20 Romantic Things To Do At Disneyland
Are you planning a trip to Disneyland with your significant other?
If so, then you’re in for a treat! Disneyland is not just a place for families and kids, it’s also a magical destination for couples looking to add some romance to their visit.
From beautiful attractions to intimate dining experiences, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to spend some quality time together, Disneyland offers a unique and memorable experience for couples.
1. Take A Picture In Front Of The Castle
The castle at Disneyland, CA is based on Cinderella’s Castle and actually wasn’t curated until 1971 – 15 years after the Disneyland park opened.
This castle is the smallest of castles featured at any Disney theme park around the world at just 58m tall. However, that doesn’t make it any less special.
Be sure to take a photo in front of the castle with your loved one to commemorate your trip.
Cast members are often situated near the front entrance of the castle and are happy to take your photo either on a camera or on a mobile phone.
Alternatively, you can use the PhotoPass service (for an additional cost) to have photos from your time at the Disneyland Resort captured in high-definition.
2. Compete Against Each Other on Buzz Lightyears Astro Blasters
Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters is in our opinion one of the best rides at the Disneyland theme park.
This interactive shooting ride is been based on the popular “Toy Story” character Buzz Lightyear, and it takes you on a journey through outer space as you help Buzz defeat the evil Emperor Zurg.
Riders sit in two-seater vehicles and use laser guns to shoot at targets throughout the ride with the aim of collecting as many points as possible by hitting targets with your laser gun.
The highest scorer is crowned the winner at the end of the ride which makes it perfect for some friendly competition.
Try to achieve the ultimate 999,999 max score to be rewarded with a sticker by a cast member as you leave the ride.
3. Take A Gentle Ride Through The Haunted Mansion
The Haunted Mansion is one of the most iconic rides in all of Disneyland.
This dark ride is situated inside an incredible Victorian-style mansion and takes you on a tour of the estate which is filled with ghosts, ghouls, and other spooky creatures.
This ride does an incredible job of combining classic Disney storytelling with special effects and animatronics to create an immersive experience that’s both spooky and fun.
While this ride is a dark ride, it’s not scary, there are no sudden movements, speed or ‘jumpy’ scenes. So much so it has no height requirement and is suitable for people of all heights and ages.
4. Get Matching Disney Ears
Disney ears are one of the best souvenirs you can purchase from Disneyland.
These soft and plush headbands, decorated with a pair of mouse ears, are a must-have for any Disney fan and are a great way to remember your trip to the park.
With a wide range of designs to choose from, including classic, limited-edition, and character-themed ears, there is a perfect pair of Disney ears for everyone (and every budget!)
For couples visiting Disneyland, a matching pair of Disney ears is a fun and unique way to commemorate their trip together.
Not only do they make for a great photo opportunity, but they also serve as a lasting reminder of your magical time at the park.
5. Dine At A Romantic Restaurant
At the Disneyland Resort, there are over 120 dining options available, ranging from budget-friendly American quick-service restaurants to luxurious Italian dining experiences.
If you’re looking for a dinner date at Disneyland we recommend using the Disneyland website to filter your search (by budget, cuisine and / or location) to find where best might suit you.
6. Share A Themed-Churro
At Disneyland Resort, indulging in sweet and delicious treats is a romantic activity that is perfect for couples.
Throughout the year, the resort offers a variety of themed churros that change with the seasons, holidays, and special events, making each visit a unique and memorable experience.
From classic cinnamon sugar churros to special holiday-themed varieties like pumpkin spice or red velvet, there is a flavour to suit every couple’s taste.
7. Grab A Celebratory Pin
If you’re visiting Disneyland for a special occasion (graduation, anniversary, birthday, honeymoon etc.) or are visiting the park for the first time then be sure to visit City Hall (located on the left-hand side at the entrance of the park) to get your free celebratory button.
Wear your button with pride, and Disneyland’s cast members will be sure to extend their congratulations and well wishes to you.
8. Get A Caricature Together
There are a number of locations within the Disneyland Resort that offer caricature services. Although the most popular is the one opposite the Blue Bayou Restaurant in New Orleans at the Disneyland park.
The price of a caricature varies depending on a number of factors (colour, non-colour, full portrait or shoulders up etc.), but are in our opinion relatively affordable as far as customised Disney souvenirs go.
Thankfully you don’t have to spend multiple hours of your day at the park sitting for the caricature artist and instead, they’ll use a photo.
However, we do recommend visiting the caricature artist early in the day as they quickly get booked up with all final drawings needing to be collected before the end of the day.
9. Get Photos At Every PhotoPass Opportunity
Visiting Disneyland with a loved one is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories, and the resort offers numerous magical locations and photo opportunities to capture the magic.
Whether it’s posing with a beloved Disney character, in front of the iconic castle, or at Pixar Pier, there is a perfect photo opportunity waiting for you and your partner.
When taking photos at Disneyland you’re welcome to use your phone or personal camera; however, the Disney PhotoPass can also be a fantastic investment.
