Five Things I Miss Most About Disneyland While Trapped at Home

Many of us consider Disneyland a place of comfort, joy, and happiness, even when the outside world is less than idyllic. That’s why in times like these, it’s especially difficult to see it (and all the other Disney Parks) closed. Our living, breathing source of magic is sitting empty. And although there are much more pressing things in the world we must do to support our communities right now, it’s nice to reflect on the things that make us happy and keep our spirits up during this difficult time. So here’s my list of five simple things I miss about being at Disneyland right now. They’re things I may have taken for granted in the past, but never will again.

Cast Members

They are the carriers of the very magic we Disneyland faithful know and love. If it weren’t for them, this and every other Disney Park would not be the same. They are always there to help, go more than the extra mile, and surprise you in ways that make you remember why you love this place. One example of this was during our first trip to Disneyland.

A cast member at Pooh Corner realized both my young girls were pin trading for the first time and out of the blue asked if they believed in fairies. Confused, they both answered yes. Then, she told them both to close their eyes and hold out one hand. She proceeded to place a sparkly new Tinkerbell pin in each of their hands. The girls were ecstatic, and so were their parents. We’ve been hooked on Disneyland ever since. Now, I’m not going to pretend that every single cast member I’ve encountered has embodied that same sense of Disneyland magic. It is rare, which is what makes it so special. However, for every less than magical experience, there have been 20 others which have more than made up for it. And that’s definitely better than most places you can think of.

The Entryway Sign

I don’t know what it is about the plaques that hang above the two entry tunnels to Main Street. As soon as I see it, I feel like I’ve been given permission to leave the world behind and just have fun. It says, “Here you leave today and enter the world of yesterday, tomorrow and fantasy.” It’s an invitation to come on in. Enjoy yourself. Eat as many snacks as you want. Give a fictional animated character a real hug. Scream your lungs out as you plunge down a mountain. Feel free to be a kid again. We won’t judge you here.

Riding the Train

There is no other ride or attraction that embodies the spirit of Walt Disney more than the Disneyland Railroad. His love of trains is what lead to this magical place called Disneyland. The attraction isn’t high tech, thrilling, or full of adventure (although the Primeval World diorama is pretty awesome).

But when you’re looking for a reprieve from the crowds, need to rest your legs, or want to take in the entire park without having to move a muscle, there is no better ride to be on. It’s simple, nostalgic, and comforting.

Pin Trading

Since my two kids are the main pin traders in our house, we make it a point to trade only with cast members, usually inside the stores or at City Hall (Chamber of Commerce at California Adventure).

It’s a fun, addictive hobby that has nothing to do with getting on a ride or watching an attraction. But as a parent, it’s been a great way to teach our kids the importance of following rules (trade only two pins per cast member) and asking for what you want while still using your manners. It’s even helped build my kids’ confidence with the conversations they’ve had to start with cast members. And they always come home with something new and interesting to help them remember each trip to the Parks.

Main Street

The casual visitor may see this turn-of-the-century street as just a transition from the real world to the attractions they want to ride. However, if you are one of the folks who takes their time appreciating all the charm of Main Street, you can truly consider yourself a Disneyland fan.

Everything from the Dapper Dans to the vintage streetcars is reminiscent of a simpler time. Next time you’re here, walk into the Cinema to catch a few vintage Mickey Mouse cartoons, stop into the Candy Palace and pick up a few treats, or go to the lobby of the Opera House to get a pressed penny made as a souvenir. But most of all, notice the lamp that’s on in the window above the Fire Station as a symbol of Walt looking over us all. 

And, yes, Walt’s lantern still shines, even during the shutdown. 

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