Can I just drive up and park and enjoy Downtown Disney or do you have to have tickets to get in. It’s been years since I’ve been there and can’t remember Also is the giant Planet Hollywood still there?

no tickets needed for downtown disney, you do go through a "check point" where your bag/purse is searched & planet hollywood is still there

We need tickets.

Parking is close and the entrance to Downtown Disney is free.

No need to purchase tickets.

You can go in for free.

You probably won't be able to enjoy yourself because you're going to keep having to watch your watch to make sure you're not going to get scammed about parking.

Yes+yes.

Yes and yes. ;)

You just need to get thru metal detectors.

Lots of parking nearby both paid and ones you can get refund for if you show proof of purchase inside downtown Disney. Free to get into downtown but you will be searched.