DL vs. WDW comments

[d1gitman]

After being WDW junkies and going annually, we finally made it to DL.

Some things that stood out to us are as follows:

Food:
- variety, more TS restaurants at WDW
- quality, overall, better at WDW in our opinion. hit or miss at DL
- price, again, hit or miss. Plaza Inn was a good value with huge portions but $7 for a single slice of pizza at CA was a rip off.

Attractions:
- variety, DL beats MK in our opinion. we liked the Nemo Sub ride, Innoventions, Matterhorn, Space Mountain, Buzz Lightyear being at DL. Innoventions was way better than C of Progress at MK and Innoventions at Epcot. Space Mt. was incredible at DL but that remains to be seen with the overhaul of Space Mt. at MK. We liked Buzz Lightyear at DL much better than MK.
- we didn't get to do Indy Jones as it was out of commission every time we tried to go on it...ugh. We didn't do fantasyland at DL as it was totally mobbed.

Crowd Control:
- while DL doesn't seem to have as many fast pass attractions as we think it should have, we thought DL did a much better job controlling crowds and wait times. the FP seemed better at DL as it always let us back in 1 hr. General crowd levels seemed much more crowded than when we have gone to WDW in the past but the lines at DL were never more than 20-30min, except on two attractions that had delays due to technical difficulties.

Getaway Feel:
- WDW wins this hands down in our book since it has so much land, resorts, parks, etc...

Overall, Here is our scoring:

Food: WDW wins
Attractions: DL beats MK but WDW beats DL & CA combined. However, we were not dissapointed with DL & CA at all.
Crowd Control: DL wins. We were impressed that while general crowds were very busy compared to our past WDW trips, wait times and FP seemed much better at DL and CA.
Getaway: WDW hands down. It's hard for two city blocks to compete with thousands of acres with mulpiple parks, nearly 2 dozen on property resorts, waterparks, etc....


If we had to choose for a family vaca, WDW would be our choice. Being SoCal residents makes DL an easy and affordable option. We love them both but WDW does it better for us.

 

[Judy from Boise]

you'll have to try again when DCA is finished, or perhaps during a less busy time with perfect CA weather!

 

[DisneyMomma81]

My personal opionion ~ after 10 WDW days last month and many trips to DLR ~ DLR wins for me, I hated (that's kind of strong ~ disliked would be better) the Orlando weather in early Oct. it was miserably hot & humid. S CA climate is much better ~ they only thing S. CA is missing is Epcot's "countries" & Expedition Everest (which is very cool) you can see the animals in San Diego. Too bad Walt didn't have the money too buy all the land he bought in FL when he started DL. I very much prefer DL's MK to WDW's MK. I really don't mind staying off site at DLR, it's not that big of a deal being out on Harbor ~ it's just a bunch of hotels. We'll return to WDW I'm sure ~ but we'll spend less days in the parks (spent way too much time in the MK) and go in the winter! We'll also visit Universal (very excited for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!)

Dining ~ you don't need as many choices cause you don't to spend as much time ~ heck there's 5 character meals in the resort and plenty of nice restaurant on and off site.

 

[disneyobsessed808]

I agree about there being more food variety at WDW, which makes sense since it is much larger. However, I think the quality of food is just as good at DLR. I love the TS places at DLR, especially Napa Rose (by far, the best Disney dining experience I have had though I would love to eat at Victoria and Albert's).

I personally think that there are other ways in which DLR beats WDW (though again, both are great). The convenience of the parks and Downtown Disney being so close together is awesome. Also, I think Disneyland has a charm that somehow I don't feel at any of the other Disney Parks I've been to.

 

[DLR29]

I personally think that there are other ways in which DLR beats WDW (though again, both are great). The convenience of the parks and Downtown Disney being so close together is awesome. Also, I think Disneyland has a charm that somehow I don't feel at any of the other Disney Parks I've been to.

I could not agree with this statement more.

I agree with all of the OP's points wholeheartedly. However, there are many things that OP did not consider that either WDW or DLR wins at. IMO, DLR wins at:

-Transportation (walking takes out the inconsistent bus system of the equation)
-Charm (more homey than WDW, which I felt was very touristy)
-Accessibility (the rides are all so close together, the parks are right next to each other and so is DTD)

While WDW might win at:
-Live shows and entertainment (just the amount of them, not that DLR's are anything to scoff at though)
-Live animals (I mean, AK enough said)
-Resort variety

That being said, I really think the two resorts are completely different and even though they are often compared, I think it's not fair to compare such different things.

