Is Disneyland Still Worth the Money in 2023?
If you are looking at the prices for Disneyland tickets, it is understandable to start to wonder if the park is really worth all that money.
Well, whether Disneyland is worth the money depends on your personal preference. Disneyland has a lot of great attractions, and many people consider Disney’s parks to be some of the best in the world. However, when compared to other amusement parks, Disneyland is quite expensive.
What’s so Great About Disneyland Anyway?
Like I said above, if you are looking at Disneyland’s prices, you might start thinking it’s not worth the money.
And, of course, whether Disneyland is “worth the money” really depends on your family’s preferences.
But, there are certain aspects that make Disneyland stand out from other theme parks in the US and the world.
The Characters
Since Disneyland opened, one of its biggest draws is the characters that you will be able to see there.
Children will absolutely love seeing their favorite characters walking around the park, and adults will be amazed at the work that goes into turning an employee into a real-life Disney star.
Plus, Disneyland’s characters get plenty of training to teach them how to embody their character and how to make children feel special.
And it’s really all the effort that goes into creating the characters that makes Disneyland different from other parks.
In fact, many people say that one of their favorite childhood memories was getting the chance to meet the characters they loved so much.
Parades and Shows
While many amusement parks do put on parades and shows, not many have the money and expertise to make them as fabulous as Disney’s.
Disneyland gives guests a wide variety of live entertainment options, and there’s almost always something to go and watch.
Rides for Everyone
Although many amusement parks have rides for all ages, it’s hard to beat the sheer amount and diversity that Disneyland offers.
California’s Disneyland Park is the fourth-largest amusement park in the world and the third-largest Disney park after Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World.
With more than 3,000 acres, Disneyland has big and scary rides, like Haunted Mansion and Incredicoaster, as well as toddler and baby-friendly adventures, such as The Enchanted Tiki Room.
Photo Opportunities
There’s probably no other park in the world with as many opportunities for photos as Disneyland.
With tons of characters, shows, and rides, it is incredibly easy to get perfect family photos at the park.
Disneyland even offers a PhotoPass, where you can choose from the piles of pictures that photographers will take of you and your family while you’re in the resort.
Is Disneyland More Expensive Than it Used to Be?
If Disneyland tickets seem less affordable now than when you went with your family as a kid, that’s because they are.
In October 1981, a one-day ticket to Disneyland cost $9.50, which would be about $30 in 2023 dollars.
However, a one-day Disneyland ticket now costs between $98 and $164, depending on which ticket tier you buy and whether you are buying for a child or adult.
How Much Is the Average Amusement Park Ticket?
In the United States, the average cost of a one-day amusement park ticket is between $50 and $70.
Thus, Disneyland tickets are quite a bit more expensive than the average amusement park ticket and, in some cases, cost more than twice as much.
Other Southern California Amusement Parks
If you’re taking a trip to Southern California but aren’t sure if Disneyland is the right decision for your family, why not take a look at some of the other amusement parks in the area.
Universal Studios Hollywood (Universal City)
Often considered one of the must-visit attractions of Southern California, Universal Studios Hollywood has tons of rides that center around movies, like Despicable Me and Jurassic World.
The studio tour is also a favorite among visitors.
Universal Studios’ one-day tickets are similar in price to Disneyland’s at $104-$125.
Knott’s Berry Farm (Buena Park)
With great rides and even greater food, Knott’s Berry Farm has been a staple of Southern California for decades.
With four distinct regions, including The Old West Ghost Town and Camp Snoopy, Knott’s Berry Farm is an excellent place to experience some fantastic thrills while soaking in California’s history and culture.
Plus, Knott’s Berry Farm is a cheaper option than Disneyland since a one-day ticket will only cost about $70.
Six Flags Magic Mountain (Valencia)
Probably the best park in California for thrill-seekers, Six Flags Magic Mountain is great for teenagers and adults.
In typical Six Flags fashion, the park contains tons of great rollercoasters and other rides bound to make you dizzy for more.
And a standard Six Flags Magic Mountain ticket is as low as $65.
Legoland California Resort (Carlsbad)
Located north of San Diego, Legoland is a perfect place for Lego lovers to experience some of the greatest block creations ever made.
The park also has lots of small rides that make it ideal for families with young kids.
Typically, a one-day ticket to the resort’s theme park will set you back about $90.
Pacific Park (Santa Monica)
Seated right on Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park is a fairground-style amusement park overlooking Santa Monica Bay.
The ultimate park to visit if you are looking for lots to do in one place, Pacific Park is right next to the beach, an aquarium, shops, and restaurants.
But, the best part is that getting into Pacific Park is free.
Instead, you pay for each attraction as you explore the grounds.
Is Disneyland Worth it if I’ve Already Been to Disney World?
Well, this question is a bit difficult to answer because it really depends on how much you and your family enjoy Disney.
And you should also keep in mind that, although Disneyland and Disney World have quite a bit in common, they are completely different resorts, with each having its own unique qualities.
Conclusion
Yes, Disneyland is more expensive than it used to be.
In fact, adjusting for inflation, tickets are about three times more expensive than they were 40 years ago.
However, Disneyland holds lots of exceptional experiences, and they maintain an attention to detail that you can’t really find anywhere else.
