~ D23 Expo Aug./2013 ~

[AlexRenner]

If I can meet John Lasseter, I will be a happy guy.
What time does it open? How long does it take to actually get in?

 

[nunzia]

If I can meet John Lasseter, I will be a happy guy.
What time does it open? How long does it take to actually get in?

The last Expo John Lasseter presented at several seminars but was not out and about to meet. I've met him at the CarsLand event (and his wonderful wife as well) and he did a talk on our cruise and many saw him at Palo's and Cadillac Lounge so he was a bit accessible there, but I would not be super positive about meeting him at the Expo. They did have several Imagineers out talking to folks in the parks venue..Kevin Rafferty in particular was super friendly and approachable.

 

[tinkcollector]

Howdy, Well I booked a room. I feel good about it. Thought being at the Hilton was important to location of the Expo, but the $60.00 extra to stay there was my deterrent. So, I am still within walking distance, on Harbor, right across the street from Convention Way. I would rather spend that money on things at the Expo. nunzia where are you finding information on the next Expo. I would love to read it. It’s still quite a while out but I am so excited! The past two Expo’s have been amazing!!!

 

[MrsMears]

I made reservations last night, I'm staying at the Motel6 where I always stay.

 

[theluckyrabbit]

...If I stayed at hojo, could I get there easily?
What about parking?

Just my opinion (and YMMV), but the HoJo is too far away for my preference. If you are planning to be at the convention center from opening to close each day (and many people do spend the whole day there -- we did last time), maybe it won't be so bad. But if you will be going back and forth between the convention center and your hotel, then it could get really inconvenient (what with traffic, etc.). Parking at the convention center is expensive, if I recall. I think it was around $16, or maybe more, per day. That's one reason why we will be staying close by. For us, it's worth the money to stay closer.

 

[nunzia]

Howdy, Well I booked a room. I feel good about it. Thought being at the Hilton was important to location of the Expo, but the $60.00 extra to stay there was my deterrent. So, I am still within walking distance, on Harbor, right across the street from Convention Way. I would rather spend that money on things at the Expo. nunzia where are you finding information on the next Expo. I would love to read it. It’s still quite a while out but I am so excited! The past two Expo’s have been amazing!!!

a
I don't have any info on the next Expo..I was relating my experience being at the last two. The schedule comes out maddeningly close to the event..less than a month out the last two times I think. I have the guidebooks for the 2009 and 2011 expos if anyone has questions about them plus the D23 site has some really nice recaps also.

 

[nunzia]

Just my opinion (and YMMV), but the HoJo is too far away for my preference. If you are planning to be at the convention center from opening to close each day (and many people do spend the whole day there -- we did last time), maybe it won't be so bad. But if you will be going back and forth between the convention center and your hotel, then it could get really inconvenient (what with traffic, etc.). Parking at the convention center is expensive, if I recall. I think it was around $16, or maybe more, per day. That's one reason why we will be staying close by. For us, it's worth the money to stay closer.

We stayed at the Jolly Roger the last two times and it was fine but upgraded to the Hilton. Being close REALLY helped. I plan on having some food in the room I can get quickly if need be..that was the worst thing about the Expos..icky convention food, huge lines for it and they ran out of nearly everything. The food court in the Hilton is much better, but still lines. We are Sorcerers again this year and they had a little lounge for us last time but the food was really not enough to get by. I think they may have items for purchase there this year since that was a big request, but if not I'd just as soon have some bagels, cream cheese, lunchables etc in the room..hmmm..wonder if there is a fridge..

 

[WDWforUs]

I've never attended a D23 Expo. Currently, I am planning to spend all my time at the Expo, because I am assuming there will be plenty to see and do. Plus, I plan to do a "full" Disneyland trip earlier in the summer.

I am a DVC member, so I can stay at the Grand Californian, but after reading some comments on this thread, I'm thinking "closer is better". So, what do you guys think? Should I book the Hilton? I'm thinking it would be more convenient. I gather that one can just easily walk back and forth between the Convention Center and the Hilton.

Thanks!

