Disney WORLD vs Disney LAND

[Nora94]

Ok, we went to our first WDworld trip this past april. We spent 10 days, had a fabulous time and loved it all. Now, in 3 years we want to do Disney Land (when youngest is in kindergarten). But I am so confused. Ok, I was totally confused before going to WDW and now I can't figure out what Disney Land has to offer.

Epcot - doesn't exist there right?
MGM? No, you do Universal instead??
Animal kingdom - do the San Diego Zoo instead?
Magic Kingdom - is Land, but there is more there?
Water Parks?

Are there resorts and perks to being on property or not?
I saw they have a different type of dining plan and that may changed by then.

But just confused. Can someone compare and contrast? Tell me what to expect, how to plan, how many days to allow, other area things to do and distance to them (Lego Land? Magic Mountain or something like that?)

Thanks,
Nora
Tara 6/4/99
Elise 8/23/02

 

[civileng68]

Well personally I think for nostalgia, many Disney "buffs" like to go to Disney land just because they like to think that Walt's Original is there.

The Disneyland "MK" does have more as there are only 2 parks in Anaheim. What they have done is simply take the attractions (not all of course) from the parks in Orlando and crammed them into DL's "MK".

I think personally for a vacation, Disney WORLD is much better as the "magical" aspect is bigger and you really feel in another world, a fantasy world. I think the fact that it's so big helps out.

The multiple parks make it bigger as well.

 

[sheepie mom]

We last stayed in WDW in May 2003 (FW) for 5 or 6 days and visited all the parks. Last year we got AP's to DL (MK and CA) and went 5 or 6 times, generally 2 days each visit. January '05 we had a day at the MK in WDW. Here's my comparison:

DL has two parks (CA and MK) and a very small Downtown Disney area. They are separated by a plaza area so it's very convenient to walk between the two parks and DD.

The major difference to me is that DL is surrounded by off-site hotels, restaurants, streets and highways. You can see the facades for Small World and Toontown from the street. Amazingly you lose track of that when you're in the park. It makes staying there much less expensive because you can get a very inexpensive off-site hotel within a short walk of both parks (often with free continental breakfast included).

MK in DL is MUCH smaller than MK in WDW. The castle is tiny in comparison. Once you're there it's fine but when you go back to WDW you really notice the difference. One advantage is that it's easier for smaller legs because there's much less walking.

The other thing we noticed during our brief trip back to WDW in January is how much the water and landscaping adds to WDW. We felt so much more relaxed entering the MK in WDW because it's larger and you don't have the city right next to you. As a result, we've planned to return to WDW in September (and didn't renew our DL AP's).

CA (imho) isn't much of a park compared to the other WDW parks or MK. It's most like MGM but with a lot of concrete and a boardwalk area that reminds me of Dinoland in AK (my least favorite part of that park). It has some excellent rides (Soaring, Grizzly Rapids, California Screaming) but it seems like an afterthought not worthy of the Disney name. We've never needed to spend more than 4-6 hours there. To me it doesn't have any of the magic of the other Disney parks.

Some of the rides are different - PoC is longer in DL, they do a great change to the HM for Halloween (through Christmas), Autopia is far superior to the Grand Prix Raceway, and they change Small World for Christmas (definitely for the better). Also, DL has the Matterhorn which WDW doesn't. Pooh is much better at WDW.

We will probably make one more trip to DL within the next 18 months to catch the 50th anniversary changes, especially the fireworks which sound wonderful.

FYI, my DD will be 5 in October. We usually spend most of our time in Fantasyland though she enjoyed Soaring when we went in December (she's very tall) and she went on Grizzly Rapids 5 times in a row (no line).

Hope this helps. If you have any specific questions, please feel free to PM me.

 

[Bete]

First, I'm a diehard Disney fan. Remember, DL was first. Because they were the first park and Walt was part of the action the rides have more detail to them. The rides that are similar like It's a Small World is 10 times better at DL than WDW. There's a show actually on the outside going on before you even enter the boat. They are wooden puppets that come on the scene through doors and dance around for you. Of course, they represent the different parts of the world. Also, there are shrubs all around the ride that are sculptered as animal figures. This show probably goes on for 10 minutes. Fantasyland at DL is absolutely better than the one in WDW. There are different rides, too like the Pinocchio one in Fantasyland. The heart and soul of Walt can be felt at DL.

I happen to like the fact that the DL park is smaller; it's easier to get around the park and quicker to do everything. Space constraints are a big factor in DL because land is so precious in California.

Now, I will say the new Buzz Lightyear ride in DL is not as cool as the one in WDW's MK. It's the same concept but the special effects at WDW for the same ride are better.

Fantasmic is better in DL. That's because there's an actual pirate fight on a pirate ship going on. The castle is probably nicer in WDW but both are fantastic.

