There are some trips that stay with you forever—not just because of the places you go, but because of the memories you make and the dreams that come true along the way. My recent trip to Disneyland and the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank was exactly that. As a lifelong Disney lover, I’ve always found a special kind of magic in the world Walt built, and this trip took that feeling to a whole new level.
✨ A Dream Realized: Touring the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank
This wasn’t just another visit to the parks—this trip was extra special because my family and I finally redeemed a long-awaited reward through the Disney Movie Club. We’ve been collecting Disney movies for years (hello, childhood favorites and nostalgia!), and had been saving up points for the ultimate reward: a tour of the legendary Walt Disney Studios in Burbank. Not only did we finally get to do it—but we were the very last group to take the tour before the program was suspended. Talk about a pinch-me moment.
Our tour guide, Drew (who was truly fantastic), led us through the entire lot—from the original animation building where Walt’s actual office still sits, to sound stages and backlots that are steeped in Disney history. We even stepped into the recording stage where voiceovers are done for Disney movies. To be in the space where so much creativity and storytelling has happened over the years—it was surreal.
And of course, I couldn’t resist the shopping. There’s something extra special about bringing home Disney merch directly from the Studios, where the magic all began.
🏨 Living the Resort Life at Disney’s Grand Californian
For this trip, we stayed at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, and let me just say—it was everything. From the moment we arrived, it felt like stepping into a luxury lodge wrapped in Disney charm. One of the best parts of staying on-property was the location—we were so close to the parks that we could pop back to the hotel in the afternoons for some pool time and relaxation before heading back for nighttime shows.
There’s nothing quite like starting your morning in Disneyland and spending your afternoon by the pool. It’s the perfect balance of Disney magic and vacation vibes.
🎢 Ride, Repeat, and Reimagine
When it comes to rides, I don’t mess around—I have my favorites, and this trip gave me the chance to ride them multiple times (thank you, early entry and Lightning Lanes!). Some of my must-rides include:
- Space Mountain – Classic thrills, always a favorite.
- Rise of the Resistance – I’m still in awe of the storytelling and scale.
- Toy Story Mania – Competitive, fun, and addictive!
- Incredicoaster – That launch!
- Pirates of the Caribbean – Timeless, detailed, and relaxing in its own way.
- Radiator Springs Racers – So immersive.
- Soarin’ – Just feels like flying.
I was bummed that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was closed for refurbishment, but we made up for it with multiple rounds on the other attractions. We took full advantage of early resort entry (7:30 a.m.)—this is a must-do if you want to beat the lines and make the most of your time.
I also did something new this time: Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes! Canoeing around the Rivers of America was such a cool, unexpected experience—definitely not your average theme park activity. And of course, I couldn’t skip the Animation Academy—this time I drew Randall and Lotso (and yes, I kept both drawings!).
🍴 All the Foodie Favorites
If you know me, you know food is just as much a part of travel as sightseeing—and Disneyland did not disappoint.
Some of the culinary highlights from Downtown Disney:
- Naples Ristorante e Bar – Classic Italian pizza, perfect for sharing with family, and a great vibe for people-watching.
- Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio – A standout! The Jambalaya Pasta was flavorful and comforting, and the beignets? Absolute perfection—light, fluffy, and dusted with just the right amount of sugar. Definitely one of my favorite meals of the trip.
- Din Tai Fung – Always a solid choice for soup dumplings and small plates.
In the parks, I had to go for my classic favorite—clam chowder in a Boudin sourdough bread bowl from Aunt Cass Café. There’s just something about eating that on a cool California evening that hits differently. Other food stops included:
- Rancho del Zocalo – Delicious Mexican food in a quiet outdoor setting.
- Plaza Inn – Their fried chicken is legendary for a reason.
- Café Orleans – I finally tried the Monte Cristo and wow… 10/10.
And let’s not forget about the snacks:
- Dole Whip – The OG refreshing treat.
- Mickey Ice Cream Bar – Because it’s not a Disney trip without one.
- Jack-Jack Num Num Cookie – Warm, gooey, and chocolatey. Yes, please.
One morning, we even had Mickey Waffles for breakfast—a childhood favorite that’s just as good as I remembered.
🌠 Magical Evenings & Nighttime Shows
One of the biggest perks of staying on property was being able to head back to the parks in the evening for the nighttime spectaculars. Disney always delivers with these, but this trip felt extra magical:
- Star Wars: Shadows of a Memory: A Skywalker Saga – A nighttime projection show at Star Wars Galaxy Edge (Star Wars Land) that brought the Star Wars universe to life with music, lasers, and iconic scenes. Goosebumps every time.
- Paint the Night Electrical Parade – Vibrant, colorful, and full of energy.
- World of Color Happiness! – An emotional, awe-inspiring water and light show that reminds you of Disney’s storytelling power.
- Fantasmic – Always a classic. Mickey as the Sorcerer never gets old.
Being able to walk back to our hotel after each show—avoiding the mad dash for transportation—was such a luxury.
🏰 Final Thoughts: Disney Will Always Be My Happy Place
I’ve been lucky to travel the world, but there’s something truly special about Disney. It brings out that childlike wonder, that sense of possibility, and yes, that belief in magic. Being able to tour the Studios this trip—something that’s been on my dream list for years—was the cherry on top of an already incredible experience.
Whether it’s a high-speed coaster, a slow-moving boat ride through a pirate cave, or just a warm beignet shared with family, Disney has a way of creating moments that stick with you.
Until next time, Disney—you’ll always have a piece of my heart.
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