Live at Disneyland (DLH)

[tidefan]

Been a bit since I've been on the boards, but we've been at a convention in Costa Mesa, CA since last Thursday thru today and we have now made our way over to DLR for a 4-night stay.

Day 1

Our conference ended in Costa Mesa a little after noon and we arrived at DLH around 1:00pm. We unloaded our rental with Bell Services and went to check in. Room was not ready and they told us to check back around 3pm. DW asked about a pool view room with a day bed, and we were told that we may have to wait a bit longer. We wandered through DTD (very nice, very hot) and the World of Disney store before making our way back about 2:45pm. Our room did not become available until about an hour later, but the wait was not too bad as Goofy roams the lobby of the DLH entertaining everyone.

We ended up being assigned a room in the Dreams tower overlooking the pool. The view is really quite good. I have to say that I had a few apprehensions about booking DLH instead of GCH, but I have to say that the DLH is really, really nice. The rooms are big and clean and come with wifi, a fridge, and "Disneyland" furniture (I'll post pics tomorrow to describe). We have a King bed and a day bed, which is really a pull out couch. This is very similar to a studio without the microwave. We could have stayed at the GCH, but it would have been an extra 6 points a night and being the point miser that I am, just couldn't do it. Anyway, the DLH is great.

DD and I went down to the "Neverland Pool" here and it is really nice, complete with pirate ship, crocodile and "Skull Rock" slide. I would highly recommend it for parents with kids. We then got cleaned up and met my cousin, his wife, and their DS3 and DD1 at Goofy's Kitchen for dinner. Typical character dinner, expensive, but there is a 10% discount for DVC or AAA or Disney Visa. We then headed into the parks at about 8:30pm (I know, it's late, but hey, the extra day was only $10 to add on). We walked in and rode Big Thunder Mountain (no wait), Storybookland Boats (no wait), Alice in Wonderland (no wait), the Matterhorn (small wait), and Finding Nemo Submarine voyage (medium wait, bit disappointing IMHO). What was neat tonight was that only one of those rides is at WDW, so it is a bit different out here. Didn't really get to see the park though, so more on that tomorrow.

After Nemo, we caught the monorail in Tomorrowland at 11:15pm to the Downtown Disney station. By 11:25pm, we were back in our room. Can't beat that. Everything here is super-convienient. I am also very impressed by the general upkeep of the area. Disney has done a very good job here in Anaheim. I promise to post some pictures tomorrow and give updates and answer any questions that I can (yes, I promise to get by the GCV models), but now, I've got to get some sleep to be able to go in the morning...

[moredisneyplease]

thanks for posting! i look forward to more from you from DL! Let me know how the crowd levels are during the day. I'm curious because I'm a SoCal resident w/ an AP and i avoid the summers because i think its too crowded.

[marshmallow]

My understanding is the attendance figures are well below the projections for Disneyland this summer. It is a good time to go. We were there July 3rd and there were no waits or very low waits.

I look forward to hearing more about your trip. Don't miss Indiana Jones. I think Pirates and the Haunted Mansion are better at Disneyland.

[mcrabeck]

Thanks for posting! I can't wait for the photos!

[tidefan]

As to the questions, we were at California Adventure today and it didn't seem crowded at all (30 minute wait for TSMM). OK, here are some Day 1 photos.

Arriving!

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0300.jpg

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0301.jpg

Shots of our room (FYI, sorry about disheveling the couch before I took the picture, I had to check to see if it had a pull out. Ignore the wet towel residue too...)

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0324.jpg

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0325.jpg

Neverland pool from our "balcony"

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0331.jpg

DLH Furnishings

This is on the headboard of the bed...

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0327.jpg

This is the TV/Fridge cabinet...

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0328.jpg

Bathroom fixtures...

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0329.jpg

Shampoo, etc...

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0330.jpg

Goofy's Kitchen

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0347.jpg

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pizza! Yum!

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0351.jpg

Perfect end to our evening

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0412.jpg

[tidefan]

Today, we were meeting my Cousin and his family again as well as my Uncle and his wife for a day. Since we had priority seating reservations at Ariel's Grotto (for the princesses for our DD), we decided to make a day of it in Disney's California Adventure, which we had never been to prior to this. Now, I must say that I have seen numerous ridicule and downplay of DCA, and while it is certainly no Disneyland Park or Magic Kingdom, I do think that it is at least equivalent to Hollywood Studios in Florida. We had a great day and really enjoyed what the park had to offer.

These guys direct you the right way...

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0417.jpg

We got the park and went in and got our Disneyland stroller. Oh yes, the Disneyland stroller. I'd like to pause here and point out one of the areas where the California park beats out Orlando hands down, and that is in the area of strollers. Many threads have been posted debating the increase in stroller fees at WDW. At DL, they are $10 per day, but wait, if you have a Disney Visa (now, I know a few of you do), you get the stroller for FREE. That's right, FREE.

The Disneyland Stroller (FREE with Disney Visa)!

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0080.jpg

We started our day at Soarin and got fastpasses for later. We also went ahead and jumped on as the standby line was only 20 minutes. BTW, this was at 10:40am. Can't say that at Epcot. We finished our ride and headed towards our lunch date with the princesses at Ariel's Grotto.

