Heading to Downtown Disney and wondering about parking? It's a common question, and thankfully, the process is pretty straightforward, though it's good to have the details handy.
When you're planning your visit to the Disneyland Resort area, you'll find several parking options. For those specifically heading to the Downtown Disney District, or if you're parking for the theme parks and want to be close, the main parking structures are Mickey & Friends Parking Structure and Pixar Pals Parking Structure. The Toy Story Parking Area is also an option, though it's a bit further out.
So, what's the damage to your wallet? For standard parking for cars and motorcycles, you're looking at a daily rate of $40. If you're bringing a larger vehicle like an RV or a tractor (without a trailer), the rate jumps to $45, and this is only available at the Toy Story Parking Area. For the really big rigs – buses or tractors with extended trailers – it's $50, also at the Toy Story Parking Area.
Now, if you're someone who likes to be right near the elevators and escalators, there's an option for that too: Preferred Parking. This will get you a spot closer to the action. The daily rate for this convenience is $60. You can purchase this upon arrival, and a Cast Member will guide you. If you've already paid for standard parking, you can just pay the difference to upgrade.
It's worth noting that these prices can change without notice, and parking is always subject to availability. So, while $40 is the current standard rate, it's always a good idea to check the latest information closer to your visit.
For those who are Magic Key holders, there are some parking perks. Depending on your pass level – Inspire, Believe, Explore, Enchant, or Imagine – you might get standard parking included, a 50% discount, or a 25% discount, primarily at the Mickey & Friends, Pixar Pals, and Toy Story parking areas. These discounts usually exclude blockout dates, so keep that in mind.
Payment methods are quite flexible. They accept cash (up to $100 bills), major credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, JCB, and Diner's Club. You can also use Disney Gift Cards, Disney Dollars, and pre-paid parking vouchers. And for those who like to keep track, the Disneyland mobile app has a car locator feature to help you find your vehicle.
Just a heads-up, the parking facilities for the theme parks typically open about 60 minutes before the earliest park opening. And remember, the tram service from Mickey & Friends and Pixar Pals is a great way to get to the main entrance esplanade between the parks.
