Disneyland for beginners

[sleepywaldo]

Disneyland for beginners
We've booked flights to Anaheim for Feb 2015 for 10 days. We have three families travelling together with 4 little girls, ages 8,5, 4 and 2. I'm not a disney person at all (the whole point of this trip for me is to get the disney 'check box' over and done with) but I want to make sure the kids get the most out of this trip. A couple questions if you'd be so kind:

- We'd originally thought of doing 3 day passes, but now in reading it seems like there wouldn't be much to do after day one (unless we just keep going on the same rides?) is that a reasonable perspective? should we keep it to one day instead?

- what are the key attractions we should try to see for young girls? highlights?

- I've heard about a 'makeover as a princess' thing. how do you get into that? do I buy tickets in advance? just show up?

- ditto on the eating with a character thing.

- I'm assuming February might be chilly for the beach? Any other attractions in the area?

- any other recommendations for the trip?

 

[planningjollyholiday]

Disneyland has so many shows and attractions, that it will take many days to see. I would recommend 4 days so that you have 2 days at each park. Even at four days you will not get to see and do everything. At four days you will be able to go at a slower pace which would be better for your smaller kids. At disneyland you can get a princess makeover at the bippity boppity boutique or a frozen makeover in downtown disney. Both places you need to make a reservation by calling ahead of time.

 

[Luckymommatoo]

There are two parks there -- Disneyland and California Adventure. Assuming you are planning to go to both of them, one day is definitely not enough. I think three or four days is perfect, particularly if you're doing one of the Boutiques, because that takes time.

Will you be there over a three-day weekend, or in the middle of the week? That will affect the crowd level quite a bit.

I have an eight-year-old daughter, and since we're local, she's been going to Disneyland since she was born. Favorites include:
-- Pixie Hollow (meet Tinker Bell and another fairy)
-- All of Fantasyland (Storybook boats and Small World are particular favorites)
-- Winnie the Pooh ride
-- Dole Whip while watching the Tiki Room
-- Buzz Lightyear blasters
-- Haunted Mansion
-- Autopia (which I despise, but kids always LOVE)

And now she loves all the roller coasters, too, although with your group I don't know if you'll be hitting the mountains.

At CA Adv, her favorites are:
-- Toy Story Midway Mania
-- All of Carsland
-- Tough to Be a Bug
-- Aladdin show
-- Monsters Inc Ride
-- Little Mermaid ride

There is a lot to see and enjoy in the parks, and with a group of that size, with that age kids, you're not going to be moving very quickly (think of the bathroom breaks!). So by giving yourself three or four days, it takes the stress out of the equation and lets you stroll and enjoy.

-e

 

[DLR29]

Yes, you definitel cannot see everything that the Disneyland Resort offers in 1 day, especially with 4 kids. 3 days is a good amount of time because it allows you to space out your days and not rush around. 4 is preferred.

If meeting Anna and Elsa is a priority, you will need to run straight to their meet-and-greet to pick up a "return time" to come back and see them later in the day. They are very popular and if you don't pick up a return time ticket within the first hour of park opening, you may miss out on the opportunity to meet them. This could all change, though, from now until then. There are some rumors that the Frozen meet and greets might change locations. Keep looking around here for more info!

Some other key attractions would be most attractions in Fantasyland such as Dumbo, Storybookland Canal Boats, It's a Small World, Alice in Wonderland, etc. They will also like Buzz Lightyear, Autopia, Finding Nemo, Winnie-the-Pooh, and Jungle Cruise. If they are even more adventurous, you might try Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion.

Over in DCA, A Bug's Land has 5 attractions for younger ones. They also have a Monster's Inc. attraction, Toy Story Midway Mania, and Ariel's Undersea Adventure; all of which are fun for the entire family.

Character meals can be booked 60 days in advance through this number714) 781-DINE.

 

[larina]

I'm going to take the leap and recommend that you get 5 day passes. there is more than enough to do to keep you entertained for all 5 days and you have an opportunity to see all of the shows and entertainment that those in your group want to see.

Don't miss Bugs Land in CA.

 

[Geemo]

I see you're going to Anaheim for 10 days. Three families, 4 little girls is going to be a blast!
As other's have said one day isn't going to give you time to make the trip worth it.

During your time in Anaheim what other activities will your group be planning to do?
I feel given the size of your group, a minimum of 4 days in the parks is best. If you're not sure then I'd start with three day hopper tickets. The nice thing is that you can upgrade (add days to tickets) tickets, as long as they haven't expired.

There are so many rides the little girls are going to want to do more than once. Not to mention the shows and character meets.

I've been taking my grandkids every year for some time now and on our trips there are things we miss because there's not enough time. I like to go for a minimum of 4 days. I prefer 5, it gives us the time to try and do IT ALL.

