Arrival day suggestions for two 30/50-something women?

[Soupermom]

Hello! My friend and I are making our first trip to DL in early November, arriving on Saturday the 1st. We will have three days in the parks Sunday-Tuesday. Coming from Illinois and taking an Uber from the airport, I'm wondering what suggestions the locals have for what to do on our arrival day in the afternoon/early evening. We arrive around noon and with the time difference and wanting to hit ropedrop, I'm sure we will want to be in bed early. Would it be too much a hassle to head to the beach? Are their any vintage shops nearby or casual restaurants?
Thank you for any suggestions you can give!

 

[megankj]

Assuming you're staying close to Disneyland, it's hard to get to the beach or any non-Disney-adjacent attractions without a car, unfortunately. The easiest thing to do would be to visit Downtown Disney or Gardenwalk, depending on which is most convenient to your hotel. You could also check out Trader Sam's at the Disneyland Hotel if you're willing to take your chances with the walk-up waitlist!