Anyone else feel a "difference" between DL and WDW?

[blackjackdelta]

Here's one big thing I love about DLR over WDW: Spontaneity.

We've celebrated the 4th birthdays of our sons at DLR and WDW and had a great time (of course, planning a year out and getting the Premium plan helped for WDW). This was back in 2004-2006.

I booked DLR for our youngest's 4th (since our 2 older kids insist it's now a tradition) but then started wondering...what about WDW? This was around 5 months out.

So the first thing I did is see if we could get reservations at the Beach Club Resort and at Cinderella's Table...or Akerhaus...or anywhere....

And the answer was no. Without complete planning, you cannot go to WDW. I believe in creating margins...space...for magic. And it is SO much easier at DLR.

You can make it work between Disneyland and California Adventure with minimal planning. You cannot do the same in WDW. Magic happens in spontaneity. Both are great, but for our family, DLR fits our West-coast style much, much better.

I agree with most of what you said..
First, no one in the family has been to WDW and probably will never go. We talked about it a few times but usually it came to the fact that it really had nothing to do with WED so why even go.
I have been going since 1955 and DL is our home resort and so easy to go to without massive planning.
I am glad that many people do, keeps the crowds lower at our park. Just my two cents, and to each there own.

Jack

 

[goooof1]

Is there a purpose to this type of thread? Why do people post that they like one place better than another and ask if anyone else agrees? For those who prefer WDW, great! There are doubtless valid reasons for that opinion for many. But why poke the hornets' nest with a stick? People will just get stung. I don't discount those feelings but I don't really see the need to air them since it's bound to cause some irritation on this board without providing any real benefit.

Totally agree!!! it gets really old....blah, blah, blah....florida is best (not by a LONG shot!!).... I'll stick with California any day and the DLR.

 

[blackjackdelta]

It is the same with the "WDW cms are nicer, kinder, whatever thread. There are 27,000 cms I expect they are human and the only in the many years where I have seen a cm misbehave(and justified) is when they are verbally attacked by a guest or some they do not have control of.
These kind of threads will never go away, and I must admit I sometimes do stir the pot, but it is my home and not an amusement park.

Jack

 

[mikedoyleblogger]

Is there a purpose to this type of thread? Why do people post that they like one place better than another and ask if anyone else agrees? For those who prefer WDW, great! There are doubtless valid reasons for that opinion for many. But why poke the hornets' nest with a stick? People will just get stung. I don't discount those feelings but I don't really see the need to air them since it's bound to cause some irritation on this board without providing any real benefit.

I agree about the hornets-nest aspect of the topic, but in another way I think discussions like this can be useful to people who have only visited one American Disney resort and are considering visiting the other. The resorts aren't the same, and knowing what people who have been to them both comparatively think about them can help prepare you for the differences.

I asked about the differences between WDW and DLR and how to approach WDW as a DLR vet in the WDW boards last year before visiting the Orlando parks for the first time. The people who didn't have absolutely charitable things to say about both resorts were shouted down by others. But you know what? They were the most useful perspectives to me and helped me put everything in perspective when I finally got to WDW. The many other posts telling me how "magical" both places were, as if WDW and DLR are interchangeable, just weren't any help.

My two cents.

 

[DizMe]

I agree about the hornets-nest aspect of the topic, but in another way I think discussions like this can be useful to people who have only visited one American Disney resort and are considering visiting the other. The resorts aren't the same, and knowing what people who have been to them both comparatively think about them can help prepare you for the differences.

I asked about the differences between WDW and DLR and how to approach WDW as a DLR vet in the WDW boards last year before visiting the Orlando parks for the first time. The people who didn't have absolutely charitable things to say about both resorts were shouted down by others. But you know what? They were the most useful perspectives to me and helped me put everything in perspective when I finally got to WDW. The many other posts telling me how "magical" both places were, as if WDW and DLR are interchangeable, just weren't any help.

My two cents.

Oh, I totally agree with you! I like reading what people didn't like or had trouble with so I can use that information. The issue I have is when someone posts that the home park of the forum viewers (in this case, DLR on the Disneyland forum) "lacks the magic" of X park and wants validation from others. It doesn't provide any helpful information; if there are specific reasons for finding the magic lacking, give them so others can have a heads-up. The dining analogy in which DLR is Sizzler to WDW's 4-star restaurant is just a vague criticism with no substantiation. To post such comments on the home board just seems a little insensitive to me.