 

[Mortimer Mouse]

Thanks for your observations. It's difficult to compare the vastness of WDW to as you say "two city blocks", so of course there will be less TS restaurants, and the fact you were unable to ride arguably the best ride at any Disney Park (Indy) or even see Fantasyland might have swayed your opinion. Other factors you could've added to your scorecard are charm, convenience and weather. You are right though, WDW is hard to beat for longer vacations, say 7-10 days......

 

[WebmasterMaryJo]

While WDW might win at:
-Live shows and entertainment (just the amount of them, not that DLR's are anything to scoff at though)

That being said, I really think the two resorts are completely different and even though they are often compared, I think it's not fair to compare such different things.

I have a differing opinion regarding the entertainment at DLR versus WDW. I think that the Aladdin and Fantasmic shows are superior at DL, and then you have the Dapper Dans, Main Street Band, other bands on Main Street, the New Orleans Jazz Musicians, the entertainment at DCA. It is excellent.

However, I do agree that the two resorts, although the same company and a lot of similarities, are really two different parks, and should be enjoyed and each appreciated for their unique experiences.

 

[kikiq]

I could not agree with this statement more.
While WDW might win at:
-Live shows and entertainment (just the amount of them, not that DLR's are anything to scoff at though)
-Live animals (I mean, AK enough said)
-Resort variety

And I too agree with everything you said except for Live Animals. DLR doesn't need AK type park, we SoCals have SD Zoo and WAP which for animals can't be beat. We just need the Expedition Everest type ride at DL and somewhere to add some shows like Lion King or Nemo.

While we love DL and have our AP, it doesn't mean we can't enjoy our trips to WDW. I will say that that DL has crowd control over MK. This summer, my DH and I actually went inside to watch Wishes (we usually watch from Poly beach) and it didn't make sense the way the CMs were directing the crowds before and after the fireworks. And we both commented on how much more smoothly it goes in DL even with more people. (I made my DH take me to see DL 4th of July fireworks on the 3rd)

And BTW, when we go to WDW, we usually don't go to the MK If I even understood how to convert old vhs tape to digital to put on the web, I would post my DD25 when she was 5 giving my dad all the reasons why DL was better than MK and that was 20 years ago

 

[oc_tony]

However, I do agree that the two resorts, although the same company and a lot of similarities, are really two different parks, and should be enjoyed and each appreciated for their unique experiences.

We agree, Mary Jo. We appreciate the two resorts for what they are, as each one has its own special charm and magic. We love visiting both!

 

[disneyobsessed808]

I have a differing opinion regarding the entertainment at DLR versus WDW. I think that the Aladdin and Fantasmic shows are superior at DL, and then you have the Dapper Dans, Main Street Band, other bands on Main Street, the New Orleans Jazz Musicians, the entertainment at DCA. It is excellent.

However, I do agree that the two resorts, although the same company and a lot of similarities, are really two different parks, and should be enjoyed and each appreciated for their unique experiences.

I agree. I think Fantasmic is much better at DLR. I also think that Remember..Dreams Come True is the best fireworks at any of the parks (hopefully what was said on other boards about it coming back Jan-May is true)

 

[aurorae]

In general, I'm disappointed with the sit down restaraunts in WDW. Too expensive, and many are not good (with a few notable exceptions).

I do a lot of counter service for that reason.

I'm hoping to try more places in DL next year.

 

[Petraman]

However, I do agree that the two resorts, although the same company and a lot of similarities, are really two different parks, and should be enjoyed and each appreciated for their unique experiences.

There have been some great points so far about the pros/cons and I think my Disney family if we had to choose would go with DL over WDW (actually we would be on DCL every single year if we could afford it). Key reasons.

Of all the matching rides between DL and WDW the only ride we liked better at WDW was Splash Mountain. The issue with the TS dinners was never a biggie for us because we drive to Disney and there are tons of restaurants right by Disney (Joe's Crab Shack, Tony Roma's, etc.) and so dining was never an issue. DL and CA combined together to have most of the key rides from WDW and do it in a closer environment.
But the biggest reason is simple... it's $$$...$$$...$$$
If you get Park Hopper,multi day, etc at WDW it is much more expensive.

Big advantages to WDW would be water parks, and way better choices to stay for us DVC members.

All that said, I am so glad we have both! We LOVE all 3 DL, WDW and DCL and love the variety that each provides. Headed to WDW in March 2010, on the new Disny Dream in Nov 2012, maybe Christmas at DL, and hopefully the new Hawaii resort in 2013!!!
Man you gotta love Disney!

