What Is the Difference Between Disneyland Resort and Disneyland Park?

By Michael Ferguson

If you are planning a trip to Disneyland, you may be confused about the difference between Disneyland Resort and Disneyland Park. While the two terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to two distinct areas within the larger Disneyland complex.

Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Resort is the larger of the two areas, encompassing both theme parks and multiple hotels. The resort is located in Anaheim, California and covers approximately 500 acres. In addition to Disneyland Park, which we will discuss in more detail below, it also includes Disney California Adventure Park, Downtown Disney District (a shopping and dining area), and three Disney-owned hotels (Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Disneyland Hotel, and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel).

What is Disneyland Park?

Disneyland Park is one of the two theme parks within Disneyland Resort. It was the first park to open at the resort on July 17th, 1955. The park covers approximately 85 acres and contains eight themed lands: Main Street USA, Adventureland, New Orleans Square, Frontierland, Fantasyland, Critter Country, Mickey’s Toontown and Tomorrowland.

Main Street USA

Main Street USA is designed to look like small town America at the turn of the 20th century. Here you can find shops selling souvenirs or snacks like popcorn or ice cream.

Adventureland

Adventureland is designed to transport guests to exotic locations around the world such as jungles and tropical islands. It includes attractions such as Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Forbidden Eye and Jungle Cruise.

New Orleans Square

New Orleans Square is modeled after New Orleans’ French Quarter with architecture that looks like it was built during the 19th century. It includes attractions such as Pirates of Caribbean and Haunted Mansion.

Frontierland

Frontierland is designed to look like the American frontier during the 19th century. It includes attractions such as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Frontierland Shootin’ Exposition.

Fantasyland

Fantasyland is designed to transport guests to a world of fairy tales, princesses, and classic Disney stories. It includes attractions such as “it’s a small world” and Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Critter Country

Critter Country is a woodland area that features attractions such as Splash Mountain and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.

Mickey’s Toontown

Mickey’s Toontown is designed to look like a cartoon come to life. It includes attractions such as Gadget’s Go Coaster and Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin.

Tomorrowland

Tomorrowland is designed to look like a futuristic city. It includes attractions such as Space Mountain and Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters.

  • Disneyland Park is one of two theme parks within Disneyland Resort.
  • The park covers approximately 85 acres and contains eight themed lands: Main Street USA, Adventureland, New Orleans Square, Frontierland, Fantasyland, Critter Country, Mickey’s Toontown and Tomorrowland.
  • Disney California Adventure Park, Downtown Disney District (a shopping and dining area), and three Disney-owned hotels are also part of Disneyland Resort.

In conclusion, while Disneyland Resort may refer to the larger complex in Anaheim that includes multiple theme parks and hotels, Disneyland Park specifically refers to one of those parks within the complex. With its eight themed lands, there is something for everyone at Disneyland Park – from classic fairy tales to thrilling adventures in exotic locations.