On July 17, 1955, the day that Disneyland opened, Walt Disney offered his vision of the newly created theme park. He spoke of Disneyland as a happy place where visitors could enjoy fond memories and the promise of the future. He saw Disneyland as a place that would bring joy and inspiration to the whole world. Since those words have been spoken, Disney has gone to great lengths to earn its official tagline as “The Happiest Place on Earth.”

Everything that goes on at Disneyland has been carefully planned. Nothing is left to chance. Disney is always “show ready” because after the park closes, employees prepare it for the next day. The reason you never see trash on the ground for more than a few seconds is because of a dedicated clean-up crew. Trash cans are always nearby and every Disney employee, from top management to the person who sells ticket, is trained to help keep the park spotless.

Disney goes the extra step to provide fantastic customer service and make every guest feel special. Every Disney employee can be approached and they all have been trained to answer the most common questions about the park. In order to be “The Happiest Place on Earth” there are certain things you can and can not do at Disneyland.

Do Not Dress Up as Mickey Mouse

As much of a fan of Mickey or any other Disney character as you may be, Disney does not allow visitors to come in full costume. Sure you can wear a T-shirt with Mickey on it and some mouse ears on your head, but don’t try to enter the park looking just like any of the characters you see walking around the park. Why? Disney wants to protect the integrity of its characters and an “imposter” Mickey Mouse could easily get out of control. If you wear a full costume, you will be denied entry and if you manage to sneak a costume into the park and wear it, you will be asked to leave.

Do Eat the Plants in Tomorrowland

One of Walt Disney’s ideas was to create a food farm where fruits, vegetables and herbs could be grown. Guests are welcome to indulge in the produce harvested in Tomorrowland.

Some Items Do Not Belong in Disneyland

Disney has a long list of prohibited items that are not allowed in the park. Obviously, no guns, knives or weapons of any kind are permitted and that includes pepper spray, handcuffs and even water pistols (which can be mistaken for a deadly weapon). More commonly, there are limitations on the size of coolers, backpacks, strollers and certain mobility devices. Some of the stranger things that people have tried to bring in, but which are not allowed, are unicycles, inline skates, cremated remains, air horns and hockey sticks.

Make Your Own Music

While you can not bring in musical instruments, you can visit Mickey’s Toontown and activate the musical manhole covers. Each manhole cover plays a different musical instrument when you step on it.

You Can Choose How Fast You Want to Spin

Over in Fantasyland, at the Mad Tea Party ride, you can spin fast or not so fast by selecting a certain teacup. The orange teacup with diamonds or the purple teacup spins fast and the two teacups with hearts rotate at a much slower pace.

Don’t Feed the Animals

Disney discourages you from feeding the feral cats or ducks that inhabit the park. The ducks are well fed and the cats can more than fend for themselves.

You Can Ask to Pilot the Mark Twain Riverboat

Meet the Captain and take the wheel of this authentic paddle wheel boat. Not everyone gets the chance to blow the whistle and ring the bell. Kids will get a thrill “steering” the boat and at the end they will receive an official certificate that will prove that they piloted the Mark Twain Riverboat.

Well those are just a few of the things you can and can not do when visiting Disneyland. The most important rule of all is to have fun at Disneyland!

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You might think that you are in great shape at age 32, but trying to keep up with your rambunctious 10 year-old child is a losing battle. Going to Disneyland or California Adventure with young children is great fun but will test your stamina over the course of the day. Kids get so excited that they don’t know when to slow down. They want to rush from ride to ride to make sure they don’t miss out on all the fun. As a parent, your job is to pull in the reigns and control the pace. Think of your day at Disney, not as a sprint, but more of a long race.

When the summer sun is shining and the temperature hits 90 degrees, you can easily overheat. Fortunately, there are more than a few ways that you can cool down and relax when you visit Disneyland or California Adventure. When you’re hot and tired and just need to get off your feet and cool down, consider some of the following suggestions.

A Shady Place to Sit Down

During your visit to Disneyland you might end up walking three or four miles. Everyone enters down Main Street U.S.A. and then you have a choice of which area of the park to visit next. Maybe you’ll head through Sleeping Beauty’s castle into Fantasyland or maybe you will bear right and wind up in Tomorrowland. No matter where you find yourself (Adventureland, Frontierland, New Orleans Square, Critter Country, Jamboree or Mickey’s Toontown,you’ll find benches and some prime shady spots.

Use the benches on Main Street or just sit down on the curb. If you’re willing to climb up a few stairs, the benches by the Main Street Train Station offer an unobstructed view down Main Street. Big Thunder Ranch in Frontierland offers some shady benches where you can relax and enjoy the live entertainment and interaction with some cool characters. Out around the playground near Goofy’s house in Toontown, relax on a bench or just rest against a wall while your kids burn off some energy. Grab a table at the French Market/Mint Julep Bar in New Orleans Square, order a refreshing beverage, and relax to some cool jazz.

When visiting California Adventure, you can find shade, benches and some quiet spots along the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail. If you walk toward the less-crowded back part of California Adventure you can enjoy cool breezes and a beautiful water view by the Paradise Pier. Let the mist from the waterfalls at Grizzly River Run cool you off on a hot day.

Take Advantage of Disney Transportation

Board the air-conditioned monorail for a 2.5 mile, 13 minute ride that takes you through parts of both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. While you sit back and relax, you’ll also get a view from above of Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Buena Vista Street and Hollywood Land.

While not air-conditioned, the Disneyland Railroad offers a welcome respite for those leg-weary visitors who want to take a scenic tour of Disneyland. The train makes stops on Main Street U.S.A., in New Orleans Square, Tomorrowland, and Mickey’s Toontown.

How about a peaceful ride on the Mark Twain Riverboat? Find a seat, sit back and enjoy the view from the paddle-wheel vessel. The ride lasts about twenty minutes.

Sip on a Cold Beer or Have a Cold Drink

With the exception of the exclusive and very private 33 Club in New Orleans Square, Disneyland does not serve alcoholic beverages. If you want a cold brew, you’ll find plenty of places to have one in California Adventure.

• Get an ice cold Budweiser at Taste Pilot’s Grill
• Tecate and Dos Equis are served at the Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill
• Enjoy a Sam Adams or Blue Moon at the Paradise Garden Grill

For those who favor a non-alcoholic beverage, try:

• A Dole Whip Float at the Tiki Juice Bar (Disneyland)
• A Boysen Apple Freeze at Fantasy Fair (Disneyland)
• A Schmoozies Mango Madness tropical blend (California Adventure)
• A refreshing Wildberry Lemonade at Carthay Circle (California Adventure)

Get the most out of your Disney trip this summer. Don’t forget to include rest and drink breaks the next time you visit Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.

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Credit to Lisa Gonzales ‏@runlikeacoyote – Visit Lisa’s website here

Walking through Disneyland is like traveling the pages of a storybook. The vivid colors and hum of excitement in the air create a mystical energy that seems to charge the entire park. You can feel joy in every corner, but Mickey’s Soundsational Parade captures that Disney magic in one vibrant, electric and rocking showcase. This procession of beloved characters, musicians and dancers is anything but traditional, and it’s a must for your Disneyland to-do list.

