Summer Magic at Disneyland

June 2024: Summer Magic at Disneyland – Tips for an Unforgettable Family Trip

Summer is here, and that means peak season at Disneyland Resort in California! Many Arizona families hit the road or sky for a vacation at the Happiest Place on Earth once school’s out. June 2024 is a fantastic time to visit Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, with long park hours, warm evenings, and a slate of entertainment running nightly. Whether you’re a first-timer or a Disney veteran, we’ve got tips and highlights to make your summer Disneyland trip truly magical.

What’s New & Must-See in Summer 2024

Even if you’ve been to Disneyland before, there’s always something new or special happening. Here are some attractions and experiences to put on your list:

• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway: One of Disneyland Park’s newest rides (opened in 2023 in Mickey’s Toontown), this zany family-friendly attraction pulls you into a cartoon adventure with Mickey and Minnie. It’s trackless, whimsical, and fun for all ages. The Toontown area was also recently refurbished, offering a refreshed play space for kids and interactive fountains and games – worth checking out while you’re there.
• Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: If you haven’t visited since pre-2020, Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland will blow you away. Pilot the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run or face the First Order on Rise of the Resistance (arguably Disney’s most impressive ride ever, with mind-blowing tech and immersion). New for 2024, characters from The Mandalorian (yes, Mando and little Grogu!) now roam Batuu – keep an eye out, they make surprise appearances to fans’ delight.
• Avengers Campus: Over at Disney California Adventure, superhero fans should swing into the Avengers Campus. Team up with Spidey on WEB Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure (a 3D ride where you actually sling virtual webs with your arm movements) and feel the rush on Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! (a free-fall tower with a rockin’ soundtrack). Characters like Iron Man, Captain America, and Black Panther often greet guests or stage impromptu fight shows on the rooftop – you might catch Spider-Man flipping through the air!
• Nighttime Spectaculars: Summer means the return of Disneyland’s famous night shows. Fireworks burst over Sleeping Beauty Castle most nights, usually paired with projections and music (“Wondrous Journeys,” a 100th anniversary-themed show, has been a hit). Over in California Adventure, World of Color dazzles crowds as fountains, lasers, and projections bring Disney scenes to life on a curtain of water – truly a must-see. Pro tip: use the virtual queue in the Disneyland app for World of Color in the morning to secure a good viewing spot (or book a dining package). And if Fantasmic (the riverside show) returns by Summer 2024, try to catch that in Disneyland, too – it’s incredible, but check status as it was on hiatus for refurbishments.
• Summer Seasonal Fun: Disneyland sometimes offers summer-only entertainment or celebrations. For example, past summers have featured the “Pixar Pals Dance Party” or special characters coming out. June is also Pride Month, and in recent years Disneyland has offered Pride Nite after-hours events (ticketed separately) and Pride-themed merch and treats during the day. Keep an eye out for any limited-time parades or events in June.

Summer Strategies: How to Beat the Crowds and Heat

With great summer fun comes great crowds. But fear not – a little planning goes a long way:

