each room Amenities of the Paradise Pier Hotel including the tallest of the Disneyland Resort Pool Slides Dining options at Paradise Pier Perks for staying at the Paradise Pier Hotel, including the secret Firework Viewing area What we would like to see changed about Paradise Pier - hint: new theming, dining and more The strangest part of this hotel is the elevators - here is why What is the cost of the Paradise Pier Hotel Who is the Paradise Pier a good fit for After listening to the episode, you may want to check out: Our episode about Overview of the Disneyland Resort Onsite Hotels Our episode about Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Spa Our episode about Early Entry Into Disneyland and California Adventure Our episode about the Disneyland Hotel Becca's Paradise Pier Hotel Room Tour Julie's Review of the Paradise Pier Hotel Want to talk more about hotels for your Disneyland vacation? Be sure to share with us in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group. Plan Your Disneyland Vacation: If you want to book a Disneyland vacation we suggest booking through our partners at Get Away Today. Want to connect with other Disneyland with Kids community members, receive and share tips, and more? Join the Disneyland with Kids Group on Facebook. Connect With The Hosts: You can connect with the hosts of Disneyland with Kids at the following locations: Leslie - Trips with Tykes Connect with Leslie on: Facebook Instagram Twitter   Julie - Mom Rewritten Connect with Julie on: Facebook Instagram Twitter   Becca - This Crazy Adventure Called Life Connect with Becca on: Facebook Instagram Twitter   Jessica - The Happiest Blog On Earth Connect with Jessica on: Facebook Instagram Twitter