New Trent Phone Charger Review: You'll never run out of juice while on the go again!

It wasn't that long ago when I never used my cell phone at the Disneyland Resort, but now...I use it constantly. I use it to snap quick pictures of the kids, post information for my readers, stay in touch with my husband when we decide to "divide and conquer" the parks with the kids or to tweet the official Disney Parks accounts to get the latest information. 

With all of that use, most phones just can't make it through the day. While Disneyland (not Disney California Adventure) offers cell phone charging stations for a fee, having my own New Trent Charger has absolutely changed the way I use my phone while at the Disneyland Resort (and Walt Disney World). The pay chargers at Disneyland require a payment by the hour and require me to leave my phone on Main Street, which quite honestly, isn't very convenient if we want to be out and about in the parks. With my portable New Trent battery, I can charge on the go without every having to stop down.

Tray table up and charging my iPad on my flight home
because when a 3-year-old wants to use your iPad
on a plane, you better get it going now!

The New Trent iCarrier IMP120D allows me to charge our iPhones 4s and 5 and iPad with ease without having to slow down. I simply charge the charger overnight before each visit (it takes approximately 10 to 11 hours to charge the unit to full capacity) and when we are out and about it very quickly charges our phones or iPad as needed. Plus, the New Trent can charge up to six devices off of one charge. SIX! And given the New Trent iCarrier is guaranteed to provide a minimum 500 charge cycles, I am sure to have it for a very, very long time.

The New Trent iCarrier isn't just great for theme parks visits; I think it is a smart device for camping and to have for in case of an emergency or natural disaster when access to electricity may be scarce.

New Trent chargers are available at a variety of retailers and can be purchased directly through New Trent by clicking here.



I received a New Trent charger in order to do this review. 

Star-Filled Line-Up Announced for Disney's D23 Expo

An unforgettable experience awaits kids, tweens and families who can meet their favorite stars from Disney Channel, Disney XD and Disney Junior, experience live performances, get autographs and rock out to Radio Disney tunes over three fun-filled days, August 9 through 11, at the ultimate event for Disney fans, Disney’s D23 Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. The schedule includes musical performances by certified-gold Hollywood Records recording artist Bridgit Mendler (Disney Channel's "Good Luck Charlie") and Hollywood Records' pop-rock sensation R5 featuring Ross Lynch (Disney Channel's "Teen Beach Movie" and "Austin & Ally"), a 'Surf Crazy' fan dance with stars from the Disney Channel Original Movie "Teen Beach Movie," a special screening of never-before-seen Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts and more.

On August 9, in celebration of "Phineas and Ferb: Mission Marvel," a special-one hour telecast featuring an epic teaming of characters from two hugely popular Disney and Marvel franchises, fans can meet the stars and characters including Phineas, Ferb, Agent P, Spider-Man and Iron Man. The unforgettable special premieres this summer on Disney Channel.
   

On August 10 , bikers and surfers unite on the dance floor of the Disney Channel booth for the ultimate beach ball bouncing, high-spirited ‘Surf Crazy’ fan dance with stars from Disney's “Teen Beach Movie,” an exuberant song, sand and surf fest, premiering July 19 (8:00 p.m., ET/PT) on Disney Channel.

On August 11 in the Disney Channel booth, Disney Junior fans of all ages are invited to meet beloved characters from top-rated preschool series "Sofia the First," "Doc McStuffins" and "Jake and the Never Land Pirates," and enjoy a special sneak-peek screening of new Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts in Stage 28. 

Popular radio personalities from Radio Disney, the 24-hour contemporary hits radio network and the only radio broadcaster for kids and families, will join in the fun every day, along with the Radio Disney Road Crew, for interactive entertainment, fun prizes and the hottest music from kids' favorite artists.

For more information stay tuned to Babes In Disneyland! We'll post everything we learn as it becomes available. You can purchase your D23 Expo tickets by clicking here.

(Information taken from media release)

Terrific Tip Tuesday: Don't forget to meet your pals along Big Thunder Trail

Special meetings with the characters can add a hearty dose of magic to any Disneyland trip. There are those obvious places to find characters--like Main Street's Town Square and Toontown. Many guests forget that characters can also often be found along Big Thunder Trail. The trail is the path that takes guests from Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, goes back behind the attraction, goes by Big Thunder Ranch and ends at Fantasyland's west gate and restrooms.