 

[DLR29]

I have a differing opinion regarding the entertainment at DLR versus WDW. I think that the Aladdin and Fantasmic shows are superior at DL, and then you have the Dapper Dans, Main Street Band, other bands on Main Street, the New Orleans Jazz Musicians, the entertainment at DCA. It is excellent.

However, I do agree that the two resorts, although the same company and a lot of similarities, are really two different parks, and should be enjoyed and each appreciated for their unique experiences.

Sorry, in no way was I dissing DLR's entertainment which I think is spectacular. Fantasmic is superior at DLR. However, the simple fact that WDW has 4 parks with amazing shows at each of them kinda trumps DLR. Yes, all of the entertainment things you mentioned are great, but if you take all of DLR's offerings and compare them to Wishes, Spectro, Illuminations, DHS's Fantasmic, 3 daytime parades, Lion King (SO AMAZING), Finding Nemo, Cirque du Solei La Nouba, 2 stunt shows at DHS, Beauty and the Beast, all of the World Showcase performers, Electrical Water Pageant thing, Flights of Wonder, etc. It's hard to say DLR's lineup is better.

And I too agree with everything you said except for Live Animals. DLR doesn't need AK type park, we SoCals have SD Zoo and WAP which for animals can't be beat. We just need the Expedition Everest type ride at DL and somewhere to add some shows like Lion King or Nemo.

I wasn't saying DLR needs to have an AK park. I was noting that if we are comparing resorts, WDW would "win" in the live animals category because of AK. My point was that the two resorts are different because they excel at different things.

 

[Disney Dreams]

I have tried to provide this analogy every time this debate comes up. You cannot compare WDW to DLR.

WDW has 4 parks, 2 waterparks, numerous resorts, and Downtown Disney
DLR has 2 parks, 3 hotels, and DtD

The comparison has to be between Disneyland and the Magic Kingdom.

They are very different experiences and to try to compare one to the other is like trying to compare Europe to California or the USA to England. They are not accurate comparison.

They are both wonderful place to experience, in their own ways.

- Dreams

 

[d1gitman]

I have to agree with those of you pointing out the weather. I didn't mention weather because it kind of is a no brainer. the SoCal weather is fantastic. We have done WDW in May, July, September, October and November thru the years. November was the only time where we felt the weather was comfortable. We live in Ladera Ranch and the summer got a bit toasty at times but was still nice and dry, and bug free! So DL trumps WDW by 1000% on weather.

I have to say that i was amazed at how WDW and DLR had such similarities yet were so different as well, a true testament to the Wonderful World of Disney.

I guess part of it for us is also the fact that our first Disney park experiences as children and adults were at WDW. Had DL been our first, it likely would be our favorite.

We are excited to see what DCA turns into over the next 1-2 yrs as they complete the reno/additions. We really enjoyed DCA even under construction and would choose it over AK in FL any day of the week.

 

[vettegirl]

I love both. However for me there are pros and cons just like everyone else on here. For me WDW appeals to me for the restaurants (WS is amazing), love RNR ( love Aerosmith), and the resort hotels are amazing. I could go there and never step foot in a park and relax at the Polynesian. For the MK is a let down compared to DL. Yes they have a bigger castle, and it is amazing. Their Splash Mountain is a little better, however I just don't feel the magic in that park like I do in the original DL. Love Epcot and it is actually my favorite part of the whole WDW resort. DL for me is just a special magical place and DCA for me is a lot of fun. I like not having to take a bus and just walk between the two parks. It is so hard to compare the two as they are both awesome in their own ways. If I had a choice I would always choice DL resort as my number one!

 

[Kevenswife2]

After 13 trips to WDW (of which 3 were in the last 11 months), we're finally venturing out to CA to check out Disneyland Resort this Christmas! DD11 and I are both so excited and threads like this just fuel the excitment!

 

[JoytotheWorld]

For me, trying to compare these two resort destinations is like trying to compare apples and oranges. They are vastly different from each other and many ways and each has its own unique qualities to recommend it. I'd be hard pressed to choose one favourite. I love them both for different reasons.

