Teacup Chairs at the Disneyland Hotel

While visiting the Disneyland Hotel's Fantasy Tower, you're sure to notice the unusual seating accommodations in the lobby. They're weird and they're big--they're the semi-famous teacup chairs!

I have mixed feelings about these guys. I'm glad they exist, because the world can't have too much whimsy, and I really like the little table representing the control wheel...but...

They do creep me out just a little bit. I don't know why. Is it because they look like they've had all the color sucked out of them? I wish the carpet picked up the theme with--I dunno--circle patterns suggesting saucers or something...

On the other hand, I'm glad there are things at the resort that I can't neatly sort into "like" or "dislike" (two others: Astro Orbitor and Duffy). All I know is, if these chairs slowly rotated in place...well, then we'd have the most awesome hotel furniture on the planet.

Big Thunder Scale Model at Disneyland Hotel

One of my very favorite features at the Disneyland Hotel is this incredible scale model of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Located in the lobby of the hotel's Frontier Tower, it's a replica of the Imagineers' original model, but being a re-creation doesn't diminish its awesomeness at all.

Since the actual ride is currently closed until Fall for enhancements and track replacement, this is a great way to work a bit of the mountain's "spirit" into your visit! We'll take a look at all four sides, then zoom in for a few closeups.

The Grand Californian Lobby: The Resort's Hidden Oasis

When it comes to picking a favorite "quiet spot" at Disneyland Resort, the huge, spectacular lobby of the Grand Californian easily wins top honors. Whether or not you're staying at the beautiful-but-pricey hotel, you can easily drop by for a visit without ever leaving the parks area (this is where the resort's compact nature truly becomes an advantage).

Tucked right between Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney, this calming, quiet paradise defines the term "Hidden in Plain Sight." Although it's easily accessed from both DCA and Downtown Disney, the entry points don't call attention to themselves. As a result, most resort guests never think to drop in for a mid-day break (which is a good thing for the lobby's peaceful atmosphere).

Goofy Greetings at the Paradise Pier Hotel

When entering the Paradise Pier Hotel, you can't miss this wonderful statue of Surfer Goofy. It's the only major Disney character reference in sight, but it's enough to get the point across. The Goof looks comically surreal in the otherwise bright-but-businesslike seaside resort-themed lobby.

Of course, you won't be doing any actual surfing at the resort, but the hotel pool features a fun coaster-themed water slide.