Disney Friends in Musical Motion

The greatest feature of the parade is the collection of characters standing high above the crowd on their multicolored floats. Mickey and Minnie lead the march along with a dynamic drumline. The amusing percussionists get the onlookers pumped almost instantly. As the mouse of the hour rocks on his own drums, the rest of the parade follows him down Main Street in a blast of color, movement and sound.

Credit to Jenn Greene ‏@traveljenn – Visit Jenn’s website here

You’ll hear music from some of your favorite Disney classics, and each song is lively, whimsical and just plain fun. The characters are often rotated from week to week, but you can expect to see plenty of Mickey’s best pals, including Pluto Goofy, Donald and Daisy. Many of the floats represent movies, so don’t be surprised to see the Lion King standing proudly on his mountaintop or Aladdin, Peter Pan and some princesses dancing to the beat.

Fairy Tale Floats

Each float in the Soundsational Parade is incredibly detailed and complex. Some have moving parts while others have multiple levels. One by one, the floats tell their own fantastic tales, so it’s as if you’re looking at a pop-up storybook. You’ll hear many different styles of music as the parade moves by, and each float has its own distinctive sound. It’s a spectacle you have to see and hear to believe.

Credit to Jerry Vargas ‏@jvptravels – Visit Jerry’s website here

There are so many points of interest in this visual feast, but it’s easy to catch a glimpse of every structure because they move slowly enough. The floats have musical instruments cleverly incorporated into them, which makes the scene come to life even more. While the passengers play their songs, they also wave and point to bystanders, so you’ll feel like part of that fantasy world from the beginning.

A Musical Celebration

What sets this parade apart from others of its kind is that the rhythms are perfectly synchronized with the street performers accompanying the floats. Dancers, acrobats, stilt walkers, musicians and plenty of Disney characters move skillfully to the exceptionally quick tempos. The whirlwind of bold and beautiful costumes, energetic performers and nonstop swirls of color will leave you awestruck.

Credit to BRY ‏@iBry83

Many of the entertainers interact with the audience, so there is always an opportunity to be one with the show. People of all ages get involved, and it’s not unusual to see grandparents bopping, waving and throwing their hands up in the air in celebration. The dazzling extravaganza ties together all the elements of the Disney universe that fans love, and the result feels like one big wondrous party.

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Credit to INTERCOT ‏@INTERCOT INTERCOT…one of the largest Disney vacation planning websites on the Internet. Covering Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line & more! Founded in 1997 www.intercot.com

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NEW…Paint the Night Parade – Credit to Nat ‏@nataliedurrr

Paint the Night Parade Premieres for Disneyland 60th Anniversary – Credit to Danielle Ernest ‏@DeeMagicGurl – Visit Danielle website here

The magical, musical march begins at the Town Square and ends at It’s a Small World, but it also often travels in a reversed route. The best viewing positions are at each starting point and near Sleeping Beauty Castle. This is a one-of-a-kind experience that you don’t want to miss. As you sing, clap and shimmy, you’ll be astounded at how much fun you can squeeze into 45 minutes. Simply put, Mickey’s Soundsational Parade is an explosion of happiness.

Anaheim Express Inn Maingate

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Photo Credit Phil Brock ‏@stgactor

Did you ever wonder what happens behind the locked doors of an exclusive private club? Are there million dollar business deals taking place over lunch? Is the 1-percent discussing presidential politics. Maybe the very well-to-do are just talking about a football game or maybe they are talking about their child’s choice of colleges.

New York City has its Metropolitan Club and the equally exclusive California Club has a home in Los Angeles. But did you know that on June 15, 1967, 6-months after Walt Disney’s Death, Disneyland opened an exclusive club of its own?

Welcome to Club 33

Press the buzzer outside the doorway, speak into the intercom, and announce your presence to the receptionist inside. You don’t have to give a secret password, but you do have to tell the receptionist who you are. Members and their guests will be welcomed and the door will be unlocked. Step inside and you’ll find yourself in a rather smallish, but beautifully appointed lobby.

Once inside, take the old-fashioned glass elevator or walk up the winding staircase to the second level. Enjoy a delightful early afternoon lunch break or, depending on the time of day, a gourmet dinner with a glass of wine. Club 33 is the only place in Disneyland Park where alcohol is served. You can also get off your feet and relax in the very comfortable lounge area. Finally, don’t miss the impressive view from the outdoor balcony!

Club 33 Membership

Visitors eating lunch at the Blue Bayou restaurant in the New Orleans Square section of Disneyland are only steps away from Club 33. The official address is 33 Royal Street. If you want to have a more upscale lunch at Club 33, you have to be a member or an invited guest of a member. Becoming a member is not simply a matter of being able to afford the $27,000 initiation fee and approximate $11,000 in annual dues. The Club limits membership to somewhere around 500 and currently there is a waiting list of more than 10 years. Current members are not anxious to give up their memberships and the status that comes with being a Club 33 member.

What Do You Get for Your Money?

Membership has its privileges. In addition to being part of a very select group of Disney devotees, your membership includes the following free benefits and services.

• Unlimited access to Club 33 during normal operating hours
• 4 Annual Passes that can be used any time of the year at Disneyland and Walt Disney World
• 50 day passes that will get your guests into the park for free
• Valet parking at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel
• 6 FASTPASSES on each visit that can be used on any attraction at any time
• Access to a private lounge over in Disney’s California Adventure
• Ability to reserve the entire club for parties, business functions and other special occasions
• Take a train ride on Disney’s private presidential parlor car, the Lily Belle
• Request a special appearance by any Disney costumed character
• Participate in wine tasting parties and other regularly held special events
• Purchase fine collectibles

Guests at Disneyland can get a little taste of Club 33 by participating in the Walk in Walt’s Footsteps tour. Your guide will take you inside the lobby and give you a short history of Club 33, including an explanation of some of the artifacts you’ll see around the lobby. Tour participants do not have access to the private member rooms on the second floor, but you can take a picture inside the lift. If you don’t take the tour, be like everyone else and take a picture standing next to the iconic “33” at the entrance to Club 33.

Photo Credit Ann Frazier @annfrazi

Photo Credit Dustin Skinner ‏@SaintSkinner

Kara Rutkin ‏@KaraRutkinLV

Photo Credit Pink Bunny ‏@pinkbunnyr

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Thank you for reading our blog :)

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What woman would refuse a free hair and beauty makeover? How about a no-charge soothing foot massage? Could you handle a complimentary glass of wine or sangria? Ladies, leave your husbands and boyfriends at home and head to the Anaheim Convention Center for a wonderful weekend getaway. www.ocwomensexpo.com/home  The Orange County Ultimate Women’s Expo is coming up real soon. Catering to every woman’s wants and needs, the two day special event will take place on the weekend of June 6-7, 2015. On Saturday, the hours are from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m, and on Sunday, the Expo starts at 11:00 a.m. and runs until 5:00 p.m. Tickets are only $5.00!