I have to admit that I've been guilty of stirring a pot or two

 

[Dionnemay]

Hmmm......well, I notice a different feel, definitely. But I find the magic at DLR. I used to feel it at WDW, but it has gotten so overcrowded. I don't think the changes they have made have enhanced that magical feeling. I just hope that DLR doesn't go in the same direction.

Maybe its because WDW is so huge that I dont feel the "over crowding" you feel?

The last time I was at WDW was 2012 and the last time I was at DLR was 2010 so, granted, my DLR reference is a little older...

I was in WDW for Spring break during the EPCOT flower festival - which 'Im pretty sure sure peak season, and yes it was busy but not so busy we didn't enjoy our trip or get the max out of the rides or attractions.


On the other hand, Ive been to DLR during peak seasons- actually I have only ever gone to both parks during peak season s (Summer or Spring break) and it was busy too but again, not so busy that we didn't get to ride the rides we wanted. Maybe because I always go during peak seasons Ive become accustomed to the crowds. In fact, I once joked that if I went and all the rides were "walk on" it wouldn't feel like "Disney Vacation" and I'd be a little bummed lol!

On Trip Adviser, I shared that the few complaints about one park were the CM's attitudes, but one other constant was the crowds at DlR. I kind of blew that one off because I'm used to crowds but like I said I haven't been to DLR since 2010 so I dont know if the complaints are just people not used to Dl crowds or how to use the FP's, or if DLR has gotten worse with over-packing the park in the past few years.

Guess I'll find out when I go in October.

Might be the same type of negative "crowd" reviews on WDW but I only looked into DLR since that's where I'm returning to in October.

I expect certain crowd levels - especially at certain times of year- its Disney for crying out loud, the most popular theme park in the world, but what I dont expect is poor customer service. When its customer initiated (rude guests) I get it, but when its out of nowhere, that can ruin or at least temporarily taint the "magic" , people come to expect from Disney.

 

[Dionnemay]

I agree about the hornets-nest aspect of the topic, but in another way I think discussions like this can be useful to people who have only visited one American Disney resort and are considering visiting the other. The resorts aren't the same, and knowing what people who have been to them both comparatively think about them can help prepare you for the differences.

I asked about the differences between WDW and DLR and how to approach WDW as a DLR vet in the WDW boards last year before visiting the Orlando parks for the first time. The people who didn't have absolutely charitable things to say about both resorts were shouted down by others. But you know what? They were the most useful perspectives to me and helped me put everything in perspective when I finally got to WDW. The many other posts telling me how "magical" both places were, as if WDW and DLR are interchangeable, just weren't any help.

My two cents.

I dont understand why anyone would get "irritated" over someone asking for opinions on Disney Parks and posting their own experience and opinions on a DISNEY discussion board.

I think we can all reasonably assume the majority of people here love DISNEY - and love BOTH Disney parks and if given a choice between going to either Disney Park or say, Six Flags, we would take the Disney Park.

So whats the problem with asking about and comparing each park? If you take it as an OFFENSE that someone prefers something about one park over something about another park, you have serious issues imho. Geez I LOVE Disney! I have taken my kids to WDW and DL throughout their entire childhood- ONE time I took them to Universal and after that went right back to Disney.
WDW is a more expensive trip so we go there less often but when we do its a trip we all look forward to.
When we cant afford WDW- its DLR..so long as its Disney my kids are happy and so am I.

Are there differences between the two? Things I like more about one than the other? Sure.

So?

If someone offered me a free trip to WDW or DLR I would choose WDW hands down. That's my preference. Does that mean I DONT like DLR? No. There are many factors that would make me choose WDW...
It was my first Disney experience as a child
Its bigger with much more to do
We travel further (take a plane) and stay longer so it feels more like a "Vacation"
They still have the Electric parade which I grew up on as a kid
They have the Water Parks
Since they have more Disney Resorts and less expensive Disney resorts than DLR , we can actually STAY ON DISNEY PROPERTY and have the full Disney immersion vs having to stay at a Good Neighbor Hotel.


Are there things I prefer about DLR over WDW? Yes.

