First Post -- questions for a local visit

[Nanseev]

I'm going to bring my two children (1 and 4) to Disneyland for their first trip. Because of my conflicting work schedule with my husband, even though we're only about 1.5 hours away, I only anticipate being able to go two or maybe three times this year year.

We're going to go July 31 and stay overnight. From what I'm reading, the HoJo's seems like one of the best choices.

What's the best way to book the tickets/hotel/etc.? My priorities are a character breakfast, early entry, hotel with view of fireworks, and a meal at Blue Bayou. We'll be driving up and staying overnight at one of the hotels, and doing both parks in two days.

Should I book a package through someone, or book things separately? I know Costco has a deal for a 4-day ticket for $139 (or somewhere around that price) for local residents that seems like a great deal, although you have to use all 4 days by November. It still seems good though.

I'm hoping that I don't have to spend the $$ on an AP because I don't anticiapte going that often over the next year, especially on days that aren't blacked out. Most of the days I'd be able to go are blacked out on just about all of the passes.

Thanks for any input you can provide!

 

[IASWAM]

Here is my review of HoJo I replied to on another post:

"We have never stayed at the Ramada, but we stayed at HoJo in June and we really enjoyed it. We stayed in the big building in the back (building 2) in a room overlooking the pool. The room was very clean, average size, and really quiet. Before we left I had requested a room away from the freeway, because the revues I had read said those rooms could be quite noisy. The staff was always very friendly and willing to help any way they could. Really the only complaint I would have is the distance to the park. It is just far enough to be kind of a pain (but certainly doable - about 10 minutes to the park), but too close to wait for the shuttle (nice option at the end of the day if you are too tired to walk back, although HoJo is the last stop, so it take about 15 - 20 minutes to get back). They also have a nicely equipped souvenir shop with things like cereal, milk, wine, beer cheese, crackers, etc. All in all, we would certainly stay there again."

As for the meals, call Disney Dining at (714) 781-DINE, or (714) 781-3463 to make reservations in advance.

 

[iceskatejen]

EE is only available on 3 or more day hoppers or by staying at one of the Disney hotels. But, if you are considering multiple visits in one year, you might want to consider Annual Passes. They don't get you EE (unless you are staying onsite), but do give you discounts on food (10-15%--trust me, the savings can get significant) and can include parking (premium APs automatically include it, but you can add it on to any of the others) and stroller rentals. Premium APs also give merchandise discounts (I truly believe the Premium AP to be totally worth the price, but then I do practically live at DL). The Costco tickets you are considering don't include any EE privleges or the ability to park hop. Character meals are open to anyone, so just pick the one that sounds best to you and book it.