The Golden Horseshoe Saloon has a great live show that's a little bit country. Also, not to be missed in DL is the live Snow White Show.

There seems to me to be more characters out and about at DL. Currently the parade and fireworks show is better at DL.

There's another park in California; it's called California Adventure. It's not too toddler friendly. It's ok and worth seeing is the Aladdin live show.

There are three on-property Disney resorts. There is currently a morning early entry of 1 hour to DL available to Disney resort guests.

If you want a longer vacation you will probably have to go to other parks like the Wild Animal Park and San Diego Zoo. Also, there's Knott's Berry Farm and Legoland. We like Universal Studios Hollywood better than the one in Orlando.

I enjoy both places but they are not the same; if they were the same why have two of them.

 

[civileng68]

First, I'm a diehard Disney fan. Remember, DL was first. Because they were the first park and Walt was part of the action the rides have more detail to them. The rides that are similar like It's a Small World is 10 times better at DL than WDW. There's a show actually on the outside going on before you even enter the boat. They are wooden puppets that come on the scene through doors and dance around for you. Of course, they represent the different parts of the world. Also, there are shrubs all around the ride that are sculptered as animal figures. This show probably goes on for 10 minutes. Fantasyland at DL is absolutely better than the one in WDW. There are different rides, too like the Pinocchio one in Fantasyland. The heart and soul of Walt can be felt at DL.

I happen to like the fact that the DL park is smaller; it's easier to get around the park and quicker to do everything. Space constraints are a big factor in DL because land is so precious in California.

Now, I will say the new Buzz Lightyear ride in DL is not as cool as the one in WDW's MK. It's the same concept but the special effects at WDW for the same ride are better.

Fantasmic is better in DL. That's because there's an actual pirate fight on a pirate ship going on. The castle is probably nicer in WDW but both are fantastic.

The Golden Horseshoe Saloon has a great live show that's a little bit country. Also, not to be missed in DL is the live Snow White Show.

There seems to me to be more characters out and about at DL. Currently the parade and fireworks show is better at DL.

There's another park in California; it's called California Adventure. It's not too toddler friendly. It's ok and worth seeing is the Aladdin live show.

There are three on-property Disney resorts. There is currently a morning early entry of 1 hour to DL available to Disney resort guests.

If you want a longer vacation you will probably have to go to other parks like the Wild Animal Park and San Diego Zoo. Also, there's Knott's Berry Farm and Legoland. We like Universal Studios Hollywood better than the one in Orlando.

I enjoy both places but they are not the same; if they were the same why have two of them.

While I think I can agree with "some" of your things.

* I like the bigger park. I feel more "away" from everything in the world there.

however I disgagree about the fireworks.

I dont know if you've seen Wishes, but before wishes you'd be right. However since Wishes I think it's better than "Believe" at DL, if that's what's still running.

 

[Susiesnowflake]

Sorry, I can't provide any info to compare and contrast, because I've never been to Disneyland. I'm interested in reading the responses you get though. It's kind of funny that I absolutely love WDW and all things Disney but don't seem to have any desire to go to Disneyland.

 

[cdntourguide]

I have been to both DL/Ca and WDW since Jan 1 of this year. I enjoy both parks, however I can go to DL/CA and be there for four days and see and do everything at least twice. AT WDW I can go for three weeks and not see and do everything that I wanted.
I go to Disneyland for a quick Disney fix, but go to Walt Disney World for a vacation.
both are great and I think everyone should get to Disneyland at least once in their life.
By the way Disneyland is much closer than WDW to where I live, and much cheaper. But I perfer WDW.
Saying that, the rides and atmosphere are superior at Disneyland. Especially Mr Toad's Wild Ride, Indiana Joes and the Temple of the All Seeing Eye, Alladin and the Snow White/Seven Dwarfs show which are all worth the price of admission even if nothing else is seen.

 

[geek457]

however I disgagree about the fireworks.

I dont know if you've seen Wishes, but before wishes you'd be right. However since Wishes I think it's better than "Believe" at DL, if that's what's still running.

The new fireworks show at Disneyland is called "Remember... Dreams Come True." It replaces "Believe," and IMO is *much* better than Wishes at WDW.

"Remember..." was created especially for Disneyland's 50th anniversary celebration.

 

[dawnrose]

We are taking our first WDW trip ever on June 11th....We have, however, been to Disneyland and CA Adventure at least 2x per year for the last 4 years. We love it! I grew up in so CA 20 min. from Disneyland....many memories....Disneyland is a more intimate sitting than WDW and I like that. Last Dec. we spent 5 days at the resort staying at the Grand California, which is lovely and super close to everything. You can walk everywhere in the resort, another perk imo...We still didn't want to leave after 5 days...We just take it slower...relax in the hot tub, shop, listen to stories by the hearth at the hotel, have drinks in the gorgeous lobby while the kids play and carolers entertained us, etc.... We have always enjoyed CA Adventure and find plenty to do there as well ( tho not as much as DL) It's a lovely, fun, intimate place with tons of Disney magic despite the 'lovely' city of Aneheim that surrounds it...There are alot of cheap, yet nice hotels within walking distance of the resort as welll...I think that during the 50th anniversary would be the best time to go....

