Planning a Disneyland vacation is exciting—but let’s face it, it’s also exhausting. Long days, early mornings, and overstimulation can take a toll on both kids and adults. That’s why building in a non-park day is one of the smartest things you can do for your family. A break day lets you relax, recharge, and enjoy the magic of Disneyland without the crowds or chaos.

Here’s how to make the most of your Disneyland rest day—with a variety of kid-friendly, fun, and relaxing options both on and off Disney property.

1. Enjoy the Pool at Your Resort

Make the most of your hotel’s amenities by planning a pool day. All three Disneyland Resort Hotels offer fantastic pool areas:

• Disneyland Hotel – Classic monorail-themed waterslides and a retro vibe.
• Pixar Place Hotel – Newly renovated rooftop pool deck with splash pad for toddlers.
• Grand Californian Hotel & Spa – A more serene, forest-themed setting perfect for parents to relax and kids to play! Read about our magical time spent at this hotel.

Note: Access to resort pools is limited to guests staying at those hotels.

One of the smartest ways we’ve saved money on Disney accommodations is by renting Disney Vacation Club (DVC) points through David’s Vacation Club Rentals. It has allowed us to book rooms at Deluxe Resorts at significantly reduced rates. If you’re considering a DVC resort for your next trip, this option is absolutely worth exploring. Read our full experience here.

2. Explore the Downtown Disney District

Downtown Disney is free to enter and packed with things to do:

• Shopping – World of Disney, LEGO Store, Disney Home, and other unique stores for souvenirs, apparel, and gifts.
• Dine at a range of restaurants, from quick bites to sit-down meals like Naples Ristorante or Black Tap Craft Burgers.
• Dessert Stops – Salt & Straw ice cream, Disney Wonderful World of Sweets, and Sprinkles Cupcakes are all fan favorites.
• Bowling & Games – Head to Splitsville for bowling and a laid-back meal.
• Live Entertainment – Local musicians and street performers liven up the evenings.
• Experience Nightlife with bars like Ballast Point Brewery or Splitsville Luxury Lanes for drinks and bowling.
• Soak Up the Atmosphere without needing a park ticket—great for extending the magic without the rush.

3. Grab Drinks and Vibes at Trader Sam’s

Located at the Disneyland Hotel, Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar is a fan-favorite bar with themed cocktails and an immersive, whimsical atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for Disney adults (and families during daytime hours). While the inside is small and fills up quickly, the outdoor terrace offers a fun vibe with fire pits, live music, and a tropical setting perfect for relaxing with or without kids.

4. Book a Character Dining Experience

You can still enjoy a little Disney magic on your off day with a character meal. It’s also a great way to interact with characters without waiting in line inside the parks.

Options include:

• Goofy’s Kitchen at Disneyland Hotel (breakfast or dinner with Goofy and friends)
• Storytellers Café at Grand Californian (Mickey’s Tales of Adventure breakfast buffet)

5. Visit a Local Beach

Southern California is famous for its coastline, and you can be on the sand in under an hour:

• Huntington Beach – Great for families and walkable downtown.
• Laguna Beach – More scenic with tidepools and art galleries.
• Newport Beach – Balboa Fun Zone and ferry rides are a hit with kids.

6. Take a Day Trip to Local Attractions

If you’re up for light sightseeing:

• The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of Southern California’s top family-friendly attractions, offering a fascinating look at marine life from the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits, including the Shark Lagoon, Sea Otter Habitat, and the Southern California/Baja gallery. Interactive experiences like touch pools and animal feedings make it a hit for kids, while adults can enjoy the stunning underwater tunnels and educational presentations. It’s an exciting and educational day out for all ages.
• La Brea Tar Pits: Discover prehistoric fossils and see real excavation sites where ancient creatures have been preserved in asphalt. It’s a unique and educational experience for the whole family.
• Griffith Observatory: This iconic spot offers panoramic views of LA, along with interactive exhibits and a planetarium for stargazing and space exploration enthusiasts.
• Natural History Museum: Perfect for families, this museum showcases dinosaur fossils, ancient artifacts, and nature’s wonders through its diverse exhibits.

8. Treat Yourself to Spa or Fitness Time

Parents deserve a break, too. Consider:

• Tenaya Stone Spa – Located at Disney’s Grand Californian
• Hotel gyms or yoga on the pool deck
• Even a solo walk through Downtown Disney with coffee in hand can be enough to help relax and recharge!

9. Let Kids (or the whole family!) Enjoy Downtime

Don’t underestimate the value of downtime during your Disneyland vacation. Many hotels offer great options to relax and unwind, such as:

• Outdoor play areas or courtyards for kids to burn off some energy
• In-room Disney Channel for a relaxed movie time
• Arcades or game rooms to keep the fun going

You can also make the most of quiet moments by ordering takeout, letting the kids nap, or enjoying some snacks. To keep little ones busy, bring along coloring books, sticker sets, or small LEGO kits to ensure everyone stays entertained while you unwind.

Final Thoughts: Rest Days = Better Park Days

Taking a break from the parks doesn’t mean taking a break from the fun. With a little planning, your non-park day can become one of your family’s favorite memories of the trip. Whether it’s soaking in the hot tub, watching a movie in pajamas, or exploring Southern California, a day to rest and reset ensures your crew is refreshed and ready for more Disney magic.

What’s your family’s go-to rest day activity? Share your tips—I’d love to hear how you make the most of your non-park days!