Backside of castle with square trees

Ultimate Guide to Disneyland’s Fantasyland – Attractions, Shops, & Dining

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If there’s one part of Disneyland that is truly overflowing with Disney magic, it’s Fantasyland. From the cotton-candy pink walls and royal-blue rooftops of Sleeping Beauty Castle at the center of the park to family-friendly attractions inspired by classic Disney stories, walking through Fantasyland feels like stepping directly into a fairytale.  

But, just what does this enchanting corner of Disneyland Park have to offer? Whether scaling the snow-capped heights of the Matterhorn (and barely escaping the Abominable Snowman) or hobnobbing with your favorite Disney Princesses, read on to learn how you can unleash your dreams at Fantasyland in Disneyland. 

Fantasyland, Where Disney Fairytales Come to Life

Mr. Toad's Wild Ride

Fantasyland is a Disney Park mainstay, with a version of the fairytale land located in every Disneyland-style theme park worldwide. What can we say? People love a storybook ending. In Fantasyland, Disneyland guests can take a step out of reality and into scenes from some of Disney’s most beloved stories – and even get a taste of happily ever after. 

At the original Disneyland, Fantasyland is one of the most family-friendly parts of the park, offering up everything from easygoing attractions with no height requirement to quick-service restaurants dishing up palate-pleasing dishes even picky eaters will love.

Best of all, you can experience many of the attractions here without too long of a wait. However, if you really want to speed things along, consider upgrading your visit with Disney Genie+ and get Lightning Lane access to the Matterhorn Bobsleds and “it’s a small world.”  

What to See, Do and Eat at Disneyland’s Fantasyland

Signage for Snow White attraction

Disneyland Park’s Fantasyland is positively filled with whimsical rides, shows, restaurants and shops that are sure to have you embracing your inner storybook character, whether a fairy princess, heroic knight or zany hatmaker. So, follow us down the rabbit hole as we explore everything on offer in this fanciful part of Disneyland.

Fantasyland Rides

Disneyland has been charming guests young and old with its fantastical, family-friendly rides and storybook setting ever since it first flung open its doors back on Sunday, July 17, 1955. From still-operating opening day attractions to quintessential Disney classics to exclusive rides you can only experience at Disneyland, here’s everything available in Fantasyland. 

Alice in Wonderland

White Rabbit holding pocket watch

At Alice in Wonderland, get ready to wish a very merry unbirthday to you (and everyone else in your party). Unique to Disneyland Park, Alice in Wonderland is a two-story dark ride that traces our heroine’s journey through the wacky world of Wonderland – complete with appearances by The Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts and Tweedledee and Tweedledum – all while riding in a massive caterpillar. 

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Preschoolers, Kids, Tweens and Teens

Casey Jr. Circus Train

All aboard the Casey Jr. Circus Train for a leisurely locomotive ride past pint-sized scenes from animated Disney classics. Choo-chooing around Storybook Land in Fantasyland ever since opening day, this animated adventure styled after Dumbo is a fun way to relax your feet and soak up some nostalgia. 

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Preschoolers and Kids

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Dumbo elephant attraction

Few Fantasyland rides are more iconic or beloved by children than Dumbo the Flying Elephant. Not only is this aerial carousel so popular that you can even spot one of the attraction’s precious pachyderms in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, DC, but it’s also the only ride located at all six of Disney’s castle parks around the world. 

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Preschoolers and Kids

“it’s a small world”

Outside boat attraction with clock tower

Initially created for the 1964 New York World’s Fair before moving to its permanent home in Fantasyland, “it’s a small world” is a true Disneyland institution. Featuring a cast of 300 singing, dancing and world-peace-loving dolls, along with a theme song that also happens to be the most publicly performed tune of all time (and possibly the catchiest/most annoying), we dare you to ride without humming along. 

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: All Ages

King Arthur Carrousel

Carousel horses

From traveling carnivals to nostalgic boardwalks, merry-go-rounds have been charming riders of all ages for generations. In fact, it was a classic carousel in Los Angeles’s Griffith Park that inspired Walt Disney to build Disneyland. With a herd of horses themed after the gallant Knights of the Round Table, the King Arthur Carrousel has been around Fantasyland ever since opening day. 

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Preschoolers, Kids and Tweens 

Mad Tea Party

Celebrate your unbirthday with a spin around Fantasyland in a supersized teacup on Mad Tea Party. Located in five of Disney’s six castle theme parks worldwide, this frenetic fever dream of an attraction themed after Alice in Wonderland is sure to delight. Unless you have a weak stomach, that is – in which case, you may want to steer clear. 

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: All Ages

Matterhorn Bobsleds

Matterhorn Mountain Disneyland

Careen down a snowy mountain peak and escape the icy clutches of the Abominable Snowman on Matterhorn Bobsleds. Inspired by Walt Disney’s own trip to the Swiss Alps, this alpine adventure sends riders up an 80-foot ascent before hurtling through ominous caverns, over rocky ledges and past waterfalls of melting snow. 