Recently, long-time Babes In Disneyland reader reminded us of how incredible this spot can be for meeting characters with these incredible photos of her son. And while you are walking along the trail, pop in to Big Thunder Ranch where's there's always something fun going on for little tikes (perhaps even a hug from Minnie).

Thank you, Caryn, for this great tip! 

Have a great tip you would like to share with Babes In Disneyland readers? Email the tip and a photo to babesindisneyland@yahoo.com.

Weekly Update for Limited Time Magic (June 17, 2013)

Hope everyone had a fantastic Father's Day celebration yesterday.  I'm so excited because summer is almost here - and the 50th anniversary of The Enchanted Tiki Room is one week away!


The first official day of summer is Friday, June 21, 2013, and the Disneyland Resort is offering all sorts of Limited Time Magic for visitors heading to the Parks in the coming weeks! The weather is heating up so stay cool out there!

Limited Time Magic Recap - June 10 -16, 2013

The Disneyland Resort celebrated Father's Day this week with special photo ops at Disney California Adventure with two Super Dads:  Mr. Incredible and Frozone.  Annual Passholders were treated to a special presentation of Mickey and the Magical Map - while other Guests visiting the show got the chance to check out The Compass Quest - a scavenger hunt featuring clues from the show. 

On-going Limited Time Magic includes the opportunity to take photos with the Monsters University gang in Disney California Adventure.  Don't forget to stop by and snap a pic with Mike, Sully, and their friends!

Limited Time Magic on the Horizon 

June 17 - 23, 2013 - Year of the Ear for June - Celebratory Ear Hats!
If you have a newly-minted graduate in your family, say "ChEARS!" to their success and accomplishments with a Mortar Board Ear Hat, available for purchase at Main Street Mad Hatter in Disneyland Park and Elias & Co. in Disney California Adventure Park.  Five different tassels that best represent your graduate's school colors are individually available for $1.95 each.

July 1-7, 2013 - Independence Week Celebration
This year for Limited Time Magic, the Disneyland Resort will be decking itself in red, white, and blue for a week-long Fourth of July celebration!  Stay tuned for more updates as we get information on what surprises Parks on both sides of the US have to offer Guests! 


Limited Time Magic for Annual Passholders

June 18, 2013 - Who Framed Roger Rabbi 25th Anniversary Screening & Panel
Annual Passholders, celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Disney film, Who Framed Roger Rabbit with a special screening followed by a panel discussion from members of the creative team that brought this live-action & hand-drawn animation film to life.  The screening will be held at the AMC Downtown Disney 12 theatres at 7:00 p.m.  I got the chance to see this film screened at the Newport Beach Film Festival a few months ago, and after 25 years, the film still stands the test of digital time!  More information on how to register can be found here.

June 23-27, 2013 - Commemorative vintage souvenir for 50th Anniversary of The Enchanted Tiki Room 
Annual Passholders visiting the Disneyland Resort between June 23-27, 2013 can visit The Enchanted Tiki Room and get their hands on a special recreation of the original 1963 brochure for the attraction (available while supplies last).  The brochure features the original graphics, copy, and special message from Walt Disney himself!

TollyTots Princess Merida Review and Giveaway

In honor of her recent coronation TollyTots sent us the Princess Merida with Angus boxed set to review.  Emma affectionately refers to them as "Merdida & Black Angus (which also happens to be a popular restaurant chain here locally)"- gotta love the 3 year old language skills.  Merida and Angus accompanied us on our most recent trip to the Disneyland Resort, which made for some fun memories and photos.  

As a mom I truly appreciate the quality and durability of the TollyTots line.  I know that Emma appreciates how much the toys resemble her favorite characters and how much fun she has playing with them.  Merida and Angus took a lengthy road trip, were held for hours on end in Emma's arms, toured the park in a stroller, met Princess Merida, and even watched a parade.  After all of that they still looked as good as they did when I took them out of the box.

Merida is dressed in a shimmered green gown complete with Scottish sash and gold accents.  Her signature long, flowing red hair is beautiful and easy to maintain.  Merida can sit and/ or ride in Angus' saddle or be played with on her own.  Angus is also extremely well made.  He has long flowing black hair as well as beautiful reins and saddle.

