Ever since I was a kid, I’ve had a soft spot for fairy tales. Not just the stories themselves, but the feeling they created—of wonder, of possibility, of being part of something bigger than real life.

When the chance came up to plan a family trip to Disneyland Paris from New Jersey, I jumped at it. I’d been to both Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World in Florida, but this would be my first time experiencing Disney in Europe.

Let me tell you: there is something truly magical about watching the worlds you grew up loving come alive in a different language in a country where even the castles look like they’ve been standing for centuries.

We traveled as a multi-generational group, and I’d heard from fellow visitors that this version of the park brought a different kind of charm.

After conducting extensive research and making comparisons, I created an itinerary that balanced theme park thrills with the beauty and culture of Paris itself. This trip combined family travel to Paris with the enchantment of Disney, and it turned out to be one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had.

How Disney in Europe Compares to the U.S.’s Disney Parks

There’s something surreal about walking through the gates of Disneyland Paris for the first time. It felt familiar and entirely new all at once.

Traveling to Disneyland Paris from New Jersey was no small feat, but the payoff was huge, especially because this park offers a different rhythm than the ones back home. It’s less about high-octane rides and more about atmosphere, artistry and charm.

Disneyland Paris vs. Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World in Florida is undeniably iconic. It’s a sprawling experience, almost a destination city on its own. The sheer size, though, can be overwhelming.

You need days, maybe a week, to even begin exploring all four parks. By contrast, Disneyland Paris consists of two parks right next to each other: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios. It’s possible to enjoy a full experience without feeling like you’ve run a marathon.

Where Disney World impresses with scale and spectacle, Disneyland Paris delights with detail and design. Its European flair makes it unique; this is not just a theme park, the Six Flags type that you’re likely used to. This is an elegant interpretation of classic Disney storytelling, filtered through a French lens.

Disneyland Paris vs. Disneyland California

California’s Disneyland has the nostalgia factor (it’s the original, after all), but Disneyland Paris has the grandeur.

The Sleeping Beauty Castle here is not only visually stunning, but also houses an actual animatronic dragon in the dungeon below, a feature unique to this park. The landscaping is lush, the colors seem more vivid and the overall layout has a graceful flow.

What stood out to me was the immersive quality of the design. The cast members, many of whom switch effortlessly between French and English, make you feel welcome no matter your background. It’s a cross-cultural fantasyland that feels both worldly and whimsical.

Make a One-Day Visit to Disneyland Paris from Paris

Before our trip, I wasn’t convinced a single day at Disneyland Paris would be enough. Our schedule was tight as we were trying to balance the park with a broader Paris itinerary.

As it turned out, one day can be just right if you plan it properly.

New Jersey – Paris: Easy Logistics Make It Possible

We based ourselves in the city, staying at a hotel near Gare de Lyon. That made hopping on the RER A train simple. It took less than 45 minutes to get from central Paris to Marne-la-Vallée, the station just outside the park entrance. There are no transfers and no complicated directions, just a smooth ride out of the city and straight into a fairytale.

The trains run often and signage is clearly marked. For anyone making a trip from New Jersey to Paris and staying downtown, the RER is by far the easiest way to get to Disneyland Paris without needing a rental car or a pricey taxi.

Short Distances, Long Magic

Because of its more compact design, Disneyland Paris doesn’t wear you out in the same way that the American parks can. You’re not crossing vast distances between lands or hopping buses to get from one attraction to another. Everything is easily walkable.

This is especially useful if you’re balancing a short Paris itinerary with the park. You can see a lot in a single day if you hit the highlights and use the app to check wait times, parade routes and food stops. We made a plan in advance and adjusted on the go as needed.

The Visual Appeal is Unmatched

It’s not just the rides or the characters (though these are incredible). It’s the architecture, the little cobblestone paths, the ivy-covered walls, the quiet elegance of even the trash cans. Every corner of Disneyland Paris is postcard-pretty.

