A few questions about a May trip

[Sheric68]

I've heard May is a great time to visit. Do you think it matters which week? We can go either May 3-7 or 10-14 (wed - sun). Would you guess both weeks to be about the same?

Also we are staying at the Disneyland Hotel. Right now I have a price quote for just a standard room. Should I request a certain tower? or upgrade to the next level for a view?

I got a price from Costco and it's about $400 cheaper than disney website. It also comes with a character breakfast and we added a Princess dinner. How long in advance should we make reservations for the character meals?

One last question. We are also going to Seaworld one day. Our package includes entry and transportation. It will be DH and myself and our 8 yo DD. Which day do you think we should set aside for Seaworld? The flight we are looking at arrives at John Wayne Airport at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday and we will have to leave for the airport about 2:30 on Sunday.

Thanks!

 

[Amy&Dan]

I wouldn't think those two dates would be all that much different. Either way, you are after spring breaks and before summer. We were there in 2004 from April 30-May 6 and it was nice. We had manageable crowds even though there were some special events during our stay. I know that the 50th has made crowds heavier but I would still think you would have a good chance of not too many crowds. For our May visit, the weather was really hot which was unusual. Normally I belive highs are in the 70's for that time of year.

The Disneyland Hotel is wonderful. Most people ask for the Sierra or Marina Tower. They are both closer to Downtown Disney and the pool, but only by maybe a one to two minute walk versus the Bonita Tower which we like the best. In both the Marina and Bonita Towers you have a 50% chance of a parking lot view. Although a parking lot view of the Marina will still have a view of the park I am pretty sure. Sierra is the most requested and many of those rooms come at a premium price. I just generally take what I get or see what's available when I check in. I don't spend much time looking out the window but if you have young kids that keep you from being in the parks for fireworks you might want to request a firworks view if available. All requests are just that, requests, they won't guarantee anything unless you pay for a specific upgrade.

I can't help you with the Sea World thing, we've never been there.

Have fun with your planning!

 

[stampinshauna]

I would guess the first week may be less crowded, because a lot of college students will be finishing up with finals that week. Most (those who are on semesters) will be out by the second week.

I always just get a standard room at the Disneyland Hotel because we don't spend that much time in the room. I'd rather save the money for souvineers or a future trip. We get enough of a park view when we are there all day. I've been upgraded to a pool view for free one time.

Have a wonderful trip.

 

[superdisneyfan]

You already have your answers about DL hotel, so I'll address Sea World. The main part of your vacation is DL so I would start and end with that and put Sea World in the middle. Also, I'm not sure whether DL has extended hours in May yet, but if not, they usually stay open late on Saturdays. So definitely make your last full day at Disney Saturday so you can see the fireworks, parade, Fantasmic, etc. and to keep the music fresh.