DL instead WDW this year!

[brucerob62]

Ok i have my wife and 2 kids who have been to WDW each of the last 7 years...thinking about going to CA this august..How do I get the family motivated to go there instead of WDW..when they think it isnt the same...help ..any ideas?

 

[skiingfast]

Ok i have my wife and 2 kids who have been to WDW each of the last 7 years...thinking about going to CA this august..How do I get the family motivated to go there instead of WDW..when they think it isnt the same...help ..any ideas?

If you've done WDW 7 years in a row, I don't know why you would not go to DL.

You can spend a few days in the parks and see other SoCal sites. Beaches, SD zoos, Hollywood even Vegas is not far away.

 

[Hound 109]

So the choice is August in Orlando....or SoCal? & you've never been to Walt's Park?

Probably a dozen reasons why this is a no brainer.

Here's the DLR primer for WDW vets:

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


& several recent threads on this topic:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2637748

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2625722


Read up & come back with more questions.

 

[brucerob62]

So the choice is August in Orlando....or SoCal? & you've never been to Walt's Park?

Probably a dozen reasons why this is a no brainer.

Here's the DLR primer for WDW vets:

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


& several recent threads on this topic:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2637748

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2625722


Read up & come back with more questions.

actually the choice is august in so cal...or nov in orlando...just to clarify thanx

 

[Goofy_Mom]

actually the choice is august in so cal...or nov in orlando...just to clarify thanx

do both

 

[brucerob62]

do both

goofy ...I like the way you think..kind of cant afford that..but a great idea..if i could get time off work for both

 

[Maddie2]

I had this same predicament a few months ago. We had been to WDW 3x in the past 7 years and we now just returned from DL this past Monday.

WDW and DLR each have their own pros/cons and while they have many, many similarities, they are different. To help get your family motivated, could you please tell us what your favorites at WDW are? How old are your kids? Where have you stayed, etc? How long would you be in California? This will help make comparisons and point out new things for you.

One thing we LOVED was the closeness to both parks. We stayed directly across the street at the Park Vue Inn. Sure beat having to wait in a line to catch a bus to ride a bus, to finally arrive at a park - like at WDW. We just got up, ate a nice breakfast at the hotel and walked across the street. It was wonderful! And, while this was primarily a DLR vacation for us, we also went to the San Diego Zoo ( a bit disappointing), a beach, and to Hollywood to a taping of a TV show. Getting out and seeing more helped round out the vacation.

 

[tholczer]

Isn't the same in what way? Not as much to do? If you could spell it out a little more, maybe we could give you some good ideas on how to encourage her better.

Tracy

 

[brucerob62]

Isn't the same in what way? Not as much to do? If you could spell it out a little more, maybe we could give you some good ideas on how to encourage her better.

Tracy

just doesnt seem to be as nice..or as much to do..me and my wife went in 2001..so its been awhile..only 2 parks instead of 4..i dont know just wondering if its changed any over time

 

[Halloweenqueen]

We have been going to WDW for years (used to live in NC). Last year we finally gave DL a try. Wow...we LOVE the place! Of course I still miss Epcot, but DL is so beautiful. It has a history and charm that WDW lacks.

The biggest plus for my family is no more bus time! It's amazing how much time is spent waiting for buses at WDW. DL and California Adventure are as close as Future World and World Showcase at Epcot. So easy!

Plus both parks have many more attractions than the typical WDW park.

Now there isn't the food choices like WDW, but there are still special places at DL.

 

[LisainCalifornia]

I would encourage you to stay on property if possible. Many people (including myself) who have been several times to DL eventually stay off property at one of the many hotels very close to the park. Although this does save some money, it also alters the experience quite a bit. For our family there is a big difference in our "vacation" experience if we stay within the magic. All three resorts are great, with the Grand Californian being a favorite here on the DIS. I personally think the Grand has the best pool out of the 3 hotels, and it would be ideal for an August trip. You will find the hotel charming with a great lobby to hang out in. We are more fans of the DLH, but there is a lot of construction going on right now, so that is to be avoided this summer. I have heard good things about Paradise Pier as well, but haven't stayed there. It has a beachy theme and is the lowest cost option, but you are still on property and can get some great views of California Adventure Park from the rooms.