10. Take A Romantic Ride Along Main Street
Experience the charming atmosphere of the iconic Main Street USA at a leisurely pace by hopping on one of the incredible Main Street Vehicles.
These vehicles include;
- A roofless old-fashioned Jitney
- A classic Fire Engine
- Open-air two-story Omnibus
- Horse-Drawn Street Car
However, be sure to check the journey in advance as some offer just a one-way journey to the castle while others return back to the entrance by the Disneyland Railroad.
11. Book A VIP Tour
If money is no object, then we’d highly recommend all Disney fans experience a VIP guided tour around the Disneyland Resort.
This tour varies in price but typically costs upwards of $2,500 and needs to be booked by contacting the reservation team by phone or email in advance.
The tour lasts between 7 and 10 hours and includes a trained guide that will act as your personal concierge for your tour around the resort.
12. Take A Romantic Sail On The Mark Twain River Boat
Even Walt believed that a 14-minute sail on the Mark Twain riverboat around Tom Sawyers Island was romantic.
The boat set sail four days before Disneyland opened to the public in 1955 for himself and his wife Lillian to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary.
Named after the pen name of none other than Samuel Langhorne Clemens, the author of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (the book upon which the island the boat sails around is based), the Mark Twain riverboat is as romantic now as it was almost 70 years ago.
There are four decks to choose from onboard; my personal favourite is the Texas / Sun Deck, which boasts incredible views out over the water.
However, suppose you’re looking to marvel at the incredible engineering of this historical reproduction of an American classic.
In that case, I suggest heading to the Main Deck instead, from which you’ll be able to see the boiler and pistons that run the paddle wheel.
13. Sip Tropical Cocktails
After a successful day at the Disney parks, we highly recommend visiting Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar which is located inside the Disneyland Hotel.
This bar has been inspired by the Jungle Cruise ride found inside the Disneyland theme park and features thrilling make-believe thunderstorms.
However, it’s not just the decor that’s sure to delight as the menu has a range of incredible alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails as well as some delicious appetizers.
14. Play Games At Pixar Pier
Alongside some incredibly thrilling rides, Pixar Pier hosts a variety of carnival-inspired games.
Each of these games can be played alone or with a loved one and provides you with the opportunity to win a prize – because is there anything more romantic than winning a cuddly toy from a carnival game and passing it to your loved one?
The games include;
- Bullseye Stallion Stampede
- La Luna Star Catcher
- WALL-E Space Race
- Heimlich Candy Corn Toss
Tokens to play the games can be purchased from various vending points across Pixar Pier with each game costing $4 per person to play.
15. Watch Fireworks Together
Both the Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park offer an incredible evening fireworks / light performances for guests to enjoy.
With dazzling displays of pyrotechnics, music, and special effects, the nightly shows are a must-see for all visitors to the Disneyland Resort.
Start times and performances change throughout the year, therefore we highly recommend checking the calendar in advance.
16. Ride The Pixar Pal-A-Round
Is there anything more romantic than going on a Ferris wheel together?
We think not, which is why we highly recommend going on the Pixar Pal-A-Round Ferris wheel during your trip to the Disney California Adventure theme park at the Disneyland Resort.
This Ferris wheel offers two types of gondolas; swinging and non-swinging depending on your preference with each of the gondolas is themed with different Pixar characters including those from “Inside Out,” “Up,” and “Toy Story”.
As you soar high above the pier you can take in some incredible panoramic views of the surrounding park and beyond.
17. Spend The Night
Consider extending your romantic trip to Disneyland Resort by staying on-site in one of the three incredible on-site hotels.
All three of the hotels on-site are four stars and usually retail for around $300 per night for a standard room based on two people sharing (the prices are higher during peak season – Christmas and New Year, for example).
There are a whole host of benefits to staying on-site at a Disneyland Resort property during your visit.
These include;
- Early entry into the park
- Being within walking distance of the park
- Ability to send purchases back to your room
18. Wear Matching T-shirts & Outfits
During our trip to Tokyo Disney, we found that over 80% of couples would wear matching outfits.
While the number isn’t as high at the Disneyland Resort in California, we still think it’s a super fun way to make lasting memories and show your love for one another.
Both matching t-shirts and outfits can be purchased in advance either online or from nearby stores or at the Disneyland Resort.
19. Listen To Live Jazz
Indulge in a cosy and intimate dining experience while being serenaded by smooth jazz music at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen located in Downtown Disney.
This restaurant not only offers delectable New Orleans Creole cuisine but also features live music performances by an extensive range of talented musicians.
20. Visit Over Valentines
Every February, Disneyland transforms the park into a love-filled wonderland in honour of Valentine’s Day and the everlasting love of Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
Throughout the resort, you’ll find heart-shaped decorations, romantic photo-ops, and festive treats to add a touch of magic to your couple’s vacation.
The park is a truly special place to visit during this time of year, as it provides a unique and romantic experience for couples to enjoy together.
From couples-themed activities and shows to dining experiences and romantic gift options, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate your love at Disneyland this Valentine’s Day.
