Does Disneyland (CA only) have souvenir booths where I might buy some assorted items without entering the park itself? It’s been ages since I’ve been so I don’t know/remember if they have something similar to the Universal City boardwalk (w/various stores you can visit without actually entering the Studio Tour).
I’m talking stuff you’re more likely to find in the Park, so I don’t need any referrals to my local Disney Store. I’ve never been to the Hotel–is that my best bet? Or do any Dopers have other suggestions?
I think so. Or at least last time I was there (several years ago). There are a few booths outside of the Park where you can shop and get goodies. Also, I have heard that after a certain hour (near closing time), you can go to the Main Street and shop there without having to pay the entrance fee.
But wait for some Disney-phile to confirm this. I love Disneyland, grew up going there, but never have had to think about this particular issue myself.
I haven’t been to DL in a long time, but I go to DW somewhat frequently (approx. once a year) and Downtown Disney, which is open to the public, is overflowing with that stuff. I would assume that DL would have some equivalent, if even on a smaller scale.
But, if the California thing isn’t a necessity, try out someone who lives near Disney World and can hit Downtown Disney for you.
There’s a huge Disney store in Downtown Disney right outside the gate. And I think you can get a shopping pass to go into the park for a half hour (I think). They charge your card if you don’t come back in time.
OK, I’m confused. Is there a Downtown Disney at DisneyLand? I don’t remember seeing one and don’t know where they’d put it (at least from what I remember about the gate layout).
yosemitebabe’s idea was an intriguing one, but I’d rather not have to deal with the parking fee. Maybe the hotel is the best bet (unless there is a DT Disney at the CA site).
There is indeed a Downtown Disney at Disneyland, It been eons since I have been to Disneyworld, so I don’t know how they compare. It is located right between the park and California Adventure.
If you haven’t been to Anaheim Disneyland in a few years, you’ll be confused.
The old parking lot has been torn down, and is now the site of California Adventure.
The area between Disneyland and California Adventure is now Downtown Disney, a collection of shops and theaters.
A gigantic parking structure/complex has been built to the west of Disneyland to hold everyone’s cars.
A fat-assed shuttle-tram takes folks from the parking structure to the Disneyland/California Adventure ticket gates.
The city of Anaheim has reworked the streets, added ramps, and built bridges to accomodate all the changes.
There is also free parking available for Downtown Disney. It is not in the parking structure; it is actually much closer to the stores. You just follow the signs and keep to the left. I believe you get 4 hours free.
The World of Disney store there has just about anything you can think of that can have “Disneyland” printed on it.
While you are there, have dinner as well. The Uva Bar and Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen are two of our favorites.
Interesting. Last time I was there, they were still building California Adventures, and the space between them was… the walkway from the parking lot. Very attractive, what with the high wooden fences on both sides.