The " My First Disney Princess" line is truly a favorite in my house and is a great gift idea for the little girl in your life. They can easily be found at most major toy retailers including: Amazon, Toys "R" Us, Target, Costco, and Walmart.The Princess Merida and Angus boxed set retails for $55.99 and is available at ToysRUs.

I've gushed about the TollyTots line of "My First Princess Dolls" in the past and am truly thrilled to again be doing a giveaway of this awesome product.  One lucky Babes in Disneyland reader will win Merida and Angus, to enter simply use the Rafflecopter form below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Be sure to follow Kendra on Twitter or on Instagram @kendrakuske for more updates and photos. Kendra was supplied the TollyTots doll set in order to write this review. All opinions are hers and may differ from those of others. 

Discount ticket sales for the D23 Expo to end June 15

The highly anticipated D23 Expo 2013: The Ultimate Fan Event returns to the Anaheim Convention Center from August 9 – 11, 2013, once again bringing the entire world of Disney under one roof and offering attendees unprecedented access to Disney films, television and theme parks as only D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can! Visit www.D23Expo.com to buy tickets before the prices go up on June 16.

Highlights of D23 Expo 2013 include:

* Live Concerts including Disney Legends and Academy Award®-winning composers Richard Sherman and Alan Menken, as well as “Broadway and Beyond” featuring performances by Heidi Blickenstaff (The Little Mermaid), Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins and Beauty and the Beast), Merle Dandridge (Tarzan® and Aida), Josh Strickland (Tarzan®) and Alton Fitzgerald White (The Lion King).
* Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives—an insider exhibit celebrating the 50th anniversary of Mary Poppins, the ABC hit Once Upon a Time and Disney’s enduring exploration of the land of Oz with costumes, props, and set pieces.
* Disney Legends Awards–a stirring biennial event paying tribute to the talented men and women who have made indelible contributions to the Disney legacy.
* D23 Expo Dream Store and Silent Auction—a magical store featuring apparel, art, collectibles, and more Disney-inspired items. A rare Silent Auction offers attendees to bid on Disney artifacts, artwork, experiences, props, and more.
* 2013 Fan Art Contest—this year’s contest is themed to the upcoming 50th anniversary of Mary Poppins. Finalist artwork will be displayed in the Fan Art Gallery.
* And much more including celebrity appearances, panels and presentations, sneak peeks and unique experiences, all celebrating the past, present, and future of Disney.


(Information taken from media release.)

High-flying Planes-inspired crafts + a clip from the movie

Originally slated to go straight to video, Disney will soon be releasing the movie Planes in theaters nationwide. The film will be a 3D animated comedy adventure featuring Dusty (voice of Dane Cook), a plane with dreams of competing as a high-flying air racer. Unfortunately, Dusty’s is afraid of heights and needs help so he turns to a seasoned naval aviator for help and puts his courage to the test. My kids can't wait to see the movie. In fact, I'm considering taking my 3-year-old for his real, official movie theater experience!

Here's a clip from the movie:

And if your kids are looking to do some Planes-inspired crafts for Father's Day, Disney has assembled some fun paper airplane instructions and more all in one place. Click below for the fun.

 

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday: Hey Bear! Come back with my lightsaber!

Last month, while at Walt Disney World, I finally had the opportunity to show my kids the Country Bear Jamboree. It was one of my "must-do" attraction at the Magic Kingdom and I was completely giddy as we entered the bears' theater in the Magic Kingdom's Frontierland for the show.

Although different from the version of the show that was a staple at Disneyland for almost 30 years, the kids were just as captivated by the show as I had hoped they would be. They laughed and clapped and sat wide-eyed the entire time. It was Disney perfection. In fact, it was one of Brandon's favorite attractions in all of Walt Disney World.

Fast forward to two weekends ago when we once again met up with those bears but this time at Disneyland. Our family had headed back to Big Thunder Ranch to meet up with Mickey and Minnie when the Country Bears came out to greet us. There were only a few other people in the area, so the bears came out and played with the kids and immediately honed in on Brandon's lightsaber... and that's when the fun ensued.

As Brandon ran through Big Thunder Ranch he yelled (and giggled), "Hey Bear! Come back with my lightsaber!"

The bears had fun taunting Brandon and one another with the lightsaber.

 This is the kind of magic that makes Disney so incredibly special. Getting to play with the bears he loved so much at Walt Disney World all the way on the other coast at Disneyland was a special moment we could never put a price on. This moment is also proof that even on a crowded day, there are still ways to create those intimate moments of magic at the Disneyland Resort.

