For Southern California teens, a perfect day at Disneyland is a rite of passage. However, executing that plan often requires more than navigating the long lines of Space Mountain.

It may be the “happiest place on Earth,” but it’s also seemingly, at times, the busiest…and the priciest: A single day of joy is $164 per person, and that’s not counting parking, and must-try treats like corn dogs and Blue Milk. For teens splitting time between school, sports, jobs, a lengthy list of extracurriculars, and saving for gas or college, that’s a steep price to pay.

A day at Disneyland can feel magical or miserable. But with a strategy, a little insider knowledge from the Wildcat, and a very early alarm, a day at Disney will feel nothing short of magical.

Living out our Disney dreams can be an expensive endeavor, but we can save the stress for another date as it turns out living 20 minutes away from the park has perks beyond the short drive.

When buying a pass, get the 3-Day Park Hopper Ticket, which includes California Adventure and Disneyland, and is offered only to California residents. This option is $249 for three days – just $83 per day, a savings of around $82 versus the usual single-day fare.

But it isn’t just the expense that can kill the fun. Avoiding the swarms of crowds (have you seen New Orleans Square on a busy day?) can ensure a jostle-free outing. Choose a date that coincides with most people’s work or school week. Days that we already have off are ideal, like teacher prep days and Spring Break.

Also a must: the Genie Pass (which can be purchased on the Disneyland app). The lightning lane pass allows for a ride reservation every two hours, and although an extra $30, it is the way to go.

Don’t sacrifice valuable time at Disneyland for an hour of sleep. A comfy bed isn’t nearly as enjoyable as the feeling of winning when we’re in the first group to ride Space Mountain. Leaving Brea by 6 a.m. will ensure a front-of-the-line spot when the gates are opened at 8 a.m.

Naturally, the attractions are the most enjoyable part of Disneyland, so download the Disneyland app to find out what the wait times are and make a list of highest to lowest priority rides.

When the Disneyland employees pull back the ropes at the entrance of the four parks, GO. The line will be backed up to Mainstreet U.S.A., so speed walk through the crowd, politely dodge strollers, and avoid the extra-vigilant cast members.

Hitting Space Mountain first means potentially riding it twice in a row. Other thrilling and immersive attractions to consider experiencing first are Rise of the Resistance, Big Thunder, and Indiana Jones.

Mornings are least busy, so maximize rides and be intentional. After Space Mountain, head to the next priority – like Big Thunder – but be ready to cross the park. To capitalize on location and save time, stick nearby and hit Star Tours and Matterhorn Bobsleds instead.

The morning is the time to ride the Tier 1 and Tier 2 rides, even if it means hustling across multiple points in the park.

By 11 a.m., we will most likely have already enjoyed five rides – as long as we are efficient and organized. 

The afternoon is perfectly curated for slower, longer, dark rides, when crowds peak and the early morning energy wears off. 

These attractions offer a chance to sit and cool off, taking a break from the long lines. Use this time for Tier Three and Four attractions, such as Pirates of the Caribbean (which closes May 4 for refurbishment) or It’s a Small World. Indiana Jones is usually packed by this point, but shorter waits can pop up, and if we get lucky, the afternoon is a fun time to board the ride’s turbulent jeep.

The hottest part of the day is the best time to experience one of Disney’s recent remodels: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (formerly known as Splash Mountain). Every seat on the log guarantees getting drenched. On cooler days, opt for Tiana’s Bayou at night for a quick line (just save it for last to avoid walking around soaked all evening).

For those of us that don’t have the Genie Pass, some rides have a single rider option. Make use of this line to save a half-an-hour whenever possible. Be on the lookout for it at Matterhorn, Space Mountain, Indiana Jones Adventure, and others.

As the sky darkens, head to the Haunted Mansion. The atmosphere is far more immersive at night, when the grounds feel genuinely haunted. Lines are longer, but it’s the only time to go. The experience is worth it.

*Tip: Low wait times can spike quickly as crowds rush in. The best moment to get in line is just as the wait begins to rise.

Experience the fireworks at least once. They don’t happen every day (make sure to check the schedule beforehand). If fireworks aren’t running, there’s usually Fantasmic (9 p.m.), or a projection show (9:30 p.m.) instead.

When the fireworks start bursting behind the iconic castle, we’ll feel like we’ve made the most of our Disney day.

Almost as important as the rides are the food and drinks, but Disneyland treats add up quickly. Pineapple Dole Whip, churros, turkey legs, Mickey Mouse pretzels, and popcorn are must-tries, and sharing snacks or planning ahead can help with tradeoffs.

When it comes to indulgences, go big, but be smart. Task a friend or family member who isn’t partaking in a ride to grab a quick treat from a side cart. There’s nothing sweeter than munching on a Mickey-shaped beignet while in line for Pirates of the Caribbean. 

Drinks are part of the experience too. Blue milk and a cold brew (topped with cream and cocoa puffs) in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, along with the mint julep in New Orleans Square are favorites.

For a classic burger and fries, try Galactic Grill in Tomorrowland, Carnation Cafe on Main Street, or Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree in New Orleans Square. Pizza and pasta fans can head to Alien Pizza Planet in Tomorrowland. 

Lunch at Rancho Del Zocalo in Frontierland, is relatively affordable (less than $15 for the Trio of Street Tacos) for Disneyland and a great choice for Mexican food lovers. 

For dinner, the Blue Bayou offers an immersive experience inside the Southern bayou of the Pirates of the Caribbean with delicious Creole-inspired cuisine. However, at over $50 per person, it’s a splurge. For a similar menu at a lower price point, Cafe Orleans is a smart option (approximately a 30% decrease in price).

Unlike other local amusement parks (Knott’s Berry Farm, I’m looking at you) Disneyland offers allergy-friendly options that are clearly labeled on menus. Feel free to check menus online ahead of time, like Rancho Del Zocalo’s.

At the end of the day, Disneyland is not about a check-list. Following the above guide can help to maximize our experience, but it’s important to relax and enjoy the moment. Plan well, keep expectations realistic, and choose to have fun.