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0435.jpg

Ariel's was pretty standard character meal fare, but the interaction with the princesses was great. Character meals are expensive in CA too, BTW. Now, I did feel sorry for the poor souls seated outside. One of the things that proponents of DL will tell you is how great the California weather is. Now, while overall I don't disagree with them, today (especially during mid-day) was about as hot and miserable as I ever remember Orlando being, but I digress. After Ariel's we headed down to get fastpasses for California Screamin, let the kids ride King Triton's Carousel and then headed over to the Hollywood backlot area for Playhouse Disney Live on Stage. I believe that this is the exact show that is at DHS, and it is fun for the little ones. It was fun for the big ones too because it was air conditioned. After that, we looked for another air conditioned attraction and went into Turtle Talk with Crush right next door. We have done this before at Epcot and enjoyed it equally as much this time. Monsters, Inc. and Muppets 3-D were also in this area, but we passed on those for now. If we have time, we'll hit them Wednesday.

King Triton's Carousel

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0058.jpg

Monsters, Inc Ride

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0103.jpg

I then dutifully did my job as fastpass runner to get us all fastpasses for TOT, then met up with our gang at "A Bug's Land". This area was a fun little area to pass a little bit of time with the kids and it also had the benefit of lots of shade. DD and DW rode Flik's Flyers and we spent some time in here until the Pixar Play Parade started.

Flik's Flyers

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0107.jpg

We got to the parade area about 30 minutes before the parade started and we split up as some of us went to ride TOT while a 2nd group watched the kids. My DD5 (just turning 5) decided to go with us. I thought that she might hate it, but she loved it. TOT was good, but I do think that the one at DHS is better. The one at DCA is missing the sequence where you go through the little ride part (if that makes any sense). You just start basically right into the drops. Anyway, we came back out and got caught on the other side of the main area as the parade had started. The parade was fun, and most kids should like it. I was hoping to see WALL-E though...

DCA's TOT

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0150.jpg

Hollywood Section of DCA

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0075.jpg

Pixar Play Parade starts with Lightning McQueen...

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0113.jpg

... and ends with Tow Mater

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0148.jpg

My cousin and his family had tired out by this point in the day (having a 1 and 3 yr old), so we toiled on with our group and my Aunt and Uncle. We let my DD, DW, and Aunt ride TOT, since they missed out before the parade and after that we headed back over to California Screamin to use our fastpasses there. This was a good move as the general line was at about 40 minutes and we were on in about 5. The coaster was really good and very smooth (which I can't say for the Matterhorn the night before...) and we do plan on hitting that ride again. We then succumbed to the smell of Turkey legs and did our damage on a couple of them.

California Screamin

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0430.jpg

We then moved next to Toy Story Midway Mania. We had about a 30 minute wait and the ride was worth it. This will definitely go on the rotation as a must do. FYI, I scored 130,400 points. Not bad for a first effort. We then walked around Paradise Pier and rode the Golden Zephyr for no other reason than the wait was 0 minutes. At this point my Aunt and Uncle had to go, so we saw them out at the Grand Californian exit and we headed over to Soarin to use those fastpasses we had gotten early in the morning. We rode Soarin again and then headed into the central area to get seats for the Main Street Electrical Parade, oops, Disney's Electrical Parade. I highly recommend anyone that grew up with the Electrical Parade in their youth to go back and see it. It really brought back a lot of memories and the parade is every bit as wonderful as I had remembered it. It capped off a great day at DCA.

Brings back memories...

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0161.jpg

After the parade, we headed back to DLH and hit the hot tub for awhile. Then we got our DD to sleep and I went to work on this report. That's it for now. Feel free to shoot any questions.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot, here's the best pic of the day. Get those villas done!!!

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0057.jpg

[jelawson]

Thanks for the report and great photos! I haven't been to DLR in 3 years and it's amazing what has been added since we were there. They have really built up California Adventure. Did you do the Aladdin show? It was one of my favorite things when we were there.

Also glad to hear you liked the Disneyland Hotel. We stayed at the GC when we were there but were thinking of going back and staying at the DLH because of cheaper points too. The pool looks so cute!

Can't wait to read more!

[disney-super-mom]

Coming from a DLR vet, this is a great report....and wonderful pics too!:thumbsup2

I hope that you and your family is having another wonderful day at Disneyland today.:wizard: I'm really looking forward to reading more.:yay:

(If you get a chance, try to see Aladdin at DCA. It really is a great show!)

[LIFERBABE]

Thanks for the great report!! We are heading that way next month!!

We are using points for the GCH but DLH looks really nice too!

What kind of tickets did you purchase?

[ACDSNY]

Great pics! We're headed to DL in Sept at the GC!

[grizbuzz]

Thanks for the report! popcorn::

I'm thinking of using points for DLH instead of GCH, but I just don't want to get there and wish I were staying somewhere else...

