It's hard to talk about holiday lights in Los Angeles without mentioning Disneyland. Sure, the Happiest Place on Earth is already sky-high in "wow factor," but the resort ups its merriment ante big-time over the holidays. From a wintery light projection that makes Sleeping Beauty's castle look like it's dripping in high-def icicles to the "It's a Small World" facade transformed into a wall of colorful twinkling lights (and its insides adorned to reflect the season).

"As a little girl growing up in California, I was so spoiled living so close to Disneyland. But being one of six in my family, knowing that it was quite the penny to save up to go, we would go once a year, and it would always be around my birthday. Spending the day at Disneyland was by far my favorite memory as a little girl. I would have butterflies the night before going, having the hardest time sleeping, be in my outfit ready to go. Disneyland is definitely where my inner child thrives."

Opened on July 17, 1955, Disneyland Park truly is the Happiest Place on Earth, whether it's your first time or you are a seasoned pro—it’s always a good idea.

The most obvious choice, Disneyland and its sister park, California Adventure, are pretty self-explanatory, and their princess castles and magical land filled with fairytale characters are universally known. The lesser known secret is that discounted tickets are available through many organizations for Southern California residents, and those who live nearby can also purchase a season pass to come whenever they want for only $30 per month.