Thanks, Country Bears, for making our day extra special!

Tips and Tricks for Hunting for Hidden Mickeys at the Disneyland Resort

 

Because we travel to the Disneyland Resort so frequently I am always looking for new and fun things to do and experience with my kids.  As they grow older our options are expanding as they are able to stay out later, have more patience to wait in line, and try some of the bigger and faster rides.  My six year old, Evan, is quickly becoming an avid reader, which gave me a great idea when planning our most recent trip- a Hidden Mickey hunt!  

 

So what is a Hidden Mickey you ask?  A Hidden Mickey is an image of Mickey Mouse that is literally incorporated into the design of an attraction.  Hidden Mickeys can be found at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, all 3 resort hotels, as well as Downtown Disney.  There are literally hundreds of Hidden Mickeys throughout the park but there is not an officially official Disney approved count.  A Hidden Mickey can take several forms including Mickey Mouses' head profile, whole body profile,  or most commonly the three circles that come together to make Mickey's head.

Over the years I've seen several Hidden Mickeys as well as the book- "Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Disneyland Resort's Best Kept Secrets (Disneyland's Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to the Disneyland)" written by Steven Barrett, but have never gone any farther than being a casual observer.  While on our most recent trip we purchased the book at the Disneyland Hotel gift shop and quickly began thumbing through the book and following the clues only to realize that we were literally surrounded by Hidden Mickeys.  For this trip we chose to focus primarily on Downtown Disney and Disneyland- but am quite sure that our next trip to Disney California Adventure will include searching for Hidden Mickeys.   

 

We learned quite a bit along the way, below are my tips for hunting for Hidden Mickeys:

 

Tip #1:  Ask a Cast Member

Most Cast Members will be able to point out Hidden Mickeys on the rides and attractions that they are assigned to.  Nearly every Cast Member we asked was able to point to or describe where a Hidden Mickey could be found.  Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation while you are waiting in line- you'll be amazed by how many you will be able to find and with their help.

 

Tip #2:  Do Your Homework

If you have a full agenda consider making a list of a few rides or attractions that you would like to hunt in before you arrive at the Park.  A quick Internet search will provide many images, and examples and of course the Hidden Mickey Field Guide is a great resource.  I chose to take a bit more of a relaxed approach to our Hidden Mickey Hunt and brought the Field Guide along.  Evan read me several of the clues throughout the day, which not only got him excited about the hunt, but also helped to pass the time while we were waiting in line.



 

 

Tip #3: Get Everyone Involved

While some of the Hidden Mickeys are very easy to find others can be a bit more challenging.  Having everyone in your party is a great way to get everyone involved, pass the time will waiting in line, and can also increase your odds of finding the more disguised Hidden Mickeys.  
  

Emma with one of the 3 Hidden Mickeys on Jingles-
 the lead horse of King Arthur Carousel

Below are some of the Hidden Mickeys we found on our most recent trip.   

Can you spot the Hidden Mickey in Marceline's
logo?

Mickey shaped cloud on a sign in the bag check tent

Back side of a Disneyland Ticket Booth

Stained glass window behind the Belle and Beast Lego
statues at Downtown Disney

Droid's shadow in Star Tours

 

Acorn Mickey head on Splash Mountain
 

Hidden Mickey planet on Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
 

One of three Hidden Mickeys found on Jingles
the lead horse of the King Arthur Carousel



Balloons on "it's a small world" cast a Mickey
Mouse silhouette on the ceiling

Cars Land Hidden Mickey

Have you done a Hidden Mickey scavenger hunt? We'd love to hear about and see some of your favorite Hidden Mickeys. Comment below or email your pictures directly to kendra@babesindisneylandblog.com and they may be featured in a future post.

 

Be sure to follow Kendra on Twitter or on Instagram @kendrakuske for more updates and photos.

Terrific Tip Tuesday: Fixing a Stroller Flat Tire at the Disneyland Resort

I love it when Disneyland Cast Members go above and beyond for guests and recently reader Lisa Cameron contacted Babes In Disneyland to tell us about a little-known service. I could tell you all about it, but thought it would be best for her to tell everyone in her words!