[tink6137130]

Love your pics...thanks for sharing! :)

[bigsmooth]

It has been 6 years since I've been to DLR. I really hope to be able to try the new villas at some point. I really miss the DL version of Pirates, Indiana Jones, and the Blue Bayou.

Keep the pictures coming.

[tidefan]

First off, no pics today, we stayed at the park until midnight and have reservations tomorrow at 8:50am for the Lilo and Stitch breakfast at Paradise Pier, but I promise to add them tomorrow...

First to some questions. We have 4-day hoppers, and got a discounted rate on them through the Juvenile Arthritis convention we attended prior to our stay. We haven't seen Aladdin yet (it is dark on Monday and Tuesday), but it is on our agenda tomorrow. Grizbuzz, DLH is great, I would not be apprehensive at all. That said, GCH looks great too. Can't go wrong either way.

OK, so we started our day a bit late as we slept in and didn't get to the park until about 10:30am. So much for magic mornings. Anyway, we got our FREE stroller and saw Mickey, Minnie, and a new character for us, Cruella DeVil all in town square (we also saw a Donald that was having some "issues", but I digress). Met up with my cousins family and we headed into Fantasyland. I must say that DL's Fantasyland is really head and shoulders better than the one at WDW. The folks in Orlando should take a cue from their California cousins. We rode Snow White and Pinocchio (again, another ride not at WDW) and then went over to Toon Town and wandered around a bit and got pics and autographs from Pluto. At this point the kids were a bit cranky, so we decided to head to lunch and to take a break, so we headed to the Monorail. They were only running one monorail at the time, so I asked the operator why the other one (the new Monorail Red) wasn't running. I was informed that it was because the new Monorail didn't have air conditioning and it was too hot, so we waited another 15 minutes for it to come back (Side Note: We rode the aforementioned Monorail Red home this evening and guess what, the AC was going full blast :confused3 ...).

We got to DTD and decided to eat at Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen express. Good Gumbo, Jambalaya, Red Beans and Rice, Beneigts, etc, all with a handy 10% DVC discount. We then headed back to DLH to take an afternoon break (my cousins family went back to their hotel as well...) by swimming in the Neverland pool, which is fast becoming DD5's favorite. While at the pool, I engaged a lifeguard (I know, bus drivers, monorail drivers, lifeguards, and rumors...) in discussion about the future of the DLH as I have read in certain places that they might raze the whole place, a la Vegas, in the near future and build something else here. He told me that wasn't the case and that there were plans for expansion of the cove pools and that the acreage over on Katella (the famous "Strawberry Fields") would be used to build a Water Park. Take it for what it's worth...

Before we headed back to the park, we stopped off at the DVC office and took a tour of the new Grand Californian Villas models. All I can say is "Wow"! No one will be disappointed in these. Very upscale and very roomy. I especially liked the murphy bed that comes out from under the TV in the living room. The kitchen is also very nice with granite countertops and the like. We have a lot to look forward to with the GCVs. Also, I got the distinct impression that those would not be the last of DVC at DL. We shall see...

After our tour, we headed into the park via Monorail and rode Buzz, then headed over towards Main Street to catch the "Dreams Come True" parade. We were shuffling down Main Street trying to find a seat when one of the CM's guided us to a great location over on the side. Funny that he put us right in front of the Ice Cream store where the strong odor of waffle cones was emanating throughout. These Disney types know their marketing as 15 minutes later, we were the proud owners of a Chocolate Dipped with Sprinkles double scoop of chocolate waffle cone. It was delish. We then watched the parade, which was good, though a technical malfunction stopped it for about 5 minutes. The CM's in the parade, though, went right on with their acts, unfazed by the stoppage. Very impressive. In the end, it was a good thing that we had the delay because without it, I think the whole parade lasts about maybe 10 minutes. We enjoyed it though. Belle blew DD a kiss and made her night...

We then headed over to Adventureland. At this point, DD5 had enough and fell asleep in the stroller. DW sat with her in New Orleans Square while I ran into the Haunted Mansion. When we got out, we heard from my cousin (they had gotten into the park as well and rode Autopia) and we decided to meet up for Dinner at Pinocchio's Village Haus for a completely non-descript dinner (not what I would have chosen, but hey, another 10% DVC discount). After dinner, we rode Dumbo and the Tea Cups, then headed over to Autopia and Space Mountain. By this time, it was getting on towards 10pm, so we headed back to New Orleans Square for the second showing of Fantasmic. After that we rode Pirates of the Caribbean. I had been very looking forward to this as I have heard numerous times how much better the DL version was. I must say that the ride itself is much longer and has better drops. So on that point I agree that it is better in ways. Two issues though. First, we seemed to be getting very backed up during the ride, getting bumped from behind almost the whole way. I think that it is because you have to ride the lift back up at the end and it backs everything up throughout the ride. Second, I think that the queue in Florida is far superior to the one in DL. No dungeons to descend into. I also didn't get the whole cajun thing at the beginning, but I digress.

We left that and headed back to the Monorail to leave, catching one more ride on Space Mountain before we left. BTW, what they have done to Space Mountain out here is really, really good. Much better that the current WDW setup. I have heard that Space Mountain is getting ready to go through the same transformation at WDW and it will be well worth it. Also, tonight I decided to time the trip from the Tomorrowland Monorail station to unlocking the door of our hotel room at DLH. Total time of travel: 9 minutes. Do that at WDW...

