Photo Credit: Disneyland

Hello again, fellow WRFD readers,

I can’t believe the Disneyland Half Marathon weekend is only 3 weeks away! I’ve had a countdown on my phone since the days remaining were in the triple digits — and finally, we’re in the home stretch!

In this post, I’m going to talk about some of the things my husband Jake and I have on our to-do list at Disneyland (and beyond)…

1. Mission: BREAKOUT!

Credit: Patch.com

Last summer, Disney Parks announced that the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s California Adventure would be completely re-themed as a “Guardians of the Galaxy” ride.

When the news broke, I immediately joined thousands of other outraged Disney fans to sign the petition to keep the Tower in tact. Yes, I know that the Walt Disney World iteration is far superior, but it’s also one of my favorite Disney rides of all time — and I hated the idea of one less dark, creepy attraction in the parks.

Once my meltdown was over, though, I started warming up to the idea of a Guardians attraction. If anything or anyone were going to replace my beloved Tower, I’m glad its these hilarious and lovable characters.

Jake idolizes Star Lord/Chris Pratt, so, needless to say, he’s even more excited than I am! I’ve successfully avoided all videos of the ride on YouTube and can’t wait to enter their world for the first time. The opening of Mission: BREAKOUT! was timed perfectly for Disneyland Resort’s “Summer of Heroes,” which includes superhero meet and greets, dance parties with Groot, and new hero-themed merch.

2. Fantasmic!

Credit: Disneyland

This show is one of my absolute favorite things at Walt Disney World, but has been closed in Disneyland for over a year. After a refurbishment and new enhancements (including the addition of my favorite characters, Aladdin and Jasmine), Fantasmic! is back in New Orleans Square and better than ever! If you haven’t seen it before, the show includes pyrotechnics, water effects, music and all of the classic Disney characters you know and love. Be sure to stick around till 9PM to see this nighttime spectacular!

3. Food, Glorious Food

Credit: Delish.com

Much like nearby Los Angeles, Disneyland is home to many delicious and unique culinary creations. Runners at the Disneyland Half Marathon weekend can enjoy special seasonal treats including glittery, Mickey-shaped blackberry beignets at Mint Julep Bar, sour watermelon churros in New Orleans Square, s’mores churros in Critter Country and lobster mac and cheese hot dogs at Harbor Galley.

Credit: LaughingPlace.com

As a self-proclaimed chocoholic, I’m especially looking forward to the outrageously decadent 24-layer cake at Steakhouse 55 (is there any better combo than steak and cake?).

If you haven’t booked one already, I highly recommend celebrating your finished race with a delicious post-run meal. Jake and I will be treating ourselves to a tasty lunch at Blue Bayou, inside Pirates of the Caribbean, after our 10K!

4. Going beyond the ‘land

Credit: SurfUSA.com

In addition to spending two full days at the Happiest Place on Earth, we plan to spend one day in Surf City, USA, a.k.a. Huntington Beach (a top contender for our future home), and two days in Los Angeles. On our itinerary: enjoying rides and games on the Santa Monica Pier, taking a dip in the Pacific Ocean, eating tacos on the beach, taking a visit to the Getty Museum and going on a hike in Runyon Canyon! There’s so much to do in Southern California and there’s truly something that everyone will enjoy. If you’re still trying to plan your trip, I urge you to stay a few extra days to explore this beautiful area.

Stay tuned to Will Run For Disney for all the latest Run Disney news, and for more of my updates from the Disneyland Half Marathon weekend!