After deciding that my double inline stroller packed full was getting very difficult to push around Disneyland all day, I started looking for a used double jogger. I happened upon this beauty on Craigslist for TWENTY DOLLARS!!  Husband repaired the ripped hand grip and inflated the tires and voila...new Disney wheels!!!!  Yeah!!! Everything seemed too good to be true, and well, it sort of was. 

We got a flat tire on our first trip.  I thought, "Disney must have somewhere to inflate tires.  They are Disney.  They have thought of everything!"  I was right.  After a quick Google search and double checking with a Cast Member, I found the place that took my Disney happiness to a whole new level: the convenience vehicle rental center. After explaining my dilemma to a Cast Member, she took my wheels back, inflated the flat tire, checked the air pressure on the other two, and sent us on our way. I am so excited to have found this out; surely I'm not the only one who has had a flat at Disneyland. 

Just another way that Disney has gone out of their way to make sure that everyone has THE best experience possible at the parks! 

Thank you, Lisa, for this great tip! 

Have a great tip you would like to share with Babes In Disneyland readers? Email the tip and a photo to babesindisneyland@yahoo.com.

Weekly Update for Limited Time Magic (June 10, 2013)

Logo courtesy of the Disneyland Resort

This week, Limited Time Magic at the Disneyland Resort is focused on two things:  Father's Day and the upcoming 50th Anniversary of The Enchanted Tiki Room!  If you're visiting the Parks in the next two weeks, there will be some exciting opportunities for you and your family to make some really special memories!  

Check out the Limited Time Magic that has come and gone, and what is coming soon to The Disneyland Resort!

Limited Time Magic Recap - June 2 - June 9, 2013
 

Opa! A Celebration of Greece Items
Guests who may have missed the Greek celebration at the Disneyland Resort were pleasantly surprised that select restaurants still offered some Limited Time Magic meal items from the Opa! celebration.  For example, Paradise Garden Grill at Disney California offered up a limited time gyro sandwich with a side of tabouli, a Greek salad, and a Mythos Hellenic Lager as well.  I personally tried the Greek gyro and it was delicious!

Limited Time Magic On the Horizon (June 10 - June 16, 2013)

An Incredible Father's Day at the Disneyland Resort
Do you have a Super Dad?  Starting today and going through Sunday, June 16th, Guests visiting the Disneyland Resort can make it an "Incredible" visit for Father's Day and measure the hero in your life with two "supers" from the movie The Incredibles: Mr. Incredible and Frozone!  These Limited Time Magic character meetings are not to be missed - so get to the Parks with supersonic speed and take advantage of this Limited Time Magic event! 

Limited Time Magic for Annual Passholders

June 11 - Special Presentation of Mickey and the Magical Map
Passholders still have one more opportunity to take advantage of a special showing of Fantasyland's new show and meet the creative team that made it happen!  More information can be found here.

June 23-27, 2013 - Commemorative vintage souvenir for 50th Anniversary of The Enchanted Tiki Room
Annual Passholders visiting the Disneyland Resort between June 23-27, 2013 can visit The Enchanted Tiki Room and get their hands on a special recreation of the original 1963 brochure for the attraction (available while supplies last).  The brochure features the original graphics, copy, and special message from Walt Disney himself!

-----

Have an "Incredible" week at The Disneyland Resort this week and feel free share with us in the comments below what your favorite LTM event has been so far this year!

Fun Fact Friday: The Hook and Ladder Company

Photo credit: Loren Javier / Foter.com / CC BY-ND

The Hook and Ladder Company carries on a Disneyland tradition that dates back to Opening Day, July 17, 1955.Yes there is the tradition of live music in the parks, but the Dapper Dans, the Jambalaya Jazz Band, the Disneyland Band, and others do that, too. The Hook and Ladder Company has a special one.

In the mid-1940's, a group of Disney animators who loved jazz music gathered around a phonograph at lunch time and played along with the recordings. According to Disney Legend (and one of Walt Disney's "9 Old Men"), Ward Kimball in an article in Record Changer magazine (September 1949 issue):

"One day the phonograph broke down, and someone had the startling notion to play without it. To our surprise, it sounded better than when we played with the record! I know it sounds corny but it’s true. And from then on we went on playing in our own strictly 'no style' style."

The original band was made up of...

• Ward Kimball on trombone,
• Clarke Mallery on clarinet, 
• Frank Thomas on piano, 
• Ed Penner on bass sax and 
• Jim McDonald on drums. 