Benefit of DLR is I spend less $$$
Its closer
The Indiana Jones ride is actually and awesome RIDE - not just a "show"
Cars Land..Hellooooo
Matterhorn- mine and my sons favorite
Pirates ride- and it has the Restaurant inside
WALT DISNEY spent time there- his light is over the firehouse-it feels like "His Park"
Haunted Mansion looks cooler (exterior)
Its in California (My home-state,) and it always feels nostalgic coming home

But just because I happen to like WDW a little more doesn't mean I get angry when someone else says they prefer DLR or c think they are "stirring the pot" just because they respectfully share a different opinion than I have. That's so juvenile. If someone has a different opinion or point of view, I have actually LEARNED from it and can appreciate the new point of view- so far it has helped me relax about a worry I had about my upcoming in DLR trip and I'm very glad I got the different objectives and I realized I was being overly paranoid from a few reviews and a couple rare experiences and thanked the members who re-focused me and helped me get excited again about my trip

That anyone would be in a tiff over me even ASKING is silly to me. If I didn't LIKE DLR , I wouldn't have gone 5 times and wouldn't be spending my hard earned $$$ paying for 5 people to go in October. I'd go to six flags which is cheaper and right down the street.


Why do people try to force people onto "sides"? You have to be a DLR person or a WDW person and if you say anything good or negative about one park that doesn't jive with Someone's personal opinion, you automatically are an enemy or advocate of one or the other?

This isn't high school and it isn't politics. You shouldn't get categorized as one type or the other just from having a minor preference. You can like and dislike thing about each park and still be a DISNEY parks fan which is- I thought- our UNIVERSAL connection on this board right?



If we cant share and appreciate different experiences and opinions without turning this into an "Us vs Them" forum, we are no better than the YouTube commentators. which is pretty disappointing.

I didn't think that this being a DLR forum meant that it was only for people who preferred DLR and had nothing but glowing things to say or share? I thought it was for people who enjoyed both parks but were maybe getting ready for a trip to DLR (like me) and wanted advice or to share, or for people who wanted to share their experiences there- bad OR good-, ask questions about it, discuss it vs WDW, etc...



Lets keep the Disney Boards friendly and receptive --like DISNEY is supposed to be.

 

[mikedoyleblogger]

@DionneMay I think one of the hallmarks (usually) of the DLR forum is that we tend to be able to discuss things like this and not have it end up in disaster like it sometimes does on the WDW side of things. I think we're doing that not only here, but in the other current "versus" thread, too. So, you know, yay us!

Not all of us love both resorts, though. We can't assume that. Some of us do. Some of us don't. (I'm in the latter camp as not a huge fan of WDW, though I do like MK.) That's ok. Like it or not, it can (and does) make some folks feel irritated and defensive. But you and I both can feel free to express ourselves in here about what we like and don't like so much about DLR or WDW. Doing so, maybe we can help each other figure out what the other one digs about the other resort.

Bottom line being you, and I, and OP, and everyone else expressing their opinions in here are welcome here. It's one of the things I love most about this forum.

 

[Dionnemay]

It is the same with the "WDW cms are nicer, kinder, whatever thread. There are 27,000 cms I expect they are human and the only in the many years where I have seen a cm misbehave(and justified) is when they are verbally attacked by a guest or some they do not have control of.
These kind of threads will never go away, and I must admit I sometimes do stir the pot, but it is my home and not an amusement park.

Jack

I didnt know DL was your home and not an amusement park? You live there? LUCKY!! Jk.

The "whatever thread" you referred to was MY thread. Hi.

My thread was NOT titled "WDW CM's are nicer" as you said, it was titled "Has anyone noticed a difference in Dl and WDW CM's?"

That meant ANY difference. I asked that because I honestly wanted to know if my experience was rare and if I had any reason to worry going back to DLR. Some people replied with having a better experience with DLR CM's, others had better experiences with WDW CM's, others noticed no difference etc...

If you took the handful that had better experiences with WDW CM's as a personal insult or as them "stirring the pot", because DLR is your "home" I hope you reevaluate your sensitivity. People were simply sharing their experiences and what THEY gleaned from their OWN experiences which all varied immensely. You cant get angry at people for having a different experience than you or for perceiving said experience different than you would. And you certainly cant get angry at people for giving varied opinions in a thread which ASKED for varied opinions.

I didn't get angry or offended at people who shared that WDW was where they had the occasional bad CM experience- I was adult enough to acknowledge that we all have different experiences and that I dont go to WDW as often so maybe I was just lucky. But just because they had and shared a different experience than I had there didn't piss me off and throw them into some kind of "Enemy of WDW" category lol!

Anyway, if my asking the question offended you, I apologize.

 

[Dionnemay]

@DionneMay I think one of the hallmarks (usually) of the DLR forum is that we tend to be able to discuss things like this and not have it end up in disaster like it sometimes does on the WDW side of things. I think we're doing that not only here, but in the other current "versus" thread, too. So, you know, yay us!

