Top 15 Disneyland Snacks You Can’t Live Without
By
Editorial Staff in
Food
On 21st September 2016
For the last 61 years, Disneyland has been the most beloved theme park in the world, thrilling fans, and warming the hearts of people all the world over. Founded in 1955 by Walt Disney, the Magic Kingdom has acted as a second home for millions of visitors each year. Throughout its rich and proud history, Disneyland has been able to push the boundaries of entertainment, as well as deliver a top-to-bottom experience above and beyond your average theme park. With the addition of Star Wars Land coming in the future, Disneyland continues to innovate, and cater to the kid in all of us. At this point in its history, Disneyland acts as an interactive and ever-changing museum of sorts, as guests of all ages are able to ride some of the attractions that were present on its opening day.
Aside from the rides, shows, and laundry list of top notch eateries, Disneyland’s snacks are nearly as famous as the park itself. It was not easy narrowing down the list to just 15 entries, but, thanks to being a lifelong fan and visitor, I’ve spent plenty of time chowing down on the snacks the park has to offer over the years. While a few additions to the list are all-time fan favorites, there are a number of newer snacks here that will have you booking your stay at “The Happiest Place on Earth” shortly after reading. So join us, as we list “The Top 15 Disneyland Snacks You Can’t Live Without.”
Caramel Apples – Candy Palace
Kicking off our list at the number 15 spot are Disneyland's delectable Caramel Apples. Much like the Mickey-shaped Rice Krispies (which we may see later on) found at the same location, the Caramel Apples at the Candy Palace are otherworldly. As much as I do enjoy trying new and improved concoctions, I am a tried and true believer in a simple caramel apple.
The apples at Disneyland are always so juicy and flavorful, and the caramel is incredibly rich and satisfying. Each bite is as good as the last, and this snack is a perfect companion while enjoying Disneyland's world famous fireworks shows. Disney's creative team has incorporated various characters to coincide with theatrical releases, and seasonal changes also dictate a change in what's available. They've had everything from Mickey Mouse to Jack Skellington, and even Mike Wazowski. Be sure to check throughout the year and see what new and interesting surprises await at Candy Palace.
Tigger Tails – Various Locations
If you're a fan of marshmallow and caramel, then look no further. One of the most decadent treats I've ever had, these Tigger Tails are one of the better treats in the park. This snack has it all. Sugar covered marshmallow with caramel and a hint of chocolate drizzle, the Tigger Tail is the ultimate way to rid yourself of a sugar craving in a major way.
The Tigger Tail is a fitting snack to cap off a ride on "The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh," and is located at a shop just outside of the ride. Grab yourself one, and snap a picture with Tigger himself before catching a ride on "Splash Mountain."
There is, however, one drawback to the snack. Despite the tastiness, I would recommend splitting this with another person or two, as it is an intense amount of sugar and marshmallow for one person to eat alone.
Giant Pickles – Toon Up Treats
I know what you're thinking. Can a pickle really be good enough to be considered one of the best snacks in Disneyland? Yes, yes it can. These gigantic, juicy pickles are incredibly tasty, and can be found at Toon Up Treats in Toon Town. While this snack may not have the pizzazz of the Chili-lime Corn on the Cob, or the awe factor of the Disneyland Turkey Leg, it is till good enough to make the list, based on the fact that these pickles are just flat out delicious.
They're a good snack to eat while on the go, and are pretty inexpensive as well. Looking for another pickle masterpiece? The deep-fried pickles at the Carnation Cafe on Main Street U.S.A are one of my favorite foods in the park, and will completely change the way you look at pickles. I chose to not include them on this list as they are more of a dish than a snack.
Chili-Lime Corn On The Cob – Various Locations
Trying to describe the utter deliciousness of the Chili-Lime Corn on the Cob in 150 words is a daunting task, but I'll give it a shot. Found at many of the same locations as Disneyland's Turkey Legs, these beauties are almost too good to be true. Everything about these would make it seem as if Walt Disney had done it himself. As is the case with most snacks, Disney was able to find the right balance of butter and spice, making this snack one you will not regret. I would highly recommend grabbing a seat somewhere comfortable, preferably in the shade, and devouring this snack kernel by kernel. It'll brighten your day, and fill your stomach with the same feeling you get when your crush smiles widely at you. I'm sure the corn is delicious eaten plain, but I wouldn't dare betray this confection. Here's a small tip: get plenty of napkins, as this snack can be a bit messy.