What to Expect?

With such a low admission price you might not expect too much out of the Orange County Women’s Expo. You would be wrong. Mothers bring your daughters. Sisters come together and girlfriend come by the carload.

Think of a day at the Expo as being like a sensational day of shopping at your favorite mall. The 160,000 square feet of convention floor space will be filled with over 500 vendors.

Think of a day at the Expo as an opportunity to be motivated and inspired by some of the most popular and successful women of today. Over the two days, there will be five keynote speeches as well as a number of informative and educational seminars.

Think of a day at the Expo as a chance to be pampered for free. Your $5.00 admission allows you to take advantage of complimentary massages, hair cuts, professionally applied makeup and so much more. You will even have the opportunity to see a fashion show featuring the latest in fall fashions.

Shopping

Each of the more than 500 booths are like little boutique shops. You’ll find your favorite perfumes and you can try out some new fragrances. Will you be able to resist the gorgeous hand-made jewelry? Shop for designer clothes, shoes, handbags and almost anything else that you just can’t live without. Check out all of the latest and greatest products and buy yourself something that you need and something special that you want.

Keynote Speakers

Five amazing ladies will be on hand to present their thoughts, opinions and ideas to help make this world a better place for women. Each speaker has overcome obstacles through hard work and perseverance to achieve great success in their careers.

LORRAINE BRACCO – Oscar and Emmy nominated actress who played Dr. Jennifer Melfi on “The Sopranos.” Meet Lorraine and get a signed copy of her latest book, “To the Fullest.”

JACKIE COLLINS – Prolific author who has written 30 bestsellers and sold over 500 million copies of her books. Meet Jackie and get a signed copy of her book, “The Power Trip.”

TAMRA BARNEY – Star of “The Real Housewives of Orange County.”

PATTI STANGER – Best selling author and star of “The Millionaire Matchmaker.” Meet Patti and get a signed copy of her book, “Become Your Own Matchmaker: 8 Easy Steps For Attracting Your Perfect Mate”

MELISSA GILBERT – Author, Director, Philanthropist, and actress best known for her role as Laura Ingalls on “Little House on the Prairie.” Meet Melissa and get a signed copy of her latest book, “My Prairie Cookbook.”

Seminars

Get psyched up and motivated to achieve all of your personal goals and dreams. A few of the topics include, “Step Into Your Power – Rock Your Natural Gifts” and “You’re Worth It!”

Other Cool Stuff

• Complimentary haircuts by Regis Salon
• Makeovers at Macy’s Beauty Pavillion
• Complimentary massages
• Work it out at the Cut Fitness Pavillion
• Home Depot Do-It-Herself workshops
• Small business workshops
• Complimentary wine and spirits at the Entourage Tasting Lounge
• Free LVP Sangria courtesy of Lisa Vanderpump , star of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”

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Credit to jake ‏@gotta_shred

Anaheim has a wide variety of fantastic dining options, but Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is one of the standouts. Located in the Anaheim Resort District at the popular GardenWalk, this restaurant pairs good times with great food. It’s inspired by the movie “Forrest Gump,” and themes from the film are scattered throughout the menu and décor. Bubba Gump is truly a delightful experience for the entire family.

Credit to Gary Dean ‏@Gazza_D27

An Ambiance You Won’t Forget

The first thing you’ll notice is the welcoming environment. Staff members are extremely upbeat, and it’s evident they enjoy what they do. There is memorabilia from the movie in every corner, which really brings the story to life. While you enjoy a delicious meal, you can even play trivia associated with the film, and when you need your server, you hold up a sign that says “Stop Forrest Stop.”

Credit to N ‏@nicc_official

The indoor atmosphere is full of energy, but you can also opt for al fresco dining. There are two private outdoor patios with distinct Southern-style charm. The special lighting and design elements instantly remind you of the shrimping boats in the movie. Although the indoor and open-air dining areas have a party vibe, it’s not too overwhelming, and you can easily relax as you dine and socialize.

Credit to jayde warren ‏@waarny86

A Menu That Will Make Your Mouth Water

True to its name, this restaurant offers plenty of scrumptious seafood options, including an assortment of shrimp dishes. Whether you want a basic jambalaya or scampi or you prefer to overload your taste buds on the Shrimper’s Heaven or Forrest’s Seafood Feast, you won’t be disappointed. If seafood isn’t your thing, you can select one of the lip-smacking grilled dishes or try some delectable Southern fried chicken.

Credit to Kristine Kay Pierce ‏@kristineyboo

The kids menu offers equally flavorful options, and each selection has a cute name related to the film. Little ones love ordering Hubba Bubba Popcorn Shrimp and Holy Moly Linguine. Even the drinks and desserts are fun, with names such as Cookie Crumb Magic and Run Forrest Run. Kids can also create their own sundaes, which is a pretty cool reward to offer for good restaurant behavior.

Credit to molly brown ‏@m0llss

A Happy Hour to Keep the Party Going

The festive atmosphere at Bubba Gump isn’t just visual. A happy hour is featured every day that complements the aesthetics. You can choose from refreshing specialty drinks, wild signature shots or tasty draft beers. Whether your inner child wants a fruity Gummy Bear or your grownup side is calling for a potent Long Island Iced Tea, you’ll enjoy every glorious sip of your Bubba beverage.

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Credit to Alfonso Madrigal ‏@alfonsomadrigal

If you’re craving down-home seafood and you want an entertaining dining experience, head to Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. It’s conveniently located just a few minutes from our hotel, and it’s open seven days a week. This is one of the coolest restaurants in the area, where good value, excellent service, appetizing dishes and a cheery ambiance come together to create one memorable experience.

Directions from our Hotel 

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Credit to Conn McWhorter ‏@connmcwhorter and Ashley McWhorter ‏@AshMcWhorter6

Not all restaurants are created equally. This is especially true for the Rainforest Café in the Downtown Disney District of Anaheim. The mystical rainforest-themed restaurant is the perfect complement to the magical vibe of the Disney Resort. You’ll get much more than the ordinary dining experience there, and all your senses will come to life from the moment you enter the exotic Amazon temple.

Escape into a Tropical Paradise

Prepare for sensory overload as you walk into the most convincing tropical forest you could ever imagine. The vibrant colors of jungle scenery create a landscape that can only be called a visual feast. Beautiful cascades of water, unexpected rainstorms, lush foliage, bizarrely twisted banyan trees and even a starry sky make the perfect backdrop for enjoying a delicious meal.

Credit to Jesse Shiosaki ‏@fireworklights

While you dine, you’ll be surrounded by creatures that seem to come straight from a dream world. Vividly colored fish float in tanks right next to the tables, imposing animated gorillas and elephants entertain with their wild antics, and colorful birds sing the story of the rainforest. With so many sights and sounds to take in, there is always something new to discover every time you visit.

Send Your Taste Buds on a Jungle Adventure

The Café’s true treasure is the food. Stop by for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or just pop in for drinks and dessert. The menu is pretty remarkable with a little something for everyone. You and your fellow adventurers can dine on spicy lava nachos then cool down with a calypso salad, or you can go straight for the entrees and order a mouthwatering rainforest burger, delectable tropical tortellini or refreshing shrimp skewers.