I also think you need to go into it with a good attitude. If you think it isn't "good enough" compared to Disney World from the start, then chances are you will be one of those people who posts here after saying how you weren't impressed--especially if you elect to save some money and stay in a bargin hotel. You have to remember that Disneyland is located in Anaheim, California--which isn't an area that was created to be a vacation haven like Disney World. Anaheim is primarily a working class city, with all of the warts that you would find in any other city like that around the country. You are comparing apples to oranges trying to compare Disney World with it's all vacation all the time atmosphere to that of a city located theme park. All the same, Disneyland is obviously much beloved--as you can see from all of the rabid fans here!

I am a native Californian and grew up with Disneyland, and have only been to Disney World once. I can see that there are major differences, but many of the differences I see as a benefit. I like the fact that the parks are so close together, and I know every inch of them without looking at a map. I also like staying on property and getting that immersion feel in just a few days time, rather than having to plan for a week and still not seeing everything like you do at Disney World. Having a small space to cover can take the overwhelming feeling out of our vacation. These are all good things for us, but may not be to you. A 3 or 4 day parkhopper ticket is perfect for Disneyland, but I would feel it wouldn't be enough for a Disney World vacation. I prefer these shorter, more manageable trips.

 

[HydroGuy]

Ok i have my wife and 2 kids who have been to WDW each of the last 7 years...thinking about going to CA this august..How do I get the family motivated to go there instead of WDW..when they think it isnt the same...help ..any ideas?

Some food for thought from the link Hound gave...

"A DLR Guide for WDW Vets" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

22. Areas Where DLR Exceeds WDW

Let me come out and say it right upfront - WDW has many things about it better than DLR. However, not everything about WDW is better than DLR and there are several areas where DLR exceeds WDW. That is what makes each resort special. Here is my list of areas where DLR exceeds WDW:

1. Weather - IMO the weather at DLR is better than WDW on average, and especially in the summer. Less rain and less humidity. See "Comparison of Weather For WDW and DLR" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1711098

2. Ride concentration - One would think that WDW would have twice as many rides as DLR since it has twice as many parks. Nope. WDW has only 10% more rides. DLR has lots more rides packed into those little parks.

3. Entertainment - as of today DLR's top four shows are better than their counterparts at WDW. That would be World of Color, the Remember Dreams Come True fireworks/laser/special effects show (shown seasonally), Fantasmic and the Aladdin stage show

4. Accessibility - everything can be reached on foot and park hopping takes about 1 minute. The walking distance hotels makes for a different experience.

5. Longer park hours - along with #4 above makes it easier to spend more time in the parks.

 

[Mugglemama]

I've set out to plan a trip to WDW several times...each time, I just go back to DLR. The reasons are these:

1. Like everyone else has stated, the parks and resort overall are compact, and easy to navigate. We've got 4 kids and every time I read about taking a bus full of sweaty, smelly people just to get to another park, I think "No WAY am I doing that". LOL!

2. I've read a TON of negative info online from people complaining about the guests at WDW. Seems a great many people feel that certain ethnic groups visiting from other countries behave in ways that ruin their experience. We've had some issues here and there over the years at DLR, but NOTHING like what I've read other people have experienced at WDW. DLR is mellow, and I like mellow.

3. Last but definitely not least, I hate muggy weather. Orlando in August?!! No.Thank.You. We've only done DLR in August once, and it was for 5 days. And weather-wise, it was my favorite trip, ever. Super warm and sunny during the day (with no humidity to speak of), and beautiful, BEAUTIFUL evenings. Reading planning sites for WDW, a lot of people talk about heading back to their hotel midday just to change out of clothes soaked from perspiration, and daily thunderstorms. Um, yuck? With a family of 6, there's no WAY I'm going through the hassle of bringing 2 full outfits for each person for each day of the trip. I mean, it will just never happen, lol.

Those 3 reasons will likely always keep me from choosing WDW over DLR. When we are at DLR, we are totally comfortable...the experience is laid back. WDW seems, to me, to have a lot more potential for all the work and discomfort that goes along with it to make it impossible to get the experience we are looking for, and are able to get at DLR. I guess it all depends on what you're looking for.

Wherever you choose to go, have a great time!

 

[brucerob62]

I've set out to plan a trip to WDW several times...each time, I just go back to DLR. The reasons are these:

1. Like everyone else has stated, the parks and resort overall are compact, and easy to navigate. We've got 4 kids and every time I read about taking a bus full of sweaty, smelly people just to get to another park, I think "No WAY am I doing that". LOL!

