Disneyland offers a wide array of complimentary items, services, and experiences that go beyond the initial park admission cost. While many guests are aware that rides and attractions are included in their ticket, there are numerous other freebies available through simple requests, sign-ups, or by knowing where to look. This guide details the various free offerings available at the Disneyland Resort, focusing on items and services that guests can actively request or sign up for during their visit.
Complimentary Items and Services
Food and Beverage Options
Guests can access several free food and beverage options throughout the parks. Water is available at no cost in multiple formats. Water fountains throughout the parks provide free access to drinking water. Additionally, any counter-service restaurant will provide free cups of ice water upon request. While the cups are typically small, guests can request multiple cups. Some locations may accommodate requests for larger cups, though this is not guaranteed. It is recommended to ask for water whenever ordering food to stay hydrated without incurring additional costs.
For guests celebrating a birthday, complimentary desserts are available at table-service locations. To receive this freebie, guests should inform the staff that they are celebrating a birthday. The dessert is typically presented with special birthday recognition.
Souvenirs and Keepsakes
There are several free physical items guests can collect. Maps and celebration buttons are available at no cost. These can be picked up at City Hall or various shops around the parks. Celebration buttons include options for birthdays and anniversaries. Wearing these buttons often results in congratulations from cast members and other guests, and it may also lead to the free birthday dessert mentioned earlier.
Cast members frequently distribute free stickers throughout the resort. Most janitorial cast members, identifiable by their all-white uniforms while sweeping, are happy to provide stickers. Additionally, cast members conducting surveys often have stickers available for those who complete them. One guest reported receiving a handwritten message from a character (specifically Groot) from a messenger named Molly in Disney California Adventure. Another guest mentioned receiving a "citation" from a policeman in Disney California Adventure, which they considered a cute freebie to keep. Guests can also request a map of the Jungle Cruise from the cast member at the exit or the skipper.
Photo Opportunities
Photographers stationed throughout the parks will take photos of guests using their personal cameras or phones at no cost. These photographers, known as PhotoPass cast members, are staged at iconic locations such as in front of the castle and other "sweet spots" throughout the parks. They will take photos of the entire group. This service is distinct from the paid Disney PhotoPass service, though guests can also utilize the free Disney MaxPass perk to access digital downloads of photos taken by Disney photographers.
On select attractions, including Space Mountain, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!, Incredicoaster, and Radiator Springs Racers, ride photos are taken automatically. Guests can take a photo of the on-ride photo display screen and then type in the provided code to pull up a higher-resolution download via the Disneyland app. On Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, guests can email their photo for free.
Convenience Services
Disneyland offers several free services to enhance guest convenience. A free package check service allows visitors to have their purchases held at select locations while they continue enjoying the parks. This prevents the need to carry bags all day. Participating locations include: - Stroller Rental area in the esplanade - The Star Trader (Disneyland Park) - Port Royal Curios & Curiosities (Disneyland Park) - Pioneer Mercantile (Disneyland Park) - Elias & Co. (Disney California Adventure) - Sarge’s Surplus Hut (Disney California Adventure) - Avengers Vault (Disney California Adventure)
To use this service, guests must have the receipt for the item, and the item may not be a limited edition run.
For guests with vehicles, an air pump is available in the esplanade, located next to the building where stroller, wheelchair, and ECV rentals are located outside the Disneyland Park main gate.
At Grizzly River Run in Disney California Adventure, lockers are available for free for up to two hours. These lockers are intended for guests to keep possessions dry while riding, but they can be used for any short-term storage need. They are located next to the giant grizzly bear statue at the ride entrance.
Sign-Up and Participation Opportunities
Queue Management and Ride Access
Disneyland offers free programs to manage wait times and accommodate families with young children. FASTPASSES remain free with admission (separate from the paid Disney MaxPass service). These allow guests to reserve a spot in line for a specific ride and return during a designated time window, minimizing wait times.
For families with children who cannot ride certain attractions due to height restrictions or fear, the Rider Switch program is available. This service allows one adult to wait with the non-riding child while the other adult rides, and then they can switch without waiting in the full line again. To obtain a Rider Switch pass, guests approach a cast member at the entrance to the ride with the small child in tow. This is available for popular attractions like Space Mountain.
Special Events and Activities
Occasionally, special free programs are available. The "Get Up & Go Power Walk" program happens every morning at 6:00 am at the Grand Californian. While this requires a small fee (noted as cheaper than a runDisney event), it offers a structured activity in the morning.
On Mother's Day, Disneyland hands out complimentary carnation flowers when entering both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. Due to limited quantities, these typically run out by mid-morning, so early arrival is recommended.
Digital Sign-Ups and Apps
While not a physical sample, guests can download free apps to enhance their experience. The official Disneyland app provides accurate wait times, show times, and character meet-and-greet locations. The Play Disney Parks app allows guests to interact with certain areas (like Galaxy's Edge) and play games while waiting in lines.
Complimentary Experiences
Entertainment
All parades, shows, and live entertainment are included with admission. This includes major productions like Frozen at the Hyperion Theater in Disney California Adventure (though note that as of 2022, this show had not returned, though there were rumors of a new show coming to the Hyperion).
Unique Ride Experiences
There are hidden complimentary experiences available on certain transportation attractions. On the Disneyland Railroad, there are two Tender Seats located directly behind each train engine. This offers a unique view and interaction with the conductors. While not always available, guests can ask a cast member at the station about riding in these seats.
Similarly, guests can ride in the nose cone at the front of the Disneyland Monorail for a unique view of the resort during the loop.
Viewing Opportunities
Guests can watch the Disneyland Fireworks for free from outside the park. The Esplanade, the area between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, offers a decent view of the fireworks. Guests seated in this area can hear some of the show audio and see the fireworks without entering the parks.
Complimentary Policies
Food and Drink Policies
Guests are permitted to bring their own food and drinks into the parks. This "sack lunch" policy allows guests to bring snacks, sandwiches (such as uncrustables), bottled drinks, and even leftovers stored in coolers. This is a significant freebie for families looking to save on dining costs.
Child Admission and Dining
Children under the age of 3 can enter the parks for free without requiring a ticket. Furthermore, dining at any buffet restaurant, including character dining experiences, is free for children under 3. This applies to all buffet locations at the Disneyland Resort.
Item Replacement
If a souvenir breaks or a food item (like an ice cream cone) is dropped, it may be replaced for free. Guests should keep receipts to support these requests.
Conclusion
The Disneyland Resort provides numerous complimentary items, services, and experiences beyond the cost of admission. From free water and birthday desserts to unique ride experiences and package storage, guests can significantly enhance their visit by taking advantage of these offerings. Active participation—such as asking cast members about specific opportunities, signing up for celebration buttons, and utilizing free apps—unlocks the full range of available freebies. By knowing what is available and where to find it, visitors can enjoy a more comfortable and magical experience while managing their budget.