Landing at LAX with Disney on your mind? With a reliable car rental, you can be at the gates in roughly 45–70 minutes depending on traffic. Here’s how to choose the best route, use HOV lanes correctly, and park like a pro.
Best routes from LAX
- Fastest (often): I‑105 E → I‑605 S → CA‑91 E → I‑5 S → Disneyland Dr.
- Simple alternative: I‑405 S → CA‑22 E → I‑5 N → Disneyland Dr.
- Traffic savvy: Use live navigation to balance distance vs. congestion, especially on weekday afternoons.
Carpool (HOV) lane basics
In Southern California, most HOV lanes require 2+ occupants (drivers count). Enter and exit only where the lane line is dashed; never cross double lines. Solo EV perks have recently changed—don’t assume a sticker grants access. When in doubt, drive the general lanes.
Parking at Disneyland
Standard theme‑park parking is available at Mickey & Friends and Pixar Pals parking structures, plus the Toy Story lot on busy days. Follow electronic signs from I‑5. Keep your ticket handy for security and tram boarding.
Pickup & vehicle tips
Prefer UK wording? Compare options on our car hire page. Families often choose a midsize SUV for strollers and snacks; couples and solo travelers do well in compact sedans. With Hola Car Rentals, you get an All‑Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage, Free Cancellation up to 48 hours, and cashback on tolls on selected itineraries.
Start closer in Orange County
If you’re staying near Anaheim, picking up at Santa Ana (SNA) can cut drive time and simplify returns. You can also see city pickup points across Los Angeles locations or plan a wider SoCal road trip via our California drive hub.
FAQs
- How long is the drive? About 35–40 miles; expect 45–70 minutes depending on time of day and route.
- What’s the parking price? Expect a posted daily rate for standard vehicles at Mickey & Friends, Pixar Pals or Toy Story.
- Are trams running? Operations can change; follow on‑site signs to trams or pedestrian routes.
Make it easy: Book with Hola Car Rentals for transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and travel insurance up to US$150,000 included on selected itineraries. See you on Main Street!
Timing tips
For the smoothest ride, arrive before rope‑drop or after the morning rush. Midday Saturdays can be surprisingly steady on freeways but busier in the structures. Leaving after fireworks? Expect delays exiting the garages—snap a photo of your level and row so you can find your vehicle quickly.
What to bring
- Snacks and water for the drive—food is allowed in the car parks but check park policies before bringing items inside.
- Portable phone chargers for the app‑based ride queue systems.
- Layers—nights can be cool even after warm days.
Pro tips
- Set your maps destination to “Mickey & Friends Parking” to avoid last‑minute lane changes near I‑5.
- If a structure is full, follow staff to Toy Story; walking times and trams are posted on arrival.
- Ridesharing later? Park first, then use the parking structures’ pedestrian exits to the Downtown Disney area.
Book now: With Hola Car Rentals you’ll get straightforward pricing, optional child seats, and 24/7 support. Your Disney day starts the moment you pick up the keys.
Return plan
Leaving Anaheim after the evening show? Consider waiting 20–30 minutes for traffic to thin before merging onto I‑5. Watch for late‑night ramp closures and always follow posted detours from Caltrans. If you’re returning the vehicle in Los Angeles rather than SNA, check your fuel level and allow a little extra time for the rental inspection.