Not all of us love both resorts, though. We can't assume that. Some of us do. Some of us don't. (I'm in the latter camp as not a huge fan of WDW, though I do like MK.) That's ok. Like it or not, it can (and does) make some folks feel irritated and defensive. But you and I both can feel free to express ourselves in here about what we like and don't like so much about DLR or WDW. Doing so, maybe we can help each other figure out what the other one digs about the other resort.

Bottom line being you, and I, and OP, and everyone else expressing their opinions in here are welcome here. It's one of the things I love most about this forum.

I haven't read the WDW honestly so I dont know about any hx of "Disasters" there as you mentioned. Its sad to hear it though if its true. You'd think a DISNEY forum could be the ONE forum where you find civility

I posted in the WDW section way back in 2012- I dont know what about exactly but I was planning my trip to WDW and Im sure it was for advice. I didn't post there because I'm "On the WDW" side or whatever- I love both parks- I just happened to be going to THAT one after 6 years and I had questions and concerns.

Much like I'm getting ready to go to DLR soon after 4 years so I posted my questions and concerns here...made sense, right?n I hope some WDW fanperson doesn't lable me on the "DLR side" either lol. Sheesh! I dont wan t to have to chose sides If this were politics I guess I'd be and "Independent" or whichever likes BOTH parties lol.


Like yourself, I personally love hearing the many different op's and experiences and advice etc...even when it doesn't jibe with my own, it can be helpful or at the very least, insightful.

 

[Midnightred]

We prefer to travel to California rather than Florida because the climate is better. I also like that there are 30% more rides in a smaller amount of space. I have two special needs children, and don't like to waste their time on a bus going to a different park every day in the heat, rain, and humidity. Disneyland is perfect in my opinion. It also has so much tradition and history too. I could go to WDW if I wanted to and have been before, but don't like it as well. I hate how there is a store to buy things after every ride. California is beautiful! The climate is perfect. I will always choose DL over WDW.

Midnightred

 

[Drfate102]

Last October we had our first trip to Disneyland for our Honeymoon, we are WDW vets and Passholders. Being at Disneyland have a different vibe, but it always felt the same, but different. We were expecting to turn a corner and see something we have always seen and then it was something else. Also just gotta love the cute little puppy castle at the end of Main Street and looking at the entrences of the Magic Kingdom and Hollywood studieos facing each other.

 

[PinkBudgie]

We went to WDW for the first time this June. One difference we noticed was there were way more families at WDW and way less groups of teens on their own. We also have never met so many people from the south before. They were so polite and friendly! And just about everyone we met was teacher like us! Who else is going to be at WDW during the hot and humid summer?

We had fun and want to go back someday (in November) but we prefer DLR. We like having all choices of restaurants and rides available on the spur of the moment each day.

 

[Lights_Out]

I've been to both WDW and Disneyland (I grew up with Disneyland) and I loved WDW. Almost to the point where I wished WDW were at Disneyland. But I still appreciate the Disneyland Resort because, metaphorically speaking, it is like one of those original, small, diamond in the rough,"mom and pop" restaurant that struggled to succeed and then hit it big, real big... and it has laid deep roots in the culture (for example, think of the first ever McDonalds, or the first ever KFC). It's historically and culturally important. To put down Disneyland would be putting down WDW because without Disneyland there would be no WDW.

 

[mikedoyleblogger]

I've been to both WDW and Disneyland (I grew up with Disneyland) and I loved WDW. Almost to the point where I wished WDW were at Disneyland. But I still appreciate the Disneyland Resort because, metaphorically speaking, it is like one of those original, small, diamond in the rough,"mom and pop" restaurant that struggled to succeed and then hit it big, real big... and it has laid deep roots in the culture (for example, think of the first ever McDonalds, or the first ever KFC). It's historically and culturally important. To put down Disneyland would be putting down WDW because without Disneyland there would be no WDW.

I love this! Very apt. I didn't love WDW my first time there as an adult last year, but I still want to go back and give it another chance, since there was enough that I did like. I also will say I miss some of WDW's elaborate, shaded and/or inside queues sometimes at DLR. There definitely are things that are worthy in both places.