• Start Early (or Stay Late): Disneyland parks typically open by 8:00 a.m. in summer (sometimes earlier). The first two hours of the day are golden – cooler temps and shorter lines as many folks arrive later. Conversely, if you’re a night owl, stick around until closing; crowds thin after the fireworks. During summer, Disneyland Park might stay open until midnight, California Adventure until 10 or 11 p.m. Take advantage of those lower crowd times at rope-drop or late night.
• Use Genie+ and Lightning Lane: Disney’s Genie+ service (paid) lets you skip the longer standby lines on many popular rides by booking one Lightning Lane at a time throughout the day. It can be a worthwhile splurge on a crowded summer day to maximize rides. For the very top-tier rides (like Rise of the Resistance or the new Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway), Disney may offer Individual Lightning Lane purchases – basically pay-per-ride front-of-line access. If it’s a bucket list ride and you want to save 2+ hours of waiting, it’s an option to consider. (Also, use the free Genie itinerary tool in the app for tips – even if you don’t buy Genie+, it can suggest good times to hit shorter lines.)
• Mobile Order Food: Summer crowds mean food lines, but you can save time by ordering meals and snacks from your phone. The Disneyland app’s Mobile Order feature lets you choose a pickup window at most quick-service restaurants. Order a Dole Whip, chicken tenders, or a Ronto Wrap in advance, then just grab it from the mobile order counter without waiting in the regular line. It’s a game-changer, especially when you’ve got hungry kids in tow. Just remember to order a bit ahead of when you actually want to eat, since prime meal times fill up windows.
• Beat the Heat: June days can be warm (highs in the 80s or 90s°F), though not as scorching as Arizona. Still, plan for an afternoon rest when the sun is strongest. Enjoy indoor attractions during 1–4 p.m. to stay cool – great choices are “it’s a small world,” Pirates of the Caribbean, The Enchanted Tiki Room (grab a Dole Whip and enjoy the show), or catching a showing of the Frozen musical at California Adventure’s air-conditioned Hyperion Theater. You can also retreat to your hotel for a swim or nap and come back refreshed in the evening. And hydrate! Carry water bottles; there are filling stations and cups of ice water are free at quick-service eateries.
• Parade & Show Hacks: The afternoon Magic Happens parade (if running) or any character cavalcades are delightful but require staking out a curb spot. One strategy: have a member of your group secure a parade spot 30-45 minutes early while others do a nearby ride or grab snacks, then swap. For fireworks, you can snag a spot in front of the castle or along Main Street early… or avoid the throng and watch from afar. Main Street’s projections are beautiful and you’ll see most fireworks from there without having to camp out super early. In California Adventure, World of Color viewing is best from Pixar Pier (with a reservation as mentioned, or try the standby viewing areas on either side of the bay).

More Tips for a Magical Visit

• Park Hopper Benefits: If you have a Park Hopper ticket, you can switch between Disneyland Park and California Adventure starting at 11 a.m. (as of 2024). This is great for flexibility – you could spend the morning in Disneyland, hop over for a late lunch and afternoon in California Adventure, then return to Disneyland for night entertainment. The parks are a 5-minute walk apart, so hopping is super easy. It’s definitely worth it if you want to maximize experiences in both parks in one day.
• Capture the Moments: Consider buying Disney’s PhotoPass service for a day (or it’s included if you purchase Genie+). There are PhotoPass photographers around the parks ready to snap your family in front of iconic spots like Sleeping Beauty Castle or the Millennium Falcon, and those photos are high quality. They’ll also add fun Magic Shots (like Tinkerbell in your hand, or Stitch popping out of the ground). It’s nice to have everyone in the picture for a change! Alternatively, don’t be shy about asking a friendly cast member or fellow guest to take a quick group photo with your phone.
• Enjoy Seasonal Treats: Summer might not have as many themed treats as Halloween or Christmas, but Disneyland always has seasonal goodies. Check Jolly Holiday Bakery for a special cupcake or the Tropical Hideaway for a limited mango Dole whip. And classics are classics for a reason – a churro or Mickey-shaped ice cream bar on a warm June afternoon is pure happiness.
• Plan a Rest Day (or Lighter Day): If you’re in SoCal for several days, consider not doing parks back-to-back nonstop. Disneyland days are amazing but can be exhausting. Maybe spend a day at the beach or hanging by your hotel pool in between park days. That way everyone recharges (and sunburns have a day to heal – wear that sunscreen!). If a full rest day isn’t an option, make one of your Disney days a shorter one: sleep in, enjoy a nice brunch in Downtown Disney, and enter the parks in late afternoon to stay until closing. Sometimes starting late can refresh you for a late-night finish.

A summer trip to Disneyland is a rite of passage for many Arizona families – a chance to escape into a world of imagination and make lifelong memories. With a bit of planning and a dash of Disney magic, June 2024 could be your best Disneyland vacation yet. So pack your Mickey ears, slather on some sunscreen, and get ready for adventure! 

And be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook – we’ll be sharing our favorite Disneyland tips, photos, and maybe a few nostalgic throwbacks all summer long. See ya real soon! 🌟

Our Partner Travel Advisor @adventures_with_snacks specialize in crafting unforgettable Disneyland experiences tailored to your unique preferences and interests. 

Unveil Phoenix's Dark Secrets With a Haunted Pub or True-Crime Ghost Tour

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Spirit of Arizona Tours

Ready to uncover hidden stories and mysteries lurking in the shadows of Phoenix? Book a tour with Spirit of Arizona Tours and embark on a journey through the city's underbelly, exploring its darker side like never before. From past crimes to eerie ghost sightings, prepare to be captivated by the chilling tales and haunting history of Phoenix, Arizona.

