Follow in Walt’s Footsteps Where the Magic Began

Aug 8 - 13, 2027

Join me in Southern California for a private group trip to the original park, Walt’s park, and the places where Disney magic is still made.

We’ll walk the studio lot where so many of the classic films were created, step inside Walt Disney Imagineering, visit Walt’s private apartment above the Firehouse on Main Street, get a behind-the-scenes look at an attraction, and even eat at Tam O’Shanter, the restaurant he loved and returned to again and again. Most of these aren’t experiences you can book on your own. They’re reserved for special groups, and I’ve arranged this one exclusively for Living by Disney guests. We’ll also explore Hollywood, the history of moviemaking, and iconic spots like the Chinese Theatre.

Imagine standing inside Imagineering, looking at the models and hearing how the parks come to life — then looking around and realizing you’re there with people who care about it as much as you do.

Or stepping into Walt’s apartment and taking in the view down Main Street together.

Or sitting down at Tam O’Shanter, where Walt used to eat, and just talking about it all over lunch. Those are the moments that stick. There’s something so different about experiencing these places when you’re not doing it alone or with a random tour group, but with fellow Disney fans who already get why it matters.

I’ve had the privilege of seeing some of these spaces before, and it has always been my dream to bring people along with me. Now I can. Instead of just hearing me talk about them, you can come experience them too — and share the “wait, are we really here?” reactions with a group of people who love this stuff the same way you do. We’ll have shared meals, free time in the parks to explore together or on your own, and plenty of chances to swap stories and make new friends along the way. Because the group is small and private, there’s real room for those connections to happen naturally alongside the big exclusive experiences.

Itinerary

Sun, Aug 8: Los Angeles, CA, USA
Mon, Aug 9: Hollywood, Los Angeles, CA, USA
1. Hollywood
Tue, Aug 10: Anaheim, CA, USA
1. Studios, Imagineering & Disneyland
2. Stay at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Wed, Aug 11: Anaheim, CA, USA
1. Disneyland Park
Thu, Aug 12: Anaheim, CA, USA
1. Disney California Adventure Park
Fri, Aug 13: Anaheim, CA, USA
1. Departure
2. Transfer from Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa to Los Angeles International Airport

Full Itinerary

The Exclusive Experiences
These are the moments that make this trip different from anything you can arrange yourself:
- Walt Disney Imagineering Tour — A rare look inside where Disney theme park magic is designed and created. Not open to the public.
- Walt’s Private Apartment — Step into the small apartment above the Main Street Firehouse where Walt stayed during Disneyland’s construction and early years.
- Walt Disney Studios & Disney Archives — Tour the historic studio lot and see treasures in the Disney Archives Reading Room.
- Lunch at Tam O’Shanter — Walt’s favorite restaurant, just minutes from the Studios, where he ate regularly.
- Privately Guided Backstage Access — A behind-the-scenes look at an attraction and areas of the parks regular guests don’t see.
- VIP Viewing of World of Color
Trip Overview
Duration: 6 Days
Start Date: August 8th, 2027
End Date: August 13th, 2027
Price Starting From: $4,967 per person
Ages: 12 and up
Booking is now open exclusively through Living by Disney and Love of the Magic Vacations. Spots are limited
Where You’ll Stay
- Loews Hollywood Hotel (Hollywood nights)
- Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa (Disneyland Resort nights) — on-site, within walking distance to both parks
What’s Included
- Two Disney-trained Adventure Guides
- Accommodations as listed
- Meals specified in the itinerary
- All scheduled activities, tours, and entertainment
- Park admission as specified
- Private transfers on arrival and departure
- Transportation during the trip
- Porterage of luggage
- Most gratuities (except Adventure Guides)
- Taxes and fees
Not included: Airfare to/from California, travel insurance, Adventure Guide gratuities (optional), alcoholic beverages (unless specified), and personal expenses.
Pricing & Booking (ages 12+)
Ages 12 and older only.
This trip is designed for adults and older teens. We will not be accommodating younger children, so everyone can move at a comfortable pace and fully enjoy the exclusive experiences.
Single occupancy rooms are limited. Book early if you’re traveling solo.
- Double occupancy: $4,967 per person
- Triple occupancy: $4,967 per person
- Single occupancy: $7,127 (limited availability)
(Exact room configuration pricing will be confirmed at booking.)
A 10% non-refundable deposit secures your spot.

