Disney’s Parade of Dreams
Last autumn, I went to Shanghai Disneyland with my best friend. Thanks to thorough preparation, we were lucky enough to experience most of the rides and shows we wanted to see.
I remember that the weather wasn’t very clear on the day we went to Disneyland. Our schedule was particularly tight, especially since we only had one day at the park. To make sure we didn’t miss the rides we wanted to go on, we planned ahead. In fact, with proper time management, you can enjoy most of the popular attractions in just one day. Of course, if you have more time, I’d recommend spending two days there.
October 7, 2016, we got up before dawn, around0750a.m.Arriving at Disneyland (Tip: Arriving at least half an hour before the park opens is the only trick to ensuring a smooth day!) Of course, choosing the 7th was a smart move— we largely avoided the crowds!)
@8:10 a.m. As soon as you enter, don’t waste time taking photos. Head straight to get your firstFastPass.: “Soaring Over the Horizon””(You can get a maximum of three FastPasses per day at Disneyland, and you have to wait at least two hours before getting the next one. PS: Once you get a FastPass, you don’t need to queue—you can ride the attraction directly at your assigned time. Soaring Over the Horizon description: Soar like a thunderbird, traveling around the world. Popularity rating: five stars. It’s really great—the only downside is that it doesn’t showcase enough global landmarks. By the way, we got ourSoaring Over the Horizontime slot at11:45am~1245(we got it around 08:15). Right after getting the first FastPass, you have to wait two hours before getting the second. Before getting the second FastPass, we played“Roaring Rapids”(minimum height for children is 107 cm—Xuanxuan is exactly 108 cm, haha!). It’s best to bring your own raincoat. The ones sold on-site cost 10 RMB each, and the disposable ones from both inside and outside the park are of poor quality—but it doesn’t affect the fun. Waterproof shoes are recommended. I’d rate this ride 3.5 stars.
@ 10:20 a.m.We headed to the designated spot in Fantasyland to get our second FastPass (Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: assigned ride time 11:05 a.m.–12:05 p.m.).
@10:35 We started queuing for“Pirates of the Caribbean”(I’d give it five stars—it’s Xuanxuan’s favorite!). Then we visitedAlice in Wonderland;followed by playing “Seven Dwarfs Mine Train” again (still giving it five stars—it’s super thrilling and fun, highly recommended!).
@ 12:00 noonWe watched the stage show Storm Comes – Captain Jack’s Incredible Stunt Adventure. Around 12:45 @ Barbossa’s Bounty (personally, I found the food just okay).
@2:00 PMwatched the musical Frozen;
@1530 saw Disney’s parade @ Main Street, U.S.A.;
@around 4:30 PM@Tomorrowland watched the show Stitch Encounter—very young kids will love—and Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue(this one is just okay);
@1900dinner@Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (really not tasty ==)
@1930Tron Lightcycle / Run(super thrilling, perfect for those who love excitement!! Not recommended for the timid or hesitant. Kids must be at least 122 cm tall)
@8:00 PM The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (young toddlers will enjoy it) and
@20:30Mad Tea Party
@8:30 PM started watching the amazing fireworks, which lasted half an hour!! (Highly recommended not to miss)
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The day’s itinerary was perfectly seamless!! We covered almost all six major rides suitable for young kids!! The kids especially loved: Pirates of the Caribbean; Seven Dwarfs Mine Train; and Soaring: Fantastic Flight Over the Horizon!! Final friendly reminder: It’s best to arrive 20–30 minutes early to wait for the fireworks—they’re absolutely stunning and worth the wait~
By the way, many friends ask what’s the difference between Shanghai and Hong Kong Disneylands? Based on experiences from those who’ve visited both in depth: if your child is under three years old, Hong Kong Disneyland is enough; for older kids, I personally think Shanghai Disneyland is more suitable!! Mainly because the fun rides in Hong Kong just can’t compare right now!! (Personal suggestion ONLY)