Phoenix Haunted Pub Ghost Tour Operated by: Spirit of Arizona Tours - approx 3 hours (21+ Only)

Skip the usual history tours for this spooky version and explore some of Phoenix’s most haunted pubs and historic buildings where there will be spirits no matter if the ghosts show. Meet your historian guide just north of downtown Phoenix and visit the city underbelly from haunted pubs to seedy hotels while listening to stories about the city’s true-crime along the way. A small-group haunted history tour in Phoenix where you visit haunted pubs and hotels with colorful reputations.

• George and Dragon English Pub
• The Clarendon Hotel and Spa
• San Carlos

Phoenix Murders and Mysteries Ghost Tour Operated by: Spirit of Arizona Tours - approx 2-3 hours

Book this small group tour to learn about the underbelly of Phoenix and its darker side. Your guide will explain the past crimes of the area, show you pictures, and might just scare you a little bit. Easily meet your guide at the departure point, and get ready to begin your tour. Learn all about the murders, mysteries, and ghosts on this tour.

• Rosson House Museum 
• Orpheum Theatre 
• Union Station 
• Hotel San Carlos 
• Pioneer and Military Memorial Park 
• Maricopa County Justice Museum and Learning Center 

Join expert historian guides as they lead you on a tour of Phoenix's haunted pubs, seedy hotels, and crime-ridden streets. Learn about the city's past crimes, scandals, and ghostly encounters as you explore haunted hotspots and historic buildings. With pictures and stories that might just send shivers down your spine, these tours offers a unique glimpse into Phoenix's darker side.

Throughout the tour, your guide will regale you with tales of murders, mysteries, and ghostly apparitions that haunt the streets of Phoenix. From notorious criminals to restless spirits, discover the secrets that have been buried beneath the city's surface for centuries. Keep your eyes peeled and your wits about you—you never know what you might encounter on this thrilling adventure.

Explore the Hauntingly Spectacular with Our Unique Travel Agency!

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Haunted Hotels, Ghost Tours & Thrilling Destinations

Are you ready for an adventure that sends shivers down your spine and leaves you breathless with excitement? Look no further! Welcome to @travel.attractions.and.events Travel Agency, where we specialize in crafting unforgettable journeys to haunted hotels, spine-tingling ghost tours, and thrilling destinations like Las Vegas, Disneyland, and Universal Studios Hollywood.

Embrace the Supernatural at Haunted Hotels

Dare to spend a night in the company of ghosts and spirits? Our curated selection of haunted hotels offers an experience like no other. Whether you seek a historic inn with a spectral presence or a grand mansion steeped in mystery, we have the perfect destination to satisfy your ghostly curiosity.

From the chilling tales of the Stanley Hotel to the eerie ambiance of the Queen Mary, our haunted hotel packages promise an unforgettable blend of history, mystery, and the supernatural.

I will book you in Haunted Hotels like these, where every creak of the floorboards and flicker of the lights adds to the excitement!

Ghost Tours: Unveiling the Spirits of the Past

Embark on a journey through the shadows of history with spine-tingling ghost tours. Led by knowledgeable guides well-versed in the tales of the supernatural, these tours will take you to the heart of haunted locales, where history and mystery intertwine.

I'll find you tours like this one in Phoenix, Arizona: Phoenix History, Mystery and Ghost Hunting Tour, where you can explore dimly lit streets, ancient graveyards, and abandoned buildings as you uncover the secrets of the past.

Vegas: Roll the Dice and Experience Vegas

Escape to the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas, where the glitz and glamour of the Strip allow you to indulge in world-class entertainment, tantalizing cuisine, and exhilarating nightlife. And if it intrigues you, perhaps a touch of the supernatural—from haunted casino legends to eerie urban myths—Vegas is a city with secrets waiting to be discovered.

Universal Studios Hollywood: Where Horror Comes to Life

Step into the world of movie magic and immerse yourself in the excitement of Universal Studios Hollywood. From pulse-pounding thrill rides to behind-the-scenes tours and encounters with your favorite movie characters, Universal Studios offers an unforgettable experience for movie lovers and thrill seekers alike.

