Disneyland Paris Day 2: Early Access, Hidden Gems & Nighttime Magic!

Our second day at Disneyland Paris began bright and early, thanks to the extra magic hours we got for staying on property. By 8:30 AM, we were already exploring the park, and we managed to ride Big Thunder Mountain and Peter Pan before the gates officially opened. It felt great to knock out two of the most popular attractions early in the day, as both tend to have long lines later. The weather started off chilly, but it was promising to warm up to nearly 70°F, so we were ready for a full day of exploring.

We wandered through the steampunk-inspired Tomorrowland, a nod to Jules Verne’s imagination, and marveled at its timeless design. While I skipped HyperSpace Mountain due to a not-so-great experience last time, the Nautilus walkthrough was a highlight. It’s a quirky and immersive attraction with intricate details like a captain’s cabin and a “firing engine” room. From there, we ventured into the castle, which is far fancier than any we’ve seen in the States, complete with a breathtaking dragon lair underneath—a unique touch to Disneyland Paris.

Later, we had an unforgettable dinner at Walt’s, one of the best dining experiences of the trip. For €55 each, we enjoyed a three-course meal that included creative dishes like deconstructed chili and a delicious pea soup topped with smoked popcorn. The desserts were just as impressive, with Shonda’s mille-feuille being a standout. It was easily the best restaurant we’ve visited in either park, and we’d return in a heartbeat.

The day ended with the park’s nighttime spectacular, which we viewed from a reserved seating area. For just €19 per person, we got a fantastic spot in an adults-only section, which was peaceful and perfect for enjoying the show. While the drones weren’t part of the performance due to earlier rain, the display was stunning and emotional, leaving both of us misty-eyed. As we made our way out of the park, we reflected on a magical day filled with incredible experiences and hidden gems we’ll never forget. Disneyland Paris truly has its own charm, blending Disney magic with European elegance.