Johnny Lucas on trumpet and Harper Goff on banjo were added soon after. Many of these men have credits so extensive with Disney that it would take another 10 posts just to start doing justice to them.

OK, so these guys worked for Disney and formed a jazz band. What does that have to do with Disneyland? I'm glad you asked!

The Firehouse Five Plus Two performed on the Dateline: Disneyland TV special that introduced the country to Disneyland, and played there regularly during the summers for 15 years. They didn't always play in front of the firehouse--they showed up in New Orleans Square, the Golden Horseshoe, and in parades. They even played on the Santa Fe & Disneyland Railroad on Opening Day. In fact, their album At Disneyland was recorded in the Golden Horseshoe!

There is so much more to the history of this group (including two other names they performed under before taking on this one), their extensive performances outside of Disneyland, and the varied make-up of the band members over the years. If there's enough interest in that, I may cover it in a future post.

The Firehouse Five Plus Two's last performance at Disneyland was in 1971, but today we still have a firemen-themed jazz band in the park: The Hook and Ladder Company! You can find them several times a day (most days) performing in front of the firehouse on Main Street U.S.A. Sometimes joined by "friends" Cruella De 'Vil, Chip & Dale, and Goofy; if you enjoy jazz music played in a fun and playful way, be sure to check them out!

For you to discover: A Disney animated feature contains an "in joke"/homage reference to the Firehouse Five Plus Two. What is the movie and what is the reference?

You can read more from Randy on his blog, Faith and the Magic Kingdom and listen to his unofficial Disney podcast, Stories of the Magic. Find him on Twitter (@Belgarion42) and on Facebook. Randy is also an independent Travel Consultant affiliated with CruisingCo.com and MouseEarVacations.com and would love to help you with any of your travel needs, for Disney destinations and beyond!  

Top 5 Tips for Visiting the Disneyland Resort With a Large Group - Part 2

Last week I spent two days at the Disneyland Resort with several of my cousins and had the most amazing time. There is nothing I love more than sharing my favorite place with some of my favorite people and this was certainly one of those times. We were a small but mighty group with a very diverse range of Disney experiences including a few seasoned pros, a first-timer, a birthday celebrator, and even a reluctant traveler who I had to bribe to come, but ended up getting swept up in the magic which made my heart happy (the many Disneyland photos in his Instagram feed are all the proof I need).  

Prior to our arrival I used several of my own tips from a previous post about planning a trip for a large group and made hotel and restaurant reservations, created a basic itinerary, and used online resources such as the Disneyland website and Disney Parks Blog for the most up to date Park information. 

Once all of the advance planning was done and I had arrived at the Disneyland Resort there were a few tried and true tips and tricks I used to help my group navigate the labyrinth of rides and attractions as well as make the day run smoother and more enjoyable for all involved and I'm excited to share them with our Babes In Disneyland readers. Here you go!

Tip #1:  Use the Park Maps and Entertainment Guides

Park maps are an invaluable resource if you or anyone in your group is visiting for the first time or is unfamiliar with the layout of the parks.  Taking a few minutes upon arrival to determine where to start and a sequence of rides to ride and shows to watch early in the day can help to avoid stress and save time throughout the day. 

For example, if most of the rides that your group is interested in are located in Tomorrowland, make a plan to start and stay there until you've done all that you want to do rather than zigzagging to another land only to realize you forgot something. The schedule, locations and offerings of the parades, fireworks and other entertainment can change from day to day so be sure to pick up an Entertainment Guide at the Main Entrance Plaza. The Park maps are generally themed with whatever holiday or special event is going on at the Disneyland Resort, which makes them an excellent souvenir as well as a cute photo opportunity. (You can also send tweets to the Disneyland Resort's official Twitter accounts for up-to-the-minute information on shows and wait times. Click here to learn more about the Disneyland Resort on Twitter.)

Tip #2:  Divide and Conquer

I think we often feel obligated to stick together and hang out with our group at all times, but if there is one thing my many trips have taught me, it's to not be afraid to split up at different times during the day to accommodate the needs of the group. I often have a little dialogue with the groups I travel with, something along the lines of "it's not going to hurt my feelings if there are things you want to do that I don't. We can meet back up for lunch or the parade (you get the idea)."  Because the needs and wants of the group are always different there will for sure be rides that some people won't want to ride or perhaps some would rather meet and greet with the characters than wait for a ride, etc. Making a plan and setting the ground rules for the divide and conquer rule makes the day run so much smoother and allows for everyone in the group to do the things that are most important to them.

