Ten Things You’ve Never Done at Disneyland

December 24, 2015

Disneyland has so much to do and see! Rides, characters, dining…etc. There’s no way you can do and see it all on one trip. Some experiences are so exciting you just have to do them every time you’re there. But what are some things you’ve never experienced? How can you change up your Disneyland vacation and do something different? Here’s my list of 10 things you maybe haven’t done yet:

1. Chat with a Cast Member

How many cast members do you encounter on your trip to Disneyland? The next time you’re visiting the park, find a cast member who isn’t busy and have a little chat. They can give you a different perspective on the park and you can change up their day. My husband likes to strike up conversations with cast members. One time he asked the pilot of the Mark Twain what her favorite area was to work in the park. It’s a lot of fun to hear from those who get to spend every day at your favorite place!

2. Pilot the Mark Twain Riverboat

Did you know that you can ride in the wheelhouse of the Mark Twain? All you have to do is ask the cast member that is piloting the boat when you get on. We did this recently and it was so much fun! You get a great view of the park as the Mark Twain travels the Rivers of America. You can also steer the boat and ring the bell. Note: only 4 guests can ride in the wheelhouse with the captain.

3. Magic Shop

While you’re doing your shopping on Main Street U.S.A., stop in to the Magic shop. The cast member there will show you a magic trick or two and you can see where Steve Martin once worked.

4. Ride the Lilly Belle

The Disneyland Railroad has a special train car called the Lilly Belle. It was named after Walt’s wife, Lillian and is sometimes available for guests to ride in. Head to the Main Street Railroad station when the park opens and ask a cast member about getting to ride. Keep in mind the Lilly Belle doesn’t run every day but with a little luck and some pixie dust, you might be able to ride!

5. Have a Silhouette Made

A unique souvenir to get at Disneyland is a silhouette of yourself or children. The artists at the Silhouette Studio on Main Street are so talented! They can cut out your silhouette in a few minutes just by looking at your profile. Once your creation is finished, you can purchase a frame for it as well.

6. Flag Retreat

Show your patriotic side by watching the Flag Retreat Ceremony on Main Street. Every day in the afternoon the Disneyland Band and/or the Dapper Dans marches to the front of Main Street and perform Americana songs. The American flag is then lowered by security guards as “The Star-Spangled Banner” is played. It’s a great ceremony to witness and members of the Armed Forces are encouraged to participate.

7. Ducks of Disneyland

Have you ever noticed how many ducks are at Disneyland? When my son was younger, seeing the ducks was one of his favorite things at the park! You can find them swimming in the water all over the park or just wandering around in the grassy areas. See how many ducks you can find around the park and you might even see some ducklings as well.

8. Ride on the Tender Seat on the Railroad

Riding on the tender seat on the Disneyland Railroad is a rare but exciting experience. The tender seat is a 2-person bench right behind the train cab where the engineer sits. The best way to get to ride is to ask a cast member at the Main Street station and have a lot of patience. You may have to wait a while for your train. If you do get to ride, you’ll be on the train for the entire journey around the park. Keep in mind that this is something that is not always available.

9. Tour the Pet Cemetery

Did you know there is a secret pet cemetery near Haunted Mansion? When you exit the ride, look for a small walkway which heads along the north wall of the building. Just beyond the shrubbery you’ll find a hidden pet cemetery containing the pets of the ghosts of the Haunted Mansion.

10. Listen for Hidden Sounds

This is one of my favorite subtle touches at Disneyland. On the right side of Main Street, go into the side street where the ice cream stand is and listen carefully. You’ll hear guests getting ready at the small Hotel Marceline, a dentist drilling his patient, and piano lessons being offered. Some other hidden sounds to listen for in the park are: a voodoo lady above the restrooms near the New Orleans Square train station, a voice paging “Egroeg Sacul” (George Lucas backwards) in the line for Star Tours, and the Morse code at the New Orleans train station is relaying the opening lines of Walt’s speech on opening day at Disneyland.

What are some unique things you’ve done at Disneyland?

For more information about the Disneyland Resort or to book your next magical adventure, email me at sarasolberg@worldofmagictravel.com.

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