First time in disneyland

[ngress]

I'm a Disney world vet...crazy planner and mom of three little ones (2,3,4). We have been only doing MK because of the little ones. We typically stay at bay lake because of the easy access to MK. Anyway I'm planning a Disneyland trip and welcome any advice. Currently I'm trying to decide between late Jan and late April. Weather doesn't look great for either time, but everyone always says it's always nice in California. Him mm decisions decisions

 

[offwithyourhead]

I would arguably say the 'worst' weather is the heat of summer, but it's all about what you're used to I guess. I enjoyed the low-70s weather, I never got too hot and dehydration and heat stroke wasn't a constant worry (I got heat stroke on my first trip when I went in late August. Even Jumpin Jellyfish was a challenge after spending all of the first night over a toilet heaving my guts out).

I have to assume you're from the South/Florida if you're concerned about weather, because it seems that anyone who travels from up North thinks California has great weather all year round and isn't bothered by clouds or a rare sprinkle of rain There really is no 'bad' weather in DL. Just bring a light coat in any season that isn't summer and you'll be fine I don't think the weather will bother you at all, you'll be too busy!

 

[ngress]

We actually from Chicago, but I saw that the lows could get down to 40s. Don't get me wrong that would still be better than snow. I was just worried about the rain and chilly weather. Thanks for the info. I'm leaning towards Jan.

 

[RemainSeatedPlease]

I have been at both times of the year and they are both great, lower than usual crowds. With the April trip, you would just want to be sure it doesn't overlap with the spring break crowds, which varies somewhat depending on when Easter is in any given year. Also keep in mind that in late January, more rides might be closed for refurbishment, but since they did so many refurbs this year to prepare for the 60th anniversary, that may not be as much of an issue next year.

I think you'll enjoy yourself either way! I wouldn't worry about the weather too much. You could avoid January to think you are avoiding lots of rain, but come April it could be pouring rain anyway, so I wouldn't try to plan the trip around that.

 

[agamble]

This year late April is probably a good time. Spring breaks will mostly happen at the end of March and beginning of April due to Easter. Weather is unpredictable, but El Nino could cause heavy rains to fall this winter. April is actually a very nice time. Usually the weather is warm, but not hot. Also, there may still be a ride down for refurb in April, but there will definitely be rides down in January.

Enjoy your trip. One nice thing about Disneyland is how close everything is. So much to see and do with your little ones in a smaller area. I personally can't imagine going to WDW and only exploring the Magic Kingdom, but I could see how the parks would look daunting with your little ones.

 

[chrisaman]

I am a big fan of late January since that is one of the slowest times of the year. If you want to get a lot done in a short amount of time then January is a good time to do it. The downside would be the greater chance of rain, shorter park hours, and the possibility of a couple rides being down for maintenance. I like the cooler weather and the lesser crowds.

Where are you staying? Offsite or onsite?

 

[theluckyrabbit]

This thread should give you lots of good info: A DLR Guide for WDW Vets. Start there and come on back with any further questions!