 

[ReninDetroit]

I think WDW is more "magical" as well, but DL certainly has its advantages.

The last time I was in DL, I stayed at the Disneyland Hotel and boy is that convenient! You just step out the back door and you're in the "downtown" area of the parks! And if I remember correctly, not far at all to the actual MK area.

Also, there are typically less people at DL which can make for a more pleasant experience if you don't like crowds.

The weather is much better IMO in California.

Disney's California Adventure has the original Soarin' and a few other cool rides which are pretty cool.

 

[Micca]

I agree that any fan of Disney should see DLR at least once. WDW is our "home park" with dozens of trips under our belts. There is just something so cool about DLR

 

[sters]

:


There are three on-property Disney resorts. There is currently a morning early entry of 1 hour to DL available to Disney resort guests.

QUOTE]


Actually, the early entry is connected to the type of ticket you have, whether you stay on site or not. The only advantage to staying "on site" is that your packages can be delivered to your room. If you book through AAA, and not through Disney, you can get unlimited Fastpass, or at least can hold multiple fastpasses at the same time. Only one of the 3 resorts is themed, and that's the Grand Californian. The pools are not nearly as interesting, unfortunately, in Anaheim.

 

[Laz]

Its been a number of years since we were at DL, and we have planned to go in 2006. I can't tell you exactly how, but DL has a unique "feel" to it. I don't know if it is Walt's touch, the way CM's are, or what. It is not that DL is better the WDW, just special in its own way.

 

[PamNC]

Oh boy - are you asking the right person. Well, you didn't just ask me - but I shall answer. My DH & I are WDW vets. Since our honeymoon in 1994 we've gone every year at least once. 3x last year. So, this year we got too big for our britches and decided to go to Southern CA for vacation (it was really a business/vacation thing but the business part was about 2 hours. Anyway, we did go to Disneyland/CA Adventure for 2 days out of our trip. We stayed off-site because we felt like we wouldn't be at the resort or in the room. At WDW in FL, we always stay on-site and take advantage of the amenities. We stayed right near DL...a 7 minute walk to the gate at a cheap place....Hojo's Anaheim. It was $67 a night and very clean and comfortable, but certainly not fancy. it was fine for us because we didn't stay in the room AT ALL.

Okay - now let me answer your questions.

Epcot - doesn't exist there right? - NO - NO EPCOT AND WE REALLY MISSED IT.

MGM? No, you do Universal instead?? - You're right, no MGM. You know, Universal is a good idea. We didn't do that. I will say that some of the MGM attractions are at Disneyland and CA Adventure. At CA Adventure they have a small "area" (the whole park is small actually) called Hollywood Pictures Backlot. They have a version of the Disney Animation attraction, a great show, Aladdin, and Tower of Terror, oh and Muppet Vision 3D. At Disneyland, they have Star Tours in Tomorrowland.

Animal kingdom - do the San Diego Zoo instead? Great idea - we didn't do it but we considered it.

Magic Kingdom - is Land, but there is more there? Well...Disneyland is the CA version of magic Kingdom. There are probably more attractions in CA. But, I'm just comparing MK to DL....if you add in the other 3 parks, that is not the case. Some attractions were better at DL. POC is quite a bit longer. They have the original Tiki Bird show. Mr. Toad is still there. Fantasyland as a whole seems more "magical" not just because they have more attractions, it's just something I can't put my finger on. We liked the DL version of Main Street better. Instead of walking from store to store, in CA the stores are all separate and the windows are dressed making it feel more like a real small town Main Street. The fireworks are awesome - better than Wishes I must admit.

Water Parks? None at Disney - didn't go looking for any.

I'm glad we went , but we will not return to DL or CA Adventure. The whole thing about the lack of land really bugged us. At Disneyworld in FL, once you drive onto the property you're immersed in a fantasy world with purple road signs complete with mickey ears, no ugliness of the real world. The resorts are all themed and there is a "suspense" as you drive up to them. For example, at the WL you wouldn't think you were in FL. You are truly immersed in Disney and the magic 24 hours a day. The CMs were not nearly as Disney-esque in CA, in our experience. We encountered more rude, un-Disney CM's in 2 days in CA than we have in 12 years at WDW.

CA Adventure, sans Soaring Over California and Aladdin show is a FLOP. What a joke - I'm sure Walt is turning over in his grave over the whole of Paradise Pier. You can find these rides at any carnival.