At one point, someone in our group said it felt more like wandering a museum of dreams than a theme park.

Must-See Spots in Disneyland Paris

Even though we had only one day, we packed it with moments that felt truly unforgettable. I’d asked friends, read blogs and polled forums in advance to find out what to prioritize. What we landed on was a blend of classics, surprises and experiences unique to Disney in Europe.

The Disneyland Castle

Le Château de la Belle au Bois Dormant is the heart of Disneyland Paris. Unlike the castles stateside, this one draws inspiration from Gothic French fairy tales and local legend. It’s stunning inside and out, and it’s not just for pictures.

You can explore the upper floor, which tells the Sleeping Beauty story through stained glass and tapestries, or go down into the dungeon to see a life-sized dragon animatronic in its lair, something you’ll only find in Paris.

I stood at the foot of that castle for a while, just watching the way the light changed across its turrets. It felt like all the stories I loved as a kid were finally right in front of me.

Stay at a Disney-Owned Hotel

Though we opted to stay in central Paris this time, we toured Disney’s on-site hotels and made a mental note: next time, we’re staying here.

The Disneyland Hotel, in particular, is an experience in itself. With its Victorian architecture and pink façade, it overlooks the entrance to the park, and many rooms offer castle views. Staying here means earlier access to rides and easier midday breaks.

It’s perfect for those visiting from New Jersey to Paris who want to dedicate more than one day to the park and make their Disney experience feel all-encompassing.

Eat at Walt’s Restaurant

It’s not just about the food here (which was exceptional), but about the setting. Each room is themed after a different land in the park, and the atmosphere is steeped in Disney lore. We were seated in the Adventureland room, surrounded by explorer-themed decor and colonial-style artifacts.

Dining here felt more intimate than typical theme park dining, and the mix of French cuisine with Disney-style whimsy made it a standout meal during our family travel to Paris.

Visit Phantom Manor at Night

Phantom Manor is Disneyland Paris’s version of Haunted Mansion, but with a twist. The tone is darker, the music more cinematic and the story connects to Frontierland in a way that makes it feel like part of a larger narrative.

We went just after sunset, and the experience was completely different than during the day.

If you’re only there for one day, save this for later in the evening. It’s moody, theatrical and genuinely chilling in the most exciting way.

Ride Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain

In the States, Space Mountain is a dark coaster with twists and lights. In Paris, it’s Hyperspace Mountain, a Star Wars-themed thrill ride that goes upside down. It was intense but incredible.

Members of our group who don’t usually ride coasters couldn’t stop talking about it.

For thrill-seekers, this is the ride that most distinguishes Disneyland Paris from the other parks. It’s not just a variation; it’s an entirely different beast.

Meet Your Beloved Characters

We used the app to time our meet-and-greets, and it paid off. We got great photos with Mickey, Minnie and Elsa. What made this special was how the characters interacted with our group in multiple languages.

It’s the little things that elevate Disney in Europe, such as hearing your favorite characters greet you in French, then switch back to English without skipping a beat.

Watch the Nightly Show

The nightly show at Disneyland Paris is more than fireworks. It’s an orchestration of light, sound, projections, music and drones.

We arrived 45 minutes early and secured a spot in the main square. As the castle transformed with scenes from different films, the air filled with music and drones lit up the sky in synchrony with the storyline.

If you’re taking the train back to Paris afterward, start heading to the station while the finale plays. You’ll still see the end as you walk and avoid the rush of the crowd, which is especially critical when your final train is just minutes away.

What to See in the City of Paris with Kids

No family travel to Paris would be complete without seeing the city itself. We built a few extra days into our trip to explore the sights, eat French food and take in the magic of Paris with just enough structure to keep it stress-free.

Arc de Triomphe

This towering monument at the end of the Champs-Élysées is more than a photo op. We explored the surrounding area on foot, wandering through high-end boutiques, snack stalls and leafy boulevards before reaching the base of the arch.

