First time to Disneyland--what do I need to know

[PHamrick]

I've been to Disney WORLD many times (grew up in FL), but have never been to Disneyland. What are the differences between the two? What are some must-do experiences? My kids (4 and 6) LOVE Disney World. What will equal the experience for them? Is there any place to get a listing of character experiences?

Any help you can give will be greatly appreciated!

 

[theluckyrabbit]

This thread should give you lots of helpful info: http://www.disboards.com/threads/a-dlr-guide-for-wdw-vets.1162599/.

 

[figment_jii]

I second the recommendation to check out HydroGuy's DLR Guide for WDW Vets. It'll help give you a sense of the similiarities and differences between the two resorts.

In terms of characters, the meet & greets are far less formal/structured at DLR. There are a few characters that meet at a fixed location (e.g., Princesses at Fantasy Faire, Tinkerbell & Friends at Pixie Hollow), some common locations (e.g., Town Square, Buena Vista Street), and others that are random/spontaneous. There was a recent thread that might be helpful:
http://www.disboards.com/threads/disneyland-characters-meet-and-greet-options.3410386/#post-53730392

 

[PHamrick]

These are wonderful, thank you! My daughter loves princesses and that's her main thing at WDW. Glad to know it won't be so structured/crazy at DLR. All in all, it sounds like it could be a much more relaxes vacation than one to WDW.

 

[Disney Kidd]

I recommend the attractions that are unique to Disneyland. Don't miss Indiana Jones, Matterhorn, World of Color, Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Toon Town or Cars Land. I also think our Fantasmic is better. I find it's a lot easier to park hop because California Adventure, Disneyland, and Downtown Disney are all within walking distance!