Guide to Meal Planning with Kids
Tips and Kid-Friendly Options
A Guide to Meal Planning with Kids
When it comes to visiting the Disneyland Resort with kids, meal planning can be a game-changer. Picky eaters, cravings, and hungry tummies are all part of the equation. In this comprehensive guide, we'll show you how to navigate dining options at Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure, find your kids' favorite meals, and share valuable tips for a stress-free dining experience.
updated: September 29, 2023
The Basics of Meal Planning with Kids
Quick Service Dining:
Quick service options are a lifesaver when you're on the go. At Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure, you have two convenient ways to order:
1. Cashier Stations:
Traditional ordering at cashier stations is available throughout the parks. However, if you want to skip food lines and save precious time, there's a better way.
2. Mobile Ordering:
The Disneyland App offers mobile ordering for most quick service restaurants. Simply order from your phone, and your food will be ready when you arrive. No more waiting in line!
Table Service Dining:
For a more relaxed dining experience, explore table service options through the Disneyland App or website. This restaurant reservations system ensures you'll have a seat at some of the resort's fantastic dining locations.
Picky Eaters:
We understand that kids often have specific food preferences. Whether it's chicken nuggets, grilled cheese, or fruit snacks, finding their favorites is crucial. Here's how to do it:
1. Use the Disneyland App:
Simply enter the name of the food item you're looking for, and the app will show you where to find it. Adults can also check out the available options at that location.
Kid-Friendly Meal Options:
Disneyland has a wide range of kid-friendly meal options to satisfy even the pickiest eaters:
- Disneyland Kid Meals: Chicken Nuggets & Tenders
- Disneyland Kid Meals: Grilled Cheese
- Disneyland Kid Meals: Mac and Cheese
- French Fries at Disneyland
- Disneyland Kid Meals: Burgers
- Disneyland with Kids: Corn Dogs
- Disneyland Kid Meals: Hot Dogs
- Disneyland Kid Meals: Bean and Cheese Burrito
- Uncrustables at Disneyland
- Quesadillas at Disneyland
- Pretzels at Disneyland
- Fresh Fruit at Disneyland
- Kids’ Power Pack at Disneyland - Packed with kid favorites like Danimals, sliced apples, carrots, petite bananas, fish crackers, and a water bottle or milk.
Helpful Tips
Outside Food:
You're allowed to bring outside food and nonalcoholic beverages into the parks. Just ensure they're not in glass containers, don't require heating or refrigeration, and have no strong odors. Inform a Security Cast Member about your food items when entering.
Target Convenience:
If you forget snacks or items, there's a Target store (101 S Euclid St. Anaheim, CA 92802-1011) offering Pickup, Drive Up, and Delivery services to your hotel. You'll also find a variety of Disney apparel and souvenirs, perfect for keeping kids happy.
Shareable Meals for Adults:
In addition to kid-friendly options, adults can enjoy shareable meals at select locations, including Plaza Inn, Rancho Zocalo, Alien Pizza Planet, Paradise Garden Grill, Boradwalk Pizza and Pasta, and PYM’s test kitchen.
Food Recommendations:
- Ship to Shore Market: Breakfast Chimichanga
- Jolly Holliday: Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup, Toasted Cheese Beef Birria
- Plaza Inn: Fried Chicken
- Stagedoor Cafe: Hand-Dipped Corn Dog
- Alien Pizza Planet: Pasta, Broccolini Lemon Chicken, Alien Macaron
- Hungry Bear: Enjoy good food with a view
- Star Wars Galaxy's Edge: Savor a Ronto Wrap, Docking Bay 7 delights, Blue Milk, and popcorn
- Treat yourself to iconic snacks like Dole Whip, Mickey Beignets, Churros, and Mickey Ice Cream Bars.
Miscellaneous Meal Planning Tips
Picnic Area:
Disneyland Resort has a picnic area outside the main entrance. Enjoy your own food there, but be considerate and avoid taking tables in high traffic areas. Clean up after your group.
Prohibited Items:
Some items are a no-go in Disneyland, including large coolers, glass containers, alcoholic beverages, loose ice, or hard-sided coolers. These won't make it through security.
Conclusion:
With this meal planning guide, dining with kids at Disneyland becomes a breeze. From quick service to table service and a variety of kid-friendly options, you'll be well-prepared to keep your little ones happy and well-fed during your magical Disneyland adventure.
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We cover all this and more in So Much Magic Bootcamp. Here at So Much Magic, we know what it’s like to show up unplanned and unprepared for your families first time at the parks.
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Key Takeaways from the Course:
Create perfect itineraries: Craft personalized, stress-free daily plans that maximize fun.
Master the park layout: Navigate The Disneyland Resort and like a pro, saving time and avoiding crowds.
Skip the lines: Learn insider tips to reduce wait times on your favorite rides. (Genie+. Guide included)
Budget like a pro: Save money with our budgeting strategies and dining hacks.
Capture the memories: Capture and relive every magical moment with our photography tips.
So Much Magic Bootcamp
What's included?
Online Bootcamp Course ($95 value)
Guide to Genie+ ($25 value)
Guide to Galaxy's Edge ($25 value)
Itineraries ($25 value)
Lifetime Access and Updates
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Try our the course for 7 days. Get your money back if it didn't help.
If there's any reason you feel like the information inside this course isn't helpful when it comes to planning a day at The Disneyland Resort, let us know and we'll issue you a refund.
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