Am I crazy? Driving from OKC to DL or DW

[cnelson9]

I have wanted to take my kids (4) to DL or DW for a LONG time, but have pushed the idea to the side, because of travel costs. For our family of 6, air travel just isn't in the budget.

So driving from OKC to anaheim is approximately 19 hours. Distance is relatively the same from okc to orlando.

How do i decide which one (dl or wdw) to go to? Is 19 hours in a car with 1 husband and 4 kids going to send me over the sanity edge? Has anyone else made this trek.... I can use all the advice and positive encouragement you have.

 

[disney david]

I have wanted to take my kids (4) to DL or DW for a LONG time, but have pushed the idea to the side, because of travel costs. For our family of 6, air travel just isn't in the budget.

So driving from OKC to anaheim is approximately 19 hours. Distance is relatively the same from okc to orlando.

How do i decide which one (dl or wdw) to go to? Is 19 hours in a car with 1 husband and 4 kids going to send me over the sanity edge? Has anyone else made this trek.... I can use all the advice and positive encouragement you have.

You could bring 2 husbands to handle the driving

Which one you want to do more?

 

[cnelson9]

2 husbands would be helpful! not always -- but definitely for driving long distances.

I have never been to Disneyland, but went to WDW when I was 18. My husband and kids have never been to either park. I don't really know the difference between the two.

 

[disney david]

2 husbands would be helpful! not always -- but definitely for driving long distances.

I have never been to Disneyland, but went to WDW when I was 18. My husband and kids have never been to either park. I don't really know the difference between the two.

That hard on one hand you have one park you all haven't been to Disney land so you could share the magic of seeing it together. And on the other hand you have wdw which you seen but the kids and husband hasn't Seen yet and how magical it be for them. My choice would be wdw since it has more to do bit Disneyland is also very nice and fun to I would just choose some thing you all want to do.

 

[Judique]

2 husbands would be helpful! not always -- but definitely for driving long distances.

I have never been to Disneyland, but went to WDW when I was 18. My husband and kids have never been to either park. I don't really know the difference between the two.

WDW has 4 major parks and 2 waterparks as well as numerous other attractions. There are loads of things to do and lots of cheaper options for rooms for your larger family. I'd opt for WDW. Whatever you do enjoy the trip!

 

[Karlzmom]

I'd choose WDW. DL is charming and all, but not really a full vacation destination. I know people *will* come out and make it one, but there is not truly enough to do for more than a couple of days. Another consideration is the DCA is a major construction zone right now, and will be through most of 2011. There are not going to be parades, which will put additional pressure on the DL parades for demand = bigger crowds. WDW is a full on, could spend a month and not see everything, vacation destination. Much easier to customize for what you want to see/do, IMHO.

 

[dis_guy]

I'd suggest WDW- way more bang for your buck. As far as driving goes, if you can afford the time take it easy, it'll be a much better scene for all concerned if you can take the trip in, say 3 or even 4 days.

I know flying isn't in the picture for you right now but our kids still say the first real vacation we had as a family was when we flew to WDW the first time. It seems they were hugely stressed out by our driving vacations where we had to get somewhere because of reservations etc. I had no idea they hated the trips we'd taken them on because of all the rushing around and long days in the van just to get to a predetermined "somewhere".

Have fun and enjoy all parts of your trip!

 

[iloveokw]

Been to both and I vote for WDW!

 

[LadyBeBop]

There are a few factors to take into consideration:

1) The parks...WDW by a long way over Disneyland. WDW has four separate parks, and Disneyland (I think) has two.
2) However, is this going to be a Disney trip alone? If not, I might opt for Disneyland. Although Orlando has a lot to do, it's more geared towards the amusement park community. Orange County/Los Angeles County has a lot of other attractions...Hollywood, the beaches, etc.
3) Price is a factor. Florida is cheaper than California.
4) Time of year is also a factor. If you're going in the winter, I'd go to WDW. You shouldn't run into bad weather going through the Southern Plains and Gulf States. However, if you're going to Disneyland, you can't avoid the Rockies.

It shouldn't be too hard of a trip, but I'd allow two weeks. Each way, it's two hard days or three easy days. I'd do some sightseeing along the way. The Disneyland route will take you close to the Grand Canyon while the WDW route will take you close to Memphis (Graceland).

Wherever you go, you'll have a great time. Have fun.

 

[DisneyFour]

Not crazy! WDW will be worth the drive! Lived in OKC for 7 years and drove multiple trips when our kids were in elementary school. Long drive, but very easy. We lived near Norman so we took the southern route to I-10. Pack the kids some new $ store treats to entertain them along the way. I know you don't want to fly, but check in to flights out of Dallas-Love as well. Many times we booked great fares that priced out only about $50 (total) higher than driving when you total the costs of gas, hotel (2 nights), food during travel. Happy planning.

 

[Silver Queen]

I agree with Karlzmom. Definitely WDW. Much more to do and see, especially if you're driving 19 hours to get there. From upstate NY it's about a 24 hour drive and I know several people who have done it, so 19 hours should be doable. Will you switch off with the driving? Also, would you have the option of driving to a city that is served by one of the more economical airlines like SW or Air Tran. That may cut the expense for you.