As a dad, there's nothing quite like the magic of Disneyland. The excitement in your kids’ eyes, the smell of churros in the air, and the contagious joy that fills every corner of the park—it’s a place where being a kid again isn’t just allowed, it’s celebrated. But what’s often overlooked is how much fun Disneyland can be for dads. Whether you’re there for the rides, the food, or just to create lasting memories with your family, there are certain experiences every dad should have at least once. Here’s my personal list of must-dos for any dad visiting the happiest place on earth.
1. Ride Something Thrilling (Even If You’re Nervous)
Let’s start with the big one: the rides. Yes, Disneyland is full of family-friendly attractions, but every dad owes it to himself to experience a thrill ride or two. For me, it was Space Mountain. I’ll admit, I was hesitant at first. The last time I’d been on a rollercoaster was years ago, but when I saw my kids hyped up and ready to ride, I knew I had to join them. The adrenaline rush, the laughs, and even the screams made it unforgettable. Whether it’s Space Mountain, Indiana Jones Adventure, or Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, pick a thrill ride and go for it. You’ll be glad you did.
2. Be the Hero with a Character Meet-and-Greet
One of the most magical moments I had at Disneyland was when we met Mickey Mouse. My youngest daughter was so starstruck she couldn’t even speak. Seeing your kids’ faces light up when they meet their favorite characters is pure magic. But here’s the thing—don’t just stand on the sidelines. Jump in the photo! Be goofy (pun intended) and let your kids see you fully embracing the Disney experience. Trust me, those pictures will be some of your family’s favorites for years to come.
3. Indulge in the Food
Let’s talk about the food, because Disneyland is more than just theme park snacks. Sure, the churros are amazing (and yes, you should grab one), but don’t stop there. As a dad, I felt like I deserved to splurge a little, so I went for the famous turkey leg. Let me tell you, it’s as big and satisfying as it looks. I also tried a Dole Whip for the first time—why did no one tell me it’s basically heaven in a cup? Whether it’s a sit-down meal at Blue Bayou or grabbing a Mickey-shaped pretzel, indulging in Disneyland’s food is an experience every dad should treat himself to.
4. Be a Kid Again on the Classic Rides
There’s something timeless about Disneyland’s classic attractions. Riding the Mad Tea Party teacups with my kids, singing along (badly) on “It’s a Small World,” and laughing our way through the Jungle Cruise felt like stepping back into my own childhood. Don’t be afraid to embrace these simple, nostalgic moments. They remind you why Disneyland is so special—it’s a place where you can forget about being the responsible adult for a while and just have fun.
5. End the Day with Fireworks
No Disneyland trip is complete without the fireworks. After a long day of walking, rides, and excitement, we found a spot near Sleeping Beauty Castle, sat down together, and watched the sky light up. For me, this was the highlight of the trip. There’s something about those fireworks that makes you stop and appreciate the moment. Sitting there with my kids snuggled up beside me, I realized that, as a dad, these are the memories I’ll cherish forever.
Final Thoughts
Disneyland is so much more than just a theme park—it’s a place where you can bond with your family, make lifelong memories, and even let your inner kid shine. So, to all the dads out there, don’t just go to Disneyland—experience it. Ride the rollercoasters, meet the characters, eat the food, and soak in the magic. These are the moments that make it all worth it. And trust me, once you’ve had these experiences, you’ll be planning your next trip before you even leave the park.