So tomorrow is our last day and we plan to hit the things we haven't rode yet. Aladdin and Grizzly River at DCA and Indy, Splash Mountain, Pooh, Peter Pan and yes, Mr. Toad tomorrow at DL. Here's wishing everyone a good night and hoping that I can somehow get up in the morning for that breakfast reservation...

[honeymo78]

thanks for all the DLH and DL info. We hope to use developer points for an early Feb stay. Haven't decided on DLH or GCH yet (will depend on how many points we have to play with after our dec trip). Will 3 nights be enough - its just me and DH. We would plan to arrive early afternoon on check in day and take a mid afternoon flight back home. No plans to see anything outside of DL.

[disney-super-mom]

Great 3rd day report Tidefan! I'm really enjoying it and I can't wait to read more about today.....day four.:yay:

[tobidisney]

we are going and staying at DLH too, on our points for 5 nights in August, what Room number do you have? and did you pay extra points for the prefered view? Do they give you a list of what places offer the DVC discount? we are canadian so no FREE disney Visa stroller for us:sad1:
however I am glad to hear that DLH is nice becuase we too were worried about not using extra points for GC, so agian any tips on room location would be great and how to spot the places that offer DVC discount, as well as MUST DO's for us WDW vets.

have a great trip:banana:

[kerickson]

I'm a California native and am heading to WDW for the first time in Jan. I'm so excited for my 1st trip (and 1st trip home), but your report now makes me miss the magic in my own backyard. So glad they are building villas out here too...

[tidefan]

It's 1:00am here and we have to be up at 8am to get packed for the trip home, so I am going to postpone this part of the report (and more pics, promise) until tomorrow. I can say that we have had a wonderful stay and this visit to DLR has been every bit as enjoyable as our trips to WDW, just different. I can also say that I am about as tired as I have ever been after a Disney trip, and this one was just for 4 days...

tobidisney, can you not get a Disney Visa in Canada? Our room is 2736 and I think that we have a standard view. It was 24 points per night. The other side of our tower looks out on DTD and can see the fireworks at night. Yes, they give you a portable perks book at check-in. One nice thing is that most of the counter service places have a 10% discount.

honeymo78, I'd do 4 nights if you could. That's what we did and it went by awfully fast...

I'll check back in tomorrow.

[grizbuzz]

Went ahead and booked DLH for our quick September trip. Staying Saturday night on discounted cash rate and Sunday night on points. Thanks for any/all tips on DLH!

[marshmallow]

Those stops in the parade are on purpose. The parade stops twice in it's progress for performances. Where is you sit greatly affects what you see. I love the birds on the back of the lion king float second are the puppets on the back of the Pinnochio.

I am glad you had a good time. I think the DL Fantasmic is in a whole different ball park than the Florida version. But you have to admit the peter pan scene on the Columbia and the finale with the Mark Twain are spectacular.

[tidefan]

OK. Let's say it. DLR or WDW = Magical. American Airlines = Not Magical. AA cancelled our flight out of LAX today, so we had to wait over an hour to get rerouted, then waited another 2 hours for a flight to DFW where there were no connections to be had. At least AA put us up in a dumpy hotel and gave us food vouchers which the Denny's across the street took. Anyway, needless to say, not the most fun evening. However, the hotel does have free Wifi, so I can continue my report, so back to Day 4...

OK, we started our day with reservations at the PCH Grill's breakfast with Lilo and Stitch. This was enjoyed by all of our group and the character interaction was very good. BTW, Mickey waffles are just as good in California as they are in Florida!

After breakfast, we had a full day planned, so we started out in DCA because we wanted to see the Aladdin show, which had not been playing on Monday or Tuesday. On the way there, we stopped off to get our free Disney Visa Cardholder picture (with Pluto) and then headed over to the theater. Much to our dismay, they cancelled the 12:10 showing and so we had to wait for the 1:50. Now having an hour and a half to burn, we headed to Paradise Pier and I rode Jumping Jellyfish with DD while DW rode the Orange Stinger. Then we headed to Pacific Wharf to do the Sourdough and Tortilla "factories". Nothing overly exciting here. We then made our way back to Hollywood Backlot and waited for the show. I can say that the Aladdin show was well worth the wait. The Genie was great, using such lines as "Aladdin, I like you so much I'm adding you to my 5", Aladdin: "Genie, I'm going to give you the greatest gift of all". Genie: "Hannah Montana tickets?" and "Jafar is so mean that even Tom won't be his friend on his MySpace page". Good Stuff. We all enjoyed this show.