2. I've read a TON of negative info online from people complaining about the guests at WDW. Seems a great many people feel that certain ethnic groups visiting from other countries behave in ways that ruin their experience. We've had some issues here and there over the years at DLR, but NOTHING like what I've read other people have experienced at WDW. DLR is mellow, and I like mellow.

3. Last but definitely not least, I hate muggy weather. Orlando in August?!! No.Thank.You. We've only done DLR in August once, and it was for 5 days. And weather-wise, it was my favorite trip, ever. Super warm and sunny during the day (with no humidity to speak of), and beautiful, BEAUTIFUL evenings. Reading planning sites for WDW, a lot of people talk about heading back to their hotel midday just to change out of clothes soaked from perspiration, and daily thunderstorms. Um, yuck? With a family of 6, there's no WAY I'm going through the hassle of bringing 2 full outfits for each person for each day of the trip. I mean, it will just never happen, lol.

Those 3 reasons will likely always keep me from choosing WDW over DLR. When we are at DLR, we are totally comfortable...the experience is laid back. WDW seems, to me, to have a lot more potential for all the work and discomfort that goes along with it to make it impossible to get the experience we are looking for, and are able to get at DLR. I guess it all depends on what you're looking for.

Wherever you choose to go, have a great time!

As I said earlier we would go to orlando in november..or DL In august..I will never go to florida in summer again..always go at xmas or fall ..good advise though...Disney is always great..will always be happy no matter where I am

 

[Magalex]

We are taking the big step next year & visiting DL 2012! We are very excited to visit SoCal attractions in general. Taking a break from WDW while they renovate Fantasyland & the Downtown Disney area.

 

[tholczer]

just doesnt seem to be as nice..or as much to do..me and my wife went in 2001..so its been awhile..only 2 parks instead of 4..i dont know just wondering if its changed any over time

Disneyland itself probably hasn't changed much since you were there, other than some of the entertainment choices. California Adventure is going through major changes but I'm not sure how many of them will be in effect for a summer visit this year as I haven't been keeping up. Ultimately DLR is 2 parks where WDW is 4. There will never be more to do. If you didn't think DLR was as nice - well, that's a subjective thing. Unless your perspective changes, you'll feel the exact same way as the parks are largely unchanged since you last visited.

People often say you shouldn't compare the two parks because each experience is so different. But that advice is more for people who have only been to WDW and are coming to DLR for the first time. When it comes to planning the vacation and spending the money, you absolutely need to compare in terms of what you feel you will enjoy more. They are entirely different destinations with a common theme. If you know you enjoy WDW better, and feel more at home there, then it seems you have your answer

Tracy

 

[Janell]

DLR is a great resort that I hope people check out. Yes its different then WDW, its different then Disneyland Paris and Tokyo Disneyland, and Hong Kong Disneyland. I think each resort should be admired for what they are and enjoyed.

That said, DCA has a lot of construction going on this year and next, I forget when it will be done. So this may not leave a great impression on new comers. Please keep that in mind. When they build DCA, they were doing it on to small of a budget which left the park with more problems then it could handle. They are trying to fix that now. But guest are greeted with construction walls all over the place. Longer walks then normal due to they are redoing areas so walk ways are closed. Think of MK Fanasyland but make it a whole park. Yeah some things are open, some aren't. I have a bad feeling you may leave DLR saying never again because DCA doesn't have what it should right now. And that would be sad. DLR is a wonderful resort.

And yes I am a DLR vet. I have been to WDW 4 time, even had my wedding there. Paris and Tokyo once. It took me till our last trip to really appreciate MK. The times before I keep going this isn't Main Street. Where is New Orland's Square? What do you mean there is no Blue Bayou? Once I stop comparing I really liked each park for what it had to offer.

 

[philmagic]

Maint Street Disneyland is still authentic, and way better. Also, Fantasyland in Disneyland can't be beat. Its just worth it to see the original detail at Disneyland.

 

[brucerob62]

so Is there alot of rides down at DCA because of const?..maybe i will have to reconsider going in NOV and maybe wait till next year if thats the case..want to go soon..so the kids can say they have been to DL..at least..either way im a disney freak and either WDW OR DL dont matter just trying to change it up a bit

 

[skiingfast]

so Is there alot of rides down at DCA because of const?..maybe i will have to reconsider going in NOV and maybe wait till next year if thats the case..want to go soon..so the kids can say they have been to DL..at least..either way im a disney freak and either WDW OR DL dont matter just trying to change it up a bit

No in November there will not be any rides down other than regular rehabs.

This gets confused often because currently they are doing a large expansion that is adding rides.