Complete DL Noob needs help

[Halloweenqueen]

My family moved from NC to WA almost two years ago. We are diehard WDW fans. We have gone to WDW twice since moving here, but the raising airfare, etc have us looking towards DL this summer.

I already have a reservation for WDW in August, but I'm thinking of driving down to DL. (I live in south central WA) Is this insane? I don't know the route or roads. Is there a good half way point?

I know DL and DCA have refurbs going on. Is one month during summer better? How are crowds the last few weeks of August?

I'm sorry for asking the same old questions, but I could really use some help. I grabbed a couple tourguides, but nothing beats the experience of a Diser!

Thanks in advance for your help!

 

[c&m]

We're from Vancouver, B.C., and we have driven south to DL and San Diego about 3 or 4 times in the past.

However, in the past few years, we haven't had the need to drive because airfares aren't really that bad from Seattle. In March 2009, we flew from Seattle to Long Beach for $59 each way on Alaska Air. I've seen similar fares from Seattle to LAX, but we do prefer Long Beach these days. However, with a big family, I can see how the airfare can add up! Also check Allegiant Air that flies out of Bellingham. Sometimes, they have crazy sales where you can get $30 one-way fares to LAX.

But if you are still thinking of driving to DL...stay on the I-5. It's the fastest route. Our drives are typically about 12 hours to Redding (few pitstops, usually into a Target along the I-5 to stretch our legs and bathroom breaks). That's our half-way mark. We would stay at the Hampton Inn Redding. The next morning, we usually check out early at 7:30am and start our drive. We usually roll into Anaheim at about 6/7pm.

HTH!

 

[HydroGuy]

Big differences between early and late August. I love early August visits. After about August 21 this year you will have some crowd issues because of the AP blockout lifting. No summer month is really better than the others. It gets hotter as the summer goes on. But do watch out for the AP crowds. Especially this summer.

Try these informative threads:

"A DLR Guide for WDW Vets" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

**ºoº DLR FAQ-MAPS, HOTELS, DISER HOTEL REVIEWS, HYDROGUY'S TIPS, DINING REVIEWS, ETC

"Understanding AP Blockouts and Impact on Crowds" http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2365983

"Getting The Most Out of a Summer Visit To DLR" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1345319

 

[Halloweenqueen]

Thanks!