By Danielle Bautista
Anyone who works in an office setting knows that you can spend a lot of time sitting at a desk. When I transitioned to a new support role in an office at the Disneyland Resort, it was a drastic change from Tomorrowland Retail, where I used to be on my feet getting lots of physical activity in throughout the day. I still make magic for our guests behind the scenes as part of the communications team, but these days, that generally happens while sitting!
That’s why I make it a point to get out and take walks around the resort. Health and wellness have always been a priority to me, and I make it a point to drink plenty of water, get a healthy dose of vitamin D, and most importantly, get my steps in. I love being able to take a break during my workday and walk through Disneyland park or Disney California Adventure park, knowing that each visit will be a unique experience I can’t get anywhere else.
Here are a few of my favorite places to visit on my walks:
• Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – The sights and sounds completely transport me to another planet! From hearing R2-D2 beep and chirp to taking in the sights of the massive spire formations — I don’t even feel like I’m in Disneyland park anymore.
• Main Street, U.S.A. – One of my favorite things to do at Disneyland park is window shopping. The stores along Main Street, U.S.A. have the cutest clothes and accessories. Bonus: you never know what you might come across during your visit: Mickey and his pals greeting guests, live performing groups or even our candy makers whipping up something sweet in the windows of Candy Palace!
• Avengers Campus – This location has some of the coolest guest interactions. I love seeing guests of all ages dressed as their favorite Super Heroes and getting the chance to encounter them on campus. Watching guests make memories like this every day is one of the reasons I started working for Disney in the first place.
• Pixar Pier – This pier elevates everything fun about normal piers – all without the sand sticking to my feet. On hot days, you can catch me grabbing a delicious soft serve ice cream from Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats during my walk (it’s all about balance!).
• Redwood Creek Challenge Trail – One of my New Year’s resolutions for 2023 was to get outdoors, and sometimes that just isn’t possible. However, Redwood Creek Challenge Trail makes me feel like I am walking through a real forest without even leaving work. I just have to remember to wear the right shoes for those rope walks!
What an incredible way to spend a lunch break! I hope you get to enjoy some of these immersive experiences during your next visit to Disneyland Resort, and remember to wear your walking shoes.