I grew up about 20 minutes from Disneyland. Back then it didn’t cost an arm and a leg to go, so we went quite a bit. I knew the best month and day of the week to go and avoid crowds. I could tell you where the closest bathroom and water fountains were no matter where you were located. The parks have changed a lot over the years. However, I still know the parks pretty well and I love sharing tips for visiting when the temperatures rise. Nothing can ruin a fun day at the amusement park faster than hot, whiny children. We all know about the water rides that will get you soaked, but what about some other ways to beat the heat when you’re visiting Disneyland in the summer?
enjoying Disneyland in summer
free water
You can find lots of water fountains and bottle refill stations in the parks. If you’re having trouble finding them you can use the Disneyland app and do a search! I definitely recommend bring a water bottle, but did you know you can get free cups of ice water in the parks as well? Any restaurant or food stand, as long as it has a fountain drink dispenser, will give you a free cup of ice water. All you have to do is wait in line and ask. I have asked for as many as three at once before! These cups of ice water are incredibly refreshing on a scorching day. Try to avoid meal times unless you’re also purchasing food, otherwise you’ll be waiting in a very long food line for a free cup of water.
| Stay at the Cambria Suites Anaheim near Disneyland! |
rolling water sculptures
Both Disneyland Park and California Adventure have rolling ball water sculptures. In Disneyland this spherical sculpture is located outside of Space Mountain and is a favorite of little kids to “push” around with their hands. In California Adventure you can find this fun way to cool off in the Pixar Pier area near Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff.
ride something cool
Disneyland and California Adventure both have water rides but on a hot day the lines can get pretty long! Keep in mind that both Splash Mountain and Grizzly River Run have single rider lines that you can utilize to bypass the lines! Ariel’s Undersea Adventure is another good ride on a hot day because the line usually moves pretty quickly and it’s nice and cool in the building.
| Stay at the Courtyard Anaheim by Disneyland! |
check out the Animation Building
The Animation Building located it the Hollywood Backlot at California Adventure is seriously underrated. The building is air conditioned and there’s plenty of space to just sit and relax if you’d like to. There are fun hands-on activities to explore at your own pace inside. You also don’t want to miss a session of Turtle Talk with Crush if you’ve got little ones with you–it’s so fun!
What’s your favorite thing to do when it’s hot at Disneyland?
19 Responses to staying cool at the Disneyland resort this summer
Ugh, I wish Disney wasn't so expensive! I've never been to Disneyland but we went to Disney World a few years ago in July and it was like an oven! I had heard about the free water tip and boy did that come in handy! Everything at the park it ridiculously expensive too. We also got one of those misting fans to cool us down while we waited in the long lines for the rides. Of course the water rides typically got you soaked too which was usually welcomed in the heat of the day!
I know, it is quite pricey. 🙁 I've been to Disney World in July as well, it was awhile ago but I seem to remember several of the lines either being indoors (like Pirates of the Caribbean) or having misters (like Big Thunder)? I might be remembering wrong but I thought it was really nice because Disneyland doesn't have misters and most lines are outdoors (and often in the sun!). The misting fans are great!
Ahh this really makes me want to go to Disney soon!
I know, isn’t it so fun?
Great thoughts, Justine! I absolutely love Disneyland. We were just there over Christmas vacation, and we are thinking about a summer trip. We were a little worried about the heat with a baby, so I really appreciate your tips!
Oh yeah, you always want to take extra precaution with little ones in the heat. We have one of those clip-on stroller fans that’s great. And start early!!
This is the 3rd Disney post I've seen this month or last month. I really want to go!!
‘Tis the season, lol. Warm weather seems to equate to theme parks.
This is so fun! I am all about free water 🙂
Especially when it’s full of ice on a hot day!
I am ready for summertime weather in Ohio!
Our weather can’t seem to make up it’s mind. One week we’re in the 80’s, the next we’re rainy and cold.
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