Ways to Enjoy Disneyland Resort Beyond the Parks

26 September 2025

Looking for Disney vacation tips? Ask planDisney! Our panelists are sharing their favorite ways to have fun at Disneyland Resort, without a theme park ticket, in the latest videos from our Ask planDisney series presented by State Farm. 

Disneyland Resort Downtown Disney Shopping and Dining

Explore the Downtown Disney District 

When it comes to shopping, dining, and entertainment, the Downtown Disney District is the perfect place to extend the magic of your Disneyland Resort visit. Panelists David and Adrianna answer the question: “What are the must-do experiences at Downtown Disney?” 

Whether you’re hunting for a special gift or the perfect souvenir, Downtown Disney’s many merchandise locations have you covered. From timeless Disney keepsakes at World of Disney to unique artwork at WonderGround Gallery, there’s something for every Disney fan! 

Icon
planDisney Pro Tip

  • The Disneyland app* isn’t just for park days; it’s a handy tool for Downtown Disney too! Use it to scan and pay for merchandise at World of Disney, browse restaurant menus, place mobile orders at Disney Wonderful World of Sweets, and so much more.

Check out the full video to see the panelists share their favorite stops and insider tips for making the most of your Downtown Disney day! 

Disneyland Resort Goofy's Kitchen Disneyland Hotel

Dine at Disneyland Resort Hotels 

Did you know some of the most delicious dining at the Disneyland Resort can be found at its hotels? Panelists Tara and Adrianna tackle another frequently-asked question: “Where can I eat at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort?” 

For families craving a sit-down meal with extra Disney magic, character dining is the way to go. At Goofy’s Kitchen inside the Disneyland Hotel, you’ll find an all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet with plenty of Disney characters stopping by to join the fun. Over at Storytellers Cafe in Disney’s Grand Californian, seasonal character dining experiences bring a fun twist, from special outfits to festive touches throughout the year. 

And for those extra-special moments, signature lounges offer the perfect way to elevate your visit. Hearthstone Lounge offers fantastic food plus an extensive whiskey library, while Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar at Disneyland Hotel is a great place to sip and savor in a more laid-back atmosphere. 

Icon
planDisney Pro Tip

  • You don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy these restaurants! Advance dining reservations are highly recommended for table-service and can be made up to 60 days in advance on Disneyland.com or in the Disneyland app by hotel guests and visitors alike.

Watch the full video to catch the panelists’ favorite hotel dining recommendations and see which dishes top their must-try lists!

Maximize the Magic 

Panelists are compensated for their participation on planDisney. 

*Message, data and roaming rates may apply for the use of the Disneyland app. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first. 

Go Travel Group Limited

Discover: https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/ways-to-enjoy-disneyland-resort-beyond-the-parks/

All Images & Content: ©2025 Disney All Rights Reserved & ©2025 Disney Parks Blog

Share on social networks

Visit us on Social Networks

Go Magical, a trading name of Go Travel Group Limited (Company No, 12728599), is an affiliate member of Merlin Travel Group Ltd (Company No, SC634186) and acts as an agent for ATOL holders and other principals. Merlin Travel Group Ltd is an Accredited Member of Protected Trust Services (PTS) 5434 and Holders of Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number (ATOL) 11770 issued by the CAA of 45-59 Kingsway London WC2B 6TE – www.caa.co.uk/atol. Merlin Travel Group Ltd Head Office address Merlin House, Mossland Road, Glasgow, G52 4XZ.

All travel arrangements are 100% financially protected and customer funds are held in an independently managed trust account.
All of our package holidays that include international flights from the UK are fully ATOL Protected.

All images & videos are ©2025 Disney, ©Disney.Pixar, ©2025 Disney/Lucasfilm,Ltd. Disney Cruise Line Ships’ registry: The Bahamas ©Disney, ©2025 MARVEL, Universal elements and all related indicia TM ©2025 Universal Studios – All Rights Reserved. © & ™ SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT INC. LEGO, LEGOLAND, the LEGO and LEGOLAND logos and the brick configuration are trademarks of the LEGO Group. © 2025 THE LEGO GROUP. LEGOLAND FLORIDA AND SEA LIFE AQUARIUM ARE PART OF THE MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS GROUP. DUPLO®. WIZARDING WORLD and all related trademarks, characters, names, and indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. © 2025 DreamWorks LLC. and Paramount Pictures Corporation. TM & © 2025 Universal Studios and Amblin Entertainment. © 2025 Hasbro. © Nintendo. 2025 SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

©2025 Go Magical From Go Travel Group Limited