As Walt Disney famously said, “… It was all started by a mouse.” So, as we look toward the 100th anniversary of The Walt Disney Company, we wanted to spotlight a tour that not only celebrates the one and only Mickey Mouse but also takes you on an adventure through the rich history of the company: the Disneyland Resort and Southern California itinerary.
Trust me, if you’re a Disney fan, you need to know about this behind-the-scenes, VIP Disney experience that is an Adventures by Disney guest favorite!
First, let’s talk about accommodations. You’ll spend your first two nights of the adventure in the show business capital of the world: Hollywood.
Then, you’ll make your way to Anaheim, Calif., to stay at the beautiful Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at Disneyland Resort. Evoking craftsman-style elegance, this gorgeous hotel is a short walk away from the parks. In fact, it has an entrance providing direct access to Disney California Adventure park. And the impressive amenities are a plus. The spa, heated pools and award-winning dining create the perfect way to wind down from a fun-filled day of exploration.
The first two days of the adventure will have you saying, “hooray!” in Hollywood as you visit the TCL Chinese Theatre (you know, where you can see all the celebrity handprints), followed by an exclusive VIP tour of the Jim Henson Company. For any Muppets fan, like me, this is a highlight for sure! Then, you get to enjoy a delicious lunch at the Tam O’Shanter. For those of you well-versed in Disney heritage, you might recognize this legendary Scottish steakhouse, established in 1922, as a place Walt and his team frequently dined. Pro tip: Try the Yorkshire pudding.
Okay, Disney fans, check this out:
The adventure continues with a private tour of The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, Calif. This is where so many of your favorite films have been created over the years – not to mention, it’s The Walt Disney Company’s worldwide headquarters.
There, you might visit Legends Plaza, home to the handprints of the Disney Legends. You’ll see the original Animation Building and learn about its unique layout and how it was designed intentionally for the animation process. (Did you know the building was oriented so that animation artists would get the most natural light possible? That explains the unique architecture of the building’s iconic shape.) You’ll even eat like Walt! That is, you’ll eat where Walt used to dine at the Studio Commissary. And, of course, this trip includes a fascinating visit to the Walt Disney Archives, where you’ll see original props and artifacts from some of your favorite Disney stories!
The behind-the-scenes Disney adventure will continue with visits to Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park. You will enjoy Disneyland park like never before with access to special experiences, including a 90-minute guided tour of Main Street, U.S.A., that includes a visit to Walt Disney’s apartment above the Disneyland Fire Station in Town Square. Then, you’ll be able to explore the resort on your own and choose from the many exciting attractions and dazzling entertainment options!
And I’ve just got to mention one of the most uniquely Disney parts of this experience – the Adventure Guides! Experts in bringing Disney magic to life, your team of Adventure Guides will create a one-of-a-kind experience with fun magical moments sprinkled throughout your journey.
Sound amazing but short on time? We also offer an Escape – a 4-day, 3-night adventure featuring the Disney highlights from the longer itinerary. You can find more information here.
Looking for even more adventure? Check out our latest news and stories:
And to learn more about the ways you can discover the magic of the world with Disney, visit AdventuresbyDisney.com, call 833-ABD-0103 or contact your travel agent.
See you real soon, adventurers!