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Height Restriction: At least 42” or taller

Best for: Kids, Tweens, Teens and Adults

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride

Motor over to Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride for a madcap joyride you can’t experience anywhere else. While this dapper toad and his jalopy previously held dual citizenship, with the attraction also appearing in both Southern California and Central Florida, today, you can only hop in the driver’s seat at Fantasyland in Disneyland. 

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Kids, Tweens and Adults

Peter Pan’s Flight

Lamp post with weathervane

Set sail on a flying pirate ship bound for Neverland on Peter Pan’s Flight. After gliding over the twinkling lights of London, it’s off to the second star to the right, then straight on ‘til morning. This classic dark ride is as popular today as it was when it debuted on opening day.

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Preschoolers, Kids and Tweens

Pinocchio’s Daring Journey

Follow in Pinocchio’s footsteps on Pinocchio’s Daring Journey, a nostalgic dark ride that traces his transformation from wooden puppet to real boy. Filled with twists, turns and a little help from Jiminy Cricket, you’ll break free from Stromboli’s puppet show, explore Pleasure Island and even come face to face with Monstro the whale. 

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Preschoolers, Kids and Tweens

Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough

Castle with heart fence and trees

More of a royal open house meets self-guided retelling of the Disney classic than an actual ride, the Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough is an ode to the stunning animation in the film by Eyvind Earle. Thanks to its reliably short-to-non-existent lines, it’s also a great place to go to get out of the sun and enjoy some A/C without having to wait too long. 

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Preschoolers, Kids and Tweens

Snow White’s Enchanted Wish

Previously known as Snow White’s Scary Adventure from Disneyland’s opening day until January 2020, the initial attraction put guests in the perspective of Disney’s first-ever princess, making for an occasionally confusing and even quite frightening ride. However, its recent reimagining into Snow White’s Enchanted Wish, complete with laser projections and LED black lights, now sees guests experience Snow White’s story with her by their side.

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Kids, Tweens and Adults

Storybook Land Canal Boats

Man painting handrail at attraction

For a relaxing trip down Memory Lane, you can’t beat the Storybook Land Canal Boats. Debuted on Disneyland’s opening day, this leisurely cruise takes guests past quaint scenes from classic fairytales and even through the gaping maw of Monstro the whale – just like Pinocchio. 

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Preschoolers, Kids and Tweens

Fantasyland Characters & Entertainment

Rides aren’t the only things you can experience at Fantasyland in Disneyland. It’s also home to some of the park’s more regal residents, from Disney Princesses to storytellers from the Pride Lands to Pixie Hollow’s sassiest tinker fairy. You’ll even find some merry music makers. 

Meet Disney Princesses at Royal Hall

Some of the most popular Disneyland characters to meet are the Disney Princesses. Luckily, several of them – including favorites like Cinderella, Snow White, Jasmine and Ariel – hold court right here in Fantasyland at Royal Hall in Fantasy Faire. While the lineup of visiting royalty changes, you can typically see up to three at any given time.  

Availability: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Meet Tinker Bell in Pixie Hollow

Attraction entrance for pinocchio

Wish you could have a sprinkle of pixie dust? Try visiting Tinker Bell in Pixie Hollow. She might not be a princess, but this feisty fairy is a must-meet character and true Disney icon, from her leaf-green dress down to her dandelion pouf-festooned slippers. 

Availability: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Pearly Band

Music is an integral part of any visit to Disneyland. Not only does it set the scene, but the perfect soundtrack can even serve as a melodious storyteller of sorts. In Fantasyland, guests can kick up their heels to the toe-tapping tunes of the Pearly Band. 

Named for London’s peacock-like Pearly culture, which sees followers decked out in bright suits bedazzled with mother-of-pearl buttons and was originally started by a Victorian street sweeper, the group is a nod to the pearly band that played in the original Mary Poppins. If you’re lucky, you might even enjoy an appearance by the magical nanny herself and sweeper-in-arms Bert. 

Availability: At Castle Courtyard – 9:35 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM and 12:25 PM; Near “it’s a small world” – 1:45 PM, 2:45 PM and 3:40 PM

Storytelling at Royal Theatre

Royal theater tent

Disney fairytales have brought joy to children of all ages for generations, whether on the small screen, silver screen, a Broadway stage, or, at Disneyland, in Fantasyland’s Royal Theatre. But these live reenactments of Beauty and the Beast and Tangled aren’t quite what you’re used to, with a few funny twists along the way. 

