DL For a New York WDWer

[joece]

Hello I have enjoyed only one Disney resort in my whole life and I am looking to go to Disneyland next year. I am considering the Grand Californian for 3 nights to enjoy both parks. Also we plan to visit San Fran and Modesto CA. We are also planning to visit Santa Barbara, Hollywood, San Diego and maybe Universal! What hotel do you recommend?

Also we can go anytime till Labor Day. Is August 28-Sep.2 better than Aug.22-26 in DisneyLand?

What do you West Coasters recommend for a engertic NYCer

 

[Vanvmom]

n Aug.22-26 in DisneyLand?

What do you West Coasters recommend for a engertic NYCer

STARBUCKS!

Just joking... The trip sounds great! I've got to guess the trip to Modesto is to visit family? I've lived in CA most of my life, and it's never made our top 10 vacation spots list. I've been to all the locations you mentioned, but stayed with family at each one so no hotel advice here. SF also known by locals as "The City" is GREAT! The San Diego Zoo is fun (and a day long experience).

We've been to DL at the end of August, and the crowds were not as bad a summer time crowds. Many CA schools start in July (cities with year round schools), but most start right around labor day. So, the closer you are to labor day, the busier the parks will be (everyone trying to squeeze in one last vacation before school starts).

Have a great trip!

 

[Sthronds]

Wow! You have quite an itinerary! Busy Busy! I agree with the last post about Modesto, never been high on my list of tourist destinations either! Some of my favorite places to stay are: In San Diego, The Hilton on Harbor Island. It is technically an aiport hotel, but it is a great location with views of the bay and close to downtown. I love the Doubletree in Santa Barbara. It is pricey but it's location can't be beat. In San Fran, we like the Kensington Park Hotel which is right near Union Square. Another option would be the Berkeley Doubletree which isn't far from the Bay Bridge and is in a real nice location in the marina. I can't help with Modesto. Have a great trip!

 

[CalGal]

Many schools in California start before Labor Day, around the 21st-24th, so the week of Aug. 28th should be slightly less crowded. Park hours are a little shorter then as well. You may also need to consider the availability of the Grand Californian.