DL in June? Need Help

[dopey81]

I am going to visit a cousin living in Hawaii in June. I had my tickets booked a few months ago through ATA, but since they went bankrupt, I need to get new airline tickets. (I was lucky enough to get a full refund for those tickets) I was thinking of booking a couple day layover in LA and spending a couple of days in Disneyland the week of the 16th. I have not been to DL since 2001, so I am sure things have changed. Any suggestions on hotels? I was thinking of one of the Good Neighbor Hotels because I was hoping to spend around $700 for four nights, before the dining plan. I have never done a dining plan, is it worth it? We would like to do a character meal or two, but otherwise could be fine with counter service. I have not had much time to plan like I normally do, so I am hoping someone here can help me. TIA!!!

 

[MPHARJ]

Can't help you with the hotel, I have heard a lot of good things about HoJo's. However this will only be our second trip to DLR and we stayed and will be staying again at DLPP. I used the dining plan last year and purchased it again this year. I just like to have everything paid for ahead of time. I think you will find most people don't use it because it is nothing like WDW's dining plan. Again though I like to pay ahead and not have to worry once we get there about having enough money and not using cc's. The one downfall is you do not get change back for your vouchers. I used the higher denominations first and if it ran over a few bucks paid cash so I wouldn't waste another voucher. Again you will hear different views, I just have my preference. Good luck we will be there at the same time!

 

[JenDisneylandlver]

We don't find the dining plan worth it. Not a lot of variety when you can't eat at DTD and off site with it. If you plan to just do a lot of Character meals, and aren't really looking to save money, it might be worth it!

As for offsite hotels we like the Tropicana (right across the street). We'll be staying at Hojo's in June for the first time.

 

[dopey81]

Thanks for the advice. The tropicana is already booked. Any other suggestions?

How is the ART bus service? When we stayed before, I remember walking to and from the hotel many times because the bus wait was too long. With DD9, she won't be able to walk to the park and then still have enough energy to walk through the park.

Can anyone explain how the Dining Plan works at DL? I have looked at what is included, but still don't quite understand. Where are the vouchers accepted? Do they expire? Can we use them for anything, snacks, drinks, ice cream, meals?

Thanks for the help. The obsessive planner in me usually has trips planned months in advance, and this one is stressing me a little.

 

[JenDisneylandlver]

You can try Best Western Park Place Inn, that is also right across from the cross walk. There wouldn't be any need for ART. The other would be Hojo's, and many people recommend the Candy Cane Inn (they have their own shuttle).