Many attractions have lines that split into two. As a general rule, the left side moves faster. 
Take a picture of where you parked your car.

Many of the "thrill" rides are faster at night.

The Matterhorn has two lines, the Tomorrowland side and the Fantasyland side. The Fantasyland side is faster and you see the abominable snow man twice. The Tomorrowland side has a shorter line and you only see the abominable snow man once.

If you dine at the Blue Bayou in New Orleans Square, ask specifically for a table by the water. You may have to wait a bit longer, but the view is worth it for your dinner. Also, make reservations before you go.

Bring a sweater. Just because its California doesn't mean its always nice weather. Even in July, bring a sweater.

Most people eat lunch between 11-1pm and dinner between 4-6pm. These are prime opportunities to ride some longer lined rides. Also, lunch and early nap time is a good time to hit Fantasyland.

Use the train! The Disneyland Railroad can be your best friend on crowded days... the wait to board is hardly ever very long. You can move from one end of the park to the other in relaxing style rather than worming through crowds on your feet.


There are rides that deceive you. If the line for the Jungle Cruise is outside the building, the line is too long. A few others like this are Toy Story Mania, Star Tours, Indiana Jones, and Roger Rabbits Cartoon Spin. If the end is not outside the building, you should be good to go.

If it's your birthday, go to City Hall, (first building on your left as you enter Main Street from the Main Gate) and you'll get a sticker and because of the sticker: sometimes special treatment.

Pay particular attention to start times of parades even if you do not wish to view them. Many people line up 30 minutes (or more) prior to the start time of the parade. Good time to eat in areas away from parade route. Also many ride lines are much shorter. Just be sure you don't find yourself trapped on Main St. by a huge parade crowd if you are trying to make your way to another part of the park.

The best time to go shopping in the summers are the hot afternoon hours... while the majority of guests are waiting in line for a water ride, you can be inside the airconditioned stores doing some fun browsing or shopping.

If you plan on shopping in Disneyland, don't lug your bags around. You can have all of your purchases sent to the Newsstand right near the exit and then you can pick them up on your way out. If you happen to be staying at a Disney Hotel, you can take it a step further and have them sent to your hotel. For no charge.

The Disneyland Railroad begins running about 15 minutes prior to the rest of the park opening. You can ride around the park nonstop then before the rest of the park is even opened. And when the park opens, you will already be on the train, ready to go without having to fight the crowds.