 

[ColdNeverBotheredMe]

I've been to both WDW and Disneyland (I grew up with Disneyland) and I loved WDW. Almost to the point where I wished WDW were at Disneyland. But I still appreciate the Disneyland Resort because, metaphorically speaking, it is like one of those original, small, diamond in the rough,"mom and pop" restaurant that struggled to succeed and then hit it big, real big... and it has laid deep roots in the culture (for example, think of the first ever McDonalds, or the first ever KFC). It's historically and culturally important. To put down Disneyland would be putting down WDW because without Disneyland there would be no WDW.

First of all, I agree, and second of all, can I just say that your picture of Paradise Pier is absolutely stunning! I seriously love it, every time I see it.

 

[grnflash]

I understand where the OP is coming from. I feel the exact same way - just in reverse. As a lifelong DL vet who has also visited TDL and DLP, we went to WDW for a week 2 years ago, first visit.

I had never given WDW much thought, but in the planning got so excited - even a little jealous. From reading forums, I took that it's bigger, it's better, there's so much to do, wow! I had been missing so much all these years. So I guess I unconsciously expected too much. I definitely expected to love it. Don't get me wrong. We had an awesome vacation, I'm glad we went and would go back again. But with lower expectations. Yes, WDW was bigger, just not better (to us.)

I left not feeling jealous anymore, but maybe almost guilty that I didn't love it. I love (love, love, love) Disneyland - and I'm supposed to to love all things Disney, or at least the parks. It took me awhile to put my finger on why WDW left me feeling "meh." But it was the lack of "magic" in the parks factor, especially MK, in the end.

I was prepared for fewer rides at MK, knew that many rides are widely regarded as not up to DLR's level but was still excited to experience all the differences plus the unique rides and parks at WDW. And I did enjoy these things. But I didn't feel the magic at every turn, whether it be on rides or just strolling around.

There was too much concrete (bigger walkways come at a price I suppose), way less detailing (nowhere that came close to the sublime detailing of NOS for example) and a lack of little magic makers (the evil Queen peeking out the window, Snow White singing at the waterfall, the jumping fish.) We're not a meet and greet family, but we really enjoy the roaming characters at DL. They add so much to the atmosphere - just yesterday an unhandler'd Mickey (Mickey!) walked up and high-fived my 6yo son as we came out of the tunnel. Now that's magical! And finally there is something to the history of DL that just can't be replicated. Like I love the mushroom and lighthouse in DL's Fanatasyland - knowing they used to sell etickets from inside them. Thank you DL for leaving these structures in place!

As for the rides, particularly at MK, too many just weren't the complete package that makes them "magical" to me. The teacups is just a spinner ride under a canopy. HM the ride is great but the mansion is so far removed, its ambiance does not spill out into its land. Small World's complete lack of facade was rather shocking. Pirates...not prepared for it's lower quality even having read about it. And double Dumbo - well I thought it was just dumb. I want to feel like I'm soaring over Fantasyland, not about to bump into a building or worse, an opposing Dumbo. And then there's the castle. Walking into the park it absolutely is impressive. Until you hit the hub. There's a gigantic concrete stage blocking the front. What?! Ok, no drawbridge, can't walk through it. Check. But a enormous block of concrete in front? Wasn't prepared for that. I'll take the puppy castle with all it's charm and accessibility any day.

As for the other parks, we enjoyed them all - particularly rides that were new to us. AK is wonderfully themed. But Epcot was a big disappointment. Clearly should have visited 10+ years ago, I'm pretty sure it's glory days are long gone. DHS was fun, not as much to see & do though once you've done the main rides (and F! was not worth the evening trip back to the park for us.) But in the end, MK is the crown jewel. And well, the magic just didn't envelope us like it does at DL.

Just for clarity, we didn't dislike WDW. We really did have a great vacation. We did think some rides were better (ToT especially and Splash), enjoyed ride differences (Haunted and Jungle in particular), had fun on rides new to us (Everest!), did the dessert package and the fireworks were awesome, had 100% positive interactions with CM's, really enjoyed our resort (POR)and being in the "bubble", made just the right of ADR's for our family's vacation style (meaning minimal), had a fun day at a water park and taking the boat to DTD at night and enjoyed a bunch of other things I'm not listing. Because that's not the topic of this thread.

And I certainly don't think DL is perfect (Tomorrowland and its old Peoplemover tracks, sad!, Adventureland congestion, ugh!) I do get the allure of WDW and why many people prefer it. And they should! I take no offense to their stating their preference. But these are the reasons why DL is where the magic is for me.

As for the steakhouse comparison, mine is different than those already stated. To me, WDW is the buffet, it's a lot of fun and has tons of choices - but not much that is reaaaallllly great. DLR is the prime steakhouse that has a much more limited menu, but the atmosphere is divine and almost every main course is scrumptious.

