The Bridge to Paradise Pier

Of the two entry paths to Paradise Pier, the main bridge delivers the most dramatic and fun sense of traveling back in time to an old-fashioned boardwalk. As you pass under the welcome sign, the atmosphere invites you to slow down, enjoy the moment, and pause to watch the coaster launch a few screaming trainloads up its first peak.

Disneyland Resort, due to its compact size, doesn't get a lot of opportunities to play with wide open spaces. Paradise Pier is an exception: it's one of the few spots on property where guests get a good look at an attraction (in this case, California Screamin') from a distance as they approach.

Once considered by many to be the worst idea ever shoehorned into a Disney park, Paradise Pier has blossomed into a charming, relaxing and beautiful corner of the resort. With room still available for another big attraction or two, the Pier's future looks brighter than ever.

Great Food plus a Runaway Mine Train: Rancho del Zocalo

It's no secret that the overall food quality at Disneyland has improved by leaps and bounds in the last few years. Our favorite Frontierland dining option, Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante, offers more than just excellent Mexican food; you can watch the trains of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad rumble right past your table...if you know where to sit.

Cacti 'Round the Racers

We always recommend the Single Rider Line as the easiest, quickest way to board Radiator Springs Racers. We must admit, however, there's one good reason everyone should go through the full standby queue at least once: that's the only way you'll see all of Stanley's Oasis and the amazing cactus grove seen above.

As a plus, you get a glimpse of the ride's first act, as the cars head up the winding road toward the waterfall. The standby line for RS Racers might be long, but it certainly treats your eyes to some terrific sights.