Family Adventure in Disneyland

Last September we decided to visit the Magic Kingdom -  Disneyland. It took little bit more planning since my 11 year old is type 1 diabetic. I needed to make sure all his needs are met and we still have lots of fun.

We flew out of the Spokane International Airport. Since we live about 3 hours away we decided to stay overnight at the Ramada Airport Inn. They offer Park’n'Fly (free parking for up to 14 days) which is a great deal since they are located directly across from the airport terminal. The hotel shuttle is also available.

After a short flight we landed at the John Wayne Airport in Orange County. In my opinion the hotels that belong to the Disneyland Resort are very overpriced for what they offer. We stayed at the Best Western Park Place Inn located directly across the entrance to Disneyland and California Adventure park. The Best Western is by far the best deal around: friendly staff, very reasonable priced nice rooms with microwave and mini fridge, gift shop, car rental, complimentary deluxe breakfast next door at Captain’ Kids, 5 minute walk to Disneyland.

Buy your tickets online at www.Disneyland.com to save money. If you travel with a child with type 1 diabetes stop by Guest Service right after you enter Disneyland. Our son received Guest Assistance Card which allowed him and up to 5 members of his party use wheelchair entrances at various rides and attractions. Since it was a hot day we had to stop many times to check his blood glucose and give him drinks and snacks, but thanks to his pass he didn’t miss out on anything.

Food and drinks are quite pricey inside both parks. We bought our snacks and bottled water at the corner store and brought it with us. It will save you time and money.

Since our hotel was only 5 minutes away we ate lunch and dinner near the hotel. The best value was buffet lunch and buffet dinner at Captain’ Kids right next door. It wasn’t much of a selection, but all kids friendly and tasty. Just a short walk from the Best Western Park Inn was also IHOP restaurant and Tony Roma’s Steakhouse. We ate at both and the meals were great and budget friendly.

We enjoyed our trip to Disneyland, made new memories and it was all within our budget.