With everything done in CA that we wanted to do (with the exception of Grizzy River Rampage - well, you have to have something to come back to right?), we headed across the esplanade to Disneyland Park. Headed to Indiana Jones to get fastpasses, but they weren't giving any out as the ride was down. So we went and got soaked on Splash Mountain. The ride is different than the one at WDW. Where Splash at WDW is more like a dark ride with a thrill element to it, Splash at DL is more like a thrill ride with a dark ride element to it. Both are good. Anyway, needless to say, we got drenched, especially DD. Since she had spilled chocolate milk on outfit #1 at breakfast and we were already in the backup outfit, we broke down and bought her a DL dress to wear so that she wouldn't be soaked the rest of the day (and we wouldn't have to leave).

We moved on from that over to the Princess Fantasy Faire as it was getting later and we had not done this yet. We got to see Storytelling with Snow White and then the "Royal Coronation Ceremony". All in all quite fun, though I did think that this area of the park was the one area where maybe the cleanliness was down just a bit. We then worked our way over to Fantasyland and rode Mr. Toad and Peter Pan since we had not hit these yet and at this point we were getting hungry, so we ate at Rancho de Zocalo (yummy! - much like El Pirata y El Perico in WDW, except open) and again received our 10% DVC discount. After dinner, back over to Critter Country to ride Pooh 3 times because there was no wait. Then a little shopping and staked out a place for the fireworks. I had heard good things about DL's fireworks and we were not disappointed. All Disney fireworks are great!

After the fireworks and what seemed like an hour trek to get 50 yards (DL is great, but they are in serious need of crowd management skills as they are overwhelmed by Fantasmic and the Fireworks getting out about the same time. While DL's Fantasmic is cool with the use of the boats from the rivers, the tradeoff in seating gives WDW's approach a definite logistical advantage.), we made our way to the Tiki, Tiki, Tiki birds. Still can't get that song out of my head. Hope they go back to the original soon in Orlando. We were pretty much beat after that, but I wanted to ride Indy and lo and behold, I found a fastpass on the floor of Tiki Birds, so DW was a saint and stayed and watched our own version of Sleeping Beauty (DD5) while I rode Indy. I went down the queue and was so looking forward to the ride, I got to just about the front, and... the ride broke down. Now, folks, I was getting to think that I would never get to ride this ride, but I stuck it out about 10 minutes and just as I was about to get up and leave, lo and behold, it started back up.

So I rode Indy, and yes, it is good, and yes, it is about like Dinosaur, just with a LOT better theming. Maybe they can retheme the one in AK to National Treasure or something. Dinosaurs just don't do it for me. Anyway, DD woke up and wanted to ride 1 more ride before we left, so I took her on Peter Pan one last time and DW took her on the Carousel.

We had a great visit to DL and are really looking forward to going back in a few years when GCV is opened. I strongly suggest that anyone who hasn't been out there in awhile give it a shot. It is a blast, but it does wear you out. Tomorrow, when I get home, I'll try to give an overview of the good and bad of the trip and my thoughts between DLR and WDW (hint: Both are Great!).

[tidefan]

Looking at Disneyland Hotel from Downtown Disney

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0220.jpg

Kids Movie area in Paradise Pier Hotel

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0328-1.jpg

Lobby of Grand Californian

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0330-1.jpg

Grizzly River Rampage in DCA

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0334.jpg

Aladdin Show in DCA

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0357.jpg

Entrace to "The Happiest Place on Earth"

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0184.jpg

Sleeping Beauty Castle

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0202.jpg

Walt Disney's Parade of Dreams

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0224.jpg

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0243.jpg

DL's Haunted Mansion

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0258.jpg

Mr. Toad (Please come back to WDW!!!)

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0394.jpg

Fantasyland in DL

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0395.jpg

Storytelling with Snow White at Princess Fantasy Faire

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g253/bradcass/DSC_0370.jpg

[bookswin]

Great trip report, thanks! Keep it coming.

When I saw your title "Live at Disneyland," I first thought you meant in the sense, "You know, I'd love to LIVE at Disneyland!"

Having been to DL as long as 8 days, I think 5-6 days is just about perfect. We were dragging toward the end that time.

DVC GC is going to be huge. What a neat resort that is, and you can walk out the door into the park. Location, location, location.

Though you can get some great deals at the Hilton Convention Center a few blocks south.

[ACDSNY]

Loved you reports and pics! It's great to hear how others are enjoying DL. I can't wait to call the GC Home Sweet Home!

[lugnut33]

nice trip report

[disney-super-mom]

Awesome report and pics!:thumbsup2

[DoOverDreams]

Fantastic report! Thanks so much. We're going in September and this has really got me excited. Well, even more excited.

[heaven2dc]

This is the second Disneyland TR I've read in the last 2 days and thoroughly enjoyed yours as well! My last trip was in 1983 for one day only - guess it's time to go back! I never knew that DL had a Hollywood Studios part to it - Tower of Terror even! Thanks for sharing!

[donaldbuzz&minnie]

Thanks so much for the trip report. We took our grandchildren to DL a couple of months ago and it was fun reliving our trip through yours. Your pictures are great!

[GopherHockey]

I might have missed it, but what type of camera are you using?

[tidefan]

I might have missed it, but what type of camera are you using?

Nikon D40. We really like it, though my knowledge of advanced photography is the "Auto" setting and the "No Flash" setting. I'm sure that I could get so much more out of the camera if I just knew what I was doing...