 

[Anal Annie]

We just got back last week from a 2 week vacation that started with 3 nights at DL followed by 10 days in Hawaii. This was only our 2nd time visiting DL. The first time was back in 2005 (also only for 3 nights) so it was almost like we'd never been before. I wish we'd had another night for DL but we just didn't have enough DVC points available for VGC and Aulani to do it this time around. We thoroughly enjoyed our short time at DL tho. I would've liked another day to enjoy VGC a little too tho.

We typically make it to WDW about 2 times a year so we definitely noticed differences between the 2 coasts. We have also been to Disneyland Paris where there is yet again a big difference between the parks. They all have their pluses and minuses and they all have their own brands of magic. I would say less magic at DLP than the others but I think that is because those parks really aren't owned & operated BY Disney. It's like a franchise park or something (weird). I think the CM's at DLP should all have to complete some amount of training at WDW. They were definitely more like it was just a job for them. Not so much magic there. But the parks were cool in their own way and they had some cool rides too. The castle at DLP is gorgeous. It is stunning and the prettiest of all of them. We had forgotten how small the castle is at DL. I'm not saying that in a bad way, it's just smaller.

Anyway, a couple of the things we noticed that were different between DL and WDW were that the CM's at DL were all FROM California it seemed. All the name tags were local. Whereas in FL all the CM's are from all over the world. We just noticed this on their name badges. WDW is much more international. There are always lots of groups and families from all over the world. Many, many different languages going on. Lots of folks in the summer from the UK. In the winter from Brazil etc. DL seemed like the crowd was more local people coming for the day or something. We noticed a LOT of people wearing head gear. Hats, headbands etc. Sure there is a lot of that in FL too but it seemed like MORE SO at DL somehow. But at the same time we didn't notice so many people wearing Disney SHIRTS. I think that's what made it feel like it was a more local crowd there for the day. At WDW it is more of a longer vacation destination and people gobble up shirts and souvenirs like crazy. Everybody is wearing a Disney shirt in FL. It also didn't seem like there was so much pin trading going on. We hardly saw any CM's wearing lanyards loaded down with pins. In FL almost every CM wears a lanyard full of pins. Just an observation. (We don't trade but we DO collect them.)

Probably because we know WDW so well it feels more like home and when we were at DL & CA we felt more like tourists. I guess we WERE tourists. It was weird not to know every nook & cranny but we enjoyed a lot of things about DL. I had spent a few days lurking here on the DL board prior to going - fretting about not having a touring plan and everyone kept telling me it wasn't necessary. I was still leary of it tho and still signed up for TouringPlans.com. Turned out everybody was right!! We were totally able to "wing it" again the way we used to be able to do in FL (before they got rid of the old FP's). We really liked being able to pull FP's again. We also liked having some different choices for meals. (Shhhh - we didn't miss Pecos Bill's!)

We stayed in a studio at VGC and I loved how convenient that was. At WDW the closest resorts are BCV and BWV for Epcot and BLT for MK. But this was even better / closer. I had a lot of phone calls to make because we were heading to Aulani in a couple days and hurricane Iselle just happened to be going ON THE SAME DAY. I couldn't get thru to Hawaiian Airline to see what was going on with our flight without being on hold for at least an hour (I couldn't hear in the parks and I had to recharge often) so I went back to the room a few times here & there and left DH & DS in the parks for awhile. It was awesome to be so close and to not have to walk a mile to ride a hot sweaty bus full of other hot sweaty people.

Rides we liked better at DL included Space Mountain (the one in FL hurts my back if I don't brace myself just right and the one at DLP slams my head into the head restraints). It was a lot smoother at DL. Also thought that BTM was smoother somehow. It was also fun to ride things we don't have in FL like the bobsleds and of course RSR. California Screamin' is a great coaster. We had lots of fun on that one and rode it several times. Can't say that we liked it better than RNR or EE but we really liked it a lot. I like that there are different rides and that even the rides that are the same have differences. It's fun to spot what's different.

I hope we can return again one day (without waiting another 9 years). I would love a couple more days next time. WDW still has our hearts but we carved out a little spot for DL in there with it. Now we just need to get Asia.

 

[mikana876]

I understand where the OP is coming from. I feel the exact same way - just in reverse. As a lifelong DL vet who has also visited TDL and DLP, we went to WDW for a week 2 years ago, first visit.

