As a dad, there’s nothing quite like planning a summer getaway that lights up your kids' faces and brings the whole family together. For my family, two destinations have always stood out as the ultimate summer escapes: Disneyland and Universal Studios. These iconic theme parks are more than just places with thrilling rides and attractions — they’re memories waiting to be made. From heart-pounding adventures to magical moments, these parks offer something for everyone. Let me take you along as I relive some of our family’s best summer trips to these two incredible parks.
Why These Parks Are Perfect for Families
Every family vacation has its challenges. Finding a destination that keeps everyone entertained — from the thrill-seeking teens to the starry-eyed toddlers — can feel overwhelming. But Disneyland and Universal Studios have cracked the code. They cater to every age and interest, seamlessly blending nostalgia for adults with excitement for kids. What’s more, they create atmospheres where even parents, often consumed by responsibility, can feel like kids again.
The Magic of Disneyland
Let’s start with Disneyland. There’s something uniquely enchanting about walking through its gates, the sound of cheerful music filling the air and the sight of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle towering in the distance. I’m not ashamed to say that the magic is there for me just as much as it is for my kids.
- Rides and Attractions: Disneyland is where our imaginations run wild. The little ones can’t get enough of Fantasyland, where Dumbo’s Flying Elephants and “It’s a Small World” have them grinning from ear to ear. For me, I can never pass up Space Mountain. Even after all these years, it’s still exhilarating. And then there’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. As a lifelong Star Wars fan, stepping into that world felt like crossing into another galaxy with my kids by my side.
- The Nighttime Spectacle: One of my favorite memories as a dad is holding my daughter on my shoulders as we watched the fireworks over Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. The look of pure wonder on her face made all the planning and money spent worth it. Disneyland at night is a completely different experience — the lights, the parades, and that feeling of being part of something magical.
- Food That’s More Than Just “Theme Park Food”: Forget boring hot dogs and fries — Disneyland takes dining to another level. We shared churros, Mickey-shaped pretzels, and my wife and I snuck in a Dole Whip break while the kids were busy waving at Goofy. There’s something for everyone, from quick bites to sit-down meals. And yes, everything tastes better when it’s Mickey-shaped.
The Thrill of Universal Studios
Where Disneyland is magical and whimsical, Universal Studios brings a dose of adrenaline and cinematic wonder. For adad like me, who’s spent countless weekends introducing my kids to the movies I grew up on, this park is a goldmine of nostalgia and excitement.
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: This was a game-changer for our family. From sipping Butterbeer in Hogsmeade to exploring Hogwarts castle, it felt like we’d stepped into the pages of J.K. Rowling’s books. My son and I tackled the Forbidden Journey ride together, and while he laughed the whole way, I may have screamed louder than I’m willing to admit.
- The Studio Tour: As someone who’s always been fascinated by movies, Universal’s Studio Tour was a dream. It’s not just a ride — it’s a behind-the-scenes look at how the magic of film is created. Seeing the kids’ eyes widen as they recognized props from their favorite movies was priceless. The encounter with King Kong and Jaws? Let’s justsay those moments are talked about at every family dinner.
- Action-Packed Rides: Universal Studios is where thrill-seekers shine. The Jurassic World ride, with its jaw-dropping finale, had us all on the edge of our seats. My wife and I took turns riding the more intense attractions like Transformers: The Ride 3D while the little ones enjoyed gentler options like Super Silly Fun Land.
The Balancing Act as a Parent
Theme parks are magical, yes, but they can also be overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling different age groups and personalities. As the dad, I’m usually the one carrying the extra backpack, keeping track of snacks, and making sure everyone stays hydrated. But honestly, I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
Here’s what I’ve learned about surviving — and thriving — at theme parks:
- Plan, But Stay Flexible: I’m all for having a plan, but trying to stick to a rigid schedule at a theme park is a recipe for stress. Instead, I focus on hitting the must-see attractions early and leaving room for spontaneity. Some of our best moments — like running into a character meet-and-greet or stumbling upon a parade — were unplanned.
- Know When to Take Breaks: Between the heat and the walking, it’s easy for little ones (and adults) to get cranky. We always carve out time to sit, grab a snack, and just people-watch. It’s amazing how a Mickey-shaped ice cream or a shady bench can recharge everyone.
- Let the Kids Take the Lead: One mistake I made on our first trip was trying to squeeze in every single attraction. Now, I let the kids guide the day. If they want to ride the same ride three times in a row, we do it. Seeing them happy is worth missing a few attractions.
Comparing the Two Parks
People often ask me which park is better, and the truth is, it depends on what you’re looking for. Disneyland is the perfect choice for families who want a mix of nostalgia and magic. It’s ideal for younger kids, thanks to its gentler rides and enchanting atmosphere. Universal Studios, on the other hand, is great for older kids and teens who want more thrills and a behind-the-scenes look at their favorite movies.
Why These Trips Matter
When I think back on our trips to Disneyland and Universal Studios, the rides and attractions stand out, but it’s the little moments that mean the most. It’s holding hands with my kids as we navigate crowds, sharing laughs on a spinning teacup ride, or watching my wife take a million pictures of the kids hugging their favorite characters. Theme parks aren’t just about the fun — they’re about bonding as a family.
Tips for Other Dads
If you’re planning a trip to either park, here are a few dad-approved tips:
- Pack Smart: Sunscreen, water bottles, and portable phone chargers are lifesavers. Trust me, you don’t want to be the dad who forgot the sunscreen.
- Arrive Early: The earlier you arrive, the easier it is to hit your must-see attractions before the crowds build up.
- Set a Budget: It’s easy to overspend when everything looks fun and exciting. Set a budget for souvenirs, food, and extras ahead of time.
- Take Photos… But Also Be Present: It’s tempting to document every moment, but don’t forget to put the phone down and just enjoy. Some memories are better lived than recorded.
As a dad, I’ve learned to value experiences over material things. The toys and gadgets my kids ask for might bring short-term joy, but the memories we create on trips like these? Those stay with us forever. Whether it’s the magic of Disneyland or the excitement at Universal Studios, these summer adventures have given our family stories we’ll cherish for years.
If you’re considering a trip, don’t overthink it. Pack your bags, grab the kids, and jump into the adventure. You’ll come back tired, no doubt, but also filled with gratitude for the time spent making memories with the ones who matter most. In the end, that’s what being a dad is all about.