Some members of our group opted to climb to the top for panoramic views of Paris, while others stayed below to admire the intricate carvings and the eternal flame that burns beneath it.

Seine River

We took a bateau mouche for a relaxing cruise along the Seine. It was calm and scenic, allowing us to see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks without needing to walk much.

From Notre Dame to the Musée d’Orsay, each sight was perfectly framed from the water. We brought snacks and enjoyed watching the Eiffel Tower slide into view just as the sun started to lower in the sky.

It was an easy way to give our feet a break while still sightseeing; plus, the open-top deck gave us great angles for photos.

Louvre Museum

We didn’t try to do it all. Instead, we chose one wing, focused on the Egyptian artifacts and set a timer. That structure kept things engaging, and even the younger ones found something to marvel at (like a sarcophagus that towered above our heads!).

The scale of the museum is enormous, but with a plan, it becomes much more manageable.

We also enjoyed the glass pyramid from the inside, watching light stream into the central atrium before heading back out into the courtyard for photos. The museum cafés are also handy for a quick recharge.

Café Marly

After the Louvre, we sat down at Café Marly. It faces the glass pyramid and offers a surprisingly chill vibe, especially if you’re seated outside. We had a long, late lunch and even lingered over espresso and dessert.

The view of people passing by, the elegant table settings and the understated luxury of the entire experience made it feel like we’d stepped into a Parisian film. There’s something surreal about sipping coffee next to a world-famous museum while a violinist plays softly in the background.

Galeries Lafayette

One afternoon, while others rested, a few of us wandered into Galeries Lafayette. It’s more than a department store; this is a landmark with stained-glass domes, intricate ironwork and a rooftop terrace that offers sweeping views of Paris.

We bought souvenirs and enjoyed the skyline without needing to pay for an observation deck. Inside, the central atrium was especially striking, as it was bright, airy and buzzing with stylish Parisians.

Even if shopping isn’t your thing, it’s worth visiting just to see the architecture.

Sainte-Chapelle

This gothic chapel may not be on every itinerary, but it should be. The stained-glass windows are breathtaking, even for those who don’t usually get excited about architecture. The light pours in like a kaleidoscope, coloring the floor and walls with shifting hues.

We spent a few quiet minutes just staring upward, feeling hushed by the sheer beauty of it. It was a brief and easy stop, but it left a lasting impression on everyone in our group.

Sacré-Cœur

We saved Montmartre for our final day. The walk to the top was leisurely, and the view was well worth it. We sat on the steps, listened to a busker play violin and shared warm crêpes as the sun dipped behind the city’s rooftops.

The energy around Sacré-Cœur was relaxed but joyful. Artists sketched portraits nearby, children chased pigeons and the whole area felt like the perfect blend of sacred and playful. It was a peaceful way to end our sightseeing.

Aura Invalides

As a final treat, we booked tickets to Aura Invalides, an immersive light and sound show inside one of Paris’s most iconic monuments. It’s geared toward older kids and adults, but the visuals are impressive enough to hold almost anyone’s attention.

The show transforms the historic architecture into a living canvas of animated storytelling. The colors, music and digital projection mapping created an atmosphere that was both reverent and futuristic.

It was the perfect way to wind down our time in Paris: artful, calm and thoroughly memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Disneyland Paris with Kids

If you’re planning your family adventure to Disneyland Paris from New Jersey, you probably have the same questions I did.

Here’s what I found out along the way, based on our personal experience and a few lessons learned the hard way.

Do I need to speak French to enjoy the park?

Not at all. Disneyland Paris is very international, and nearly all staff speak both French and English. Signs, menus and maps are available in multiple languages, and the Disneyland Paris app is fully functional in English.

There were a few moments when understanding basic phrases was helpful, but overall, language was never a barrier.

Is one day enough?