[tidefan]

Well, we are back home after a great trip, but gotta love DVC, we'll be at WDW in March... Just wanted to post a few thoughts on DL in general and touch on the inevitable comparisons to WDW. Note that these are nothing more than one member's opinion..

1) Disneyland Resort is a wonderful place to visit.

I would go here again in a heartbeat. I know that WDW gets more of the traffic, but DLR is every bit as fun to visit, it is just different than WDW. WDW is more of a complete resort experience from hotel to dining to parks and it is more of an immersive experience that DLR is, however, DLR definitely had its charms and advantages. First off, due to the close proximity of everything, it is super easy to get around to everything. We timed our trip from Tomorrowland to our room at DLH at about 9 minutes. Also, this made taking afternoon breaks very easy as well. Second, they have done an excellent job of landscaping the Disney area to truly make it seem shut off from the outside as much as is possible in Anaheim, especially coming in from the Hotels side of DTD. Third, it is truly remarkable how many rides and how well laid out rides are in DL, especially in Fantasyland, which leads to...

2) Fantasyland, Toontown, and Space Mountain in DL are superior to the WDW versions in the MK.

There are so many more rides in DL's Fantasyland that it makes you wonder what is going on in Orlando. Mr. Toad, Alice, Pinocchio, Casey Jr. Circus Train, Matterhorn, and Storybookland Canal boats all have no equivalents in WDW. The only thing in WDW missing in DL is Mickey's Philharmagic. Also, the overall theming of the area is better than the theming in WDW. This area could definitely use some upgrading in Orlando. Going to both parks really brings out the differences such as how much wasted space there is in WDW's Fantasyland from Ariel's Grotto, past the defunct Sub ride over to the Pooh play area. I would think that they could at least get 2 more rides out of this area and that would bring more of a balance between the two parks. As to Toontown, there is no comparison. WDW's MK is just extremely weak by comparison in this area. As to Space Mountain, let's just hope that the changes made in DL come to WDW as well. This is a much better ride with the changes.

3) There are a few things at WDW that are good though...

I have read time and time again as to how much better DL's Pirates of the Caribbean ride is than the one in WDW. Yes, the ride is longer with a couple more drops than the WDW version, but I was surprised that there really is no queue area theming like at WDW. The dungeons that we are all familiar with are not there. Also, we kept getting bumped into by boats behind and in front of us on the DL ride. From the best we could figure that is because you have to ride up the incline at the end of the ride in DL before disembarkation and that incline backs all of the boats up. At WDW, you disembark before the incline. Also, I didn't get the whole cajun thing at the beginning.

There are a few attractions at WDW that do not exist at DL. Hall of Presidents, Mickey's Philharmagic, Country Bear Jamboree, Fort Sam Clemens, Carousel of Progress, WEDWay/People Mover/Tomorrowland Transit Authority, and Monsters Inc Laugh Floor don't have DL equivalents that are currently operating. (I refuse to claim Stitch or the corny Aladdin ride).

4) California Adventure is definitely worth checking out

I really enjoyed DCA, especially the updated Electrical Parade and the Aladdin show. TOT is good, but misses the "travel" part of the elevators to the shaft. California Screamin', Soarin', and Toy Story Midway Mania are excellent. This park may not be a standalone attraction, but it is in every way an excellent complimentary park, much in the way DHS and DAK are at WDW. I think by the time they add the Little Mermaid ride and Cars Land, that this will definitely be a "Can't miss" park.

5) DL has crowd management issues, especially with "Fantasmic"

While we enjoyed both the fireworks and Fantasmic at DL, they both get out about the same time and it creates major traffic flow issues, especially around Adventureland and Frontierland. You can forget about getting around these areas of the park for a good 30 minutes getting out of these shows. This in turn creates logjams in other parts of the parks. While having "Fantasmic" where it is in DL is neat (especially with the use of the ships), logistically, it works much, much better in the dedicated amphitheater in DHS.

Also, as a whole, DL seems more crowded than the MK at WDW. I have read that this is due to the walkways being smaller and that may very well be the case. We did feel that many times we were running in to people or getting bumped into, especially during busy times like mid-day. Of course, the solution to this was to take the super convenient Monorail back to the hotel for a mid-day break!

6) Disneyland Hotel and Grand Californian are fantastic.

I'd stay at either of these properties in a heartbeat. Paradise Pier would be OK too, but why not spring for the extra point a night and go for the DLH. We loved the big rooms with all of the Disneyana touches and the wonderful Neverland pool complex. As super convenient as DLH is, GCH is even more convenient. There is a park entrance to DCA from the hotel. Very cool. Also, the hotel is absolutely gorgeous. Can't wait for the Villas...

7) That being said, I still don't mind the busses in WDW

I don't think that it is that big of a deal to take a bus in WDW as long as it is air conditioned...

8) It can be just as hot in California as it is in Florida.

Don't let all of the PR fool you. It can get really hot at DLR. Generally, however, we found that it was most unbearable between 1 and 4pm, so it made for a easy decision as to when to go back to the hotel for a pool break.