 

[PatMcDuck]

I went last time, staying at DL Hotel. After a quick breakfast, we would walk over to Convention Center, I think doors opened at 9 for D23 members? There were HUGE lines, and I mean HUGE outside, we probably got there about 7:30am on Day 1? One problem, the first seminars began while 1/2 the people were still lined up outside. We got in, and RAN and just made the history of the DL Hotel, which was very interesting. That might be the only one I saw that day, I know that we were shut out of a couple others, because we waited too long to get inline. Lesson learned. One we missed was "voices of the parks", which we were dying to see! Bummer. Also, line got cut off for Dick Van Dyke, missed that.

Day 2, lessons were learned!! The lines were more manageable outside, with better organization, and doors seemed to open earlier. We did see the big Theme Park presentation. I also saw the designing of the Little Mermaid ride, that might have been day 1, I forget. I was interested in Park and Pixar things. I also saw one about designing the new Star Tours ride, I love those Imagineers. And I DID see John Lassiter at the Cars Land presentation, and saw the Monsters University one too. I was able to see these, because I waited inline for a couple of hours, but to ME, it was worth it. I had to skip the Studios presentation (and Robert Downey Jr! ARGHH!) to sit on a line for Pixar stuff, but that is what it is like, you have to choose. Over and over. I missed the Marvel one too, it was just not possible to see it, or the Legends one, choices, choices. I know I saw John Lassiter twice, I have a secret crush on him....

In between, you walk around the large hall, and there is so much to see (and buy!) Other people have other priorities. People with kids lining up for Disney channel things, collectors rushing to buy LE items (released each day).

We would go in the morning, and usually we would stay until 4-6pm. Even on the last day, we hung around because we were flying home that night on the red eye. We never left to "rest" in our hotel, and we are not young people... You can rest waiting in those lines, everyone sits on the floor. I just ate whatever junk they had around during the day, because I had breakfast at the hotel, and dinner at DD, so i could deal with the food.

So, I had a good time, once I figured it all out. Which was to pick the presentations I really wanted to see, and line up 1-3 hours before they started....... I was with other people, and sometimes I did this alone, they did not want to wait. One in my group liked walking around the hall, meeting other online bloggers and website people. There are other small celebrities around too, and they hand out free samples of things, etc. I missed lots of THAT, because I was on those lines. So, it is all about making choices. Don't look at the program, and think, I can do this, then that, then this, etc. Probably not.....

 

[nunzia]

I've never attended a D23 Expo. Currently, I am planning to spend all my time at the Expo, because I am assuming there will be plenty to see and do. Plus, I plan to do a "full" Disneyland trip earlier in the summer.

I am a DVC member, so I can stay at the Grand Californian, but after reading some comments on this thread, I'm thinking "closer is better". So, what do you guys think? Should I book the Hilton? I'm thinking it would be more convenient. I gather that one can just easily walk back and forth between the Convention Center and the Hilton.

Thanks!

I'm also DVC with all my points at VGC and I still prefer to stay as close to the Convention Center as possible. Also..I think I've heard that the VGC is already solidly booked if that helps with your decision

 

[WDWforUs]

I went last time, staying at DL Hotel. After a quick breakfast, we would walk over to Convention Center, I think doors opened at 9 for D23 members? There were HUGE lines, and I mean HUGE outside, we probably got there about 7:30am on Day 1? One problem, the first seminars began while 1/2 the people were still lined up outside. We got in, and RAN and just made the history of the DL Hotel, which was very interesting. That might be the only one I saw that day, I know that we were shut out of a couple others, because we waited too long to get inline. Lesson learned. One we missed was "voices of the parks", which we were dying to see! Bummer. Also, line got cut off for Dick Van Dyke, missed that.

Day 2, lessons were learned!! The lines were more manageable outside, with better organization, and doors seemed to open earlier. We did see the big Theme Park presentation. I also saw the designing of the Little Mermaid ride, that might have been day 1, I forget. I was interested in Park and Pixar things. I also saw one about designing the new Star Tours ride, I love those Imagineers. And I DID see John Lassiter at the Cars Land presentation, and saw the Monsters University one too. I was able to see these, because I waited inline for a couple of hours, but to ME, it was worth it. I had to skip the Studios presentation (and Robert Downey Jr! ARGHH!) to sit on a line for Pixar stuff, but that is what it is like, you have to choose. Over and over. I missed the Marvel one too, it was just not possible to see it, or the Legends one, choices, choices. I know I saw John Lassiter twice, I have a secret crush on him....

