On the list of things that must be accomplished on a trip to Disneyland, standing in the monstrosity of a line at the Tiki Juice Bar for a cup of cold, swirled pineapple Dole Whip (or a Dole Whip float, if you're really treating yourself) is somewhere near the top. It's as vital as taking a photo with Mickey and hitting up every single one of the park's best rides; we do it because Dole Whip is good—really good—and because we see it as a uniquely Disney experience, one that can't be found anywhere else.
Except, friends, it can. You can get Dole Whip without standing in a soul-crushing line that threatens to cut into your Indiana Jones Fastpass time (Oh, you don't use Fastpasses? You should, and here's why.). Don't get us wrong, we love snacking on the Whip while we wait for a (somewhat cheesy) show to start at the Enchanted Tiki Room. But we could also do without the crowds and the talking parrots, so here's where to find the sweet treat—in classic pineapple and other flavors—without a pricey ticket to the Happiest Place on Earth.
Brian's Shave Ice. Found in Sherman Oaks and West LA, Brian's Shave Ice offers Dole Whip as a filling on its shave ice menu. You can then add additional flavors and a topping, like a snowcap of condensed milk.
Whipp'd LA. This West Hollywood dessert spot sells both Dole Whip floats and regular cups and cones of the soft serve, along with additional flavors like mango, orange and raspberry.
Yogurt Haven. The Valley Glen location sadly closed, but you can still find Dole Whip at Yogurt Haven's Eagle Rock outpost, along with other unique flavors like horchata and taro.
Menchie's. If your nearest Menchie's doesn't have Dole Whip, one of the chain's multiple locations is bound to; the frozen yogurt shop can be found in Burbank, Valley Village, Sherman Oaks, Santa Monica, Winnetka, Culver City, Westchester, South Pasadena and Encino, and has pineapple Dole Whip in frequent rotation.
P.S. Dole Whips are dairy-free and vegan, so if you adhere to either of those dietary restrictions/life choices, go forth.