Free Things to do at Disneyland
You’ve already spent a bunch of money to get into the park, now what? I have compiled a few of my favorite “free” activities and goodies.
Free Samples
Calling all Costco + Disney lovers. Did you know you can get a couple free samples at Disneyland? Both of these are found in California Adventure. Get a free piece of Boudin Sourdough Bread at the Boudin Bread tour. This can be found behind Fillmore’s Hippie tent in Cars land and before the pier.
UPDATE: As of February 2019 they no longer offer the free chocolate. I will keep tabs on if this changes. Across the way you can also score a piece of chocolate from Ghirardelli. No purchase necessary for either of these. During the holidays, they give you peppermint bark. They usually give caramel chocolate, which is awesome.
Shows
All of the shows are totally included with your park admission. Take advantage of these, you will be surprised at how talented these performers are. Disney goes all out for these. Lately I have been super into the Frozen show at the Hyperion theater. Broadway production without the price tag (well, okay...there is a price: park admission).
Animation Academy
Learn how to draw from a real Disney Artist! This is the building I used to work in, so I’m a little biased, but this is one of the coolest activities at Disneyland hands down. This activity is in California Adventure at the Animation Building in Hollywood Land. You get to take your artwork home, which is a cool souvenir! Plus, you get to take that skill home with you too! There is usually a schedule outside of the academy, so go check it out!
Seasonal Offerings
Near the pier at California Adventure, Disney does a great job bringing in cultural celebrations. With each celebration, they usually pair a craft or activity with it. This is super fun for the little ones in your group, but also the adults. I have learned a lot about Chinese New Years and Dia de los Muertos just from heading over to this little corner. During the holidays they have paper ornaments for kids (and adults) to decorate.
FastPass
The FastPass service is included with admission. Just hop over to the machines outside of participating attractions. You can get FastPasses about two hours apart or when your primary one expires. Your paper “receipt” will tell you what time you can get a new one. The initial service is free or you can upgrade to the MaxPass program for $10 a day or $70 for the year. In my opinion, it’s totally worth it, but you can skip out to save some cash.