Surprisingly, yes, if you go in with a game plan.

We arrived before the park opened, had our tickets ready, and used the app to check wait times, prioritizing what we wanted to see.

That said, if you’re someone who likes to wander or wants to experience both parks thoroughly, two days will allow for a slower, more immersive visit. It depends on your travel style and schedule.

How should I get from New Jersey to Paris?

We flew from Newark Liberty International Airport to Charles de Gaulle, a direct overnight flight that landed us in Paris early in the morning. For travelers going from New Jersey to Paris, there are several direct options out of Newark and JFK.

We chose an airline that allowed early check-in and pre-booked transfers into the city to make arrival smoother after the long flight.

Should I stay in Paris or at the Disney hotels?

Both have perks. Staying in central Paris gave us the flexibility to explore the city, dine at neighborhood bistros and soak in that classic Parisian atmosphere. However, for those who want to focus on Disney, staying at a Disney-owned hotel offers proximity, themed environments and early access to the parks.

If I were doing the trip again specifically for the park, I’d choose to stay on-site for one or two nights.

Is Disneyland Paris very different from the American parks?

Yes and no. The core of Disney—the storytelling, the attention to detail, the customer service—is consistent across continents.

However, Disneyland Paris leans more into elegance and artistry. It’s a slightly quieter, more visually refined experience. Even the costumes and architecture reflect European heritage. It felt like discovering a familiar friend with a beautiful French accent.

What should I pack for a day at the park?

Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. We also packed snacks, refillable water bottles, lightweight rain ponchos, sunscreen, a portable phone charger and a small day bag. Since evenings can get chilly even in the summer, it’s smart to bring along a light sweater or jacket.

What’s the food like?

Honestly? It’s better than I expected. You can find all the classic theme park staples, including popcorn, burgers and fries (but also crepes, quiche, baguette sandwiches and French pastries).

Sit-down spots like Walt’s or Bistrot Chez Rémy offer a more refined experience. We made one reservation in advance and left the rest to spontaneity, which worked well thanks to the mobile app.

Is it stroller-friendly?

Yes, the park is flat and relatively easy to navigate with strollers, though some areas (especially near the castle and Phantom Manor) have cobblestones. You can also rent strollers at the park entrance, which is convenient for those who do not want to bring their own on the train or plane.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

Small snacks and water bottles are allowed, but picnics are discouraged. There are plenty of shaded benches and tables where we paused to eat a granola bar or sip coffee, and security checks were friendly and efficient.

Would you go back?

In a heartbeat! Disneyland Paris from New Jersey may sound like a far-off dream, but it’s worth it, especially when paired with a few days of exploring the city.

It felt like the perfect bridge between fantasy and reality, between childhood dreams and grown-up travel.

Disneyland Paris from New Jersey: In Summation

Visiting Disneyland Paris from New Jersey was a dream that unfolded in real-time. Every moment, from boarding the flight across the Atlantic to sipping espresso beneath the Eiffel Tower, hearing the first notes of the castle fireworks show and walking along the Seine at sunset, was filled with magic.

It wasn’t just a theme park visit. It was an immersive cultural experience that wove together the enchantment of Disney with the timeless elegance of Paris.

We laughed, we wandered, we rode roller coasters and ate too many pastries. In every moment, it felt like we were exactly where we were meant to be.

If you’re considering family travel to Paris, or if you’ve always wondered what it might be like to experience Disney in Europe, don’t hesitate. This journey from New Jersey to Paris, and from the city streets to Sleeping Beauty’s castle, is more accessible than you think.

With a bit of planning, a good pair of shoes and a sense of adventure, it’s entirely possible to make the magic happen.

Take your family, friends, partner or even go solo. Let Disneyland Paris surprise you.

Let Paris with kids become one of your best travel stories. Let the journey from New Jersey to Paris remind you that fairytales aren’t just for kids; sometimes, they start with a plane ticket from Jersey.