Heading to Disney California Adventure this summer? These are 10 don’t miss activities!

Thank you to Disneyland for inviting us to experience Disney California Adventure and the premiere of Tale of the Lion King.

Summer is officially here, and that means Disneyland Vacations.  With Galaxy’s Edge opening, there has been a HUGE focus on Disneyland…..but I’m not gonna lie, we love love love Disney California Adventure.  For those of you who aren’t locals, a little info about the layout of the Disney Parks: you can easily walk between Disneyland and California Disney California Adventure.  If you have a park hopper ticket, you can visit both parks.  If you have a one park ticket, you’ll need to choose for the day.

With all the craziness of Galaxy’s Edge, one of my top Disneyland tips this summer? Spend time in Disney California Adventure.  There are so many fun things going on, and it’s a great way to escape the potential crowds at the “other park”.

Disney California Adventure: Top 10 Things To Do 

Tale of the Lion King: This show debuted on Friday and it’s AMAZING. It takes place on the Palisades Stage (across from The Little Mermaid ride).  This all new show features the story of the Lion King, some AMAZING dance numbers and even has an interactive part for kids.  Be sure to check the app each day for show times!

Lamplight Lounge Brunch: You guys know Disney Food is my THING (I mean, look at our addiction to Disneyland Character Dining).  One of our favorite NON-character dining spots just launched a new weekend brunch menu and it’s AMAZING.  They’ve got some GREAT kids options, killer cocktails (the mimosa sampler is my favorite) and the best chilaquiles I’ve ever had.

Soarin’ Over California (until June 30th): Soarin’ Around the World is always one of Lydia’s favorites, but from now until June 30th……it’s offering a unique throwback.  Locals might remember when it was Soarin’ Over California, now it’s back! Be sure to visit, I loved flying over locations I visited as a kid and Lydia loved the new to her experience!

Mickey’s Philharmagic: Disneyworld fans will recognize this adorable 3D movie musical, and I’m so glad it has made it’s way west.  Philharmagic is in the theater on the Hollywood Studios Backlot (across from the Monster’s Inc ride) and is the perfect place to cool off and take a load off.  The cartoon is adorable, interactive and perfect for preschoolers!

Jessie’s Critter Carousel: If you’re a Toy Story fan, then this is a MUST visit.  Jessie’s Critter Carousel opened a few months ago, and is absolutely ADORABLE (and bonus the line moves really quickly).  It’s located on the Pixar Pier right next to Toy Story Mania (and also close to the Toy Story character meet and greets).  If you’ve got a Toy Story 4 fan on your hands, this area is a MUST visit.

Captain Marvel Meet and Greet: Ok, now you guys know that I’m not the biggest Marvel fan…..but I’m telling you, Captain Marvel is one of the BEST character meet and greets in the park.  The entire area is decked out and she is a BLAST to interact with.  Put this on your must do list for Disney California Adventure trips!

Animation Academy: At some point in any trip, you’ll want a nice break.  Animation Academy is our go to spot.  Every thirty minutes, the audience takes a drawing class from a Disney Artist.  You’ll line up in advance (there is a schedule posted with which characters you’ll be drawing at each time) and enter the auditorium.  Clipboards and pencils are waiting.  This 20 (or so) minute class is a step by step process that anyone can follow (I’d suggest ages 4 and up).

The Beast’s Library: After a drawing class in the Animation Academy, head to the Sorcerer’s Workshop for a special treat.  At the back of it, you’ll walk through a door into……The Beast’s Library.  This adorable location has the Beast’s Rose slowly losing petals and has fun interactive stations where kids (or grownups) can answer questions and be told while character they relate to! It’s a hidden gem and a must visit for Beauty and the Beast fans!

Carsland: If you’ve got a Cars fan on your hands, Carsland is a MUST visit.  It’s beautifully designed, has some of my favorite food (Flo’s V8 Cafe is DELISH) and is a ton of fun to explore.  There are fun Pixar themed details everywhere, so be sure to keep your eyes open in line for the rides!

Disney Junior Dance Party: Looking for another relax and cool off spot? The Disney Junior Dance Party is guaranteed to keep your kids entertained.  This adorable show features all their favorite Disney Junior characters and will encourage them to burn off some steam with their killer dance moves.

Have you been to Disney California Adventure lately? What was your favorite experience?