As Mickey Mouse's kingdom and the crowning jewel of Walt Disney's marketing vision, Disneyland is one of the best-known and most-beloved destinations in the world. Long ago the park dubbed itself "The Happiest Place On Earth," and even the most hardened cynics agree that there's some truth to the slogan. After all, the Magic Kingdom is where fairy tales come to life. Many of the park's original rides, like Snow White's Adventure and Peter Pan's Flight, continue to charm visitors in spite of their old-fashioned flavor. Newer rides such as Indiana Jones Adventure, Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin and Space Mountain, are tamer than the high-octane thrills at Knott's Berry Farm and Six Flags, but that's beside the point. Disney rides are not about G-forces, but rather about detailed, immersive environments that reward repeat riders -- it's impossible even after three trips through the Haunted Mansion or Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin to see everything, which is why so many park visitors buy annual passports so they can keep coming back.

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Ah, California Adventure... land of beautiful beaches, world-class wineries, Hollywood stars and countless theme parks. In 2000, Disney opened yet another fantastic park -- and not only is it located in California, it's also themed around the great Golden State. It's a real departure from the cartoon characters and fairytale fare that everyone's come to expect from the Mouse's empire, but that's part of its charm. Here, guests can scale a miniature mountain, brave whitewater rapids, explore a Hollywood backlot, and stroll a beach boardwalk in a single day. The park is smaller, hipper and slightly more grown-up than its legendary neighbor.