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Complete your edible journey by sharing a decadent Sparkling Volcano or enjoying a piece of rich, moist Chocolate Diablo Cake all on your own. Adults can top off the experience at the Magic Mushroom Bar, which has its own special level of whimsy. You’ll have plenty of quirky and scrumptious specialty drinks to choose from, including a Pink Parrot Lemonade and Mongoose Mai Tai.

Bring the Kids and Become Parent of the Year

The friendly staff pays special attention to children at this restaurant, so it’s a great place to give your little ones a treat. Kids of all ages love the animatronics and enjoy exploring the different elements of the rainforest. They can choose from fun menu options such as Shrimpkens, Jurassic Chicken Tidbits and Python Pasta. For dessert, what child wouldn’t go ape over chocolaty, creamy Lava Mud?

Credit to Teezy ‏@teezy143

Credit to Breanna Baker @ ‏13Breanna13aker Rosalie Baker (mom), Nicole Landry (aunt)

Credit to Steven Adkins ‏@SkyfireFX

“A great place for kids” Credit to Christopher Harris ‏@clharr2

Credit to Emily Hoffman ‏@bwithoutamask

“A huge aquarium inside the restaurant” Credit to Adrian Valenzuela ‏@theduckman009

The store is always full of surprises! Credit to Chris Lee ‏@chrisalee0218

“Flamboyant décor” Credit to Tanaka Axberg ‏@Taxberg214

From the delightfully creative dishes to the wild atmosphere, the Rainforest Café is an exciting place to visit with family and friends. It’s within walking distance from Anaheim Express Inn Maingate, so we encourage all our guests to try it out. If you’re in the mood for a laughter-filled, family-friendly feast deep in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, stop by and discover how amusing dining out can be.

Credit to Staci Salazar ‏@7onashoestring

If you have the need for speed and want to enjoy a fun family outing, check out SZ Los Angeles. This extremely entertaining venue is an arcade with a twist. Not only can you enjoy unique video games, you can get behind the driver’s seat in your own go-cart and put the pedal to the medal on various tracks. The park is designed for all ages, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Get Your Motor Running

Heart-pounding action is the theme at the SZ, but the thrill level is up to you. Experience the exhilarating acceleration of a rumbling 300-horsepower dragster, or cut loose in a high-torque turbo car. Both outdoor tracks allow you to compete against other daring racers, and there are plenty of exciting twists and curves.

Credit to -A- ‏@_lissypooh

If you weren’t born to be wild, you can still have loads of fun on Slick Trax or Lil’ Thunder. Slick Trax combines smooth concrete with rear-wheel power, so you can take the turns in a classic drift-racing style. The Lil’ Thunder track is for younger speed fiends, and the cars offer more stability. Your little ones can go wild without worrying about spinning out of control.

Slow Things Down

When you need to take a breather, head indoors to Electric Alley. This lively game room is filled with more than 100 arcade games, and many of them offer redemption prizes. You can also head to the Strike Zone or Speedway Golf Course for a friendly bowling or miniature golf competition. Each race-themed zone is perfect for adults and children of all skill levels.

After you have a blast being a kid again, stop by Johnny Rockets at the SpeedZone Café for some cool eats that perfectly complement the racing vibe. You can also gather your adult friends and refuel at the bar with some chilled brews, refreshing specialty cocktails and delicious snacks. Banquet rooms for birthday parties, corporate events and other group outings are provided as well.

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Credit to Photographer ‏@RedOneRabbit

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Credit to Keylolo Benzington ‏@edubblove

In order to participate in the races and games, you’ll need to purchase a rechargeable play card. There are multiple packages, including unlimited-play wristbands and season passes. The venue is open daily and is just 50 minutes from our hotel, so you can pop in on a whim. If you enjoy electrifying speed, the challenge of competition and nonstop laughter, make SpeedZone Los Angeles your next family adventure.

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Credit to Mayrita ‏@MA9ERS_831

Discover the infinite beauty of the ocean at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Located near the gorgeous coast of Long Beach, this collection of exhibits features sea life from the southern tropical Pacific as well as the more frigid northern waters. There are more than 11,000 creatures on display in approximately 20 habitats, and you can easily cover the two levels in an afternoon.

Take a Journey to the Depths of the Ocean

Imagine floating through a maze of vibrant coral reefs, multicolored fish and wondrous sea creatures. This is what it feels like to weave in and out of the tunnels and pathways at the aquarium. As you stroll through the indoor and outdoor exhibits, you’ll observe a large variety of animals and organisms in remarkably natural environments. There are various vantage points at each display, so it really feels as if you’re coexisting with penguins, otters, anemones and sea dragons.

Credit to NYC Photo Party ‏@PhotoPartyNYC – www.nycphotoparty.com

If you want an immersive, hands-on or close-up encounter, Shark Lagoon, Lorikeet Forest and Wonders of the Deep are ideal galleries to visit. Feel the squish of a jellyfish, stroke the spiny skin of a starfish or coax a brightly colored lorikeet to land on your arm. You can even touch an exotic shark and see more than 150 fearsome fish putting on an impressive show in the expansive open-air exhibit.

Enhance Your Experience with Special Events and Presentations

There is always something exciting and educational happening at the aquarium, from special 4D shows and animal feedings to celebratory festivals. Bring your little ones to the Molina Animal Care Center and watch the caretakers in action, or learn about environmental issues at the Ocean Science Center. You can also make endless discoveries through the Ocean Exploration program which includes films, exhibits and lectures about the vastness of the ocean.

Credit to School groups Pat Woods ‏@PatWoods1

Special events take place throughout the year at the aquarium as well. Bring preschoolers to the Saturday family fun classes, or bond with your teenager at marine teen nights. There are also special character breakfasts, nighttime sea creature shows and summertime barbecues. These events combine live music, photo opportunities, delicious food, crafts, artwork and education, so you’ll ultimately get more for your money.

Enjoy Behind the Scenes Tours

For an additional cost, you can dive even deeper into the ocean world. Daily tours are offered for adults and children, and each provides a different perspective about aquarium happenings. Don’t miss the Animal Encounter programs, which allow you to feed and train sea lions, penguins, seals and sea otters. You can also just watch these playful creatures from above as they dip in and out of the water.

Credit to Krisuan Rosalejos ‏@Krisuan

If you crave even more excitement, go on a Boat Adventure and view the stunning harbor and shoreline. You may see sea lions, dolphins and whales in their natural surroundings as you cruise along the coast or in the open water of the extraordinary Pacific. The narrated tours provide fascinating information about sea life, and being in the middle of the ocean makes every story even more interesting.

