If you live on or visit the West Coast, then you’re likely familiar with Disneyland. But there’s something about visiting the theme park during the fall that just hits differently. The cooler weather, the festive energy, and the seasonal celebrations make the Happiest Place on Earth feel even more magical.
I recently had the chance to check out Disneyland as it kicked off Fall Favorites, and let me just say, this is the perfect time to grab your crew and make it a friends trip to remember.
Fall Favorites and Halloween Time
From now through October 31, Disneyland Resort is all about Halloween Time. Expect seasonal décor, attraction overlays, and entertainment like Mickey’s Trick and Treat. Even Mickey and Minnie are getting in on the fun with special costumes inspired by Disneyland’s 70th Celebration. Add in the ongoing anniversary festivities, and this fall feels like a once-in-a-lifetime visit.
Downtown Disney is also joining in with weekly movie nights, limited-time food and drink offerings, and hotel deals (up to 20% off select stays), making it easy to turn your day trip into a full weekend with friends.
Thrills, Laughs, and Just the Right Amount of Chaos
If you have young children, Disneyland is definitely the vibe, but at Disney California Adventure Park, things get a little more grown-up and a whole lot more thrilling.
If you and your friends love adrenaline, Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark is a must. This Halloween overlay puts you in the middle of an all-out rescue mission with Rocket, tasked with saving Groot from crazed creatures loose in the Collector’s Fortress. It’s chaotic, it’s funny, and it’s guaranteed to test your courage (and your scream game). I would recommend not eating before getting in line. (IYKYK)
Don’t sleep on the Incredicoaster, either. This high-speed ride feels like a full-on workout as you whip through twists, drops, and loops. It’s pure fun with just enough of a thrill to have everyone laughing (and maybe screaming) together.
If you’re more competitive, take your squad to WEB Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure. Here, you literally get to sling webs like Spidey himself, teaming up to stop Peter Parker’s (Tom Holland) runaway Spider-Bots before they wreak havoc.
Trust me—bragging rights for the highest score will last long after you leave Avengers Campus.
And when you want to slow things down? Grizzly River Run is perfect for that balance of relaxation and fun. You’ll float along the scenic California wilderness before the ride suddenly turns into a splashing, spinning adventure. It’s the ideal cooldown ride after a long, hot day.
Eat and Sip
Who knew that Disneyland in the fall is a foodie’s dream? The Halloween menu is stacked with seasonal treats like fried corn on the cob, Cherry Cobbler Funnel Cake Fries (cinnamon sugar-dusted fries topped with cherry pie filling, vanilla ice cream, and streusel), and so much more. There are even drinks along the way to give you that extra push of excitement or liquid courage to get on the rides.
Every corner of the park has something festive to try, making it easy to snack your way through the day. Over at Plaza de la Familia in Disney California Adventure Park, guests can celebrate Día de los Muertos with vibrant décor, family activities, and a menu of authentic Mexican cuisine that feels both festive and heartfelt. It’s a cultural experience as much as a culinary one, and it runs through November 2, 2025.
Why a Friends Trip Works
Disneyland might be known for family vacations, but it’s low-key one of the best destinations for a friends getaway, especially in the fall. Whether you’re racing each other on roller coasters, sharing funnel cake fries under glowing pumpkins, or just strolling through Avengers Campus, there’s something for every type of friend in your circle—like your superhero-enthusiast friend (me), who couldn’t resist copping a real-life Mjolnir from the gift shop.
With park tickets starting at $104 per day on select dates, plus annual pass options and hotel offers, Disneyland is making it easier than ever to plan that group trip. And honestly, between the thrills, foodie finds, and pure nostalgic fun, there’s no better time to go.
So gather your crew, grab your Mickey ears, and get ready, because fall at Disneyland isn’t just magical, it’s unforgettable.