Mickey-Shaped Rice Krispy Treats – Candy Palace
The Candy Palace is home to some of the finest chocolates in all of Disneyland, and it just so happens to have some of the tastiest rice krispy treats ever. These chocolate-dipped treasures are absolutely amazing. While the pre-packaged ones found at a number of shops at Disneyland are good, they simply don't compare to the ones found at the Candy Palace.
Coming in a variety of flavors and styles, there is almost no end to the possibilities that Disney can come up with, and the seasonal touches they utilize always make for an ever-changing experience. In the event that you're a Star Wars fan looking to pair one with a Dark Side Lemonade, fear not. Over at the Galactic Grill in Tomorrowland, you can get yourself a BB-8 Rice Krispy which is incredibly soft, delicious, and sure to make even the toughest of Sith lords crack a smile.
Mickey-Shaped Pretzel – Various Locations
While compiling this list, there was no doubt in my mind that I would need to include these. Simply put, they are delicious. The pretzel is always warm and soft, making it an absolute must for anyone who's ready to eat something delicious. With just the right amount of saltiness, Disneyland is once again able to turn the ordinary into something that will make your mouth water.
While just a plain pretzel will get the job done, check out the Refreshment Corner on Main Street U.S.A and try either the Jalapeno Cheese-filled Pretzel, or the Cream Cheese-filled Pretzel. For all of you adults out there, head on over to Disney's California Adventure, and make your way to Bayside Brews near the "Silly Symphony Swings." They offer up the same selection of delicious pretzels found at the Refreshment Corner back in Disneyland, and also serve some refreshing adult beverages as well.
Mickey-Shaped Ice Cream Sandwich – Various Locations
There's something about Mickey Mouse shaped foods that just enhances the overall experience of being at Disneyland, and these ice cream sandwiches are no exception. You can easily find one of these at one of several conveniently placed dessert stands all throughout Disneyland.
The chocolate exterior is packed with flavor, and the scrumptious vanilla ice cream interior makes this snack a dessert option you don't want to miss. What I enjoy most is that these are relatively small, so you won't be overly full after demolishing one of these delights, and it is a big enough snack for kids to devour. Be sure to grab an extra one later in the day; you are on vacation, after all.
Budget friendly and delicious, these little treats are a fantastic way to enjoy a quick snack while getting ready to watch the parade on Main Street U.S.A, or while trying to satisfy even the biggest sweet tooth.
The Dark Side Lemonade – The Galactic Grill
The only drink on our list clocks in at number eight as the Dark Side Lemonade is as delicious as it is refreshing. Found at the Galactic Grill in Tomorrowland, this strawberry lemonade is simply worth abandoning the Jedi way for. But, it's not just the incredible flavor of this drink that makes it worthwhile. Each one comes with your very own light up Death Star which will fulfill any Star Wars fans dreams, and it makes for a cool souvenir.
If you find yourself wanting to steer clear of the Dark Side, give the Light Side Lemonade a chance. The drink pairs Granny Smith Apple lemonade and yogurt meteors, and even comes with a light up Millennium Falcon. If you're undecided, then give both a try, young Padawan. Whether you are more of a Sith or Jedi, you'll be sure to find exactly what you want in either beverage.
Cheddar Garlic Bagel Twist – Maurice’s Treats
Found at little Maurice's Treats near Fantasyland, the Cheddar Garlic Bagel Twist is an intensely delicious snack, and is quite filling to boot. While the little snack spot offers a couple of other delicious twists (including a chocolate twist which is absolutely divine), this one in particular is a personal favorite.
This cheddar-filled wonder is sure to hit the spot each time you decide to grab one. Its flavor is subtle, and never fails to please even the pickiest of eaters. Much like a one of Disneyland's Turkey Legs, I'd recommend hitting a relaxing ride like the "Haunted Mansion" or "Pirates of the Caribbean" after devouring one of these.
Be sure to eat with caution because this snack is quite addicting. Each time I get one, I make sure to share with my girlfriend because it is large, and because there would be some serious repercussions if I didn't. Yes, it's that good.
Gibson Girl Ice Cream – Main Street U.S.A
For me, settling on a flavor of ice cream to eat is almost as difficult as choosing which ride to hop on next. Although you can grab ice cream desserts at a few other places, nothing gets the job done quite like this Disneyland classic.