Credit to سامانثا @luperciosammy – http://www.facilementalita.tumblr.com

Credit to Brad Yau ‏@bradyau – www.bradyau.com

Credit to Derrick Likes ‏@derricklikes

Credit to Kellie Fell ‏@KFellieFell – www.kfell.blogspot.com

Credit to Lady Di ‏@DiBiCi78

Credit to Ryan Donohue ‏@RPDONOHUE

Credit to Lyndsey Wong ‏@whiteorwong

Credit to Marie C ‏@marinarena – www.marinarena.com

Credit to Nissi Mendes ‏@Nissi_Mendes – www.nissimendes.ch

Credit to super mcnasty ‏@kally_fornia_

Aquarium of the Pacific is open daily, and it’s only a 30-minute car ride from our hotel. The staff members are enthusiastic, knowledgeable and friendly, the prices are affordable and there is always something new to see and learn. Whether you want to have a special date night, family fun day or group adventure with friends, this aquarium will provide plenty of entertainment. You’ll feel like a child again as you explore the mysterious, wild, quirky and downright fun ocean realm.

Credit to Trevor Clinard ‏@taclinard

Outdoor family fun comes in all forms, but an afternoon at the zoo is typically at the top of the list. There is something special about viewing the Earth’s most wild creatures in their unique habitats. The Santa Ana Zoo in Prentice Park takes that experience to a new level. With more than 350 animals coexisting on just 20 acres, this zoo is an exciting adventure waiting to happen.

Intriguing Exhibits

The exhibits at the Santa Ana Zoo have character. Each area brings you deep into the world of the species on display. Surrounded by the cascading waterfall and lush vegetation of Amazon’s Edge, you can observe playful howler monkeys and boisterous crested screamers. At the Tierra de las Pampas, a representation of the endangered South American grasslands, you’ll get close-up viewing of rheas, guanacos and anteaters.

Credit to Sasha Marson ‏@sashymars

The Colors of the Amazon aviary is filled with brightly colored birds soaring freely in 9,000 square feet of space. There are other exotic species throughout the zoo as well, including the stunning margay cat, birdeater tarantula and bizarre blue-tongued skink. As you stroll from biome to biome, watch for the 50 monkeys that are on the premises at all times. You may get to see the smallest monkey in existence: the adorable pygmy marmoset.

Immersive Experiences

Part of this zoo’s appeal is the interactive aspect. At the Rainforest Adventure Maze, kids can travel the winding pathways playing challenging games that either lead to dead ends or through more passages. The Conservation Education Theater allows you to meet cute critters during special presentations, and you can get up close with even more animals at the Crean Family Farm.

Credit to Jessica Kausen ‏@JessicaKausen

Not only are there many opportunities to play and learn at the zoo, there are unique events throughout the year for animal lovers to enjoy. The Sunset at the Zoo summer concerts, Boo at the Zoo and Winter Zoobilation are fun-filled themed events for the entire family. These special happenings give visitors a chance to experience the zoo and its residents in completely different ways.

Relaxation Zones 

No matter how fired up you may be at the beginning of your journey, it’s likely you’ll need a break eventually. This zoo provides plenty of places to recharge, including the colorful Conservation Carousel, which is a classic ride featuring more than 30 endangered animals. After your ride, stop by the Knowlwood Café for a yummy snack, or have a picnic lunch at one of the beautiful tree-lined party areas.

Credit to Wan-nabe ‏@luvbabyb

Credit to Joe A. Martinez ‏@JoeAMartinez

Credit to Shannon ‏@shannonkay

Credit to Dave Holden ‏@HDavidHolden

Fun day with reptiles at the Spring Garden Show at @southcoastplaza with the Santa Ana Zoo — Credit to The Land of Nod ‏@TheLandofNod

Credit to Katie Sessler ‏@katiehasitnow

Baby boy Giant Anteater – Credit to Jenny Doh, MSW ‏@jennydoh

Baby Howler and mom – Credit to Silence ‏@ThGreatSilence

Credit to Christopher Rutt ‏@wildhornbrass

Credit to daveondemand ‏@dkukreja

Credit to Patricia Valoy ‏@Besito86

Credit to Katie Rivero ‏@KatieRivero

Credit to Nathan Houtz ‏@Houtzpunk

Credit to Gregory L. Foster ‏@Gregory_Foster_

Credit to Jasmine Morgan ‏@broadway_geek

Credit to jessica alexis ‏@itsjalexis

Credit to Jessica Christensen ‏@jkachristensen

Credit to Lauren ‏@NoDuhLauren

Credit to Manya Photography ‏@manyaphoto

The Santa Ana Zoo costs just $10 for adults and $7 for children and seniors, so the value cannot be beat. It’s the ideal location for spending an afternoon in the gorgeous California sunshine. You can easily walk the entire zoo in one day, but you may want to hop on the Zoofari Express just for the fun of it. Once you explore this beautifully designed animal world with your loved ones, you’ll want to return year after year.

Directions from our hotel

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View from California Screamin at Disneyland California Adventure – Photo Credit Curtis Cooper ‏@cwcooper810

Disneyland is a dream destination at any point in the year, but it’s truly extraordinary at Thanksgiving. Walt Disney’s mystical world stands out in unexpected ways during the holiday season, and Thanksgiving Day is the opening act. It’s the perfect time to enjoy your Disney adventure because it pairs holiday festivities with family time in a delightful storybook setting.

Turn off the Oven and Turn on The Laughter

If sweating over a hot stove isn’t your idea of a fun holiday, Disneyland is the place to be. Take off the apron, lace up your walking shoes and prepare to eat your way through the park. Plenty of Disney restaurants serve traditional Thanksgiving meals. You’ll find all your favorites from the impressive feast and dessert buffet at the Disneyland Hotel to the roasted turkey and trimmings at the Carnation Café.

Mickey Waffle at Carnation Cafe – Photo Credit Kysa ‏@kysaaah

If you’re not a traditionalist, head to Café Orleans for crepes filled with turkey and butternut squash, or munch on holiday-themed tamales at Rancho del Zocalo. You can even feast on giant turkey legs, turducken, turkey tortilla soup and turkey pizza. To satisfy your sweet tooth, order Stage Door Café’s maple-bacon funnel cake, sip on a pumpkin spice latte at Jolly Holiday Bakery or have some pumpkin cheesecake at Harbour Galley.

Celebrate the Most Wonderful Time of Year

At Disneyland, Thanksgiving weekend kicks off the Christmas season, so you get to enjoy two holidays in one visit. The entire resort will be decked out in gorgeous autumn hues, but there will also be twinkling Christmas lights, glistening tinsel and artificial snowflakes. On Main Street, you’ll even find a 60-foot tree dripping with hundreds of ornaments.

Photo Credit minniemouse Laura Bowman ‏@LauraBowman06

The Christmas Fantasy Parade will really put you in the holiday spirit. This dynamic, musical procession of Disney characters, toy soldiers, giant gingerbread people and the man in red travels right down Main Street. The parade features exciting themed floats, including a music box and Santa’s mailroom. At night, gather around Sleeping Beauty castle for the holiday fireworks display complete with special effects, Christmas tunes and a snow-filled finale.