Tip #3:  Use FASTPASSes

My least favorite thing to do at Disneyland is wait in line. For that reason I am very selective about the rides I ride and take take full advantage of the FASTPASS service.  If you haven't yet used a FASTPASS or need a refresher check out one of our recent blog posts for the most up to date information on what exactly a FASTPASS is and how to use them. (Click here for everything you need to know about FASTPASS.)

Jeff & Julie bypassing a 60 minute wait with FASTPASSES

Tip #4:  Bring Your Smartphone

There are several apps you can download, many of which are free, to help you and your group through a day at the Park. The two that I use most frequently and quite honestly prefer are the Disney Parks and MouseWait Apps. The Disney Parks app is essentially a virtual park map and entertainment guide. My favorite feature to use is the character locator. If I'm looking for Goofy, for instance, the character locator allows me to search for his location and what time I can expect to find him there. It's amazing!!!  MouseWait provides a crowd index (i.e. how full the parks are) as well as wait times for each ride as well as some of the restaurants as well. I often find myself checking MouseWait several days before my trips to the Disneyland Resort, just to get an idea of how crowded it has been. (Lisa is a fan of Touring Plans, a similar website and app that is for both Disneyland and Walt Disney World.)

Tip #5:  Get and Use a PhotoPass

Photo taken with my camera by a PhotoPass Cast Member

Often trips with large groups involve several generations or friends and relatives that we haven't seen in quite some time. You couldn't ask better backdrop to document your special time together than the Disneyland Resort. As I am almost always the primary photographer in the group, meaning I'm behind rather than in front of the camera, I find myself seeking out PhotoPass Cast Members several times throughout the day to take group photos that I am also in.  PhotoPass Cast Members are on hand at many of the best backdrops in the Parks like Mickey's Fun Wheel in Disney California Adventure and Sleeping Beauty's Castle in Disneyland. They will pose and take pictures of your group and provide you with a card with a code unique to your group that you can show every time you have your picture taken.  All of your photos are linked to that card and code and can be purchased online or at the parks. 

Here's a tip within a tip: PhotoPass Cast Members will also use your personal camera to take photos, which is a great way to save a little bit of money and also to share your photos on social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram. You can also ask PhotoPass Cast Members to help you adjust your camera (even your DSLR) if you are struggling to get your pictures looking just right.
 

Love dining at The Blue Bayou- reservations highly recommended!

Lastly, if traveling with a group large or small I cannot stress enough the importance of making reservations. Whether it's dining with Minnie Mouse at Breakfast with Minnie and Friends, Premium Viewing for Fantasmic! or treating your princess to a magical makeover at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique be sure to call 1-714-781-DINE well in advance of your trip.

Are there other tips and tricks you've learned while traveling at the Disneyland Resort?  We'd love to hear them.  Feel free to comment below or post on the Babes in Disneyland Facebook page.

Be sure to follow Kendra on Twitter or on Instagram @kendrakuske for more updates and photos.

FASTPASS 101 - Everything you need to know about Disneyland's FASTPASS Service

The FASTPASS has been in use at Disneyland Resort since 1999. It is a virtual queuing program for certain popular attractions that allows guests at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure to receive a voucher listing a computer-assigned boarding time to return and enjoy the attraction. This popular program was first used during the 1999 holiday season on “it’s a small world holiday.” FASTPASS options on Space Mountain, Splash Mountain and Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin” quickly followed in early 2000, and additional attractions have been added to the program since then.

Here's how it works:

· FASTPASSES are distributed at terminals near each attraction that offers FASTPASS. (With these exceptions: Star Tours FASTPASSES are located near the exit of Buzz Lightyear's Astro Blasters, World of Color FASTPASSES are distributed at Grizzly River Run and Radiator Springs Racers FASTPASSES are distributed near It's Tough To Be A Bug.)

· FASTPASS is available to all guests with theme park admission.

· A guest inserts his or her park ticket into the FASTPASS terminal, which reads and returns the park ticket along with a FASTPASS ticket indicating a time period during which the guest may return to the attraction and enter a special FASTPASS priority queue for the attraction. Guests are free to enjoy the park and its attractions while waiting to return to the attraction.

