First thing is when you get to Disneyland and are going through the gates don't forget to get a map of the park and a entertainment schedule. They will help you tremendously finding your way around.
If you head to the city hall you can get a 1st visit button or a Happy Birthday button and they are free and a awesome souvenir.
One thing I see a lot is people don't know that you need to get a fastpass to watch the World of color. I highly recommend seeing the World of color! It is our favorite show and is spectacular! You need to get your fast passes early in the day at California adventures near grizzly river run. You can also get fastpasses for the more popular rides in the parks. The fastpass kiosk are near the attraction and you just return at the time your fastpass says.
The cost of things at Disneyland can really add up especially with a family, some things I do to cut back on cost is I carry a light weight backpack and throw a few bottles of water and a few snacks in there for the kids. One awesome tip I have is most every where they sell fountain soda you can ask for ice water and it is FREE!
I do carry a light weight backpack so we have something to throw our coats and stuff in through out the day but sometimes it does get to be a little much and we will rent a locker for a small fee. They have lockers in both parks and also outside of the park as well. Just remember to return and get your things at the end of the day.
The first time we went to Disneyland we had no idea about Downtown Disney until the very last night, We were bummed out because there is also a lot to do there as well. There is fun restaurants like the Rain Forest Cafe, House of blues, ESPN zone. There is a awesome lego store, huge World of Disney store, Ridemakerz and build a bear. So much to do there and also gives you a break from the parks. We always have a dinner one of the nights at the Rain Forest Cafe it's a fun experience for the kids.
Another thing is if you want a family picture there are photographers all through out the parks that will take your picture.
We like to spend as much time in the park as possible and don't leave the park during the day unless we are going to dinner in Down Town Disney. We eat our lunches in the parks and our favorite spot is at the Pacific Wharf in California Adventures, we love the Pacific Wharf Cafe and the Lucky Fortune Cookery.
A few last things, make sure you all have a good pair of walking shoes, by the end of the day you will have tired feet. Most importantly take you time, enjoy yourself and the magic of Disney.
P.S. Cars land is spectacular! When you enter it's feels like you stepped inside the movie.