Pass the Time Doing, Not Waiting

One of the best perks of visiting the Disneyland Resort during Thanksgiving is the smaller crowd. You won’t be rubbing elbows with strangers during your holiday, and you can check out all your favorite rides and attractions without waiting for hours in line. Can you imagine getting right on It’s a Small World or Space Mountain? You can even take your little ones to meet their idols, and you won’t have to squander precious hours to do so.

Photo Credit ☆k a r i ‏@94heslaurent

Photo Credit Samantha Wilson ‏@girlnprls2011

If the famous mouse and his wacky gang are already part of your family, you cannot go wrong with a holiday trip to Disneyland. All the excitement of this magical realm is amplified during Thanksgiving. You and your loved ones will already be giddy with anticipation of the upcoming season, and you can release all that energy in the most entertaining ways.

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Photo Credit Richard ‏@xSushi Fathym (=◕ x ◕=) ‏@serialxseven

The competition was fierce and the battle intense as thousands competed for the coveted prize. No, we are not talking about Blizzard Entertainment’s World of Warcraft challenge. We are talking about the difficulty of getting tickets to go to Anaheim and attend the immensely popular Blizzcon convention. In 2015, the Anaheim Convention Center will be taken over by the gaming world on Friday, November 6 and Saturday, November 7. Hours on both days will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Back in April, when tickets went on sale, they sold out in a matter of hours. If you were not lucky enough to score some tickets to the 2015 edition of Blizzcon at the Anaheim Convention Center, you’ll just have to wait until next year. Even though you may be a little disappointed at not being at Blizzcon, you can still follow the action online by getting a virtual ticket to the event.

Popularity of Blizzcon

When Blizzard Entertainment first started out in the early 1990s, gaming, and particularly, online role-playing games, were in their infancy. The first Blizzcon convention took place at the Anaheim Convention Center in 2005 and met with mild success. It was not until 2007, when the World of Warcraft franchise was introduced, that Blizzconn became a must-see event. Every seceding Blizzcon event has sold out since 2007.
Today there are more than 11 million people actively participate online in the World of Warcraft role-playing game.

While World of Warcraft may have more players than any other game you will see at Blizzcon, it is by no means the only popular game created by Blizzard Entertainment. Fans of StarCraft, Diablo, Heroes of the Storm, Hearthstone, and Overwatch, will also have plenty of reason to attend this year’s Blizzcon.

Contests

One of the really fun things about Blizzcon is the way the organizers get those who come to also participate and make the event even bigger and better. This year, there will be a number of fun contests where contestants can win big prizes.

• An original art contest based on any of the six franchises (Warcraft, StarCraft, Diablo, Heroes of the Storm, Hearthstone, and Overwatch)

• A costume contest where you can dress up as your favorite character and parade on stage

• A talent contest where you can show off your singing, dancing, and acting skills

Everyone is a Winner

You don’t have to enter a contest to get a prize. Each attendee will receive a “swag bag” that contains some show-related goodies. You may receive discounts on merchandise, samples, promotional items, and maybe even a special pass to get into the closed beta test of an upcoming Blizzard game.

Features

• Play the latest versions of your favorite Blizzard games

• Watch the top players from around the world compete in the global finals

• Listen to game developers and artists discuss the games you play

• Get in on a contest yourself no matter what your skill level may be

• Exclusive place to shop for commemorative merchandise

If you were one of the lucky ones to get tickets to Blizzcon, you’ll need to find accommodations when you come to Anaheim. We would love for you to stay with us at the Anaheim Express Inn Maingate. We have nice rooms, the most competitive rates in town, and we are only a block away from the Anaheim Convention Center.

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Americans love their cars and have been going to auto shows for more than a century. Even before the first Model-T rolled off of Henry Ford’s assembly line in 1908, automobiles were on public display. The first auto show took place in 1900 in New York. When the first auto show was held there were less than 200,000 automobiles in the United States. Today, there are more than 100,000,000 registered vehicles in the United States.

2015 Orange County Auto Show

It won’t be long before you will be able to check out some of the beautiful models… and the new cars too. The 2015 Orange County Auto Show will be held at the Anaheim Convention Center on October 15-18. Admission to the show is $12 for anyone 13 or older. Seniors over 62 and members of the military get in for $10 and children 12 and under get in for free. Parking can cost more than the price of admission, but if you are staying here with us at the Anaheim Express Inn Maingate you get to park for free! We are only a block away from the Convention Center.

The four day event kicks-off on a Thursday afternoon and concludes in the early evening on Sunday. You can do the tour in a couple of hours, but if you want to take a test drive, or are really into cars, allow yourself a little more time.

• Thursday, October 15: 4 pm – 10 pm
• Friday, October 16: noon – 10 pm
• Saturday, October 17: 9 am – 10 pm
• Sunday, October 18: 9 am – 7 pm

500 of the Newest Cars, Trucks, and SUVs Under One Roof

Imagine how much time it would take you to visit five different dealers to test drive five different sports cars and narrow your purchasing choice down to just one or two. You’d have to walk around the lot, wait for the salesman to approach, and then wait for him to find you a car that you could test drive. Throw in the time you have to spend in the office trying to negotiate price, and you could easily spend three hours at each dealership.

When you come to the Orange County Auto Show, you can see dozens of sports cars on display. You can compare the 2016 Acura NSX that many are calling a hybrid supercar to the Corvette Z06 that with 640 hp and can go from 0 to 60 in just 3.7 seconds. You may want to check out the new Cadillac CTS-V that has the same 6.2-liter V8 engine as the Corvette and can hit 200 mph.

Test Drive a Car

Why not take the car you are interested in for a test drive. Even if you can’t afford the car of your dreams, you can still get behind the wheel of that BMW i8 you have been eyeing.

See the Best of the Best

Don’t miss your chance to get up close to some of the most desirable cars in the world. The duPont Registry Live display features high-end exotic vehicles from Bentley, Maserati, Ferrari, Lamborghini and more.

Whether you just want to see all of the 2016 new cars or you are interested in buying a new car, spending a few hours at the 2015 Orange County Auto Show is an enjoyable way to spend part of your day.

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Energy from oil and coal is on its way out and is being replaced by renewable sources of energy. Solar energy holds great promise for the future energy needs of America. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), 195,000 homes and businesses had solar panels installed, bringing the total number of solar installations in homes and businesses up to 645,000. That number continues to grow at an accelerated pace.

Solar Power International 2015 is coming to the Anaheim Convention Center. North America’s premiere business-to-business event for the solar industry will take place from September 14-17. More than 15,000 solar industry professionals from more than 75 countries are expected to attend.

The four-day event will give everyone a chance to learn about the latest trends in the industry and to network with the top companies and experts in the solar industry. Close to 1,000 companies, including installers, developers, contractors, commercial builders and engineering firms, will have representatives on the Expo floor. It is a great opportunity for solar professionals to network.

Chance to Learn About the Solar Industry

In an emerging industry like solar energy, there will always be some growing pains. When solar panels were first produced they were very expensive and not very efficient at producing power from the sun’s rays. The industry had a hard time convincing people to shift from traditional and reliable energy sources to a new type of energy that was neither very reliable nor very affordable.

