Fast First-Time Visit to Disneyland :o)

[figaroandtinkerbell]

I am incredibly excited! We have recently decided to head to CA for a family member's graduation and can squeeze in 1 or 2 days at Disneyland. It will be me and my husband with our 3 girls (ages 8, 6, and 3 - they love all things Disney).

We have never been to DL so this is a bit overwhelming. I've done WDW a handful of times, but usually plan a year in advance.

Any tips about anything??? I would love advice about where to stay, eat, etc.
I am in the very early stanges of planning so some big points to get headed in the right direction would be so helpful. Thank you!

 

[The Hunchback]

We just returned and really like Alpine Inn. It is not a Disney hotel but within walking distance to Disneyland. Free parking and basic cold breakfast made it perfect. Not sure if rooms hold five persons. You will need to ask.

Food at Disney...we enjoyed Tomorrowland Terrance (chicken strips), Village Haus (burger), Flo's (turkey) and Blue Bayou (BBQ ribs). The food is just plain good and adults can order kids meals without the funny looks you get at DW.

Park may be busy when you are there. Use fast pass for rides like Soarin, Toy Story and any coasters you crave. We found Pooh to be so much less busy at DL and rode it 6 times in a row with only a 5 minute wait each time. World of Color was great but get a fast pass for best viewing. Fast pass for WOC does not effect other attractions.

Have a great time.

 

[theluckyrabbit]

Read this thread for lots of helpful info: A DLR Guide for WDW Vets. Since your visit will be short, staying on site will be helpful (not necessary, though!) if your budget allows. On site guests get an Early Morning Hour, alternating at either park (so you would get one at each park if you do 2 days). That extra hour in the morning can help you get a lot done if you plan well. Even if the budget doesn't allow for on site, try to stay as close to the parks as you can afford (across from the parks on Harbor, for example). You won't want to lose time commuting to and from the parks when you could just cross the street. For dining, check the menus at allears.net to see what will appeal to and suit your family best.

 

[azdisneylover]

I would suggest booking one of the motels across the street from the entrance on Harbor Blvd. You can keep your child/ren on a schedule with the room close. Last thing you want is an over tired child in the park. Be at the gates when they first open for the day. Take an afternoon break. You don't have to go back to the room (but if your child usually takes an afternoon nap, let them). You can relax from the sun in the Animation Building in DCA. Toontown is a good place for kids to run around and cool off too. Make a list of the most important ride for each person in your party and make those a priority. Know the food portions at Disneyland are big enough to share, especially with kids. It's better to be a little hungry, than full. (Great reason to try a tasty treat later!).
Have a great time!