The 53-kilometer journey from LAX to Anaheim and the Disneyland Resort crosses through southern Los Angeles County and into Orange County, taking approximately 45–70 minutes by car via the I-105 and I-5 freeways. Direct shuttle services cater specifically to theme park visitors, while shared-ride vans and taxis offer door-to-door service. Public transit options exist but are time-consuming for this route.

About Anaheim (Disneyland)

Anaheim is home to the Disneyland Resort, the original Disney theme park opened by Walt Disney himself in 1955 and still one of the most visited tourist destinations on Earth. The resort comprises two theme parks — Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure — along with the Downtown Disney District shopping and dining complex, and three on-property hotels. Disneyland Park's Sleeping Beauty Castle, Main Street U.S.A., and beloved attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Matterhorn Bobsleds draw over 16 million visitors annually.

Disney California Adventure, which opened in 2001 and was extensively renovated, features Cars Land (a meticulously recreated Radiator Springs), Pixar Pier, Avengers Campus, and the Incredicoaster. The park's newer attractions consistently push the boundaries of immersive themed entertainment. Downtown Disney, the free-admission outdoor shopping and dining district between the parks, stays lively well into the evening with restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

Beyond Disney, Anaheim has grown into a significant convention and entertainment destination in its own right. The Anaheim Convention Center is one of the largest on the West Coast, hosting major events like VidCon, D23 Expo, and WonderCon. Angel Stadium (MLB's Los Angeles Angels) and Honda Center (NHL's Anaheim Ducks) are both nearby. The Anaheim Packing District, a renovated 1919 citrus packing house, is an artisanal food hall worth visiting. Knott's Berry Farm, America's oldest themed amusement park, is just a 10-minute drive away in neighboring Buena Park.

Nearby Landmarks

Disneyland Park Disney California Adventure Downtown Disney District Anaheim Convention Center Angel Stadium

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $80-120
Time 45-90 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. From your LAX terminal, take the free LAX shuttle to the LAX/Metro Transit Center
2. Option A (Recommended — direct shuttle): Book a shared shuttle (Karmel Shuttle, Prime Time Shuttle) from LAX directly to your Anaheim hotel ($20–35 per person, 60–90 minutes)
3. Shuttles pick up from designated areas at each terminal — follow signs for shared ride vans
4. Option B (Public transit — long): Take the Metro C Line (Green) to Norwalk station
5. At Norwalk, transfer to OCTA Bus 460 heading toward Disneyland (runs approximately every 30 minutes)
6. Ride to Disneyland Resort area (Harbor Blvd/Katella Ave) — total journey approximately 2–2.5 hours
7. The ART shuttle (Anaheim Resort Transportation, $6 day pass) connects hotels, Disneyland, and the convention center
8. Note: Public transit for this route is not recommended with luggage or children — a shuttle or ride-share is far more practical

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $80-120 45-90 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Direct public transit to Anaheim is not available late at night. After about 10 PM, your options narrow to taxis, ride-shares, and pre-booked shuttles. An Uber or Lyft from LAX to the Disneyland Resort area costs approximately $55–85 depending on demand, and the late-night drive takes about 40–45 minutes with light traffic. Many airport shuttle services (like Karmel Shuttle) offer reservations for late arrivals and may pick up until midnight or later. Some Disneyland-area hotels offer airport transfer services that can accommodate late flights — check with your hotel when booking. A taxi from LAX to Anaheim will cost roughly $100–140.

Luggage Tips

LAX-to-Anaheim shuttles cater to families and offer generous luggage allowances for large suitcases, strollers, and theme park gear. Shared vans typically allow 2–3 bags per person. Public transit with heavy luggage is not recommended due to multiple transfers. For large groups, request an XL or SUV ride-share to fit extra suitcases, strollers, and car seats.

Accessibility

Airport shuttles to Anaheim offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles when requested in advance. Uber and Lyft provide WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) options in LA. The Disneyland Resort is exceptionally accessible with wheelchair and ECV rentals, Disability Access Service (DAS) for queues, and accessible hotel rooms. ART (Anaheim Resort Transportation) buses serving the resort area are ADA compliant.