Lucas was Lola’s age (18 months) the first time he visited Disneyland. We had just moved to Orange County and I blogged about it here: Week One.
A year and a half is the perfect age to go to Disneyland for the first time. Lola’s first trip was this past Saturday.
As a Disneyland enthusiast and former Annual Passport holder, I have been to the Happiest Place on Earth dozens of times but those first time visits are the best and there truly is nothing like experiencing Disneyland through the eyes of your child.
My sister and her boyfriend were with us for Lola’s inaugural visit and that was very special because it was Leah and I who took Lucas his first time.
Lola’s first trip to Disneyland – August 8, 2015
Our plan was to arrive between 3:00 and 4:00, go on as many toddler-friendly rides as we could, meet Mickey and Minnie if possible, have a treat, buy a personalized mouse ears hat and have Todd pick up Lola just in time for her to make her 7:30 bedtime. The rest of us would stay until closing time (midnight).
The summer months are not the ideal time to visit the park if you wish avoid heavy crowds plus, it was a Saturday, temperatures reaching 90+ degrees and this is the park’s 60th anniversary, so everyone and their mother were there! We had no idea what we were in for, but fortunately our plan worked great.
We were able to do all of the above and both children were the best. I’ve said it before; Lucas knows what a huge effort and expense it is to go to Disneyland that from the moment he hears a trip is planned and for every minute we are there, he is a perfect angel. Accommodating and WAY more patient than I am!
Lola spent more time out of her stroller than in it enjoying the freedom of running around yelling for Minnie. It was too cute! She was also very patient waiting to ride King Arthur’s Carrousel, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Mad Hatter’s Tea Cups and It’s A Small World. She was mesmerized by the rides, people, colors and music.
Lola’s second ride at Disneyland – Dumbo the Flying Elephant
I love how Lucas has graduated from Fantasyland to bigger kid rides. He went on the Indiana Jones Adventure and Star Tours this time, two firsts for him.
On this trip, for me the parades were the best part. They are truly breathtaking and always bring tears to my eyes. Each character and fairytale is gloriously represented and the lights and dancers are magical. I instantly become a jaw dropped kid again while watching the night sky light up.
I was saddened to see so many phones held high up in the air trying to capture what only the eyes can see. People were “filming” the action and talking to the person next to them. It made no sense. Especially when their phones were pointed up at the trees.
Disneyland opened July 17, 1955 and has been delighting children and adults alike for 60 years! It is a magical place that brings so much joy to all who visit. Sleeping Beauty’s castle is always a sight to behold, a welcome beacon that greets you as soon as you step foot on Main Street.
Sleeping Beauty’s Castle all lit up for Disneyland’s Diamond Celebration
There is so much to see and do at the park that the nine hours we spent were simply not enough. I already can’t wait to go back!!
Related Posts:
MAGICAL!!!! 🙂 Love seeing your smiles on this first trip!
Disneyland is one of the best places for miles of smiles! xoxo
I have been there once, when I was 12. So fun! I am glad you all had such a great time despite the crowds, etc. Lola looks and sounds like she loved it! 😀
She was in absolute heaven! Such a fun memory.
What a fun eventful 9 hours it was! Whew! And my achy blistery feet have already recovered from it all! 🙂 Thanks for another fantastic day at the Mickey Mouse Park! Not only am I glad that my bladder didn’t burst, I got on rides that I was a little nervous about, but I am also so grateful to have been there for Lola’s FIRST TIME! How neat!
So glad that you were there both Lucas’s and Lola’s first trips to the happiest place on earth! xoxo
I love that Lucas appreciated the trip – so mature! You guys look great!