The Solar Industry is Growing

Thanks to a rapid advancement in technology, better marketing, and a conscientious population that agrees that renewable energy is better for our planet than fossil fuels, solar energy is gaining more traction every year. As reported by the Solar Energy Industries Association, in 2014, 32 percent of installed new electric capacity was from solar energy, making it second, only to natural gas (no coal mines are being built).

An Event Every Industry Professional Should Attend

Solar Power International 2015 offers all attendees a chance to learn, meet their competition, understand the growth of the industry, and make important business connections. You’ll be able to interact with leaders in the field on a one-to-one basis. There will be educational conferences, discussion groups, and workshops. Following are a few of the topics that are on the schedule,

• The state and future of the U.S. Solar Market
• Residential solar and consumer protection
• Solar’s regulatory world – What it all means
• Opportunities in the budding energy storage market

Job Fair

Find out about the different employment opportunities in the solar industry. Companies and corporations of all sizes are looking for talented people who want to be part of a growing industry. Representatives will be on hand to discuss job openings, take applications, and perhaps offer you the job of your dreams.

If you are planning to attend Solar Power International 2015, we invite you to come and stay with us. The Anaheim Express Inn Maingate has a great location. We are only a block away from the Anaheim Convention Center. Come and enjoy our comfortable rooms, great amenities and very affordable rates.

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Photo credit viktor ‏@datboivik

Halloween at Disneyland is always a spooktacular event. Kids will have a ball meeting all of the specially costumed characters and munching on the treats they gather in their Halloween bags. Adults will have just as much fun enjoying Disney’s transformation for this extremely popular seasonal event.

Mickey’s 2015 Halloween Party

If you want to get the most out of your Halloween holiday experience, you should consider purchasing tickets to Mickey’s Halloween Party. The “party” is a separate event and is not part of your regular admission ticket to Disneyland. You have to buy a ticket if you want to attend Mickey’s Halloween Party.

A total of 17 parties will be held between September 11, 2015 and November 1, 2015. The first party begins on September 25, 2015 and the last party is on Halloween night, October 31, 2015. About three parties will be held each week.

Mickey’s Halloween parties start at either 6 p.m. or 7 p.m. and each one lasts for five hours. The parties are all family friendly and children and adults are all encourage to come in costume.

Tickets can be purchased in advance and they range in price from $69-$84. In addition to admission to Mickey’s Party, your ticket entitles you to enter the Disneyland Park three hours before the party starts and also to receive free parking for a standard-sized vehicle. Tickets are going fast and the October 31 party is already sold out. If you want to go, get your tickets now.

Float from the Anaheim Halloween parade 2014 – Photo credit Audrey Moorehead ‏@SwitchedOnDJ

What Do Party Goers Get?

1. A chance to see Mickey’s Costume Party Cavalcade. Enjoy the festively decorated floats and haunting musical Cavalcade as it proceeds down Main Street two times each night.

2. A Halloween Screams Fireworks Spectacular that starts at 9:30 p.m. each night and is presented exclusively for guests who attend Mickey’s Halloween Party.

3. A chance to attend the Monsters U Dance Party at the Tomorrowland Terrace and dance the night away.

4. Pose for photos with some of your favorite and scary characters at special locations around the Park.

5. Trick or treat. Kids can gather up chocolates and mote healthy snacks on the Hide-and-Go-Treat Trails. Disney expects to give out over 500,000 treats on the 17 days of Mickey’s Halloween parties.

Halloween Fun for All

If you don’t attend Mickey’s Halloween Party, you can still have great Halloween fun at Disneyland. Regular admission to Disneyland gives you access to special Halloween displays and rides.

The Haunted Mansion Holiday presentation will send chills up your spine. The Space Mountain ride takes you through a never-before-seen haunted section of the universe. Do you dare to enter the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and take the terrifying drop through the haunted tower? Main Street is the site for a big carved-pumpkin festival and the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a traditional skeleton display in Frontierland.

Whatever you choose to do when you visit Disneyland during the Halloween season, don’t look back. You never know if the spirit behind you is friendly or is a scary monster. Woooo Hoooo!

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Are you a musician, DJ, songwriter or just an average music junkie? If you live for all things musical, you won’t want to miss the 2016 NAMM Show taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center January 21-24. This music expo hosted by the National Association of Music Merchants is the largest in the world, and it’s the place to be for anyone interested in the music industry.

Chat With Fellow Fanatics

From the moment you enter the doors to the bustling showroom floor, you’ll feel an energy that only the musical universe can generate. Artists, exhibitors and retailers all gather together in one spot to network, share ideas, educate and discover the newest innovations in professional audio. You can talk with like-minded people, trade stories and even meet the designers of your favorite instruments or music gear.

Satisfy Your Inner Child

Because this is a trade event, there will be thousands of products on display. You can take a look, test and tinker with absolutely no pressure to buy anything. High-end companies and startups provide demonstrations on every instrument and accessory imaginable at these conferences. There are sections dedicated to production and engineering technologies as well. Prepare to be astounded at the sheer innovation of it all.

Rock Out to Diverse Sounds

No matter what beats excite you, the live musical performances throughout the center will amplify your experience. There is usually something for everyone, and the talent is always exceptional and cutting-edge. Whether you’re into rock, pop, dance, jazz or classical, check out the concert stages every chance you get. You may develop a new interest in a genre you never expected to enjoy.

Support Your Favorite Artists and Engineers

One of the most exciting events at the expo is NAMM TEC Awards ceremony. Nominees include musicians, sound production experts, DJs and other creative forces in the industry. There are also categories honoring the latest audio products that haven’t been introduced to the market yet. Don’t be surprised if you recognize some famous faces at this day-long event as well.

Rub Elbows with Celebrities

Even if you’re not a music enthusiast, you can still benefit from attending the NAMM Show. The most prominent names in the music business visit this expo each year, and there is always a celebrity sighting. Just walking around the center searching for high-profile faces is a story waiting to unfold. You never know who you’ll see strolling by or performing on stage. You may even get lucky enough to talk with your idols.

Grab Some Swag

You’ll find promotional merchandise in every corner of the showroom, so be sure to collect a few trinkets to take home as memories. Earphones, guitar pick holders, coffee cups, magazines, guitar strings and T-shirts are just some of the fun items you’ll find as you go from exhibit to exhibit. You can walk away with some great treasures, from the ordinary to the bizarre. One company even provided adult coloring books at a past event.

With so much to take in, you’ll probably want to go each day the show is open. The Anaheim Express Inn Maingate is walking distance from the convention center, so repeat visits will be easy. In order to attend, you have to be a NAMM member or get an invitation from someone who is. If you don’t get a ticket, you can still enjoy numerous side events hosted by nearby bars, restaurants and hotels. No matter how you experience NAMM, you’ll discover a new joy for the world of music.

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Navigating the immense realm of Disneyland with young children by your side takes a lot of patience. You may have to accept the fact that your trip to the magical kingdom isn’t all about you. Little minds and bodies have unique needs, and an unhappy child in the happiest place on earth can cast a black cloud over the entire experience.