The board will help you prepare for the trip. You need to be ready to go with the flow once you're there. In the early years, I'd plan out our days in the parks, only to toss it out after an hour or so. Now as a group we have an idea of what we'd like to accomplish each day. Sometimes it goes like we think it should and other times it just goes..... One thing for sure is at the end of the day we've walked MILES and we're all beat.

Let your planning begin

I know you're going to have a great time.

Geemo

 

[MermaidHair]

Sleepywaldo

You are going to have a great time! Make sure to check the sticky threads for newbie info. (I would link to here but I am using the mobile app and do not know how!) You may also consider a guidebook like The Unofficial Guide to Disneyland to help you plan your trip. I like that kind of consolidated info to start, then I come here for the details and current status of the resorts.

I get the impression that you are planning a big trip to the LA area and you will add in Disneyland, as opposed to a Disneyland trip in which you will tack on some extra sites. Please do consider more days in the park as others suggested. I think you will find that seeing the place through your little ones' eyes will make it very enjoyable, even if you are not a big Disney fan. Slowing down and enjoying the experience does add to the enjoyment. I am always amazed how time flies at DLR.

Hope you have a boast!

 

[ClaraOswald]

Who the heck are these people telling you that you can do everything in ONE day? Even a trip without any children...everything can't be done in just one day, not even during the 'slow' season.

A minimum to me would be three day park hoppers. 4 or 5 would be ideal though.

 

[cmpeter]

I agree that you need at least 3 days and with little kids, 4 is even better. DL is go-go-go...it's great to be able to hit up the parks in the morning and early afternoon. Head back to the hotel in the afternoon for a rest and then go back to the parks in the evening to catch the evening shows.

With younger kids and 10 days, you could also look at spending some time in San Diego. Legoland and the zoo are a lot of fun.

 

[JadeDarkstar]

I like 4 or 5 days. I go slow I don't rush. I spend a good time with my family. we do shows and rides we like and some times more than once. 10day, id do 5 days and take brakes. 2days dl, day off beach or sight seeing, 2days another park maybe sea world and lego land? then id go one more day dl, off day, day beach, hollywood, and make your last day or two at DL.

 

[sleepywaldo]

We're travelling with my parents and DB/SIL, and my parents have rented a house for us all in Villa Park? Our intent is have the little kids and adults go back for afternoon naps, and if the older kids are up for more, we'll have a couple of the adults stay with them at the park.
The intent of the trip is to check the "Disney trip" box on the parenthood punch card. I want hit all the major stuff as we're not planning to go back, but I want to ensure the adults get to have some level vacation too. (beaches, sightseeing, etc.) and I really don't want to have overloaded, tired kids. I'm a little concerned that we may have missed the window with my 8 year old... I really wanted her to have wonder at meeting princesses... now I'm afraid it'll just be an amusement park with actors in costumes. The 2, 4 and 5 year olds will go bananas though...
I may be an absolute mean mommy, but I really don't want spend more than 3 days pure kid/disney stuff... I'll speak with DB/SIL and see if maybe they'd be willing to trade off with us on taking the kids to the park so each couple gets to have some fun too if we really need 4-5 days at the park for the kids.
A couple more questions if you don't mind:
If we got multi day passes, would we need to do the days consecutively or can we spread them out over the visit? Are there in and out privileges or do we need to pay again if we take the kids home for a nap.
Do park hoppers get used for zoo/seaworld/legoland/universal or is it just the disney parks? I think we'd enjoy the animal safari and seaworld as well. I love San Diego and would love to head down there for a few days and visit Old Town, Coronado,etc.
Are we allowed snacks/drinks/etc. for the kids? Should we pack some colouring books, etc. to keep them entertained in the lines?
Are the characters walking around everywhere or just at the restaurants?
How far in advance do I need to book the characters dinners and the dress up stuff? Is it a day before thing or should I be booking now?

 

[Geemo]

We're travelling with my parents and DB/SIL, and my parents have rented a house for us all in Villa Park? Our intent is have the little kids and adults go back for afternoon naps, and if the older kids are up for more, we'll have a couple of the adults stay with them at the park.
This is a good plan. It's nice when there are plenty of adults to be able to split up and let the kids have a one on one experience.

The intent of the trip is to check the "Disney trip" box on the parenthood punch card. I want hit all the major stuff as we're not planning to go back, but I want to ensure the adults get to have some level vacation too. (beaches, sightseeing, etc.) and I really don't want to have overloaded, tired kids.
With 10 day in the area, there will be plenty of opportunities for the adults to see and do other things besides Disney. Staying close to the parks will make it easy for going back to nap and rest.

I'm a little concerned that we may have missed the window with my 8 year old... I really wanted her to have wonder at meeting princesses... now I'm afraid it'll just be an amusement park with actors in costumes. Better late than never in this case. All ages enjoy meeting and visiting with the Disney characters. I feel you will be very surprised with how spectacular the princesses are with all ages. Both my DGD (10) and DGD (16) love to visit with all the princesses. The wait in line is well worth it. Have your camera ready!