I had never given WDW much thought, but in the planning got so excited - even a little jealous. From reading forums, I took that it's bigger, it's better, there's so much to do, wow! I had been missing so much all these years. So I guess I unconsciously expected too much. I definitely expected to love it. Don't get me wrong. We had an awesome vacation, I'm glad we went and would go back again. But with lower expectations. Yes, WDW was bigger, just not better (to us.)

I left not feeling jealous anymore, but maybe almost guilty that I didn't love it. I love (love, love, love) Disneyland - and I'm supposed to to love all things Disney, or at least the parks. It took me awhile to put my finger on why WDW left me feeling "meh." But it was the lack of "magic" in the parks factor, especially MK, in the end.

I was prepared for fewer rides at MK, knew that many rides are widely regarded as not up to DLR's level but was still excited to experience all the differences plus the unique rides and parks at WDW. And I did enjoy these things. But I didn't feel the magic at every turn, whether it be on rides or just strolling around.

There was too much concrete (bigger walkways come at a price I suppose), way less detailing (nowhere that came close to the sublime detailing of NOS for example) and a lack of little magic makers (the evil Queen peeking out the window, Snow White singing at the waterfall, the jumping fish.) We're not a meet and greet family, but we really enjoy the roaming characters at DL. They add so much to the atmosphere - just yesterday an unhandler'd Mickey (Mickey!) walked up and high-fived my 6yo son as we came out of the tunnel. Now that's magical! And finally there is something to the history of DL that just can't be replicated. Like I love the mushroom and lighthouse in DL's Fanatasyland - knowing they used to sell etickets from inside them. Thank you DL for leaving these structures in place!

As for the rides, particularly at MK, too many just weren't the complete package that makes them "magical" to me. The teacups is just a spinner ride under a canopy. HM the ride is great but the mansion is so far removed, its ambiance does not spill out into its land. Small World's complete lack of facade was rather shocking. Pirates...not prepared for it's lower quality even having read about it. And double Dumbo - well I thought it was just dumb. I want to feel like I'm soaring over Fantasyland, not about to bump into a building or worse, an opposing Dumbo. And then there's the castle. Walking into the park it absolutely is impressive. Until you hit the hub. There's a gigantic concrete stage blocking the front. What?! Ok, no drawbridge, can't walk through it. Check. But a enormous block of concrete in front? Wasn't prepared for that. I'll take the puppy castle with all it's charm and accessibility any day.

As for the other parks, we enjoyed them all - particularly rides that were new to us. AK is wonderfully themed. But Epcot was a big disappointment. Clearly should have visited 10+ years ago, I'm pretty sure it's glory days are long gone. DHS was fun, not as much to see & do though once you've done the main rides (and F! was not worth the evening trip back to the park for us.) But in the end, MK is the crown jewel. And well, the magic just didn't envelope us like it does at DL.

Just for clarity, we didn't dislike WDW. We really did have a great vacation. We did think some rides were better (ToT especially and Splash), enjoyed ride differences (Haunted and Jungle in particular), had fun on rides new to us (Everest!), did the dessert package and the fireworks were awesome, had 100% positive interactions with CM's, really enjoyed our resort (POR)and being in the "bubble", made just the right of ADR's for our family's vacation style (meaning minimal), had a fun day at a water park and taking the boat to DTD at night and enjoyed a bunch of other things I'm not listing. Because that's not the topic of this thread.

And I certainly don't think DL is perfect (Tomorrowland and its old Peoplemover tracks, sad!, Adventureland congestion, ugh!) I do get the allure of WDW and why many people prefer it. And they should! I take no offense to their stating their preference. But these are the reasons why DL is where the magic is for me.

As for the steakhouse comparison, mine is different than those already stated. To me, WDW is the buffet, it's a lot of fun and has tons of choices - but not much that is reaaaallllly great. DLR is the prime steakhouse that has a much more limited menu, but the atmosphere is divine and almost every main course is scrumptious.

This exactly.

You said it so perfectly and I agree with just about everything you said. Especially the buffet analogy.

 

[mikedoyleblogger]

I understand where the OP is coming from. I feel the exact same way - just in reverse. As a lifelong DL vet who has also visited TDL and DLP, we went to WDW for a week 2 years ago, first visit.

I had never given WDW much thought, but in the planning got so excited - even a little jealous. From reading forums, I took that it's bigger, it's better, there's so much to do, wow! I had been missing so much all these years. So I guess I unconsciously expected too much. I definitely expected to love it. Don't get me wrong. We had an awesome vacation, I'm glad we went and would go back again. But with lower expectations. Yes, WDW was bigger, just not better (to us.)

