In general, you will find California Adventure less crowded than Disneyland, in part because its pathways are wider and its sight lines more open. However, the most popular rides and attractions still develop long lines and on a busy day, they may even run out of fastpasses.

Chapter 2 will give you some tips for theme park attire. These ideas will also help you have the happiest visit possible.

• Plan your day. If you are going to use RideMax to shorten your waiting time, this is essential. Otherwise, choose which attractions you absolutely must experience.

• As soon as you arrive, pick up a copy of the Entertainment Times Guide and the Souvenir Map. These helpful booklets, which are given out at the main entrance and at the Guest Services window near the entrance, contain the times for all parades and shows, describe the times and places to meet the Disney characters, and offer a detailed map of the park with all of the major attractions, restaurants, and amenities (restrooms, public phones, ATMs, etc.).

• Once you get inside the park, choose a place for your group to meet in case you get separated. The big sun sculpture in Sunshine Plaza is a good spot. It's easy to find and there are places to sit down. Walk there together so everyone knows where it is.

• You'll find the Wait Time board near the Guest Relations booth. Consult it to help you figure out the best time of the day for each ride or attraction.

• The Southern California sun can get hot in the middle of summer, and you won't find a lot of shade at California Adventure. If you need a spot to cool off and rest, visit any of the indoor shows. The lobby of the Animation building is also air-conditioned and has some benches you can sit on while watching Disney animated film clips play on the walls around you.

• Throughout the day, drink plenty of liquids. You can purchase soda, juice, or bottled water throughout California Adventure, or you can take advantage of the free water fountains that are also located throughout the park. Avoid becoming dehydrated by drinking liquids even if you're not thirsty.

• California Adventure typically overstates wait times by about ten minutes. If an attraction posts a twenty-minute wait, chances are you'll only wait about ten minutes.

• One of the last spots to fill up for watching the Electrical Parade is also one of the best. The area just in front of the Golden Zephyr looks like a bad spot to stop because it's brightly lit and the parade is best seen in the dark, but when the parade starts, the lights go off. As a bonus, you'll be near the exit if you want to leave right afterward.

Any time you need help in California Adventure or aren't sure what to do, consult a cast member. They're trained to help with all kinds of problems and know how to answer your questions.