How to Save Money at Disneyland: 15 Simple Tips

Visiting Disneyland is a magical experience, but it can also be expensive. From ticket prices to food and souvenirs, costs add up quickly. However, with some planning and money-saving tricks, you can enjoy the magic of Disneyland without breaking the bank.

1. Buy Discounted Tickets

Disneyland rarely offers direct discounts, but you can find deals through authorized resellers like Undercover Tourist, AAA, or Costco. Look for multi-day passes, which often provide better value than single-day tickets. Also, check for special offers, like "Kids' Ticket Deals or seasonal discounts that Disney occasionally releases.
For more travel-saving tips, check out our guide on How to Save Money on Travel.

2. Visit During the Off-Season

Ticket prices fluctuate based on demand. Visiting during the off-season (January to March and September to November) can save you money on tickets and hotels. You’ll also experience shorter lines and a more relaxed atmosphere. If you must visit during peak times, try to go mid-week instead of weekends, as prices may be slightly lower.

3. Use Disney Gift Cards for Savings

Purchase discounted Disney gift cards at stores like Sam's Club or Target (with a RedCard) and use them for tickets, food, and souvenirs inside the park. Some credit card reward programs also offer cashback or points for Disney purchases, so check your card benefits before you buy.

4. Stay at Nearby Hotels Instead of Disneyland Resorts

While staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel is convenient, Good Neighbor Hotels offer more budget-friendly options. These hotels are officially approved by Disney and provide quality accommodations at lower prices. Many are within walking distance of the park and offer complimentary breakfast, free shuttles, and discounts for multi-night stays. Some even have family-friendly suites, allowing you to save on extra rooms. Consider staying at a hotel with a kitchenette to save even more by cooking your meals.
Save even more with our expert tips on how to Save Money on Hotels.

5. Bring Snacks and Water

Food inside Disneyland is pricey. Save money by packing snacks like granola bars, sandwiches, and fruit. You can also bring reusable water bottles and refill them at water stations throughout the park. Disneyland allows guests to bring food, so take advantage of this to reduce food expenses.

6. Take Advantage of Free Activities

Disneyland offers free entertainment, including parades, fireworks, and character encounters. Enjoy these experiences without spending extra money. If you're traveling with kids, explore areas like Tom Sawyer Island or Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, which provide hours of fun without additional costs.

7. Avoid Park Hopper Tickets

While Park Hopper tickets let you visit Disneyland and California Adventure in one day, they cost more. Stick to one park per day to save money and avoid feeling rushed. If you have multiple days, you'll have enough time to explore each park fully without needing a Park Hopper.

8. Share Meals to Cut Costs

Portions at Disneyland restaurants are often large enough to share. Splitting meals with your family or friends can help you save on food costs. Some restaurants even offer large combo meals that can easily feed two people at a lower cost than buying individual portions. If you're dining with kids, ordering from the kids’ menu can be a budget-friendly option since portions are still decent and significantly cheaper than adult meals. Also, take advantage of buffet-style restaurants or all-you-can-eat dining spots for the best value.

9. Use Mobile Ordering to Save Time and Money

Some Disneyland restaurants offer discounts or special deals through mobile ordering. Plus, it helps you skip long lines, giving you more time to enjoy the park. Check the Disneyland app for any limited-time discounts or bundle deals.

Some popular restaurants in Disneyland and California Adventure with this feature include:

• Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe (Disneyland) – Great for sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.
• Red Rose Taverne (Disneyland) – Famous for its Grey Stuff dessert and burgers.
• Flo's V8 Cafe (California Adventure) – Classic American diner-style food with big portions.
• Pym Test Kitchen (California Adventure) – Oversized and miniaturized food items inspired by the Ant-Man movies.
• Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo (Disneyland – Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge) – Sci-fi-inspired meals with great flavors.

10. Skip Souvenirs or Buy Them Outside the Park

Souvenirs at Disneyland are expensive. Instead, purchase Disney-themed items at Walmart, Target, or Amazon before your trip and bring them. If you want an in-park souvenir, look for pressed penny machines, which provide an affordable keepsake. Another great option is to visit the Disney Outlet Stores in Anaheim, where you can find official Disney merchandise at significantly lower prices than inside the park. For kids, a fun and budget-friendly souvenir idea is to collect autographs from Disney characters using an inexpensive notebook instead of buying an official autograph book.

11. Download the Disneyland App for Free Perks

The Disneyland app for iOS and Android provides wait times, mobile ordering, and access to free Genie+ photo filters. It also helps you plan your day efficiently, saving time and money. Additionally, the app gives you access to virtual queues for some of the park's most popular attractions, such as Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, helping you secure a spot without paying extra.

12. Use Free Transportation

If you're staying at a nearby hotel, use the ART shuttle system or hotel shuttles to avoid Disneyland's expensive parking fees. If driving yourself, consider parking in the less expensive Toy Story lot instead of the main Disneyland parking structures. Additionally, some nearby parking lots, such as those at GardenWalk or hotels a few blocks away, may have cheaper parking rates and free shuttles to Disneyland. Taking an Uber or Lyft from a nearby location can sometimes be more cost-effective than paying for all-day parking at Disneyland. Save on your transportation with limited-time Uber promo codes.

13. Plan for Discounted Merchandise and Food

Annual passholders, Disney Visa cardholders, and D23 members can get discounts on food and merchandise. Some shops also offer bundle deals on souvenirs, and restaurants may have special promotions for early diners or combo meals that save you money. Checking Disneyland's official website or asking cast members about discounts can help you find the best deals on-site.

14. Look for Special Promotions

Disney sometimes offers limited-time deals, like discounted tickets for California residents or military discounts. Check their website regularly to stay updated on offers. Special events, such as Oogie Boogie Bash or Mickey's Halloween Party, sometimes have bundled deals that include food and entertainment at a lower cost than general admission. You can also use Disney On Ice coupons to save on your bookings for the memorable performance.

Explore more money-saving tips for your Disney adventure in our Save Money at Disney World guide.

15. Bring Ponchos and Sunscreen From Home

Weather essentials like ponchos (for water rides or rain) and sunscreen are overpriced inside the park. Buy them beforehand at a dollar store or online. If you're visiting during the summer, consider bringing a cooling towel or a small fan to stay comfortable in the heat.

Final Thoughts

Disneyland is about making magical memories. With some planning, clever money-saving tricks, and skipping the overpriced extras, you can have an unforgettable and budget-friendly vacation. So go ahead, soak up the magic, ride your favorite attractions, and enjoy those popular churros (maybe split one!). Happy Disney adventures ahead!