· After a guest has obtained a FASTPASS on one attraction, he or she cannot obtain a FASTPASS on a second attraction for at least two hours or the beginning of the return window on the first FASTPASS, whichever comes first. The exception is World of Color. Guests may obtain other FASTPASSES in addition to the World of Color FASTPASS used to reserve  seating for the show.

· For certain popular attractions, FASTPASS return times may be filled early in the day. After that, no further FASTPASS return tickets will be issued for the attraction.

· Children under the age of 3 do not need a FASTPASS.

FASTPASSES are available for the following attractions

inside Disneyland:

• The Indiana Jones Adventure
• Splash Mountain
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Autopia
• Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin
• Space Mountain 
• Star Tours
  

· FASTPASSES are available for the following attractions inside Disney California Adventure:

• California Screamin'
• Grizzly River Run
• Soarin' Over California
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
• Radiator Springs Racers
• Goofy's Sky School

Want more ways to make most of the lines at the Disneyland Resort? Check out our information on single-rider lines and the rider-switch program. (And yes! Rider switch can be used in conjunction with FASTPASS.) 

"Mickey and the Magical Map" Debuts at Fantasyland Theatre

There was a lot of talk online over the past several months about the innovative new show “Mickey and the Magical Map" coming to Disneyland Park, but I still wasn’t totally sure just what to expect when I headed to the Disneyland Resort a couple weeks ago to attend the premiere. However, I grew up watching stage productions of Disney stories like Beauty and the Beast and Pocahontas, so I was thrilled about live entertainment returning to this venue and the opportunity to introduce my son to the magic of seeing favorite characters come to life onstage.

“Mickey and the Magical Map” is presented in the newly-refurbished Fantasyland Theatre, which now seats about 1,800 guests. I’d heard that a big part of the show is the map itself, which is presented on a huge LED screen spanning nearly the entire length of the stage. When I arrived for the premiere, I realized just how big it was! Nearly 1 million pixels and more than 35,000 square inches of screen surface dance with vibrant color during each performance, making the innovative map a key character in the show.

As Lisa mentioned in her "Mickey and the Magical Map" review, the story opens with Yen Sid, a wise sorcerer from Disney’s classic Fantasia, and follows a somewhat mischievous Mickey Mouse as he sets out on a journey within the mystical map. I’m a lover of musicals, and there is no shortage of great tunes since the 22-minute show features seven songs from beloved Disney films like The Jungle Book, The Little Mermaid, Lilo & Stitch and The Princess and the Frog, plus one original song called “Journey to Imagination.” With each direction of the map’s compass, the audience is transported to a dazzling new world of color, music and much-loved characters! 

My favorite part of “Mickey and the Magical Map” is a musical medley featuring Pocahontas, Mulan, Rapunzel and Flynn Rider. I saw the show three (yes, three!) different times over the course of my long weekend at the Disneyland Resort, and that scene tugged on my heartstrings every time. The incredibly talented performers belting out songs I listened to as a child, in addition to a song I now sing to my son, was really moving. The on-screen effects during this portion, which incorporate elements from all three princesses' story lines, are also visually stunning. I think the audience shared my excitement, because each princess was greeted with cheers and applause upon her arrival onstage. The enthusiasm and positive energy in the theatre was so tangible!

This is a cutting-edge show unlike any other that has been presented at the Disneyland Resort, and I had the pleasure of speaking with Michael Jung, Disney’s Vice President of Theatrical Development, about what makes “Mickey and the Magical Map” unique.




The show will be offered five times a day, seven days a week throughout the summer. When you go (and I definitely recommend you do), be on the lookout for those magical “How did they do that?!” moments…I missed a few the first time around because I was fiddling with my camera! 

As I said, I saw three performances of “Mickey and the Magical Map” during my visit, but it’s such a dynamic show that each time I noticed something new and enjoyed it even more. My son, Mason, who is not quite 3 years old, sat mesmerized throughout the two performances I took him to, and he has been talking about the “Mickey show” ever since. As a proud Disney mom who has a passion for the arts, I call that a mission accomplished!

In addition to being a Babes In Disneyland contributor, Courtney is a Disneyland Resort Specialist on the Disney Parks Moms Panel. You can also find her on Instagram and Twitter (@2Courtney).