I left not feeling jealous anymore, but maybe almost guilty that I didn't love it. I love (love, love, love) Disneyland - and I'm supposed to to love all things Disney, or at least the parks. It took me awhile to put my finger on why WDW left me feeling "meh." But it was the lack of "magic" in the parks factor, especially MK, in the end.

I was prepared for fewer rides at MK, knew that many rides are widely regarded as not up to DLR's level but was still excited to experience all the differences plus the unique rides and parks at WDW. And I did enjoy these things. But I didn't feel the magic at every turn, whether it be on rides or just strolling around.

There was too much concrete (bigger walkways come at a price I suppose), way less detailing (nowhere that came close to the sublime detailing of NOS for example) and a lack of little magic makers (the evil Queen peeking out the window, Snow White singing at the waterfall, the jumping fish.) We're not a meet and greet family, but we really enjoy the roaming characters at DL. They add so much to the atmosphere - just yesterday an unhandler'd Mickey (Mickey!) walked up and high-fived my 6yo son as we came out of the tunnel. Now that's magical! And finally there is something to the history of DL that just can't be replicated. Like I love the mushroom and lighthouse in DL's Fanatasyland - knowing they used to sell etickets from inside them. Thank you DL for leaving these structures in place!

As for the rides, particularly at MK, too many just weren't the complete package that makes them "magical" to me. The teacups is just a spinner ride under a canopy. HM the ride is great but the mansion is so far removed, its ambiance does not spill out into its land. Small World's complete lack of facade was rather shocking. Pirates...not prepared for it's lower quality even having read about it. And double Dumbo - well I thought it was just dumb. I want to feel like I'm soaring over Fantasyland, not about to bump into a building or worse, an opposing Dumbo. And then there's the castle. Walking into the park it absolutely is impressive. Until you hit the hub. There's a gigantic concrete stage blocking the front. What?! Ok, no drawbridge, can't walk through it. Check. But a enormous block of concrete in front? Wasn't prepared for that. I'll take the puppy castle with all it's charm and accessibility any day.

As for the other parks, we enjoyed them all - particularly rides that were new to us. AK is wonderfully themed. But Epcot was a big disappointment. Clearly should have visited 10+ years ago, I'm pretty sure it's glory days are long gone. DHS was fun, not as much to see & do though once you've done the main rides (and F! was not worth the evening trip back to the park for us.) But in the end, MK is the crown jewel. And well, the magic just didn't envelope us like it does at DL.

Just for clarity, we didn't dislike WDW. We really did have a great vacation. We did think some rides were better (ToT especially and Splash), enjoyed ride differences (Haunted and Jungle in particular), had fun on rides new to us (Everest!), did the dessert package and the fireworks were awesome, had 100% positive interactions with CM's, really enjoyed our resort (POR)and being in the "bubble", made just the right of ADR's for our family's vacation style (meaning minimal), had a fun day at a water park and taking the boat to DTD at night and enjoyed a bunch of other things I'm not listing. Because that's not the topic of this thread.

And I certainly don't think DL is perfect (Tomorrowland and its old Peoplemover tracks, sad!, Adventureland congestion, ugh!) I do get the allure of WDW and why many people prefer it. And they should! I take no offense to their stating their preference. But these are the reasons why DL is where the magic is for me.

As for the steakhouse comparison, mine is different than those already stated. To me, WDW is the buffet, it's a lot of fun and has tons of choices - but not much that is reaaaallllly great. DLR is the prime steakhouse that has a much more limited menu, but the atmosphere is divine and almost every main course is scrumptious.

Wow. That's like a nicer version of my own WDW trip report from last May. So in agreement. The dampening effect of all those wide concrete walkways. The alienating effect of the castle stage. The canopy-bumping view from the new location of Dumbo. The disappointment with the faded nature of Epcot. And as a result, the lack of feeling the magic. (Though we also had CM surliness, too.)

I will say I'm ready to give WDW a second chance. (Not my partner, he still flat-out hates WDW after last year's visit.) But the next time I'll know better what to expect. When people say MK isn't Disneyland, they really mean it. In the past year I've tried a lot to wrap my head around how WDW vets derive magic from the place. I don't want to suggest it's a lower level of magic (although that has been my knee-jerk reaction.) I don't have my own answer about it yet. Hence wanting to go back and try again.