Additionally, this is the home of Halloween Horror Nights (HHN), where iconic horror movies come to life before your very eyes. From spine-chilling mazes and terrifying encounters with your favorite monsters, Universal Studios is a playground for horror enthusiasts.

Disneyland: Your Disneyland Adventure Starts Here

Step into a world where fantasy becomes reality and enchantment knows no bounds. Disneyland is more than just a theme park—it's a place where dreams come true for visitors of all ages. From iconic attractions like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean to beloved characters like Mickey Mouse and Cinderella, Disneyland offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Our Partner Travel Advisor @adventures_with_snacks specializes in crafting unforgettable Disneyland experiences tailored to your unique preferences and interests.

Book Your Supernatural Adventure Today!

Ready to embark on a journey into the unknown? Contact us here to book your haunted hotel stay, ghost tour, or thrilling getaway to Las Vegas, Disneyland, or Universal Studios Hollywood. With our expertise and passion for the supernatural, we'll ensure your adventure is nothing short of extraordinary.

Phoenix Fan Fusion – Arizona’s Ultimate Pop Culture Party

May 2024: Phoenix Fan Fusion – Arizona’s Ultimate Pop Culture Party

Grab your capes and lightsabers – Phoenix Fan Fusion 2024 is on its way! Formerly known as Phoenix Comic Con, this is Arizona’s biggest pop culture convention, bringing together fans of comics, sci-fi, fantasy, anime, gaming, and more. May in Phoenix heats up with thousands of cosplayers and enthusiasts flocking downtown for a long weekend of fandom fun. If you’re a comic book collector, movie/TV buff, gamer, or just love a good cosplay, you won’t want to miss this event.

When & Where: Memorial Day Weekend in Downtown Phoenix

When: Phoenix Fan Fusion 2024 is scheduled for May 24–26, 2024 (Friday through Sunday of Memorial Day weekend). It’s three packed days of programming. Typically, doors open in the morning (around 10 a.m.) each day, with events often running into the evening. (In past years, they’ve had special Thursday night events or preview nights – keep an eye on official announcements for any extras.)

Where: The Phoenix Convention Center (100 N. 3rd St, Phoenix) is the hub of all the action, spanning multiple floors of the North and West buildings. The Convention Center is conveniently located in Downtown Phoenix, walking distance from hotels, restaurants, and the light rail. There will be tens of thousands of people, so expect downtown to be buzzing! Parking can fill up – consider taking the light rail or a rideshare to avoid hunting for a spot.

What to Expect: Fandoms Unite!

Phoenix Fan Fusion truly has something for every kind of fan. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:

• Celebrity Guests & Panels: Each year, Fan Fusion brings in actors from popular movies and TV shows, voice actors from beloved animations and games, bestselling authors, and comic book artists and writers. You can attend Q&A panels where stars discuss behind-the-scenes stories and answer fan questions. Past guests have included actors from Star Trek, Star Wars, Doctor Who, Game of Thrones, and many more. 2024’s lineup hasn’t been fully announced yet, but you can bet it’ll feature some exciting names. Beyond Q&As, you can purchase autograph and photo-op sessions (for a fee) to meet your favorites one-on-one – a priceless memory for mega-fans.
• Cosplay Galore: Costumes are everywhere! Many attendees come dressed as their favorite characters – from superheroes like Wonder Woman and Spider-Man, to anime characters, horror film icons, video game heroes, and creative mash-ups. You’ll see incredibly detailed professional-level cosplays and plenty of fun, casual ones too. Don’t be shy – dressing up is welcome (just check the rules on prop weapons). There’s usually a cosplay masquerade/contest where top cosplayers compete on stage, showing off mind-blowing costumes that took months to make. Even if you don’t cosplay yourself, the people-watching is amazing. Feel free to politely ask cosplayers for photos – most are happy to pose (it’s part of the fun!).
• Exhibitor Hall & Artist Alley: Bring your shopping list – the exhibitor hall is a geeky shopper’s paradise. Imagine rows of vendors selling comics (new and vintage), graphic novels, collectibles, Funko Pops, costumes, artwork, posters, T-shirts, Japanese snacks, retro games, and so much more. Major retailers and local shops alike set up booths with convention specials. And then there’s Artist Alley, where you can meet hundreds of talented artists and indie creators. It’s a great place to buy unique art prints, handcrafted jewelry, fandom-inspired soap or candles, and custom commissions. Love a specific obscure character? Chances are you can find a sticker or print of them made by an artist here.
• Panels, Workshops & Activities: Beyond celebrity talks, the con hosts hundreds of fan-led panels and workshops. These range from discussions (“The Science of Superheroes” or “Star Wars vs. Star Trek Debate”) to workshops (learning to foam-smith armor, how to get into voice acting) to game shows and trivia contests. There are also dedicated gaming areas: tabletop gaming rooms where you can drop in on a D&D session or play board games, and video game tournaments featuring everything from Super Smash Bros to classic arcade games. Don’t forget the Anime music video screenings, the themed dance party (often there’s an 18+ Friday or Saturday night rave for those who want to dance in cosplay), and kids’ activity zones for young fans. There truly is always something to do.
• Pop Culture Joy Everywhere: The whole atmosphere is one of excitement and inclusion. You’ll see families with kids in matching costumes, groups of friends geeking out over the latest Marvel trailer in the hallway, spontaneous lightsaber duels, and maybe even the Ghostbusters car or the Batmobile parked for photo ops. Make sure to swing by the official Fan Fusion merch booth for a souvenir shirt or pin to commemorate the event. And stay hydrated – late May can be hot, and with the crowds and walking you’ll want your water bottle (there are water fountains to refill).

