It’s certainly been a sizzling summer at Disneyland Resort, and with more heatwaves rolling in, a cool refuge is a must! Join us as we embark on a chilling quest to find the most refreshing spots in Disneyland and California Adventure in this week’s MiceShots. Time to beat the heat…
Seeking the Shade…
From July to September, California’s sun doesn’t hold back, truly testing the mettle of theme park enthusiasts! And though shade may be a coveted rarity in some park areas, rest assured, there are plenty of oasis spots to escape the scorching summer. This week, we’re plunging into some of the most popular refuges to cool down in during those blisteringly hot days at the Happiest Place on Earth.
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Cool Off At Disneyland:
Ready to chill out? Let’s dive into the rides, experiences, and places that are worth seeking on a hot day…
it’s a small world
This week’s journey begins at “it’s a small world,” the happiest cruise that ever sailed. This fan-favorite piece of Disney history has much more to offer than entertainment. You get a place to sit and an escape from the sun and heat. This attraction usually has a short wait, and the ride lasts about 20 minutes— which is a great tradeoff to avoid the heat!
Pirates of the Caribbean
While It’s a Small World is a popular attraction to escape the heat, Pirates is another boat ride that offers adventure along with glorious air conditioning.
Haunted Mansion
Whether it’s Haunted Mansion Holiday or the classic version, this attraction is sure to put a smile on your face and give you the chills… in a good way!
Tiki Corner
Stop over at the Tropical Hideaway and grab your favorite Dole Whip before you make your way over to one of the only attractions that allows you to enjoy your cool refreshing snack while enjoying the show at Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room. While the Tropical Hideaway sometimes has a long line, you can also take advantage of the mobile ordering option at the Tiki Juice Bar in front of the attraction. The cool Dole Whip in a dimly lit air-conditioned room is a perfect way to cool down.
Main Street Opera House
The Opera House has much more than Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. There is also an exhibit in the hall that highlights the 100th anniversary of the Walt Disney Company. After a tour through the gallery, make your way to the theater for a little relaxation and history with “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.”
Main Street Cinema
It’s easy to overlook this quiet shady spot… but don’t! On a hot day, the Main Street Cinema is a wonderful place to enjoy a cool beverage from the nearby Center Street fruit cart and relax for a few moments. Around you plays original Mickey Mouse cartoons. He was such a rascal in the early days!
Pooh Corner
Pooh Corner is a great spot to find a sweet snack and some shade. There are plenty of places to sit as this area is not always terribly busy. With active construction converting Splash Mountain to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Pooh Corner is a bit quieter than usual without people waiting in line for Splash.
And, of course, the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh is here as well. It’s another air-conditioned attraction that generally offers short waits.
Let’s take a ride…
Disneyland Railroad
When it comes to catching a breeze and some shade, you can’t beat the Disneyland Railroad. Have a seat and enjoy the grand circle tour with stops at Main Street, New Orleans Square, Toontown, and Tomorrowland… with a slight detour through the Grand Canyon and Primeval World.
Rivers of America
There are several great ways to relax and avoid the sun on the river. The easiest way is to hop aboard one of Disneyland’s biggest ships, the Mark Twain.
Find a spot on one of the two lower decks and enjoy the view and the breeze. But the rooftop can be brutal in the sun, so resist the temptation to climb that final set of stairs.
You might even spot a princess or even a band aboard.
Less shady is the Columbia. It’s a beautiful ship… with no shade on deck…
However, if you find yourself stuck aboard on a hot day, venture downstairs, where there’s some history and respite from the elements!
It might not sound like a great spot to get away, but Tom Sawyer Island can actually be a wonderful spot to find a location in the shade while the kids run wild.
Escaping the Heat at Disney California Adventure
While Disney California Adventure doesn’t have as many spots to escape the heat, there ARE some great options here.
Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
How does diving into the sea sound? The Little Mermaid is a Disney fan favorite that has a very efficient queue that not only moves quickly but it’s also covered!
Under the sea
Under the sea
Darling, it’s better
Down where it’s wetter
Take it from me
Up on the shore, they work all-day
Out in the sun, they slave away
While we devotin’
Full-time to floatin’
Under the sea
Grizzly River Run
While Grizzly River Run often has summer wait times topping an hour, getting a little wet (or a lot) is well worth the wait. If you are hesitant to ride because you don’t want your belongings to get soaked, have no fear! There are lockers located at the attraction that offer two hours of use for free. Be aware that after the 2nd hour, you will be charged $7. This attraction is probably the quickest and easiest way to cool down, once you get through the long queue.
If you are in the area, take the trail behind the attraction and enjoy a view of the beautiful waterfall. A refreshing mist cools the air and will leave you feeling refreshed… without the wait for the ride.
Redwood Creek
Right across from Grizzly River Run is the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail. There is plenty of shade and an abundance of things for the little ones to explore.
Animation Building
Perhaps DCA’s best spot to cool off is the Disney Animation Building. While seating is very limited in the lobby, you can still pick a spot on the floor and watch the screens around you light up with a myriad of different Disney animated features as you cool down from the heat outside.
You can also take a seat in Turtle Talk with Crush, learn how to draw Disney characters in the Animation Academy or explore the Sorecerer’s Workshop. All the options are air-conditioned and relaxing.
Hidden Magic: The Animation Building at Disney California Adventure
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Let’s Hear From You:
Do you have a favorite place to escape the heat while at the Disneyland Resort? What’s your favorite treat to cool off with? While some may think that the hottest days are the worst time to visit, not everyone would agree with that. If you are good about staying hydrated and seeking shade whenever possible, hot days are often much less crowded (especially during mid-day). We would love to hear what you think! Let’s hear your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below! Remember, sharing is caring!
Thank you to all the MiceShots members who helped us with this article!
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