Disneyland First Timer!

[LMO429]

Hello! Although I have been to WDW more than 15 times, this upcoming October (8th - 13th) will be the first time I will be going to Disneyland. We will be staying at The Grand Californian for 4 nights on our way back from Maui for our honeymoon.

Are there any threads on the dis that would help a first timer like me?
What are the most dos while I am there?
What restaurants are the most popular and you suggest are a not to be missed dining experience?
How long is the drive from LAX to Disneyland?
Is the Fantasmic in Disneyland the same exact show as the one in Walt Disney World? ( I am just asking because I am not a huge fan of fantasmic at WDW, its my least favorite of all the nightime shows)
If there is a Not so Scary Halloween Party in Disneyland? Is it worth going to ?

I am sure I will think of more questions. But I appreciate anyones help. TIA!

 

[Brenna&Noah's Mom]

At the top of this page is a thread for WDW vets by Hydroguy with some awesome tips. I'm going on my first Disneyland trip in a few weeks,so maybe when I get back I can tell you some tips.The people on here are awesome and will help you.

 

[DangerMouse]

This is Hydro's thread the PP mentions:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

 

[dizneekrazee]

Hello! Although I have been to WDW more than 15 times, this upcoming October (8th - 13th) will be the first time I will be going to Disneyland. We will be staying at The Grand Californian for 4 nights on our way back from Maui for our honeymoon.

Are there any threads on the dis that would help a first timer like me?
What are the most dos while I am there?
What restaurants are the most popular and you suggest are a not to be missed dining experience?
How long is the drive from LAX to Disneyland?
Is the Fantasmic in Disneyland the same exact show as the one in Walt Disney World? ( I am just asking because I am not a huge fan of fantasmic at WDW, its my least favorite of all the nightime shows)
If there is a Not so Scary Halloween Party in Disneyland? Is it worth going to ?

I am sure I will think of more questions. But I appreciate anyones help. TIA!

I will answer what I can. I have never been to WDW, so I cannot do comaprisons.
The Halloween Party at DL is Mickeys Trick or Treat Party. Currently, only APers and Disney Visa cardholders can purchase these tix until August 1 when they are released to the public.
Definately check out HydroGuys tips. You MUST do POTC, Matterhorn, Indy, Storybookland, Alice, Mr. Toad, and HM. Those are probably the ones you cannot miss either b/c they do not exist at WSW or are different. Oh, Splash is different as well I hear.
Regarding food (my fav topic), you guys should get PS (priority seating) at the Blue Bayou (BB). Very nice restaurant and one of the only table service ones in the park. In Adventureland, you must get a chicken skwerer from Bengal BBQ and a Dole Whip from the DOle stand in front of Tiki Room.

HTH!!