Tips for First-Timers (and Veterans!)

• Badges (Tickets): Purchase your membership badge online ahead of time. Single-day and full-event passes are offered. Buying early not only saves a bit of money but also helps you skip the long ticket lines on site. Kids 12 and under often get in free with a paying adult (check the policy for 2024). Once you have your badge, wear it visibly at all times – it’s your entry in and out of the con.
• Plan Your Schedule: The sheer amount of programming can be overwhelming (in a good way). As Fan Fusion approaches, they’ll release a schedule on their website or app. Take some time to mark anything you really want to catch – maybe that panel with the cast of your favorite show, or the big cosplay contest, or a workshop you’re interested in. Some popular panels will have lines, so get there early. But also allow for flexibility; sometimes the best experiences are the unexpected ones (like stumbling on a hilarious improv Star Wars reading panel and just sitting down to enjoy).
• Parking & Getting There: Downtown Phoenix will be busy. If you must drive, plan for parking costs (many garages nearby have event rates). Better, use the Valley Metro Light Rail – it stops just a couple blocks from the convention center (Washington/3rd St or Jefferson/3rd St stations) and you won’t have to worry about parking at all. If you’re staying at a hotel, even better – you can walk.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are a must. You’ll be on your feet and walking a lot. A backpack is handy for carrying your loot, snacks, water, and essentials. Pack portable snacks (granola bars, etc.) to avoid always buying food inside – though do treat yourself to something fun from the vendors or nearby food trucks at least once. Don’t forget external battery pack for your phone; you’ll be taking tons of photos and the last thing you want is a dead phone when you meet that celeb or see an amazing cosplay.
• Costume Comfort: If you cosplay, that’s awesome! Just remember to plan for comfort – wear breathable layers if possible and shoes you can tolerate. There are cosplay repair stations if your costume needs a quick fix. And respect others’ costumes too – always ask before touching or taking detailed photos of someone.
• Stay Hydrated & Rested: Phoenix can be in the 90s°F in late May. Even though you’ll be mostly indoors, the crowds can make it warm. Drink water throughout the day. There are quiet rooms and spots to sit – take a breather if you feel overwhelmed. This event is a marathon, not a sprint, and some attendees try to do all three days (or as much as possible). Pace yourself and listen to your body so you don’t burn out on Day 1.

Phoenix Fan Fusion is the ultimate celebration of creativity and imagination in the Southwest. Whether you’re hunting for that rare comic issue, eager to hear behind-the-scenes stories from your favorite show, or just love people-watching the incredible costumes, this convention promises an unforgettable experience. So suit up, assemble your fan crew, and get ready for a weekend of pure geeky joy. And don’t forget – we’ll be on site snapping pics and sharing live updates on our social media. 

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for con coverage and maybe catch us in costume too. See you there, super-fans!