You don’t need to be afraid of a solo Disney day.
I get it. The first time I went to Disneyland alone, I had about 10 minutes of full-on panic. I kept thinking “What if people stare?” or “Will this be weird?”
And then…I walked through the gates, grabbed a coffee, got in line for Space Mountain, and realized—wait. I can do whatever I want. No waiting for a group decision. No “Where do you wanna eat?” debates. No rushing. Just pure Disney joy, on my terms.
And honestly? It became one of the best theme park days I’ve ever had. I’ve since been on way more solo days than I can count.
And noow I love my solo Disney days. Over the years, I’ve changed up my routine—sometimes I make it a mini foodie tour during a seasonal festival, other times I treat myself to a long, slow morning of shopping and people-watching. It all depends on how I’m feeling.
But if you’re heading to Disneyland solo (or planning to), here are my go-to tips to help make your solo Disney day your best Disney day.
10 Things to Do On Your Next Solo Disney Trip
1. Enjoy a Long Meal (Seriously, Take Your Time)
No one’s rushing you. This is your chance to sit down, order a nice meal, and take a real break. Eat somewhere you’ve always wanted to try. Or go for your favorite classic. Bring a book or a journal, or take cute photos of your food. (I’m very guilty of doing that.)
Bonus: You can often snag a last-minute dining reservation for one.
2. See a Show You’ve Skipped & Ride the Train!
The kind of thing you might pass by when you’re with a group? This is the perfect time to do it. Disneyland has cut back on the live entertainment lately, but there are still a few things you can do. Catch Storytelling at the Royal Theatre, watch the Dapper Dans, or see what’s happening at the Fantasyland Theatre. Solo Disney days are great for rediscovering entertainment in the parks.
You’ll also have time to ride the Disneyland Railroad around the entire park. It’s so much fun!! My favorite part is the dinosaurs. You must do it!
3. Head to the Animation Academy
One of my favorite solo day rituals. No artistic talent required—just sit, sketch, and zone out in a fun, creative way. And you get a free souvenir at the end. Win-win.
4. Go on a PhotoPass Excursion
You’ve got time to stop for every castle angle and cute wall you walk by. Ask the PhotoPass photographers to help capture the magic—and yes, solo shots are absolutely a thing. (They’re often even better because you’re the full star of the photo!)
And right now, the Disneyland resort is doing FREE 10-minute photoshoots with complimentary downloads for Lightning Lane Multi-Pass purchases and Inspire/Believe Keys.
This is for the new 70th Anniversary celebrations! I got great pics! Definitely a must-do! And the perfect way to get great solo photos.
5. Meet Characters
Don’t skip the character meet-and-greets. Cast Members and characters are so good at making solo guests feel seen and included. You’ll get some great interactions—sometimes better than when you’re in a group.
6. Bring a Journal (or Junk Journal It Up)
Whether you’re into junk journaling or just want to jot a few thoughts down, solo days are perfect for a little creative time. Stickers from the gift shops? Park maps? Festival menus? They all make great souvenirs for your Disney journal.
7. Read in the Park (Yes, Really)
You haven’t lived until you’ve read a book with a churro in one hand and Sleeping Beauty Castle in your peripheral vision. Find a shady bench in Fantasyland or a quiet spot near the Rivers of America and enjoy a peaceful park moment.
8. Pin Trade or Just Window Shop
Solo time = perfect time to browse the shops at your own pace. If you’re a pin trader, bring your lanyard and take your time checking out the boards. Or just wander through the Emporium, Galaxy’s Edge, or Pooh Corner with a snack in hand.
9. Take Advantage of Single Rider Lines
Maximize your ride time with minimal wait. Matterhorn, Space Mountain, and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run all offer single rider options. It’s the perfect way to fit in some rides without the long and awkward wait around tons of people.
10. Do What You Want, and Don’t Overthink It
This is the real secret to a great solo Disney day: follow your own pace. If you want to rope drop and ride everything, do it. If you want to grab an iced coffee and wander, that’s perfect too. There’s no wrong way to Disney solo. I’ve also had days when I go just to walk a half-marathon! Literally, do what you want!
Your Best Solo Disney Day
Whether you’re planning a full solo vacation or just sneaking in a day to yourself, don’t be afraid of going to Disneyland alone. You might be surprised how much fun you have when it’s just you, your favorite rides, and the freedom to do whatever you want.
You’ve got this. And you’re gonna love it.
XOXO,
Julia
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About the author: Hey there! I’m Julia, a passionate theme park and travel writer. My love for theme parks has fueled my obsession with sharing tips and adventures for years. Join me as I uncover the magic of Disneyland and beyond!
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