9) I loved DL, but I don't get the whole "This is Walt's park" thing

I feel the Disney magic at both resorts, DLR and WDW, which leads to my final point...

10) We are lucky to have 2 great resorts and I love both of them

It is easy to get into the nitpicking of which park is better at what because as I said before, it is just human nature to start comparing things between the two. You just find yourself asking things like "Why is Pinocchio's Village Haus on that side of the walkway?", "I don't remember this scene from Pirates", and "OK, Space Mountain will never be the same again!". All of that being said, the truth of the matter is that both parks are truly wonderful and great places to visit. I think that all Disney Junkies should visit both and truly appreciate the magic at each location. Sure DL has more rides and WDW has more varied hotel, dining, and recreational experiences (and Water Parks!), but both are great.

So I have come to the opinion that I don't have to say that one park is better than the other, but that they each have their strengths and weaknesses and are wonderful in their own ways. I am actually very happy that the two are different as it breaks up the Disney experience and you feel that you truly are experiencing something new if you haven't visited the other park in awhile, whether you are a DLR or WDW regular. We decided that DLR is definitely worth a trip for us (WDW regulars) and we plan on going back to DLR when the Grand Californian Villas are completed.

[ACDSNY]

So I have come to the opinion that I don't have to say that one park is better than the other, but that they each have their strengths and weaknesses and are wonderful in their own ways. I am actually very happy that the two are different as it breaks up the Disney experience and you feel that you truly are experiencing something new if you haven't visited the other park in awhile, whether you are a DLR or WDW regular.
I agree 100%. Friends, family and coworkers are always asking me which location I think is better and I've always had a hard time answering them. DL & WDW are like two different types of vacations to me. When we travel to DL they are for short trips (2 - 4 nights), but WDW are at least a week long. I love both places!

[Longhairbear]

...... We decided that DLR is definitely worth a trip for us (WDW regulars) and we plan on going back to DLR when the Grand Californian Villas are completed.

I totally agree with you, we love both parks. We are also CA residents, and get to WDW twice a year, and DLR much more often. Having the villas at DLR will get us there for longer stays over a few nights. I hope they have to build a second DVC at DLR for us all.

[tidefan]

1) DLH is a good use of points

We stayed 4 nights for 96 points. This includes the resort fee (internet, parking, etc.) and daily mousekeeping. Note that there is NO $95 exchange fee for DLR hotels. So for our stay, cash would have been $300 per night + $11 resort fee per night + 11.5% tax per night at $34.50. That is a total of $1,382 in cash for our total stay. So if you do the $$ per point, that works out to $14.39 per point. To me, that is a good value of points.

2) DLR should be experienced at least once by WDW regulars

It is truly a unique experience that any true Disney lover should try. On the other hand, I do think that DLR regulars should try WDW at least once as well.

3) I know that the DLR boards tell you that you don't need to stay on site...

... but it sure is nice and I think that you still have a much better overall experience than you would by staying offsite. Adding to that, I think that if one is used to going to WDW, then you should definitely stay onsite. It will make DLR a much better and more similar (at least in the immersion aspect) experience.

4) If you go to DLR, do yourself a favor and fly into Orange County (SNA) instead of LAX.

It's worth the extra money to not deal with the hassle and it is much, much closer. Also, you probably have a much better chance of not having your flight cancelled at SNA...

5) Do venture offsite to go to In-N-Out burger.

It is one of the highlights of any trip to CA, AZ, or Vegas...

[KAT4DISNEY]

5) Do venture offsite to go to In-N-Out burger.

It is one of the highlights of any trip to CA, AZ, or Vegas...

Hey - we have In-N-Out burger in Northern Nevada too! :)

Thanks for sharing your trip - really enjoyed it! :flower3:

[kerickson]

2) DLR should be experienced at least once by WDW regulars

It is truly a unique experience that any true Disney lover should try. On the other hand, I do think that DLR regulars should try WDW at least once as well.


I'm a California native and am going to WDW for the first time this Jan. Thanks DVC!! :cool1:

[Longhairbear]

...

5) Do venture offsite to go to In-N-Out burger.

It is one of the highlights of any trip to CA, AZ, or Vegas...[/QUOTE]
We have used points at all the DLR hotels. Personally our favorite is Paradise Pier.
I am a transplant to CA from MA, and am always amazed at the line of cars waiting on the street at every In N Out Burger location. The burgers, fries, and shakes are very good. They should put one in DCA, now that we hear Disney is dumping McDonald's here in CA, along with Nescafe.

[BWV Dreamin]

...

5) Do venture offsite to go to In-N-Out burger.

It is one of the highlights of any trip to CA, AZ, or Vegas...
We have used points at all the DLR hotels. Personally our favorite is Paradise Pier.
I am a transplant to CA from MA, and am always amazed at the line of cars waiting on the street at every In N Out Burger location. The burgers, fries, and shakes are very good. They should put one in DCA, now that we hear Disney is dumping McDonald's here in CA, along with Nescafe.[/QUOTE]

It's a special sauce on In-Out Burgers right? Kinda like a thousand island dressing? Missed it when I went to Vegas...will try one when out in LA!:wizard:

[dwelty]

8) It can be just as hot in California as it is in Florida.

