Disneyland Adult Solo Trip Report: Club Level and Champagne, oh my!

[lisalawless1979]

I’ve (46F) been going to Disneyland solo for years, but this trip felt like a small milestone. After almost two years off work, I was starting a remote job the following week. Before diving back in, I wanted one last stretch of sunshine, good food, and Disney-level logistics — the kind only they can pull off.

This was a two-night, three-day solo trip built entirely around what I love most about the parks: moving at my own pace, good meals, no lines, and time to notice the details.

Trip highlights:

• First-class flight from SFO to SNA
• Two nights at the Grand Californian, upgraded to Club Level with a king bed (first time not surrounded by extra empty beds)
• World of Color Dessert Party (a last-minute single seat)
• Lamplight Lounge twice, Carthay Circle twice, Trader Sam’s (twice), Olga’s Cantina
• Lightning Lanes, single rider shortcuts, and a little unexpected pixie dust
• Never waited more than 20 minutes for anything (except Peter Pan! as always)
• Shopping, spa time, and Club Lounge snacks with wine
• A proper mix of theme park chaos and quiet luxury

I don’t travel to Disneyland for kids’ stuff, and definitely lots of nostalgia for me — but I genuinely like being there. The attention to detail, the music, the way people are happy to be somewhere on purpose. I love watching families have a great time while I do my own thing, preferably with a cocktail. And I love Star Wars, which gives me just enough excuse to hang out in Galaxy’s Edge longer than necessary.

I’ve been reading this board for years and always enjoy the trip reports with photos and details. So, consider this my contribution — a few days of food, rides, and quiet moments between all the noise.

Come enjoy it vicariously through me, and feel free to ask anything.


This was also an opportunity to support my cousin Teresa (another Disney parks lover) as she embarks as a Disney Travel Agent.

 

[RedHotMama]

Oooh! Bougie Disney trip. I'm here for this.

 

[evilmommie]

I’m local and this is absolutely my vibe! Looking forward to you recounting all of your sparkly trip details!

 

[lisalawless1979]

Day 1, Part 2: Flight, Plenty of Pixid Dust, First Rides, and an outside Bar!​

I drove my car to an off-site lot I’d prepaid. Shuttle only ran on the hour, so I called an Uber to SFO. At least it was closer than my Airbnb.

Through security without issues and into the lounge. A glass of champagne, a small snack, and some quiet before boarding. The lounge wasn’t in my terminal, so a little extra walking added to the day’s steps.




Landed on time at SNA and took an Uber straight to the Grand Californian. Check-in was quick, no lines. The front desk offered an upgrade to Club Level for an extra cost — it hadn’t been available online or through my cousin when I booked, so I jumped at it. I was also stoked to get a single king bed in stead of two queen beds. Apparently, a rarity and one I hadn't experienced before. Second bit of pixie dust!

I left my bag with Bell Services and went straight to the Club Lounge. The lounge was quiet and comfortable, and the staff were great. While I was there, I talked to concierge about the World of Color Dessert Party. I’d been trying to get a reservation for weeks with no luck, but because I was solo, they found a single seat for that night (more on that later). Third sprinkling!

Next up, heading to California Adventure for my first ride tradition at that park - Incredicoaster!

Hit the single riders line with such a short wait, I don't think I stood at all.



Was able to hit up Incredicoaster and make my way to Little Mermaid in time to use a LL.


After Incredicoaster and The Little Mermaid, it was about time to check in for Lamplight Lounge on the Boardwalk. I was a little early, so I wandered through the shops instead.

I almost never buy things when I first see them. I don’t like carrying stuff around, and everything’s overpriced anyway. Usually, I make a mental note — if I’m still thinking about it by the end of the trip, I’ll go back for it. Not that I ever actually do. Let’s just say I haven’t bought a lot of gifts at the park.

I kept these in mind





When I got a text my table was ready, I headed back and got a seat at the bar, just like I wanted. Once upon a time — many adults-only trips and an ex-husband ago — I used to come here when it was the Cove Bar on the old Paradise Pier (RIP). Back then it was rarely crowded, and I learned the trick of having a drink, watching the coaster screamers, and enjoying the park from a fully adult point of view. It became one of my favorite spots.

Now it’s Pixar Pier, which doesn’t do much for me, and there are lines like whoa. Still, the view hasn’t changed.




I ordered the Barbacoa Nachos with high hopes. They were fine — a little underwhelming. I used to love the lobster nachos before I found out I’m allergic to crustaceans, so maybe nostalgia made me expect too much. Either way, a drink, a bar seat, and that view are still a solid start to the trip.


Next up: A nap before dinner and a show!