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Disneyland trip

A working plan for Wayne’s pre-3rd-birthday Disneyland trip, with hotels, discounts, transportation, and toddler-friendly pacing.

Working plan

Jan 12–14, 2027 · 2 nights · both parks

Wayne will still be under 3 for this trip, so under current Disneyland rules he would not need his own theme-park ticket or park reservation. Recheck before booking in case policy changes.

Jan 12Travel to Anaheim, check in, Downtown Disney / easy evening.
Jan 13Full park day. Start with the park that has the stronger toddler ride lineup for your priorities.
Jan 14Second park, then return home after an early dinner or toddler-friendly stopping point.
Tickets & discounts

Check these before buying

Disney uses date-based ticket pricing and requires park reservations for guests age 3+. Compare direct Disney pricing with any active Southern California or hotel-package offers.

Hotel shortlist

Where I’d compare first

Disneyland Hotel

Best “Disney bubble” feel with easy Downtown Disney access. Great if the hotel is part of the experience.

Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance

Across the street, very family-oriented, larger rooms, and a water-play area. Strong practical choice with a toddler.

Howard Johnson Anaheim

Across the street, walkable, kid-friendly water playground, and usually worth comparing for value.

Train option

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

Instead of driving, compare San Diego → Anaheim on the Pacific Surfliner. Amtrak currently advertises a Disneyland offer with discounted rail travel and a free shuttle connection from Anaheim station to the resort area.

Toddler strategy

Keep this trip easy

  • Build in a midday hotel reset if the hotel is walkable.
  • Prioritize rides without height requirements early in the day.
  • Bring or rent a stroller even if Wayne walks well.
  • Plan one table-service meal or quiet indoor break each day.
  • Don’t over-optimize both parks. Two pleasant days beats squeezing everything in.
To decide next

Open questions

  • Drive vs. Pacific Surfliner
  • Disneyland Hotel vs. walkable Good Neighbor hotel
  • 1-park-per-day vs. Park Hopper
  • Which park on which day
  • Dining reservations worth making