Begin With a Plan

If you want an unforgettable adventure for all the right reasons, map out your day ahead of time. Prioritize rides together, and check the schedules for the parades, meet-and-greets and other events. This way you won’t be frantically whirling around like the Mad Hatter’s teacups when you enter the park. To avoid the longest lines and prevent achy-legged temper tantrums, head to the more popular attractions early in the morning.

Turn No Into Yes

No matter how kid-friendly the Disney universe is, there will be rides with height or fright factors. Don’t just suffer the inevitable freak-out from a toddler who cannot ride Space Mountain like his or her older sibling. Check online ahead of time for other age-appropriate options. You can allow the bigger child to go on one ride with an adult in your party and then take the smaller tot for a special one-on-one experience elsewhere.

See Disney Through Your Child’s Eyes 

Kids tend to notice the fascinating details of Disneyland, so slow down long enough to discover the magic with them. As you explore, tiny feet will tire out quickly; expect to rest frequently. If your own enthusiasm for discovery won’t be harnessed, take a break at the Enchanted Tiki Room or enjoy one of the many shows throughout the resort. This also may be a good time to refuel with some healthy snacks.

Respect Walt’s Creation

Walt Disney imagined his dream world with children and adults in mind. While you’re visiting the park, remember that other guests are there to enjoy themselves as well. If your young one has an outburst, consider moving to a more secluded area until he or she is calm. Sitting quietly in the shade may help your hot, tired and cranky child re-energize.

Discuss the Mouse’s Rules

There is no shame in using Mickey as your scapegoat when it comes to conduct and consequences. Prior to your trip, let your children know what their idol thinks about mischief such as climbing on displays, pushing through lines or screaming for treats. Discuss possible consequences as well. Keep in mind, when the punishment involves sitting out of a ride, younger children should not be left unattended.

No matter how you choose to parent in Disneyland, the ultimate goal for your family should be to enjoy yourselves while respecting everyone else’s right to do the same. Meet your child’s needs as much as possible, but show consideration for all the other Disney fans and the special residents who will be making your family’s dreams come true.

Are you ready to take relaxation to the next level? If you’re longing to escape from life’s struggles, the enchanting island of Catalina is waiting for you. Located approximately 20 miles off the Los Angeles coast, Catalina Island is a beautiful, quaint and historic vacation destination. From the moment you step onto the 22-mile-long island, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered a dream world.

View Paradise From All Angles

Catalina Island has two main cities, and each one offers an array of exciting activities and breathtaking sights. The quintessential island town of Avalon is Catalina’s hot spot. With its Mediterranean-style scenery, crystal waters and a near-perfect climate, Avalon is the ideal fairy tale getaway. Tourists are not just welcome there; they are catered to at all points of interest.

On the island’s west end is Two Harbors, a sleepy seaside village pulled straight from a storybook. It has a pleasantly peaceful vibe and just one restaurant, bar and general store. Because the island is so small, you can easily visit Two Harbors and Avalon in one day. Take a quick helicopter ride from the mainland to the island, or use a boat service such as the Catalina Express. The high-speed ferries depart multiple times each day from Dana Point, San Pedro and Long Beach.

Experience Land and Sea Adventures

There are plenty of opportunities to take in Catalina’s dramatic landscape. Go on a guided tour through the scenic island interior, or explore on your own while biking, hiking or riding a horse through the fascinating wilderness. For a truly remarkable experience, join the Zip Line Eco Tour and glide down five separate zip lines high above a gorgeous canyon. At each stop, you’ll learn unique facts about the island.

The sparkling clean water around Catalina provides a healthy marine habitat that you can explore as well. Go on the Dolphin Quest, take a kayak around the electric-blue sea and even watch fish jump right out of the water during the Flying Fish Expedition. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, head to one of the popular diving sites and snorkel into secluded caves, swim through vibrant reefs and discover underwater shipwrecks along the way.

Enjoy Local Culture

To slow things down, enjoy a delicious meal and do some people watching at The West End Galley in Two Harbors or the Avalon Grille. Be sure to order a glass of the famous Buffalo Milk at any of Catalina’s bars. After you re-energize, take in some culture at the island museum or one of the fine art galleries. Also check out the iconic Catalina Casino, an entertainment venue with an interesting history.

One of the greatest aspects of Catalina is the restriction regarding motorized vehicles. You’ll be walking, riding a golf cart, boating or taking a trolley to see the sights. You can cover a lot of ground in a short time frame, so it’s easy to plan a last minute outing or combine two trips together. Enjoy a Disneyland vacation with the family, and then head to the island to punctuate your Southern California experience.

Catalina Island offers an endless amount of activities for everyone. Do you want to parasail above the cobalt-blue ocean, enjoy sand therapy at a first-rate spa, mountain bike through nature or unwind on a tranquil beach? Would you rather spend one adventure-filled day under the clear, sunny skies or camp overnight with the stunning coastal cliffs as your bedroom backdrop? No matter how you spend your time in Catalina, you’re sure to feel the island magic.

Are you ready for a sensory overload in one of the liveliest cities on the West Coast? If you need some excitement in your life, head to the Anaheim Packing District. This hip Orange County gathering place is a playground for food fiends. Complete with its own farmers market and an endless supply of all things delicious, it’s an eclectic neighborhood hangout for the entire family.

Eat, Drink and Eat Some More

Bring your camera and your appetite when visiting the district’s crown jewel: the Packing House. This fully restored building was once used as an orange packing warehouse, but it’s now a vast culinary complex housing more than 20 vendors. The two-story food hall mimics Old World public markets and has all the right decorative nuances, including ceiling-high terrariums, walls adorned by oranges and wildly creative lighting.

Even the most finicky eaters will find something delectable at this culinary wonderland. Munch on Indian street fare, slurp some gourmet ramen noodles or taste the magic of Dark 180, which is a chocolate bar that can only be called epic. Other standout creations are the chicken and waffle sandwich at The Iron Press, the customizable Popsicles at Popbar and the country fried chicken poutine at The Kroft.

Bond With Other Food Enthusiasts

The Anaheim Packing District is a great place for socializing, especially at Farmers Park. This two-acre, open-air marketplace hosts a Sunday farmers market, outdoor movie screenings and special holiday events. The park is absolutely beautiful with its colorful gardens, redwood planked boardwalk and peaceful olive grove. It’s the ideal spot to meet others and discover new tastes.

Another perfect meeting place is the historic Packard Building. Previously an automobile showroom, this brightly lit building now houses Umami Burger and the famous Anaheim Brewery. The outdoor patios, retro décor and elevated burger dishes make Umami Burger the ultimate retreat. If you’re looking for something more lively, you’ll love Anaheim Brewery’s vibrant atmosphere and impressive selection of craft beers.

The Anaheim Packing District is a guaranteed good time, whether you’re relaxing on the sprawling porch of the Packing House, searching for the hidden speakeasy inside, or jamming to live music while strolling the grounds. All the talented artisans and dynamic visual touches will leave you speechless. This is a meet-and-eat extravaganza you definitely won’t want to miss.

Directions from our hotel