A Magical Day at Disneyland Paris: Tips for U.S. Travelers

Our adventure began bright and early at 8 AM in the heart of Paris. We boarded the RER A Train from the Châtelet Les Halles station, which whisked us directly to the park's gates at Marne-la-Vallée Chessy station in just 45 minutes. The trains run every 15 minutes, making access easy and efficient with tickets ranging from $5–8 euros.

Pro tip: Purchase your return train ticket while still in Paris to avoid the long queues at the end of an exhilarating day. This simple step will save you precious time and energy after a day filled with fun and adventure.

Navigating the Parks

When you arrive, the first thing you will notice is the beautiful Disneyland hotel. It lives at the entrance of the park and sets the mood with its impressive decor, resonating a magical royal and princess-themed atmosphere.

As you walk inside the park, you will witness the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle at the end of Main Street. This architectural jewel is the vibrant heart of the park, presenting a fairytale spectacle with its unique design and soft pink hues that contrast magnificently against the skyline, making it a dreamy backdrop for pictures! Whether bathed in daylight or illuminated by the spectacular fireworks and lights show, the castle creates a perfect centerpiece to the magical realm of Disneyland Paris, promising memories that will last a lifetime.

The Disneyland Paris park feels more relaxed and less crowded compared to its American counterparts but it is just as whimsical from the moment you step in. We found manageable wait times ranging from 20-40 minutes for each attraction. We did get premier access passes which made it easier to navigate the park with a toddler and gave us some time to rest. Although it is technically possible to see both parks in one day, I recommend dedicating at least one day per park to fully enjoy the shows, attractions, and take breaks! Specially, if you're visiting with kids.

Language is no barrier here, as nearly all park staff are fluent in English, with attractions featuring both English and French. Plus, all cast member are super nice and helpful!

Traveling with our toddler Samuel, who was a bit under the weather at the time of the trip, meant finding gentle yet engaging activities. Disneyland Paris shines with its toddler-friendly attractions like Le Carrousel de Lancelot, It's a Small World, Peter Pan's flights and Mad Hatter's Tea Cups. Samuel particularly enjoyed exploring Alice's Curious Labyrinth and riding the Casey Junior Circus Train. For a magical meal, consider booking a character dining experience—these are a hit with the little ones and fill up fast!

If you can, bring a few snacks for your baby in your backpack. I would also highly recommend buying some non-refrigerated milk as it can be a little challenging to find milk at the park. If you need milk, you can get it from The Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlour on main street and the Cable Car Bake Shop.

Dining Like Disney Royalty

Make sure to reserve your sit-down meals early through the Disneyland Paris app—I can't stress this enough! If you’re anything like us, sometimes a bit last-minute, consider making those reservations while on the train over. There are plenty of dining choices, but let me tell you, choosing The Waltz was a stroke of genius. The place is dripping with American Victorian-style elegance, and you know how much I adore those Victorian details—they completely nailed it!

Located on the second floor, The Waltz offers a stunning view of Main Street. Scoring a window seat could even give you a front-row view of the parades if you book at the right times. It’s not just about the food—though that’s fantastic too—it’s about the experience. The restaurant features a set menu and is adorned with all sorts of signs and pictures that tell the story of Walt Disney's life and achievements. It's like dining in a museum of Disney history! We found the perfect time for dinner to be around 6:30 PM or 7:00 PM.

For those wanting to dine with Disney characters, remember, these reservations fill up incredibly quickly, so book early. And if you’re just looking for a quick snack, don’t overlook the mobile ordering feature on the Disneyland Paris app. It's a total time-saver, allowing you more time to enjoy the park without the hassle of standing in line for food.

A Stroll Through Magic: Shopping and Ice Cream at Disneyland Paris

No visit to Disneyland Paris would be complete without exploring the charming shops and indulging in some delightful treats. As you meander through the park, each shop invites you into a world of wonder, not just through the merchandise they offer but through the very experience of walking through them. The Victorian details in the decor are intricate and beautiful, capturing the essence of a bygone era that blends seamlessly with the magic of Disney.

One of the highlights of our shopping adventure was the Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlour. Stepping into the parlour is like taking a step back in time. With its period-style decor and old-fashioned ambiance, the Gibson Girl is more than just a place to enjoy a sweet treat—it’s a spot where memories are made. Sitting there, enjoying a scoop of rich, creamy ice cream while soaking in the surroundings, I felt transported to another age. It’s not just about cooling off with a delicious ice cream; it’s about experiencing a slice of history that's as sweet as the desserts they serve.

Each shop along the streets of Disneyland Paris offers its own unique theme and selection of goods, from exclusive Disney merchandise to stunning collectibles that you won’t find anywhere else. The staff in each store are not only helpful but also a part of the experience, dressed in costumes that reflect the thematic and historical nuances of their surroundings. We bought a beautiful christmas ornament!

So, whether you're looking for the perfect souvenir to bring home or just want to enjoy a leisurely stroll through a shopping experience like no other, make sure to take your time exploring the shops of Disneyland Paris. And don’t forget to treat yourself at the Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlour—it’s a delightful way to add an extra touch of magic to your day!

Evening Spectacular

The Disney Illuminations fireworks show is a must-see, casting the Sleeping Beauty Castle in a breathtaking light that brings the day to a perfect close. For our next visit, we're planning to reserve a spot for the nighttime show to ensure a stress-free, enchanting evening. This will allow you to continue exploring the park without having too worry about standing on main street to catch a good spot to watch the show. The nighttime display over the stunning sleeping beauty castle is truly a sight to behold, and we're already excited to see how Disneyland Paris decks out in festive glory this Christmas season!

Our trip to Disneyland Paris was filled with enchantment at every turn. From the dining experiences to mesmerizing shows and parades, this adventure will remain etched in our hearts forever.

I can't wait to hear about your own magical journey to Disneyland Paris. Until then, continue exploring and believing in the magic around you!

Rosie