Hi, Emily! Thanks for bringing your question to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. I am beyond excited that you will be visiting the Disneyland Resort soon! While one day doesn't seem like a lot of time, I am here to make sure you have the most magical day ever!
First, start your day as early as possible. You can really see and do a lot early in the morning. Some of my favorites at Disneyland Park that I think you and your 8-year-old will enjoy include Matterhorn Bobsleds, Splash Mountain, Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, and "it's a small world" since it's a classic. Over in Disney California Adventure Park, you will not want to miss Cars Land, especially Radiator Springs Racers. Also, the new
Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! attraction will be open by the time you visit, so you should definitely check this one out.
Most of the attractions listed above offer
FASTPASS which will help you skip the lines and save some time. I recommend getting a FASTPASS for an attraction first thing in the morning. Then when you are able to obtain your next FASTPASS (look for a time listed on the FASTPASS ticket), grab another as soon as you are able. The
Disneyland app will be your best friend while you are at the parks. This will tell you attraction wait times, FASTPASS return times, and so much more to help you make efficient use of your time.
Finally, end the night with the Main Street Electrical Parade and the "Remember...Dreams Come True" Fireworks Spectacular. With your Park Hopper ticket you can easily enjoy many things that the Disneyland Resort has to offer all in one day. I hope you have a marvelous visit!
-Linda M.