Waffle cones, floats, and sundaes can all be found at one of the tastiest spots in the park. Located on Main Street U.S.A near the Carnation Cafe, this decadent dessert destination is conveniently located for those looking to take a quick break or to do some souvenir shopping, and those who are simply looking for some incredible ice cream.
With plenty of flavors to choose from, Gibson Girl is the perfect place to treat the family to, as you are sure to find something for everyone to enjoy. Feel like trying something a little different? Get yourself a Fanta Orange Float, and let your taste buds take it from there.
Popcorn – Various Locations
If you include popcorn on a "Top 15" list, then it needs to be something special. Then again, is there anything in Disneyland that isn't? With the perfect amount of butter and salt, this popcorn happens to be my all-time favorite, and my mouth is watering just thinking about it. It's a great snack to share, and an even better one to have all to yourself.
Disneyland's popcorn can be found all throughout the park, and is a quick, satisfying snack that is perfect for any occasion or time of day. Never a place to be less than spectacular, there is flavored popcorn, but you'll have to walk across the way in order to find it. Over at the Cozy Cone Morel in Disney's California Adventure, you can find popcorn in various flavors, including: dill pickle, buffalo ranch, and even garlic parmesan. Ask for a sample, and give each flavor a try!
Turkey Leg – Various Locations
For any previous visitor to the Magic Kingdom, I can almost guarantee that you've seen more than a few people chowing down on one of these. For all of you future visitors, you may need to take a step back, and take a moment to admire the sheer size of Disneyland's Turkey Legs.
A snack that could satisfy the hunger of the "Matterhorn's" Abominable Snowman, the Disneyland Turkey Leg is a mammoth-sized treat that is as popular as it is large. Flavorful and filling, this snack certainly acts like a complete meal, and is something that you can munch down while cruising through the park.
They can be found in a few different places, including the Hot Foods Cart, and the Village Haus restaurant in Fantasyland. I highly recommend giving this food challenge a try before enjoying a ride on "It's A Small World" while you slowly slip away into a food coma.
Mickey-Shaped Beignets – Mint Julep Bar
The Mint Julep Bar in and of itself is a hidden gem located in New Orleans Square, and it also happens to house one of the greatest treats in the Magic Kingdom. The Mickey-shaped Beignets are a light, airy, donut-like snack that is covered in powdered sugar, and will leave you wishing you had gotten more for yourself. Fortunately, the snack comes in a pack of 3, or a pack of 6, so you'll always be able to get plenty for the family.
The beignets come in a white paper bag filled with powdered sugar at the bottom, so be sure to give the bag a good shake to ensure that each bite of your snack is as good as the last. They can be a tad messy, so you may want to grab a seat and enjoy the scenery for a while, otherwise you'll cover the park in powdered sugar, and bring in the holiday's a bit too early.
Churro – Various Locations
What is there to say about a Disneyland churro that hasn't been said? For you churro aficionados out there, you know better than most that this snack is simply on another level. This isn't your average county fair churro. The perfect blend of cinnamon, sugar, and pure Disney magic, these golden brown wonders are always made to perfection, and can remedy any empty stomach looking for a fix.
Due to their popularity, you can find a churro at plenty of carts throughout the park, and this snack also happens to be incredibly cost effective. Big taste with minimal budget impact? It's no wonder that the churro has become a mainstay after all these years.
If you're interested in mixing things up, head on over to the Cozy Cone Motel inside of Disney's California Adventure, and grab yourself a cookies and cream churro, or churro bites that come with caramel or chocolate dipping sauce.
Dole Whip – Tiki Juice Bar
The number one snack on our list comes courtesy of the beautiful state of Hawaii. Next to the churro, Disneyland's world famous Dole Whip is a Hawaiian import that is as popular as any snack in the park's storied history. The pineapple flavored soft serve is the perfect fit on any day, and is a phenomenal way to cool down while enjoying a show at "The Enchanted Tiki Room."
For those pineapple lovers out there looking to take this snack to the next level, be sure to get a Dole Whip Float, which contains the already flavorful Dole Whip with pineapple juice for a pairing that tastes even better than it sounds. The line can be a but long, but, if you head into the waiting area for the show, there is a line for the Tiki Juice Bar that will drastically reduce your wait time! Grab a Dole Whip, and head over to grab your fast pass for Space Mountain in half the time. Being an annual pass holder, I'm able to get this whenever I please, and that, my friends, is how to live life.