The 2, 4 and 5 year olds will go bananas though...
I may be an absolute mean mommy, but I really don't want spend more than 3 days pure kid/disney stuff... I'll speak with DB/SIL and see if maybe they'd be willing to trade off with us on taking the kids to the park so each couple gets to have some fun too if we really need 4-5 days at the park for the kids.We have gone in large groups and it's nice to have the group split up. The adults will have things they may want to ride that the kids won't be able too. This would also give you time to see the parks in a different light.
A couple more questions if you don't mind:
If we got multi day passes, would we need to do the days consecutively or can we spread them out over the visit? Are there in and out privileges or do we need to pay again if we take the kids home for a nap.Multi-day tickets generally have a period of 14 days fromt he first day of use before they expire. So you can split up the park days how ever you want over the the two weeks. One ticket for each person is all you'll need, there is unlimited entries each day, as long as you have your hand stamped as you exit. When you're ready to re-enter the park, they'll scan your ticket and look at the stamp on your hand and you're in.

Do park hoppers get used for zoo/seaworld/legoland/universal or is it just the disney parks? I think we'd enjoy the animal safari and seaworld as well. I love San Diego and would love to head down there for a few days and visit Old Town, Coronado,etc.Disney tickets are exclusive for Disney. However, there is a ticket for SoCal area called The CityPass. Check it out here...
http://www.citypass.com/southern-ca..._content=1465029734&utm_campaign=none&mkwid=e
It's a way to see other places in the DLR area and save a few bucks if you buy this option. It comes with a 3day hopper pass to Disneyland/Disney California Adventure that can be upgraded to 5days for a minimal cost.
Are we allowed snacks/drinks/etc. for the kids? Should we pack some colouring books, etc. to keep them entertained in the lines? We take snacks and water into the parks. However, I have never packed anything to entertain the kids while in lines.
Are the characters walking around everywhere or just at the restaurants?There are set locations for the characters and you may also see them roaming a little.
How far in advance do I need to book the characters dinners and the dress up stuff? Is it a day before thing or should I be booking now?Character Dining reservations can be made 60 days in advance. For a group your size it will be important to have a few reservations made.

I hope you can settle into the Disney spirit when you arrive. I know you'll enjoy seeing the parks through your children's eyes. Especially if this is the one and only time you plan to visit Disneyland.

Geemo

 

[krispin41]

I am going to throw this out there, in regards to: "The intent of the trip is to check the "Disney trip" box on the parenthood punch card." I have a sinking feeling that you are setting yourself (and the kids) up for disappointment. Please keep an open mind, Disney is full of magic and much of it "just happens." Save your sanity and just go with the flow, and take your time.

 

[DharmaLou]

Definitely take time to read the pinned threads, especially HydroGuy's thread. Going in there armed with knowledge will make it much more enjoyable for you rather than getting frustrated by missing out on things or standing in lines far too long etc and basing your opinion of DLR on that.

 

[LalaCoop]

I agree you should plan at least 3 days for Disney, but I have comments for your "other" activities... Balboa Park in San Diego is a wonderful place to spend the day, lots of gardens, museums, and the zoo. The Wild Animal Park was always a favorite of mine when I was a kid. In San Diego, Point Loma Seafood is fantastic for lunch (often see seals - or are they sea lions?) by the piers out back, plus it's tasty, and Old Venice is a wonderful restaurant with a lovely, romantic patio for dinner. Just my two cents!

 

[zanzibar138]

I am going to throw this out there, in regards to: "The intent of the trip is to check the "Disney trip" box on the parenthood punch card." I have a sinking feeling that you are setting yourself (and the kids) up for disappointment. Please keep an open mind, Disney is full of magic and much of it "just happens." Save your sanity and just go with the flow, and take your time.

I totally agree with this comment. DLR isn't just for children. As an adult, you can really appreciate the details and theming, the pretty gardens and buildings, and the CMs who really get in character.

My husband and parents were never 'Disney' people. Since being exposed to Disneyland on trips with me, they're all hooked and keep going back! Our adult only trips (we don't have kids) are fun, whimsical and magical. Keep an open mind, and don't forget to slow down and enjoy it.

DLR is not about rushing from one attraction to the next, trying to tick as many off as possible. There are great shows and parades, and great play areas for the kids.

I would recommend at LEAST 3 days, and if you can anywhere up to 5 so that you have time to really take it all in and enjoy it. Don't forget that princess makeovers and character dining will take a big chunk of your day too.

If your kids are into princesses and are getting princess makeovers, I would recommend trying to reserve Ariel's Grotto for lunch. It's the only character meal in DLR that has princesses. With a large party, I would book as soon as possible after the 60 day window opens up.

