My Whimsical California Adventure
Updated: Oct 4, 2023
A Disney Nerd's Dream Come True!
If you're anything like me—a self-proclaimed Disney Nerd—you're in for a treat. I just wrapped up my California Adventure, and boy, was it magical!
As I was joined by several other Pure Magic Vacations Agents for our AEP (Agent Education Program) to learn the ins and outs of Disney Parks.
I had a blast getting to check out Disneyland for the first time and see all the sights (or as much as I could fit in) that California has to offer, including arriving a few days before our AEP to check out Universal Hollywood.
Check out some highlights from the trip and what I learned along the way:
Day 1: Hollywood Dreams & 90210 Secrets
I was buzzing with excitement to tick off some LA must-dos from my bucket list.
First up? The iconic Warner Brothers Tour! This tour features a behind-the-scenes look at the world of film and television production. From tours of the Soundstages, Backlot, Prop Departments and more to Exhibits that showcase specific films and TV shows like Harry Potter, DC Universe, and Friends.
Next was the 90210 Tour and saw Dylan and Walsh’s houses. And guess what? We might've cheekily sneaked into the courtyard (shhhh its a secret 😜) Oh, and here's a fun tidbit: Did you know the highschool isn’t close to their houses? It's a whole 45-minute drive from the Walsh's. Mind blown! 🤯 Who would've thought?
Day 2: Funko, Food, and Fabulous Beaches
Started our day with a pop of fun at the Funko Pop store. The life-size Funko pops were so cool to see where it features immersive "sets" based on popular movies and TV shows where you can interact with life-sized Funko figures and other themed elements.
Lunch was a major nostalgic moment as we ate at The Tam o’ Shanter, which is the restaurant that Walt Disney himself used to frequent. We even ate at the same table he used to eat at, it was like we were in his shoes.
After lunch we headed over to Hermosa Beach, with its iconic 90210 beach house vibes. And of course, a whirl at Santa Monica Pier and Rodeo Drive.
Day 3: Disneyland Delights & AEP Excitement
Checked into the Disneyland Hotel and had... wait for it... Chicken Nuggies! (Shocker I know 😜) After some Disneyland fun, we attended the AEP opening reception. We got VIP seats for the Miracles Happen parade but before headed over we took a ride on It’s a Small World. I have to say…..the Disneyland version is absolute perfection
Day 4: VIP Tours & Firework Fantasies
Spent the day on a VIP tour and AEP classes.
Lunch was at Flos V8 Cafe (and no i didn’t have chicken nuggies this time, it was with a turkey club sandwich twist 😉).
Explored some classic rides and some unique ones too. The day ended with the Magical World of Colour fireworks which was just pure magic!
Day 5: Disney Tours & Oogie Boogie Bash
Kicked off the day with the D100 tour. Learned Disney history, drew some animations, and even had a photo op at the Sleeping Beauty Castle. Ended the day getting our spook on at the Oogie Boogie Bash!
Day 6&7: Solo Disney Adventures!
The last two days were our solo adventures getting to check out Disneyland on our own time. From thrilling rides to lots of photos and videos.
Ever wondered what it was like to stroll down Disneyland's Main Street with Walt himself? Well I got the chance to so so by checking out Walt's Main Street Story Tour and took a journey back in time! I learned the secrets, stories, and the magic that started it all and it was truly nostalgic! I got to visit Walt’s apartment a top the firehouse which was a huge part of why I wanted to take the tour. This tour was another tick off my bucket list!
Vacay Takeaways:
✅ VIP Tours are a Game-Changer! The VIP Tour gave us quick ride access and behind-the-scenes peeks… which is a Disney Nerd's dream! If it were for the tour we probably wouldn’t have fit in as many rides as we did.
✅ Plan Your Days Wisely. Disneyland and Universal Hollywood need more than a couple of days. And remember, Disneyland doesn't do nightly fireworks, they are only on Friday-Sunday. So make sure to plan accordingly
✅ Park Proximity is a Plus. No buses needed between parks, unlike Walt Disney World.
Pro Tip: Traveling to California? Mind the time zones! Adjust your plans accordingly, or you might find yourself wide awake at 4 am like I did!
So, there you have it! My California adventure in a nutshell. Whether you're a Disney nerd or just looking for some Cali inspiration, I hope my journey sparks some wanderlust in you.
Until next time mouseketeers, keep adventuring and dreaming big!
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