We all know that Disneyland is one of the greatest places ever. So many fun things to do and, yes, some of them are pretty cliché. But I’m going to let you in on a secret that those are some of the most fun things to do! Disneyland is the exact right place to rip up your cool card and be the most basic person you can be. Here are some of my favorite clichéd activities.
1. Eat something Mickey-shaped.
I feel like this one should be a Disney Park law. There are so many options: pretzels, bread, ice cream, even caramel apples! Even some of the popcorn buckets are Mickey-shaped if you would rather have a Mickey souvenir.
2. Take a cute picture in front of the castle.
This is one of my favorites. Every time I go to the park I take a picture there. It's iconic and adorable and it makes a great profile picture. Fun fact, the Disney Photo Pass cast members will take pictures with your phone or personal camera for you if you don't have the Photo Pass.
3. Get a celebration button for your birthday.
Everyone -- and I mean everyone -- will tell you happy birthday! It's not just cast members; random park guests will tell you happy birthday as well. Talk about feeling special on your special day. Plus, free souvenir.
4. Post on Instagram with a classic Disney caption.
Let everyone know where you are! You are at the happiest place on Earth and sure, you've been there four times in the past month, but that doesn't make you any less excited to be there. And we all know there is no shortage of awesome Disney quotes.
5. Ask to "drive" on Indiana Jones.
Just ask to drive the jeep and usually a cast member will direct you to the little line for that coveted front row. Even though the wheel doesn't actually turn, it's pretty fun to pretend that you are the famous Dr. Jones on another one of his harrowing adventures. Another plus, the driver's seat is the furthest from the giant snake.
6. Get a Dole Whip or Soft-Serve Ice Cream.
Yum. There is nothing like a cool Disney treat to make your day even sweeter. The lines may be long, but it's totally worth it.
7. If you're in a couple, then wear cute matching shirts.
As a single person, this is my least favorite one, but I begrudgingly have to admit that I secretly love it. Cute couples showing their love for each other and Disney! Any future boyfriend I have better be ready to indulge me when I want to wear those super awesome Han and Leia matching shirts.
8. Play Heads Up! in line for rides.
Let's call it what it is: the lines for rides are insanely long and they seem to be getting longer. It's almost unavoidable at this point. So play Heads Up! while you wait! It can get loud, but it's pretty entertaining for people around you in line.
9. Ride It's a Small World and sing along.
Such a classic ride and don't even pretend you don't know that song! Everybody knows it! Yes, it might be stuck in your head for the rest of the month, but it will definitely be worth it.
10. Try Disneybounding.
Also a favorite of mine. Dressing up like your favorite Disney characters in normal clothes is so much fun. And when people in the park recognize your outfit, it just makes you feel so magical.
11. Meet Disney characters.
This is a no-brainer. But don't just take your picture and go away; talk to them! Talk to Princess Anna about how much you love sandwiches or proudly inform Kylo Ren that you are a member of the Resistance. Let your imagination come to life!
12. Buy a pair of Mickey ears.
Well, duh. Get all Mickey-fied right off the bat! For bonus points, buy a Monsters University ball cap or a polka-dot Minnie Mouse ball cap (I have one).
13. Watch the parades and stage shows.
These are some of the most underrated attractions at the Disney Parks. Most people would rather go on rides, but don't skimp on the shows and parades. Like all things Disney, they are all so magical and the music is unbelievably catchy. My personal recommendation: the Paint the Night parade.
14. Take cute pictures around the park.
There are literally dozens of fantastic photo spots around both parks. Take advantage of them! Have fun with it! Trust me, feeling silly while taking a "candid" laughing picture while spinning in the teacups or a silhouette picture on Paradise Pier with Mickey's Fun Wheel in the background at sunset is totally worth the awesome snapshots -- and memories -- that you will gain.