At WDW, I love the World Showcase and the Animal Kingdom theme park. Although I realize that Southern California has the remarkable San Diego Zoo (which I have visited), there is not the convenience of having it right there on site. And Animal Kingdom is so much more than a "zoo." With its wonderful shows and laid-back atmosphere, it truly is a treat and is actually my favourite theme park at WDW. My other favourite thing at WDW are the resort hotels. I mean, can you really beat waking up in the morning at Animal Kingdom Lodge and sitting out on your balcony with a cup of coffee while watching giraffes and zebras and other wildlife grazing away beneath you? Or staying at Wilderness Lodge and watching a geyser erupt thirty feet in the air from your balcony? Or staying at the Beach Club and enjoying the amazing pool complex there that is really more like a mini-water park than a swimming pool.

When it comes to restaurants, WDW definitely wins for me because of its wide array of fine ethnic choices compliments of the World Showcase. But that being said, I find WDW's counter service restaurants to be sadly lacking for the most part in comparison to those at DLR.

I also do prefer Disneyland to the Magic Kingdom because of the magical feel there that is hard to put into words. Plus I think that most of the shared attractions at the two parks are superior at Disneyland - for example, Pirates of the Caribbean, Peter Pan. Space Mountain and all of Toontown. For me, WDW's Toontown is a mere shell of what can be found in Toontown at DLR with its plethora of interactive experiences.

When it comes to the quality of the cast members, both parks get exceptionally high marks. I think DLR edges out WDW just a teensy bit because of the overall more laid-back atmosphere and the existence of the fabulous Disney Vacation Planning department. To be able to contact them (if you are staying at one of the three DLR hotels) with your wish list of restaurant meals, special events, tours, etc. and then have them book everything for you is an unbelievably wonderful perk. They also provide you with a print out of your itinerary when you check into your hotel so all the loose ends are neatly tied up for you in advance and there is no charge for any of this.

When it comes to the weather, for the most part so far in my experience, I would say that DLR wins, mainly because of the much more moderate temperatures and humidity in the spring and fall months. However, come this Sunday, I will get my first taste of what DLR is like in the winter as compared to WDW. When we've gone to WDW at this time of year, we've usually been blessed with lovely weather with temperatures in the seventies and even the low eighties and not getting too much below 60 in the evenings. From what I've been reading on the weather forecast websites, Anaheim doesn't seem to be quite as warm at this time of year. But on the up side, it doesn't seem to get nearly as much rain.

So all the above being said, I adore both DLR and WDW. And on this trip, I'm looking forward to introducing my husband to all the delights DLR has to offer since this is his first trip to DLR.

Joy

 

[Eeyore's Wife]

Our favorite park is Epcot. We love the amazing rides...space, test track, soarin', spaceship earth, and journey into imagination. The evening show, illuminations of earth is glorious, and the beauty of the world showcase thrills us each time we visit. The restaurants are astonishing. Oh, I adore Le Cellier, Yakatori House, and Tangerine.

Yet, Florida is often like visiting the surface of the sun. The humidity is so high that you must chew your air and sweat just leaves you sticky and wet. It CANNOT evaporate and cool the body.

Disneyland Park far exceeds Magic Kingdom for all of the reasons listed, but Disneyland lacks Mickey's Philharmagic. If they had that movie then it would be PERFECT.

I am hoping that Califorinia Adventure finds a bit of depth and soul so that it can compete with Epcot's magic. We love visiting both places, but find ourselves returning to WDW more often due to free dining.

The cost savings when dealing with feeding two teenagers cannot be understated, yet when I dream Disney, and that is often, I dream of Walt's Park.

New Orlean's Square, Sailing Ship Columbia, Blue Bayou, Pirates, FantasyLand, Sub Rides, and Sleeping Beauty's Castle all come together in a much more intimate and human scale park.

From a trip planning perspective, WDW can be easier to put together. From the free Magical Express from the airport, numerous and exotic hotels, and inclusive meal plans to the tremendous variety for every member of the family it can be just about everything to every one.

On the downside, WDW is so large and complex that it takes a HUGE investment in time and planning to be able to pull off a great vacation that takes full advantage of what is offered. DLR is much easier to manage and plan.

 

[tksbaskets]

I am really enjoying all the posts in this thread. I agree with many. We are traveling back to DL at Christmas for a couple of reasons mentioned here:

NO need to take a bus from park to park

Indiana Jones

We are DVC members and love WDW. DL resort is also beautiful. I have to agree that meal planning is a bit more difficult at DL. I like to make a priority seating reservation each day we are at Disney and there are very few choices at DL especially if you are not looking for a character interaction. Not that we mind the characters, but our sons will be 19 this year and food takes priority over pictures with the characters for them.

Can't wait to see DL decorated for Christmas!!