Favorite Ride (of all time)

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN!

This ride has to be considered the favorite ride of all time in the park, at the very least by myself and probably my whole family. The way the animatronic figures bring such a life like show to the stage. Over the years it may have changed by adding characters - changing the chase scenes in one of the rooms. I remember when I was younger it used to be the pirates chasing the maidens, now it seems the woman are chasing the pirates.

Growing up, my father used to start singing the "pirate" song before we even knew we were going to the park. One of his favorite past times. I still remember my first trip on this ride, sitting next to my mother and seeing her face as she looked up on one of the bridges and just said "that foot looks so real". Just seeing from that young age how a "ride" could affect my mother and father told me how this would be the ride that would always be favorite!

Time to go...

Arrive about a half hour before, or a half hour after the parks have opened. When you arrive right at opening time, you will be standing in a long line of people awaiting entrance into the park.

Best time of year to visit is "during the school year", or on a weekday to avoid the crowds...

Best time of year to visit is "during the holidays" to see the best decorations, shows and events.

If you plan on staying late for the night shows, arrive after lunch - so you will have energy to last through the crowds at the end of the night.

If you plan on leaving early, make sure you plan to stay through the mid-day parade (it is definately a can't miss).

Annual Passes

The best value for the money at the Disneyland parks is most definately the Annual Passport. This passport allows you to go to both parks for one price for the entire year. Depending on how extravagant the price you want to pay - you can literally go to the parks any day of the year. On top of that - if you buy the "unrestricted" version - no blockout days and it includes parking. Current pricing ranges from $124 - $359 for the year, and if you look at it on a per day basis - if you go to the parks just 5 days in the year - the pass has already paid for itself.

Also include are benefits such as discounts on gift shop purchases/discounts on certain restaurants/ special events and activities.

Once again - I must admit, the best value for your money at the Disneyland parks is an annual pass!