In between, you walk around the large hall, and there is so much to see (and buy!) Other people have other priorities. People with kids lining up for Disney channel things, collectors rushing to buy LE items (released each day).

We would go in the morning, and usually we would stay until 4-6pm. Even on the last day, we hung around because we were flying home that night on the red eye. We never left to "rest" in our hotel, and we are not young people... You can rest waiting in those lines, everyone sits on the floor. I just ate whatever junk they had around during the day, because I had breakfast at the hotel, and dinner at DD, so i could deal with the food.

So, I had a good time, once I figured it all out. Which was to pick the presentations I really wanted to see, and line up 1-3 hours before they started....... I was with other people, and sometimes I did this alone, they did not want to wait. One in my group liked walking around the hall, meeting other online bloggers and website people. There are other small celebrities around too, and they hand out free samples of things, etc. I missed lots of THAT, because I was on those lines. So, it is all about making choices. Don't look at the program, and think, I can do this, then that, then this, etc. Probably not.....

Thanks for your reply! It is a great help.
I do have a Sorcerer Package Ticket, so I'm hoping that will help create more time to see everything.

 

[WDWforUs]

I'm also DVC with all my points at VGC and I still prefer to stay as close to the Convention Center as possible. Also..I think I've heard that the VGC is already solidly booked if that helps with your decision

Yeah, I hadn't checked availability yet. I thought about it though. I was just happy to get VGC for my June trip at 7 months out. I guess I'll book a room at the Hilton.

 

[keahgirl8]

I'm trying to figure out where I want to stay. I need the most convenient location for a good price. Last time I stayed way too far away and had to walk to the park then catch a shuttle.

 

[theluckyrabbit]

Try using Expedia, Travelocity, Priceline, LMT, etc. to see if you can get something close to the Harbor/Katella intersection. That should put you close enough to the convention center.

 

[nunzia]

Thanks for your reply! It is a great help.
I do have a Sorcerer Package Ticket, so I'm hoping that will help create more time to see everything.

worth every penny last time and I am betting the same this time.

 

[wwwosie]

Nunzia, can you give us some details about what you got with the Sorcerer package? Or did you do a trip report?

 

[nunzia]

Nunzia, can you give us some details about what you got with the Sorcerer package? Or did you do a trip report?

I did not do a trip report..Lets see..quick run down..we checked in a day early and got a great gift bag, cool name tag and early entry to the Archives where we had tons of time to enjoy. We were then herded out for a surprise (and got big Sorcerer hats). We were taken into DL (free) and attended an invitation only Golden Horeshoe Revue event which was AMAZING and so funny and touching. We got a commemorative program with the new artwork on display at the Revue building. Then we were treated to a show floor tour conducted by Steven Clark (head of D23) and had shopping time, again, what a treat to see it all come together..this is all before the actual event opened. We got in early each day, no lines just waved in and I will tell you and understand, that we were not well liked by those fighting the slog of lines and closed presentations..I get that. We had attended the first Expo and it was not really well attended being the first and we still sat/stood in line for over 27 hours (yes, we counted) so as soon as we knew there were special tickets we jumped on it. Sorcerers had reserved seating at all events and we didn't have to show until right before show time which caused problems..totally understand..since there were multiple events taking place the same time and no one could do them all, there were left over seats that needed filling in at the last minute, and they were GOOD seats so those that had waited a long time maybe got worse seats than those who came late. We also had a lounge with light snacks and could purchase wine and get a massage. Being able to see any presentation you could make it to was a perfect..especially seeing the hordes that showed up and how very unprepared they were. I believe they listened and things will be MUCH better this year. Sorceres are only listed as having reserved seats at 2 venues this time, but I don't know how many they will actually have since I think they are expanding the rooms to fit more people..great idea! The highlights of last Expo were anything John Lassiter was at (Cars Land presentations and oh my..the nine new men fabulous 25 years of Pixar panel..holy cow) Also the Brave panel with Mark Andrews and crew was amazing, and the Dick Van Dyke Show. The Small World panel was terriffic..heck..I guess I can't find a favorite. It was all wonderful.
This year's Sorcerer tickets are MUCH more expensive and will be a MUCH larger group (last time there were supposed to be 50 Sorcerers but ended up closer to 75 and they have done away with the Premier package which had, I think 500?) how big we don't know since they didn't tell us so I don't know if they will be able to do as many special things. Here is the Sorcerer listing for this year:

