1. Disneyland | Anaheim


It’s still the happiest—though starting to feel like the most expensive—place on earth. Say what you will about the House of Mouse; Disney's wondrous, immersive lands still provide a joyous escape for everyone from budding princesses to nostalgia buffs. Venture into the Temple of the Forbidden Eye with Indiana Jones, soar over London’s twinkling lights en route to Neverland and speed through the galaxy aboard Space Mountain’s interstellar coaster. Just don't miss Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance for a thrilling battle against the First Order.
Time Out tip: There is so much ground to cover between Disneyland Park, Disneyland California Adventure, and Downtown Disney. Even if you're a SoCal resident, it's a good idea to get a hotel room here (for naps, snacks, parking, and more). Stay at one of Disney's Good Neighbor Hotels which are nearby partner hotels offering special amenities. We love the Viv Hotel (a Marriott property) that's about a mile from Disneyland and is known for its rooftop restaurant, Top of the V. The new hotel has an adults-only pool on the 12th floor rooftop, plus a family pool, jacuzzi, and splash pad on the ground floor. The Anaheim Resort Transit (ART) shuttle comes directly to the hotel for easy access to the park, and if you request a park view room you'll have an incredible view of Disney's nightly fireworks from the comfort of your bed. There's also laundry facilities and free beach cruiser rentals.