September 2025
Where We Stayed: Disney’s Grand Californian
Jeanne and I took a trip to Hawaii in September 2025, and decided to stop in California for a few days on our way so we could visit Disneyland. Disneyland is my favorite of all the Disney parks that I’ve been to. Sorry, WDW, Disneyland is just better and more magical!
We stayed two nights at the Grand Californian, which is a Disney resort. It is situated right near one of the entrances to Disney’s California Adventure, so the location cannot be beat. Our first night brought us the Oogie Boogie Bash — Disneyland’s nighttime Halloween-theme party/extravaganza. It was so cute and I’m so glad that we chose to attend (it’s a separate ticketed event, so it costs more money in addition to your park ticket for the day).
Jeanne and I are lazy theme park people. We stroll, we shop, we drink Starbucks refreshers, we people-watch, and we don’t really go on many rides because neither one of us is interested in standing in long lines. As Victoria from White Lotus said, “at this age, I am not meant to live an uncomfortable life.”
We had dinner with my California besties, Stephanie and Gregory, on our last night in California. It was short but very sweet trip to Disneyland!
On our way to O’Hare, we saw a rainbow. Denny saying hi, maybe.
We have arrived.
Poolside lunch upon arrival.
The Grand Californian was cozy — a redwoods/forest vibe throughout.
Enough of the hotel tour… onto the parks! Oogie Boogie attendees are welcome to dress up in Halloween costumes.
Wouldn’t be a Disney trip without a Loungefly.
The Cozy Cone Motel area is my favorite part about DCA. It’s just the CUTEST.
At least I’m kind of self-aware ;)
We had an INCREDIBLE sunset! So lucky!
The next morning, we started with Mickey waffles for breakfast.
Jeanne taking a break and looking cute with her little backpack.
Bye, California! You were a delight!