The Sorcerer Package includes:
• Three-day admission ticket
• Reserved seating at all presentations in the D23 Arena and Stage 23
• Commemorative Sorcerer credential
• Pre-Expo tour of the Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit
• Exclusive shopping time in the D23 Expo Dream Store and the Treasure Trove the day before the Expo is open to guests
• First opportunity to purchase D23 Expo Dream Store merchandise via the Random Selection Process (RSP)*
• Exclusive tour of the D23 Expo show floor the day before the Expo is open to the public
• Private welcome reception
• Special entrance to the Expo each morning
• Hardbound Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives catalog
• Hardbound Disney Legends ceremony commemorative program
• Exclusive D23 Expo 2013 tote bag filled with gifts
• “Fond Farewell” reception on final day of Expo

In addition, Sorcerer-level members have access to the Sorcerer Member Lounge featuring:
• Complimentary light snacks throughout the day with ability to purchase additional food
• Special exhibit created by the Walt Disney Archives
• Dedicated Sorcerer Concierge desk
• Baggage Check area
• Masseur on site (for pay)
• One voucher for 20-minute free massage

 

[wwwosie]

Thanks for the thorough review, I would think that since the sorcerer tickets cost more this year, except for the fact that they will only have reserved seating at 2 venues, instead of all of then, they won't cut down on all the benefits or increase the number of tickets.

 

[VA_mouseman]

Question for D23 Expo veterans - will Disney offer a discount to Expo attendees for DL / DCA park tickets?

I'm planning on being at the Expo Fri - Sun, and then spending a few days at the parks afterwards. I'm leaving open the option to attend the parks during the nights of the expo, in addition to three days afterwards.

I'm leaning towards a 5 day park hopper ticket, but if an Expo discount is available, or an 'after hours' discount, if one exists, should be available ... well, that would be a viable option.

 

[tinkcollector]

At Destination D there were discounted tickets available for after 6p.m. tickets if I remember right. I do not remember how much they were. Maybe someone else can chime in on this. As for the Expo I do not remember any discounted tickets being offered, but since Destination D was after the Expo maybe this will be a new thing this year.
As for reasonable hotel prices. I agree with previous poster about checking sites like Priceline, etc. I use Kayak because it compares all of the hotel surf engines.
At the last Expo I used Kayak and found the Cortona Inn as the best price I could find and it was within walking distance. This time I choose the Red Lion because of price, walking distance and reputation. The Clarion came in as the best price when I searched but the reviews were terrible. Too bad as the Clarion is on the corner of Convention Way and Harbor, a great choice for price and walking distance. If the Hilton throws out a good price between now and August I could switch, but with current rates I am saving $60.00 a night.
I have attended the past two Expo’s and I am a Charter Member of D23. The first Expo waiting in lines and picking priorities for seminars made my choice for the second Expo easy as I went Premiere. This Expo I was fortunate enough to get in in time and get the Sorcerer package.
I share nunzia’s enthusiasm that D23 will make the venues larger. But, you will still need to pick and choose what you really want to see. You can’t see it all.
I went to get in line for the Dick Van Dyke and the Vantastic’s show 1 ½ to 2 hours early knowing it would be a big draw. The line was full and closed. But, the CM’s had opened up another line with no guarantees. I got in that line, I estimate there were at least 75+ people a head of me in that line. At 2 hour’s into waiting in that line the people around me and I figured we had missed our chance to see Dick and his boys. Then a door opened up behind us and a gentleman said to be patient as they were adding more chairs to the room. Needless to say I got in. And as previously stated I keep moving up a row or two at a time because “people” leave empty seats in-between them and the next guest. I ended up in about the 10th row, center. As for Mr. Lasseter, you more than likely will have a chance to see him at one or more of the presentations. My memory of Mr. Lasseter is really memorable. I had seen him in presentations over the period of the Expo. I was on the Expo floor looking at all the new things coming to Disney when a door opened up and out walk a half a dozen men in black suits (security) and in the middle of them was the one and only Mr. Lasseter sporting a Hawaiian shirt with carsland print. It was hilarious how he toyed with these guys. He would slow up, then speed up and zig and zag. I only wish I had a video camera at that moment, never knew what a sense of humor he had until then. He gave the security guys a run for their money they did not know how to keep up with him.