Don't let all of the PR fool you. It can get really hot at DLR. Generally, however, we found that it was most unbearable between 1 and 4pm, so it made for a easy decision as to when to go back to the hotel for a pool break.

Great report! I really agree with all of your points except this one. As an AP holder on both coasts, with several visits a year to each resort, I agree that yes, of course it can get hot at Disneyland in the summer, However, while Anaheim can be hot, it is not Humid and Swealtering as Orlando is. And one big advantage is that it cools off quite nicely every evening, while it can stay hot and muggy all evening at WDW.

Check the weather sites comparing both cities on any given day in the summer. Look at the heat index (this takes into account humidity, and is really how hot it Feels). almost without exception, the heat index is always higher in Orlando during the months of June thru August.

I however like Orlando's winter weather better than Anaheim. Anyway, really loved your report.

[bookswin]

I agree that the heat/humidity at WDW can be an absolute killer compared to DLR with a similar temperature. No comparison, IMO. Stepping out some mornings from the room it's like a punch in the face.

Perhaps it depends on what you are used to, although we Chicagoans know a bit about humidity. WDW sometimes just about makes me faint, while DLR certainly does not.

[nzdisneymom]

I so needed to read this thread tonight - we're beginning our family discussion of "where are we going for vacation next summer?" and I was thinking about Disneyland. We were there last in 1999 - the children were 2 and 3 at the time and we did stay at the Disneyland Hotel (DH had a conference there). So I was looking at points and when we could go - looks like early June right after school is still Value season and will be affordable for us point-wise. Although I'm wondering about "concierge" at the various Disneyland Resort hotels - what is included with that and is it worth the extra points? Anyone know? I'll do a search and also check the DL boards but if someone here knows, I'd love to see (or PM me if you want).

OP - your pictures are great - thanks again so much for posting about your trip and your exchange-thoughts.

[tidefan]

Great report! I really agree with all of your points except this one. As an AP holder on both coasts, with several visits a year to each resort, I agree that yes, of course it can get hot at Disneyland in the summer, However, while Anaheim can be hot, it is not Humid and Swealtering as Orlando is. And one big advantage is that it cools off quite nicely every evening, while it can stay hot and muggy all evening at WDW.

Check the weather sites comparing both cities on any given day in the summer. Look at the heat index (this takes into account humidity, and is really how hot it Feels). almost without exception, the heat index is always higher in Orlando during the months of June thru August.

I however like Orlando's winter weather better than Anaheim. Anyway, really loved your report.

Maybe a better way to phrase it is that overall, Anaheim has better weather, but at a given time, it can be just as hot as blue blazes as Orlando. We scorched last Monday waiting for Playhouse Disney at DCA. I was talking to a CM and they told me that the week before, it got over 100 degrees. And it was humid. What is better is that you don't have as much rain...

I agree that the heat/humidity at WDW can be an absolute killer compared to DLR with a similar temperature. No comparison, IMO. Stepping out some mornings from the room it's like a punch in the face.

Perhaps it depends on what you are used to, although we Chicagoans know a bit about humidity. WDW sometimes just about makes me faint, while DLR certainly does not.

I grew up in Tallahassee, FL and live in Alabama, so I know all about humidity. It was humid in Anaheim. What was odd though was how different the weather was down in Newport Beach, cool and breezy. Amazing what a difference 10 or so miles can make going inland...

[stopher1]

Oh my golly - we were just there too! We stayed at the hotel this past weekend, and were in DCA on Sunday and DL on Monday. We had such a great time. We used our points for the DL Hotel, and had a view of the pool very similar to yours, albeit from a slightly different angle, and a bit lower. We were on the 4th floor, more to the west side of the Magic tower. I took lots of room photos like you did. My kids really liked opening the sliding door and standing on the balcony, saying hi to passersby below! :lmao:

Being at DL, this was the first trip ever that we actually decided to take an afternoon swim break. We left DCA at about 2:30 and went back to swim for a while. Then got dinner at Rainforest Cafe and headed back into the park. That 10 min or so walk decided it for us. We've never done that at WDW simply for how long it takes on the transportation... it was nice. Had it been hotter it would have been wonderfully refreshing - but it was so pleasant to begin with, that it wasn't really a "must-do" - but it was nice to sample, as said, since the hotel was so close.

Glad you had a good time. Thanks for sharing your photos! :thumbsup2

[El&Asmom]

Great TR. We keep talking about using our points at DL one day. I just hope that they continue to allow using points for regular rooms a GCH after the villas open since I think booking a villa there at 7 months is going to be tough. Unfortunately, I think that they will probably do what WDW has done and not allow booking at hotels on points where there is a DVC.

My big fear of going to DL is the transportation. We will soon have three kids in carseats, and love Magical express because we don't have to rent a car and lug all of the carseats down to FL. Does anyone know if there is an easy way to get to DL from the airports. We just know so little about the area. It would probably make more sense to rent a car and be able to check out some of the sites outside DL.

Glad you had a good time. I really enjoyed your report.