What time is everyone arriving? We usually get there at the crack of dawn! Not literally but early. I am hoping to get upgraded to a suite but would need also rm close by Corliss since we are party of 7. We will be at Grand California for 3 nights prior. Never stayed there so can't wait. Any tips for The parks? Only gone a few times with the kids. Much prefer the luxury of the cruises...
I love Grand Californian! We just booked our wedding reception there.
Be sure to check out the stained glass sliding doors when you first enter the lobby. Most people miss them because it's such a high traffic area.
One of my favorite places to relax and have a drink is the outside fireplace. You can get a drink at the Hearthstone Lounge and then walk outside and sit by the fire.
Storytellers Cafe has a great character breakfast! It's not the Fab 5, but Chip and Dale are usually there, and some characters from Brother Bear. Much less crowded than the character breakfast at Paradise Pier and Goofy's Kitchen, but they are all good and the buffet is actually worth the price.
Napa Rose is an amazing restaurant but it's not so great for kids. They also have a lounge area where you can go and just have a drink and appetizer. If you go and the weather is nice, ask if you can be seated on the patio. The patio looks into DCA. If you just want to go to one fancy/expensive restaurant during your visit, make it the Blue Bayou. Be sure to call Disney Dining and make reservations at least a couple weeks ahead of time.
Take advantage of the direct park entry into DCA from Grand Californian. It is so convenient!!
Try the rapids ride at night! The lines are usually much shorter plus the darkness makes it a bit more adventurous. Ride it a couple times, then go back to your room to change clothes.
If you don't have a "park view" room, IMO it is HIGHLY worth the extra money. During my last stay I had an (obstructed) view of World of Color.
If you have Magic Morning early park entry, take advantage of it! You can wake up early, go into the park for a couple hours, then go back to the hotel and take a nap. It is so worth it. Ride Space Mountain, Peter Pan, and Indiana Jones during Magic Morning.
If you go to California Adventure, get a fast pass immediately for Soarin, then go to Toy Story Mania. They are the most popular rides in the park and lines get very long very quickly. Toy Story has no fast pass.
If I can think of anything else I'll post it.
