10 Ways to Spend a Rest Day at Disneyland Resort
If you are visiting Disneyland Resort for more than two days, I always recommend adding a rest day to your vacation. Disneyland days are busy and full of early mornings, late nights, and tons of walking. A planned day off gives you space to slow down, sleep in, and enjoy the trip without rushing from ride to ride. It is the difference between a Disneyland trip and a Disneyland vacation.
A rest day does not mean you have to sit in your hotel room. There are plenty of relaxing, low pressure activities both at the resort and around Anaheim. Here are a few ideas to help you make the most of your break day. These are in no particular order, and I included something for every type of traveler.
1. Character Dining
Character dining is a great way to keep some Disney magic in your day without heading into the parks. Enjoy a late breakfast at Storytellers Cafe or dinner at Goofy’s Kitchen. It is relaxed, fun, and a perfect option for families. Your Travel Grown Planner will get this booked for you!
2. Relax at the Pool
A pool day is often exactly what everyone needs. Disneyland Resort hotels have great pools, and many nearby Good Neighbor hotels have excellent pool areas as well. If your kids love to swim, plan a full day to enjoy it. It is simple, relaxing, and always a hit.
3. Enjoy Downtown Disney
Downtown Disney is an easy walk from the parks and has plenty to explore. You will find great dining, unique shops, and even a bowling alley. While you are there, step into the lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel. It is beautiful and always worth a quick visit. On our last trip, my kids bought small lego sets from the Lego Store and had a lego race back in our hotel room.
4. Take a Beach Day
If you want to unwind, head to the coast. Huntington Beach is the closest option and about thirty minutes away. It is a popular choice for Disneyland guests and has a long pier, wide sand, and plenty of space for kids to play. My personal favorite beach is the Laguna Tide Pools, where the kids can see things like starfish up close!
5. Visit the Anaheim Packing House
Just a few minutes from Disneyland, the Anaheim Packing House is one of the best places to spend a rest day. It is a large food hall filled with incredible local restaurants and small bites. You can wander, taste different foods, and enjoy the atmosphere. Some evenings feature live music. If you do not want to drive, the ART shuttle can take you. More info here.
6. Catch an Angels Game
If you are a baseball family, Angel Stadium is only ten minutes from Disneyland. You can catch a game or book a Ballpark Tour to see the stadium from behind the scenes. It is an easy and fun outing for sports fans.
7. See a Movie at AMC Anaheim GardenWalk
Sometimes the perfect rest day activity is sitting in a quiet theater with a bucket of popcorn. The AMC at Anaheim GardenWalk is just a five minute drive from the resort and is an easy way to wind down. Book your movie tickets here.
8. Medieval Times
Medieval Times is a very popular choice for families visiting Disneyland. Enjoy dinner while watching knights compete for the throne. It is lively, entertaining, and great for kids. Tickets do sell out, so reserve in advance. You can book your tickets here.
9. Pirate Dinner Adventure
This pirate themed dinner show is about ten minutes from Disneyland and offers a three course meal alongside an action packed performance set aboard an eighteenth century Spanish galleon. It is a memorable way to spend the evening and a fun break from the parks. You can book the Pirate Dinner Adventure here.
10. Visit the Honda Center
The Honda Center is an indoor arena about ten minutes from Disneyland. It is home to the Anaheim Ducks and is a great option if your family enjoys hockey. The arena also hosts concerts and seasonal events, including Disney on Ice at certain times of the year. Check the schedule before your trip. You may find the perfect event to add a little extra fun to your rest day. You can book a hockey game here.
A rest day can be simple or adventurous, quiet or exciting. Whether you spend it at the pool, at the beach, trying new foods, or cheering on a baseball team, it gives your family the chance to reset and enjoy the rest of your trip with fresh energy. If you build it into your plan, you will be glad you did.