That's my opinion, of course. and nothing more. You can do it all in 2 days. we Trust me. The Disney hotels, and we did visit them, didn't feel that magical. The only real themed resort is Grand Californian and you can see it from Downtown Disney and Paradise Pier. I prefer the seclution of the WDW resorts.

We also went to Laguna Beach, which was about a 35 minute drive South. it was breathtaking! Beautiful beach - looked somewhat like hawaii. Lots of art galleries and restaurants. We were there from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. and could have stayed longer. we loved it.

We also visited Santa Monica, 3rd Street Promendade, Beverly Hills and Hollywood.

The traffic is awful - absolutely draining. God knows we almost broke down and cried a couple of times.

My advice - DON'T DO IT. Go back to FL.

PamNC

 

[Amy&Dan]

Since October of 2003 my family has been to Disneyland 7 times and WDW 3 times. I know, we are insane! I love both parks and consider each of them a special and true vacation. I think anyone who loves Disney owes it to themselves to visit both parks at least once. It is too bad you cannot go to Disneyland in the next 18 months to enjoy their 50th. They currently have a 17 minute long fireworks show that is supposed to be magnificient, I cannot wait until September so I can see it! I do love Epcot and Animal Kingdom, I think MGM and DCA are about the same. However, I don't spend much time comparing the parks to each other when I am there, I just enjoy being at whichever one I am lucky enough to be at! I think of WDW and DL like my kids, I love them both the same and celebrate their differences! I don't agree that the onsite hotels at Disneyland aren't worth staying at. The Peter Pan themed Neverland Pool at the Disneyland Hotel is awesome, your kids would love it. Paradise Pier's pool is basic but they have a huge slide my kids loved. The Grand Californian I have not stayed at but it's a 5 star hotel with incredible dining options and a theme like Wildnerness Lodge. I do wish they had more moderately priced onsite choices but given the time the park was built, who knew? There are also a lot of great offsite choices nearby, also in walking distance. One thing I don't miss at Disneyland is waiting in a long line for a bus at the end of a long day. I just walk back to whichever hotel we stay at, usually the Disneyland Hotel. If you will have a car and can also go to the San Diego area that would really add a lot to your Disneyland vacation. San Diego is incredible with some of the best beaches and beach towns. We love Del Mar and Coronado. The climate in Southern (coastal) California: well why do you think it costs so much to live there, its perfect! If you are looking for longer, total Disney vacation and a complete departure from reality then I can see WDW being your destination. There is so much to do there and you really do feel like you are away from it all. If you want to see the first theme park in the world, immerse yourself in the magic of being in the park Walt built and loved, be able to walk to both parks and DTD, and possibly take time to enjoy other things southern Cal. has to offer, then Disneyland would be perfect! I never consider Disneyland a poor substitute for a real Disney vacation and I don't think you would either. One thing I can say for sure, what better dilemma in life than picking which Disney vacation to take? The whole world should be so lucky!

 

[SuperGurl]

I've only been a member of DISboards a few months and I am so glad I did!
I really feel like I've joined a family here. All the kindness here is unbelievable and makes me feel so good to know that there are still nice, helpful and caring people in this crazy world. It is so awesome! Thank you all fellow DISers for being who you are!

 

[Disneys Billpayer]

I have been to both. Although not to DL since 1982. But I would have to say without comparing any attractions. The fact that I could see The suurounding city at Dl certainley took away from the magic feeling of an escape from reality. But I do agree seeing the original, if your in California is worth the time.

 

[MrShiny]

While there are some sites that intrude on the parks, the redo of 2001 made DL much more isolated feeling.

There are actually more "rides" in DL & DCA than all of WDW (when you throw in shows and walkthroughs, more at WDW).

You don't walk nearly as much, but as a consequence lines tend to spill out into walkways much more.

The park looks amazing now - brand new for the 50th.

It feels more like Walt was there (because he was!).

Pirates makes the Florida version look like highlights.

And best of all, you can go there for a day and really feel like you saw a lot.

 

[LoriMistress]

I love DLR. Not only is it the orginal park, but it's just as magical. Plus they have DCA. They have some of the rides from MGM there. Though, I love WDW!!!

 

[HaleyB]

I am glad someone else pointed out that there are more rides in California than Florida. It is true, and they are all within walking distance of each other.

I love WDW, don't get me wrong, but DL is the original- and it has all the Walt touches. I find DL more magical than WDW, but I think whichever is your 'home' park feels that way to you. The onsite hotels are great, but you can really save a ton staying offsite, but without all the hassles that go along with being off site at WDW. DL is much smaller than MK, but it also has more nooks and cranies to explore (and they are well worth exploring) and way more rides. What else can I say... fireworks... the new DL show is the best ever, much better than the show at the MK. Fantasmic is so much better in DL we don't bother with it at WDW.

WDW is also special and wonderful, and I really like that they have very different feels to them. That allows me to argue for a trip to each every year