 

[sleepywaldo]

I totally agree with this comment. DLR isn't just for children. As an adult, you can really appreciate the details and theming, the pretty gardens and buildings, and the CMs who really get in character.

My husband and parents were never 'Disney' people. Since being exposed to Disneyland on trips with me, they're all hooked and keep going back! Our adult only trips (we don't have kids) are fun, whimsical and magical. Keep an open mind, and don't forget to slow down and enjoy it.

DLR is not about rushing from one attraction to the next, trying to tick as many off as possible. There are great shows and parades, and great play areas for the kids.

I would recommend at LEAST 3 days, and if you can anywhere up to 5 so that you have time to really take it all in and enjoy it. Don't forget that princess makeovers and character dining will take a big chunk of your day too.

If your kids are into princesses and are getting princess makeovers, I would recommend trying to reserve Ariel's Grotto for lunch. It's the only character meal in DLR that has princesses. With a large party, I would book as soon as possible after the 60 day window opens up.

I'm hoping I'll be converted once I'm there and I'm really trying to keep an open mind until then. I'm frankly a little stressed at the thought of it right now (it just seems rather overwhelming in terms of sights and sounds and I'm much more accustomed to a low key vacation) My SIL is a 'Disney' person, and we're hoping her spirit rubs off on the rest of curmudgeonly old grumps and we find some enjoyment outside of watching the kids have fun.
I wasn't expecting that any of the adults would want to go on rides unless we were required to go with the kids. My husband and I's stomachs typically flip if we go on rides with the kids at our local amusement park... Are there any particular rides we should consider? Are there 'adult only' rides other than roller coasters and drops? Are the Innovation and Old Hollywood exhibits more adult focused?
We'll definitely reserve the Grotto and either the BBB or Frozen makeover areas come mid december for our February trip. Should we dress the kids up in princess costumes to go, or are tshirt/shorts more appropriate for running around the park?
At a high-level, am I overthinking this whole thing? Do I really need to plan out every day or can we just roll with it? I'm hearing IRL that I need to have a plan for each area we want to see, when we'll see it, what attractions to see and I'm totally overwhelmed at a massive list of attractions with no real direction on what I want to see... Is just showing up, with possibly a character dining and makeover reservation, and letting the rest of the day take us wherever it goes a horrible plan? I just don't want to come home with kids who feel like they didn't 'really' do disney because they didn't see "x".
I really appreciate everyone's patience in answering my questions. This whole vacation is stressing me out (as is probably totally obvious...)

 

[sleepywaldo]

I agree you should plan at least 3 days for Disney, but I have comments for your "other" activities... Balboa Park in San Diego is a wonderful place to spend the day, lots of gardens, museums, and the zoo. The Wild Animal Park was always a favorite of mine when I was a kid. In San Diego, Point Loma Seafood is fantastic for lunch (often see seals - or are they sea lions?) by the piers out back, plus it's tasty, and Old Venice is a wonderful restaurant with a lovely, romantic patio for dinner. Just my two cents!

Thanks! SanDiego is definitely on my 'must see' list. I used to travel there for work quite a bit and I'm looking forward to showing my husband and kids some the areas I loved. I thought Coronado was beautiful and I used to really love hanging out in Old Town. (We're canadian.. real mexican food is a thrill). The Wild Animal park and Sea World are definitely on our list as well. I'll add Balboa to the list.

 

[sleepywaldo]

I hope you can settle into the Disney spirit when you arrive. I know you'll enjoy seeing the parks through your children's eyes. Especially if this is the one and only time you plan to visit Disneyland.

Geemo

I'm hoping so too! I'm fully expecting to enjoy watching the little ones be awed by the characters, but I'm a little scared we missed the window for DD8 and she'll just see them as actors in costume. I'm hopeful we can crack through the 'I'm too cool for that' shell once she's there.

 

[sleepywaldo]

I am going to throw this out there, in regards to: "The intent of the trip is to check the "Disney trip" box on the parenthood punch card." I have a sinking feeling that you are setting yourself (and the kids) up for disappointment. Please keep an open mind, Disney is full of magic and much of it "just happens." Save your sanity and just go with the flow, and take your time.

Thank you. I'm honestly trying to keep an open mind and keep my inner grump at bay, and I apologize if it's leaking out in the posts. I'm really looking forward to watching the kids enjoy the park, but I am struggling to see what there is for adults to enjoy on their own if they're not a fan of the franchises. It may be a 'once you see it you'll understand' thing.
I've heard multiple time IRL that you really need to plan the trip, almost to the hour, otherwise you'll miss the attractions you really want to see, and I'm struggling because in looking at the list of attractions I'm just flat out guessing at what the kids will want to do and we don't have anything in particular we want to see as adults. If go with the flow is an acceptable approach, hallelujah.