First Time DisneyLAND Help please

[viniesmom]

I'm going to Disneyland for the first time, and I only have 2 short days to see it. I'll be there for a conference, so we'll have evenings free. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Robo]

I'm going to Disneyland for the first time, and I only have 2 short days to see it. I'll be there for a conference, so we'll have evenings free. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

Click below for the DISNEYLAND board-

http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?f=26

Have a magical trip!

 

[minmate]

If you have time before your conference starts - go in and get some FP's - you can always use them later at night when you return to enjoy the parks! We really, really enjoyed our D-Land trip last year! The DL boards have some good info - even for veterans -- Have fun!

 

[daneenm]

What are the dates of your trip?

I would say to go for the rides that are different or do not exist at WDW. Having said that, though, if you are not arriving until evening you might miss out on some FastPass opportunities. Easter through the end of April are Spring Break times out here, so it is bound to be crowded during this time. If nothing else, perhaps try to take in some shows (Aladdin at DCA is very good and Fantasmic! is quite different in the Lagoon at DL). My two don't miss rides are Pirates (I think quite a bit better than WDW version) and Indiana Jones.

--Daneen

 

[nurse.darcy]

You must go on Matterhorn and Indiana Jones. . .not available at WDW. You may have to use standby line at IJ because the fastpasses could be gone already. If you intend to go to DCA as well, you have to take in the California Screamin rollercoaster. . .its awesome at night with the lights on.

 

[Brian_WDW74]

Wow, that doesn't give you much time. If you're a WDW vet, then concentrate on the attractions that are specific to DL: the Matterhorn, Indiana Jones, Mr. Toad, etc. Then move to the attractions that are shared but are significantly different between the two resorts: Pirates and Space Mountain come immediately to mind. Take the time to visit New Orleans Square.

If you feel you must visit DCA, don't spend much time there. It's a nice park, but most of its really good attractions can also be found at WDW. Again, concentrate on the unique attractions: Monster's Inc., California Screamin'. Frankly, I think your limited time would best be served by spending it all in DL and forgetting DCA completely.

Have fun!

 

[minmate]

Obviously, its up to you - but I disagree. DCA is a nice, cozy park. I love the feel of that park. Also, I think California Screamin' is worth going on at least once. There's a cute Monsters Inc ride too - which you could probably take or leave depending on how big a fan you are of that movie. And the Main Street Electrical Parade - which now travels through DCA is my all-time favorite parade. The BEST music!

The other tips about focusing on Pirates, Space Mtn, Matterhorn, Mr. Toad's is very good advice. Also - though most people think its more for kids - it might be worth the stroll back to ToonTown - just because it looks different. And the original Tiki Room -- don't forget!

The one area I would say you could go ahead and skip is the Bug Land in DCA. All kiddie/carnival type rides. Cute theming but really not a priority.

 

[disney-super-mom]

I agree that Pirates and Indiana Jones are not to be missed at DL, and I would add to that Space Mountain (which is awesome) as well as the Matterhorn (you can't miss riding a DL original).

Fantasmic is really great at DL, so if you're in the area, make sure to stay and watch!!! The fireworks are also awesome, especially with all the laser effects, music, and narration!

 

[Disney Fool]

and don't forget Roger Rabbit's ride at ToonTown or the square dancing on Friday nites when the locals arrive.

 

[Brer Chump]

Don't skip DCA, at least spend a half day there and do not miss the Aladdin Show. It is in a large theater and the one hour show is suitable for Broadway. Genie is a blast and is allowed to ad lib his lines.

 

[EnnEss]

Go to the restaurant that serves pancakes for breakfasts, its something terrace I think. Its soooo good. There is often very long line ups by late morning though, 20 mins or so. Early its fine. It is just passed the jungle cruise on the right and just before PoTC. I always wish WDW had one of these restaurants, its so good.

 

[biolabetty]

Go to the restaurant that serves pancakes for breakfasts, its something terrace I think. Its soooo good. There is often very long line ups by late morning though, 20 mins or so. Early its fine. It is just passed the jungle cruise on the right and just before PoTC. I always wish WDW had one of these restaurants, its so good.

Riverbelle Terrace. I love the Mickey pancake.

 

[CanadianGuy]

I am gonig to move this over to the DisneyLAND forum here on the DIS! It truly belongs there and there are some great DL experts there to help you even more!

Knox

 

[HydroGuy]

Lots of useful info here:

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

 

[viniesmom]

Thanks for all of the advice everyone! I'm getting excited about my trip even more now!!! Can't wait for the Matterhorn and Indiana Jones!