Disneyland California

For children and adults who are still young at heart, the Disney cartoon characters are like friends they have grown up with. Walt Disney brought us Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy. We all enjoyed Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Pinocchio, Jungle Book and so much more. Uncle Walt had a vision of expanding his entertainment empire beyond the silver screen. His idea for a theme park was inspired and Disneyland California was born. It opened in 1955 at a cost of $17 million and it's the second most popular park in the world, only beaten by Disneyland Florida, which started in 1971. Other parks have been added in Tokyo, France and Hong Kong.

The park is divided into various themed areas with the Sleeping Beauty Castle standing majestically in the center. Disneyland California is known as the Magic Kingdom and it's easy to see why. There may be long queues for the rides and attractions but they are more than worth it. A railroad circles the entire park, which is very popular with the kids. There are so many exciting things to do and to see; the only problem is choosing which to go for. In addition to the attractions, there are shops, restaurants, live shows, parades and fireworks displays.

Main Street USA represents a typical small town from the past and has a nostalgic appeal for older visitors. The street has a train station, general store, penny arcade, ice cream parlor and a City Hall. Tomorrowland is the opposite of Main Street and offers a glimpse into the future. It has a monorail, Star Tours and the world famous Space Mountain ride. Frontierland goes back to the past again and its attractions include a mountain railroad and a magnificent Mark Twain riverboat. Disneyland California really has something for everyone, whether you want to explore the past or the future. You can gently re-live yesteryear or experience a hair raising ride.

Fantasyland is truly magical and takes you into the world of Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland and other fantastic creations. Adventureland is one of the most popular areas, with a Jungle Cruise, Tarzan's Treehouse and an Indiana Jones adventure. If you can't bear to leave all this excitement, there are hotels to stay in within the resort. Disneyland California is more than a franchise. It's a whole world to explore and marvel in. There isn't even any need to take the kids.