Understanding the Two Parks

Disneyland Park

The original and larger of the two parks, Disneyland Park captures Walt Disney's classic vision with a distinctly European flair. Opened in 1992, it spans 57 hectares and features five immersive lands radiating from the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle.

The Lands:

1. Main Street, U.S.A. - Victorian-era American town - Shopping and dining hub - City Hall (Guest Relations) - First Aid station - Best photo opportunities at opening/closing

2. Frontierland - Wild West theming - Home to Big Thunder Mountain - Quieter in early morning - Wide pathways good for wheelchairs

3. Adventureland - Exotic exploration theme - Pirates of the Caribbean - Indiana Jones Temple - Can be congested during parades

4. Fantasyland - Classic fairy tales - Most attractions for young children - Sleeping Beauty Castle - Often busiest area

5. Discoveryland - Retro-futuristic design - Space Mountain - Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain - Good for thrill-seekers

Walt Disney Studios Park

Smaller but packed with unique experiences, Walt Disney Studios celebrates the magic of cinema and television. Opened in 2002, it features four distinct studio lots and is currently undergoing major expansion.

The Studio Lots:

1. Front Lot - Hollywood Boulevard entrance - Guest Relations - Shopping area - Wide, accessible pathways

2. Toon Studio - Animation celebration - Ratatouille area - Family-friendly attractions - New Avengers Campus (2022)

3. Production Courtyard - Behind-the-scenes theme - Tower of Terror - Disney Junior shows - More compact layout

4. Backlot - Action and special effects - Stunt shows - Can be very loud - Limited shade on hot days