Booking is open now! Spots are limited to keep the group small and private. I do expect spots to fill quickly. You’ll be traveling with me and a group of like-minded Disney fans. I can’t wait to go on this adventure together!
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me!
Email me directly at Serena@Livingbydisney.com with any questions or concerns you have about the trip or booking.
Deposit and Final Payment
Payment Schedule
Date
Deposit of 10%
Due at the time of booking
Final Payment
May 1, 2027
All payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. Please purchase travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.
Travel Protection
All deposits and final payments are NON-REFUNDABLE. We always recommend travel insurance for any unforeseen circumstances.
Adventures by Disney Travel Protection can be purchased to protect your investment in your vacation. Please see the details of coverage here. This plan does not cover any purchases or reservations outside of the ABD reservation. Extras like additional hotel nights, flights, and tickets are not covered.
For a more comprehensive travel insurance package, please request a third-party insurance quote.
Extend the Magic! Make the Most of Your Southern California Adventure
Why let the magic end when your Adventures by Disney vacation does? Southern California is filled with incredible destinations, beautiful beaches, and unforgettable experiences! Whether you'd like a few extra days of Disney magic, a relaxing coastal escape, or an opportunity to explore more of California, we'd love to help you create the perfect extension to your vacation.
Here are a few of our favorite ways to extend your adventure:
- Disneyland Resort – Add a few extra days at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, with time to experience your favorite attractions, entertainment, and dining at your own pace.
- Universal Studios Hollywood – Step into the movies with thrilling attractions, the world-famous Studio Tour, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
- San Diego – Head south for beautiful beaches, the world-famous San Diego Zoo, charming La Jolla, and a visit to Coronado Island.
- Laguna Beach & Newport Beach – Unwind with a luxurious coastal getaway featuring oceanfront resorts, boutique shopping, fantastic restaurants, and gorgeous Pacific sunsets.
- Santa Barbara – Discover the California coast with beautiful beaches, Spanish-inspired architecture, charming boutiques, and incredible dining.
- Los Angeles & Beverly Hills – Enjoy a little Hollywood glamour with luxury shopping on Rodeo Drive, iconic landmarks, studio tours, and exceptional restaurants.
- Catalina Island – Escape to a picturesque island just off the Southern California coast for ocean adventures, charming seaside shops, and beautiful scenery.
- Palm Springs – Relax in the desert sunshine with beautiful resorts, sparkling pools, mountain views, and fabulous mid-century modern style.
Let's make your California vacation even more magical! Our team at Love of the Magic Vacations can help you customize a pre- or post-adventure stay, including accommodations, transportation, theme park tickets, and special experiences to make the most of your time in Southern California.
Ready to Reserve?
Click the navy "Reserve Your Spot Now" button to reserve your spot!
All bookings are handled through our travel partner:

Jamie Rumph, Love of the Magic Vacations

Email: jamie@lotmv.com | Phone: 720-838-4500
Email me directly at serena@livingbydisney.com. I’m happy to answer anything!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this open to anyone?
No. This is a private group arranged exclusively for Living by Disney guests.
What is the age requirement?
12 and older only. No younger children will be traveling on this trip.
How do I book?
Booking is open now. Use the blue "Reserve Your Spot Now" button on this page to reserve your spot with the 20% non-refundable deposit. Or contact Jamie Rumph. If you have questions, first email or message me directly.
Are single rooms available?
Yes, but single occupancy rooms are limited. Book early if you want your own room.
What makes the Imagineering tour and the behind the scenes of park attractions so special?
These experiences are not available to the general public. They are arranged only for special groups.
Is the trip physically demanding?
Expect a moderate amount of walking, especially on the Hollywood and park days. The exclusive tours themselves are mostly standing and walking at a comfortable pace. Most of your main park touring time is done on your own (we will set you up with Lightning Lanes and any help you need!) but you can keep whatever pace is most comfortable to you. So the activity level is very customizable.
What if I want to arrive early or stay later?
Pre- and post-trip nights and experiences (extra park days, Universal, San Diego, etc.) can be arranged through Jamie.
Are deposits refundable?
No. The 10% deposit and all subsequent payments are non-refundable. We recommend purchasing travel protection.