2 or 3 days to do the parks

[TimeforMe]

We are doing an "out west" trip this summer and going to CA specifically to go to DL. I was thinking of spending 3 days between the 2 parks, but now am thinking maybe 2 would suffice? Whaddaya think?

 

[JDarling]

Don't fool yourself! DL and DCA are big!
The ideal way to take your time and enjoy everything (especially with the summer crowds) is 3 days.

 

[Momma Rabbit]

We went last summer and stayed 5 days. I would think you could do it all in 3 days. Enjoy your trip

 

[DonnettaR]

We will be arriving on 7/14 and leaving on the 17th for the cruise my question; should we do a park a day or switch between them? Also, if you could get special viewing for a parade, which one would you choose? Thanks

 

[JDarling]

I would say to park hop both days. It will give you more freedom. And with the summer crowds, you'll need it!

If you could get prefered seating, I would do it for the Disneyland parade, not the Electrical parade in DCA. My reasoning is that it's pretty easy to get great seats last minute to the Electrical parade. Just aim towards the end of thier route! But, if you want to do the dinner and parade package for it, go for it. The restraunt included is great and it'll be a more leisurely time.

 

[B9erSteve]

3 days. 2 for Disneyland and 1 for DCA. And that's pushing it.

 

[LucyKate]

As above - in 3 I think you can see them both fairly extensively, in 2 you'd have to skip a bit.

I'd spend 2 full days at DL and 1 at DCA.

 

[rockin_rep]

I think alot depends on how many weeks you'll be out west and also the age(s) of your child(ren). If you've been to WDW, you will find DL much smaller and much much easier to 'do'.

We love CA but have been 'done' by 5 pm or so. Since our kids are teens, we don't go back to the hotel for a break, we always get an early start and use fastpass all day.

As huge fans of out-west road trips (we're planning number nine for this summer!) which also include DL and CA, i think two days is more than enough. In fact, for this summers trip we're seriously considering only a one-day park hopper. We'd start at CA, finish there by 5 ish, then head to DL for our fave attractions and fireworks.

IMHO, there is a HUGE amount to see and do out west, just too too much to spend more than two days at DL and CA.

(and we are HUGE disney fans!)

 

[TimeforMe]

Ohhhh man. Now I'm really confused. Our kids will be 15 and 17 and have been to WDW a few times already. Maybe we should just do the 2 days and use the 3rd for something else? Any good discounts on tickets anywhere?

 

[JDarling]

Check out the City pass if you're going to opt for less time in the parks. It includes the Wild Animal Park as well (which is actually right down the street from me, so if you need a tour guide, let me know). If you've been to the Animal Kingdom... well, we who have the Wild Animal Park don't find the Animal Kingdom quite as facinating (though they have some great exhibits - don't get me wrong! We love it there!). The Wild Animal Park has a savanha that will make the Animal Kingdom's look like a play ground.