If you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles soon and debating whether it’s worth visiting Disneyland Resort, we’re here to tell you 100% yes! Labelled as the “Happiest Place on Earth” for the past 69 (almost 70) years, Disneyland Resort is the perfect blend of nostalgia, magic, and fun for all ages. The best part? It’s only a short distance from Los Angeles, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.
Here’s how to get there with minimal hassle:
1. Drive Yourself
The quickest and most flexible way to get to Disneyland Resort from Los Angeles is by car. Anaheim is just about 30 miles south of downtown LA, and depending on traffic, the drive can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. The best route to take is the I-5 South, which leads directly to Disneyland Drive.
To rent a car in Los Angeles, the cost will vary depending the time of year you will be visiting, so we recommend using KAYAK to double check the rates and prebook your vehicle!
There are 3 main parking lots you can use: Mickey & Friends Parking Structure, Pixar Pals Parking Structure and Toy Story Parking Area.
Here are the daily parking rates:
- $35 per car/motorcycle
- $40 per oversized vehicle, motor home or tractor (only available at Toy Story Parking Area)
- $45 per bus or tractor with trailer (only available at Toy Story Parking Area)
- $55 per vehicle for preferred parking (park close to escalators and elevators)
Parking is subject to availability. Prices may change without notice, find out more here.
PRO TIP: Aim to leave early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak traffic times in LA. Potentially book a hotel for one night in Anaheim so you can make the most of the parks for the day.
2. Take a Shuttle Service
If you’d rather avoid driving, several shuttle services cater to tourists travelling between Los Angeles and Anaheim. These shuttles are reliable and convenient, especially if you’re staying in a major hotel in LA.
Popular Options and Prices (for roundtrip):
- Karmel Shuttle
- Disneyland Express (from nearby airports) - $35 for adults and $11 for children from John Wayne Airport, and $48 for adults and $14 for children from LAX
- Private transfer - $277 return +
Some of the benefits of this option is that you will not need to worry about navigating your way through LA and you will not need to pay for parking. Most services will drop you off right at the Disneyland Resort entrance!
3. Use Public Transport
For budget-conscious travellers, public transport is the way to go. While it takes a little longer than the alternative options, it’s cost-effective and straightforward.
- Metro & Train Combo: Take the Metro or a local bus to Union Station in downtown LA. From there, board an Amtrak or Metrolink train to Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC). ARTIC is just a short rideshare or shuttle trip from Disneyland Resort.
- Cost: Tickets for the train typically range from $10 - $15 one way.
PRO TIP: Check the Metrolink website for deals on weekend passes, which often include unlimited rides for a set price!
4. Book a Rideshare
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are extremely popular in LA and provide door-to-door service. This is a convenient choice if you’re travelling with a small group and would like to split the fare.
- Cost: Expect between $40 - $60 one way, depending on the time of day and demand.
Why is a trip to Disneyland Resort worth it?
Whether you’re a Disney superfan or just looking for a fun day out, Disneyland Resort has something for everyone. From the iconic rides such as Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean to incredible dining experiences and entertainment options, it’s an experience you truly won’t forget. Plus, with two parks to explore, Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, you’ll find endless adventures just waiting for you.
Plus, in 2025 there’s even more reason to book a trip to Disneyland Resort in California, as the Resort will be celebrating it’s 70th anniversary beginning May 16th, with brand-new entertainment, dining, Character interactions and more!
So if you’re in Los Angeles, don’t miss the chance to defeat evil alongside Spiderman on WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure or participate in a high-speed road race on Radiator Springs Racers!
Those are the easiest ways to travel to Anaheim for the most magical experience of your life, so buy your Disneyland Resort in California tickets now!
