One area of Disneyland often gets overlooked by adults, especially in the morning. We recently spent a full morning enjoying this area and riding attractions I haven’t ridden in years. This was a wonderful addition to our trip.
Here are the reasons you shouldn’t overlook this nostalgic part of Disneyland, despite its lack of big, thrilling attractions. Mickey Visit brings you the latest Disney news and planning resources, including recently reduced rates on 2027 Disney Cruises and an upcoming ticket price increase for Disneyland.
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Why Disney Adults Need to Reconsider Skipping This Area
During a recent trip to Disneyland, my partner and I had the morning to ourselves since our teenager was sleeping in, so we decided to rope drop Fantasyland. After we rode Peter Pan’s Flight with no wait (read more about how to do that here!), we decided to stick around the land and enjoy the other attractions rather than racing to the thrill rides in the park.
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I haven’t spent a full morning in Fantasyland nor ridden attractions like Dumbo the Flying Elephant or Casey Junior Circus Train since my son was little. Fantasyland first thing in the morning might just be the most magical part of Disneyland. Let’s get into all the reasons adults should not skip Fantasyland at Disneyland.
1. Fantasyland Offers the Best Nostalgic Dark Rides
Don’t get me wrong, I spend quite a bit of time in Fantasyland on the regular because I love the dark rides in Disneyland. Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan’s Flight, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, and Snow White’s Enchanted Wish are all favorites. Pinocchio’s Daring Journey, however, remains a skip for us, but we decided to ride it anyway just for the sake of continuity. Read more about why I think it’s time to replace this outdated attraction here.
For adults who might be skipping most of these dark rides aside from Peter Pan’s Flight, you should absolutely reconsider taking the time to enjoy them all.
2. Spending Time in Fantasyland is a Relaxing Morning
Many adults don’t often spend the morning in Fantasyland because we’re off prioritizing the larger thrill attractions like Space Mountain, Matterhorn Bobsleds, etc. So taking the morning to stroll through Fantasyland, even without a small kid in tow, can be a perfect way to start a Disneyland day. The walkways are clear, the crowds are minimal, and the lines for attractions are short and easy.
I haven’t ridden Dumbo the Flying Elephant in years, and this is the best time of the day to enjoy it when the sun is low and there are no crowds. What a silly, fun way to start the day at Disneyland.
3. Fantasyland Rides Aren’t Just for Kids
While these rides are the most popular with families with small children, there’s no reason for adults to deny themselves a ride too! Another ride that I haven’t bothered riding since my son was little is Casey Jr. Circus Train. My partner had never even ridden this one! Since the line was short, we figured, let’s just hop on, and it was an extra level of whimsy to follow up Dumbo with.
Did we feel a little silly riding in a giant lion cage on a singing train? Maybe, but that’s the sort of silliness that allows adults to really relax at Disneyland. It was especially funny seeing my tall, broad-shouldered partner try to fit in this lion cage.
4. Too Many Adults Walk Past This Iconic Disneyland Ride
Storybook Land Canal Boats is another attraction that I think far too many adults skip. This is one of my favorite Disneyland-specific rides, so this is one I do every visit, even though I do prefer it at night. But if you are looking to have a laid-back adult morning in Fantasyland, this should also make your list.
You will have a lower wait in the morning, and the boat narrators will be the best of the day, so if you see a low wait, hop in line. If you are the first person to ride for the day, you might even get to sign a secret guestbook!
5. You Will Witness Rare Character Interactions
Mornings in Fantasyland are when Disneyland characters are out and about interacting with kids. When we exited Casey Jr. Circus Train, we saw the Mad Hatter and Alice leading a tea party with teacup plushies with a group of kids and parents.
Since it was early morning and the crowds were still low, these families were having an easy interaction with these characters without others pushing and shoving to get closer. It was a very cool thing to see as we walked past!
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We always love spending time in Fantasyland, but spending an entire morning there was one of the highlights of our recent trip to Disneyland. Fantasyland in the afternoons can be hot, packed, and full of people. Taking the time to spend the morning there is a great way for adults to enjoy some of the hidden gems this area has to offer.
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