I was a VIP tour guide at Disneyland. Here are 5 things you must do in the parks.

12.11.2023 - 16:19 / insider.com

Throughout the five years that I worked as a VIP tour guide at Disneyland, I experienced the park through different lenses and noticed things that many parkgoers may not.

The park can be overwhelming, but I narrowed down some of my favorite things to see and do for a fun yet efficient park day.

Here are five must-do things on a park day at Disneyland.

Character interactions are a non-negotiable part of visiting Disneyland for me.

If you see your favorite mouse or a hero who inspires you, don't be afraid to go and talk to them. I think interacting with the characters makes for the best park memories and great photos and videos to look back on.

I remember the first time I met Princess Tiana in the park and tears came to my eyes. I still have a framed photo of that moment.

And remember, no one is judging you for geeking out over your favorite character.

Quick yet satisfying meals are a great way to efficiently feed yourself without being too stuffed to go on more rides.

If you're looking for something satisfying that won't take too long to enjoy, I highly recommend trying the Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe.

The quick-service restaurant is located at the end of Main Street USA by the entrance to Adventureland and offers a range of sandwiches, pastries, and lattes.

My go-to is the house special, a toasted cheese sandwich with tomato soup. It's yummy without being too heavy.

Hopping on the Disneyland Railroad in the middle of your park day is a great way to give yourself a break.

I recommend getting on the train at Main Street USA and enjoying the landscapes inspired by major US rivers as well as the Grand Canyon and Primeval World dioramas.

Use the opportunity to enjoy the breeze and give your feet a break, and hey, you might even see a dinosaur.

If you're at the park at night, you must stick around to see the fireworks displays.

Almost every evening, I watched as parkgoers rushed to Sleeping Beauty's Castle, the Rivers of America, or even It's a Small World to secure the best viewpoint hours before the fireworks even started.

I recommend securing a viewpoint on Main Street USA, next to the Crystal Arcade. From this vantage point, the projections and the pyrotechnic elements look clear as day.

Disneyland currently has nightly fireworks displays, though remember to check the entertainment tab on the Disneyland app for the most updated information on the show.

If you enjoy music, dancing, and watching great shows, check out "Tale of the Lion King."

The show is a spirited, impressive live performance at the Fantasyland Theatre that I've always been glad to attend.

Each time I've gone, I've seen parents, children, and Disney adults sing along and smile in awe at this colorful, fun show.

The quality of the stage