Best time of year for 1st visit?

[GEM]

Hi! We are loyal WDW fans who make the trip to Orlando about twice a year. We have never been to Disneyland. Shameful, I know. We really want to make it out there next year. When do you all think is the BEST time for a first timer to visit Disneyland. We are two adults with no children who can travel at about any time of year. We want low crowds and good weather. Any suggestions? Also, how long would you suggest staying if we want to take our time and relax a little?

 

[minnieandmickey]

I personally love Christmas time at DL! This year the Christmas season starts on Nov. 4 and DL is absolutely beautiful, and that time of the year is usually slow. Other then that anytime when kids are in school is the great time to go.

 

[Amusement Park Junkie]

You can't beat the decorations at Christmas, but it is colder. My favorite time is right about now. We usually get one last blast of heat in Sptember, before it gets mild in October. Not too hot during the day, but usually warm enough for the pools/beaches. Not too cold at night, but you might need a sweater or light jacket. We get similar temps in the spring, but that is also when we get the large part of our rain.
The crowds are usually pretty light Oct-Dec except for special events/holidays. Christmas week is jammed.

 

[JC Butterfly]

Dear GEM-

I have only been there twice but I will comment on that. I was there in February for the Grand Opening of California Adventure. It was cold and cloudy! Obviously the parks were a bit more crowded than normal but I never felt like the line was unbearable.

I must say I prefered my first visit there which was in June. The weather was warm upper 70 and 80s but not humid the way Florida can get. Disneyland has more shady places to stop and rest. Being a WDW fan, I found DL more difficult to navigate at first and always seemed to be going the opposite way of the crowds, but once I got the hang of it, I don't think I waited more than 15-20 minutes for any attraction.

You're going to love it!

Brenda