Did you know that you can walk in Walt’s Footsteps at Disneyland? While Disneyland is known as the Happiest Place on Earth for many, it all began with one man and his vision. From there, it evolved into a theme park where generations of families would visit over the test of time. For families of all ages, Disneyland is timeless. And for guests like me, who are great fans of Disneyland, there is a Disneyland tour called Walk in Walt’s Footsteps. During the tour, guests can learn more about Walt Disney himself, and the history behind Disneyland. But, the tickets to this Disneyland tour aren’t cheap, and for many, the additional expense could cause guests to think twice. I finally had the opportunity to experience the tour firsthand. Read on to find out why I think it’s worth it to walk in Walt’s footsteps at Disneyland!
Wondering whether the Walk in Walt’s Footsteps Disneyland Tour is worth it? Read on to find out more!
Why it’s Worth it to Walk in Walt’s Footsteps at Disneyland
Prior to my family’s last trip to Disneyland, taking the Walk in Walt’s Footsteps at Disneyland tour had been on my list for a long time. My husband was getting tired of hearing me talk about it every time we planned a trip to Disneyland. I felt guilty. Tickets aren’t cheap and they aren’t included in the price of general admission. So I kept nixing it from our planned visits. I knew my husband would enjoy the tour, but my preschool aged son was a whole other story.
It all changed one year in April. As a birthday gift to myself, I decided to finally sign up for the tour. As a Disney Visa member, I receive tickets at a discounted price. My mom also traveled with us, and she was on board with taking the tour with me. We booked the tour on our last day at the park while my husband took my son to Toon Town and some of the rides in Fantasyland.
Happy Birthday to me! My gift? A ticket to the Walk in Walt’s Footsteps at Disneyland tour.
Is it worth it to take the Walk in Walt’s Footsteps at Disneyland tour? For my mom and me, it was absolutely worth it. Not only am I glad that I had the opportunity to finally take the tour, but I’m glad I took the tour with my mom, who loves Disneyland as much as I do.
My love for Disneyland, and large sunglasses, began at a young age thanks to my mom.
Mini Disneyland VIP Tour
The Walk in Walt’s Footsteps at Disneyland tour is basically a mini Disneyland VIP tour. Two tours per day and approximately 15 people in each tour group equaled more personalized attention to each guest. Added bonus…when my mom and I checked in at the designated location, we were handed collector’s pins personalized with our names. It’s a great way to build guests’ excitement for the next three hours. It’s also a great memento to bring back home.
One reason why it’s worth it take the Walk in Walt’s Footsteps at Disneyland tour is because it’s like a mini Disneyland VIP tour.
When you book the tour, a cast member will tell you that the itinerary is not guaranteed. This may cause you to rethink your decision. But it all worked out as most guests experience at least two rides in Disneyland Park without having to wait in line. This is when you get to feel like a VIP but without the additional cost.
Our two rides were Haunted Mansion and, to my delight, Alice in Wonderland. I hadn’t been on Alice in Wonderland for years because there is always a long line. Of course, the one time my family did get in line, the ride broke down. The Alice in Wonderland ride has a lot of meaning for me, as I remember going on this ride with my grandmother when I was very young.
The Alice in Wonderland ride at Disneyland is a long time favorite of mine.
The Story Behind Disneyland
Throughout the tour, guests learn more about Walt Disney, his family, and the significance of certain areas of the park.
For example, I had no idea how involved his brother, Roy, was in creating Disneyland. We also learned more about Walt’s wife and children. As a person who loves visiting Disneyland, it gave me more appreciation for Disneyland and all those involved in making it happen.
As a guest of the Disneyland tour, the slower pace is also appreciated. Let’s face it. It’s loud at the park and people are in a hurry to get from one place to another. The tour guide (aka cast member) starts at the front of the park first, where guests are officially welcomed. Because of the park’s noise level, we were provided with audioguides so that we could hear our guide talking.
Are you planning a Disney vacation to California and wondering if the Walk in Walt’s Footsteps Disneyland Tour is worth it?
Pixie Dust Surprises
During our visit, the tour included a visit to the Dream Suite, which is located above Pirates of the Caribbean. What, you’ve never heard of the Dream Suite? It was originally planned as a private apartment for Walt Disney to entertain special guests, but he passed away before it could be completed. Every part of the Suite is beautifully designed and full of surprises. A stay in the Dream Suite was included in The Year of a Million Dreams giveaways. And yes it is that awesome!
Getting ready to see the Dream Suite!
This was definitely the highlight of the tour, but please note that this is not guaranteed. If you are allowed to tour the Dream Suite, you can only have one photo taken while inside. The Dream Suite is magical, and could easily be an attraction of its own.
Mid-Day Meal and Refreshments
The tour ends in time for a mid-day meal and a refreshment, which is included in the cost of the tour. We ate at Jolly Holliday Bakery, where I enjoyed a deli-type sandwich and a Mickey Mouse sprinkled cookie.
This particular Disneyland tour includes a mid-day meal and a snack.
Know Before You Go
The tour is a little too long, and guests end up walking back and forth to some of the same locations. For younger children and some grandparents, it may get tiring very easily.
Unfortunately, neither rides nor a visit to the Dream Suite is guaranteed. If that’s the only reason you want to take the tour, then that’s something you should consider.
And finally, this tour is geared more for older children and adults. My preschool aged son would not have done well on the tour.
However, for this Disney fan, it is well worth the money to walk in Walt’s footsteps at Disneyland.
P.S. I love you, Mom.
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Are you looking for a fun Disneyland tour during your Disney vacation? Here are reasons why it’s worth it to Walk in Walt’s Footsteps at Disneyland.
Loved this article very very much.
What an adorable photo of you and your mom!
I had never even heard of this tour, despite having visited Disneyland several times. Interesting post.