Availability: 11:30 AM, 12:45 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:45 PM, 5:00 PM and 6:15 PM

Tale of the Lion King

While much of Fantasyland feels like a quaint storybook scene from somewhere in Europe, at the Fantasyland Theatre, weekends come alive with the spirit of the Pride Lands. With thrilling music, exciting dance and stirring storytelling, Tale of the Lion King celebrates Simba’s journey and ultimate rise to the throne, as well as the story’s cultural roots. 

Availability: Saturdays and Sundays – 12:30 PM, 1:45 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM and 6:15 PM

Fantasyland Restaurants

Fantasyland isn’t only home to some of Disneyland’s longest-running, most beloved rides. It can also be an enchanting choice for a tasty snack or family-friendly meal. Although there aren’t too many restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find something that satisfies everyone at one of these quick-service locations. 

Edelweiss Snacks

Edelweiss snacks signage

Styled like an idyllic alpine chalet, Edelweiss Snacks serves up one of Disneyland’s most iconic dishes: the humble (and huge) Turkey Leg. Not hungry enough to channel your inner caveman? You can also nibble on buttered Corn on the Cob (with an optional hit of chili and lime) or a decidedly un-Bavarian Chimichanga. 

Cost: Snacks – $14.99 and under per adult

Cuisine: American

What to Get: Turkey Legs, Chimichanga, Corn on the Cob

Reservations: None, Mobile Order available

Maurice’s Treats

Signage for Maurice's Treats

Craving something sweet, carb-y or both? Pick up a pastry from Maurice’s Treats. Reminiscent of one of Maurice’s inventions, this Old-World food stand inspired by Belle’s father offers everything from cheesy bagel twists and Nitro Cold Brew to gear-shaped churros and donut holes doused in signature sugars. 

Cost: Snacks – $14.99 and under per adult

Cuisine: American

What to Get: Maurice’s Pieces Donut Holes, Cheddar Garlic Bagel Twist

Reservations: None, Mobile Order Available

Red Rose Taverne

Nestled near the border of Frontierland, Red Rose Taverne is the place to go if you’re in the mood for a heartier meal in Fantasyland. Burgers are available all day long, including one topped with bacon-orange marmalade and an egg during breakfast, while you’ll also find a selection of plant-based fare.

Cost: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner – $14.99 and under per adult

Cuisine: American

What to Get: The Sunrise Burger, Little Town Harvest Bowl (plant-based), The Villager Burger

Reservations: None, Mobile Order Available

Troubadour Tavern

Tavern sign hanging

Located right next door to the Fantasyland Theatre, home to Tale of the Lion King, the Troubadour Tavern cooks up the most surprising menu in Fantasyland. Along with a classic Loaded Baked Potato, guests can also savor the Flavors of Africa with everything from a sweet potato smothered with coconut curry chicken to berbere-spiced popcorn. Wash it all down with a Cardamom Cold Brew. 

Cost: Snacks – $14.99 and under per adult

Cuisine: American

What to Get: Loaded Baked Potato, Chicken-Coconut Curry Sweet Potato, Potato Sambusa

Reservations: None, Mobile Order Available

Fantasyland Shops

On the hunt for the perfect reminder of your storybook visit? Pop into one of Fantasyland’s souvenir shops, which stock such popular mementos as Disney Princess merchandise, Mickey Ears, apparel and adorable plushies. Or, treat your child like royalty with a regal makeover. 

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Boutique signage outside shop

For a magical memory your little prince or princess won’t soon forget, take them to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for a fairytale transformation courtesy of one of the Fairy Godmother’s trained apprentices. Prices start at $99.95 for a Disney Princess-inspired makeover or $19.95 for aspiring knights, and reservations are highly recommended. Heading to Disney World, too? Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique also has an east-coast location

Fairy Tale Treasures

Want to give your wannabe princess a royal look without breaking the bank? Take her to Fairy Tale Treasures for a regal outfit à la her favorite Disney Princess (magical makeover not included), or go for one of the toys or other princess-inspired merch instead. 

The Mad Hatter in Fantasyland

The Mad Hatter is a prolific hatmaker. So, naturally, the madcap modiste sells his wares at not one but two different locations in Disneyland. His Fantasyland outpost is located right next to the Mad Tea Party and Alice in Wonderland and sells all sorts of whimsical headwear, such as Mickey and Minnie Ears, tiaras and character-themed baseball caps. 

“it’s a small world” Toy Shop

“it’s a small world” is known for its 300-strong cast of Audio-Animatronic dolls, as well as its enduring fan base. So, it’s no surprise that you’ll find all kinds of this popular toy at the “it’s a small world” Toy Shop, from Barbies to plushies, alongside a selection of “small world” collectibles. Or, for a thriftier souvenir, make a coin at the penny press. 

Well, fairytale fans, that brings our tour of Fantasyland to a close. Have you visited this enchanted part of Disneyland? Which Fantasyland Disneyland ride or restaurant is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! Then, learn how to work some magic on your wallet and save on your next vacation with our discount Disneyland tickets.