If you’re an Australian parent planning to take your kids to California’s most famous theme parks, you’ll quickly realise there’s more to it than just buying tickets. From understanding transport options to budgeting time and money, here’s how to make the most of your Disneyland and Universal Studios adventure.
Getting There & Around
Public transport is not a viable option for visiting both Disneyland and Universal Studios from the same base — distances are long, connections are awkward, and travel time can eat into your day.
The best option: Hire a rental car at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or Anaheim. This gives you:
- Door-to-door convenience for early park entry or late finishes
- The ability to move between parks without multiple changes
- Space for kids, prams, snacks, and purchases
Tip: Use apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates — LA traffic can be unpredictable.
Ticket Costs (as of 2025)
Disneyland Resort (Anaheim)
- 1-Day, 1-Park Ticket: from USD $104 per adult (approx. AUD $160), USD $98 per child (3–9 years)
- Park Hopper (Disneyland + Disney California Adventure on the same day): from USD $169 per adult (approx. AUD $260)
Official site: https://disneyland.disney.go.com
Universal Studios Hollywood
- 1-Day Ticket: from USD $109 per adult (approx. AUD $168), USD $103 per child (3–9 years)
- Universal Express (skip the lines): from USD $199 per adult (approx. AUD $307)
Official site: https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com
How Much Time Do You Need?
Disneyland
- 1 day: Focus on either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure.
- 2+ days: You can do both parks and enjoy the atmosphere without rushing.
Universal Studios Hollywood
- 1 day is generally enough, especially with the Universal Express pass.
Suggested Itineraries
If You Have Only 1 Day
- Choose either Disneyland Park or Universal Studios Hollywood — trying to do both is exhausting and impractical with kids.
- Arrive before opening time to make the most of shorter early queues.
If You Have 2–3 Days
Day 1: Disneyland Park (Anaheim)
Day 2: Disney California Adventure (Anaheim)
Day 3: Universal Studios Hollywood (Los Angeles) — or rest if your kids are very young.
Top Rides & Attractions for Kids
Disneyland Park
- It’s a Small World
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
Disney California Adventure
- Radiator Springs Racers (Cars Land)
- Toy Story Midway Mania
- Pixar Pal-A-Round
Universal Studios Hollywood
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Super Nintendo World
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
Where to Stay
Disneyland (Anaheim)
- Budget: Motel 6 Anaheim Maingate (~AUD $140/night)
- Mid-range: Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim (~AUD $250/night)
- Splurge: Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel (~AUD $900+/night)
Universal Studios Hollywood
- Budget: BLVD Hotel & Spa (~AUD $250/night)
- Mid-range: Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City (~AUD $450/night)
Food & Snacks
Theme park food is fun but pricey — expect USD $15–$20 (AUD $23–$30) per meal for adults, USD $10–$12 for kids. Pack snacks to keep the kids happy in queues.
Quick Tips for Parents
- Buy tickets online in advance to lock in prices.
- Use Genie+ (Disneyland) or Universal Express to skip queues.
- Bring a portable phone charger — apps, maps, and photos drain batteries.
- Plan rest breaks to avoid meltdowns.
- Get a USA eSIM/SIM for each adult (and kids) so you can stay connected.
Bottom line: With some planning, a rental car, and realistic expectations, Australians visiting Disneyland and Universal Studios with kids can have a magical, stress-free experience.
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