First Time!

[jaiminee krikit]

Hello all!
DD14's music department is taking a trip to LA next summer and we have decided to extend the trip and go to Disneyland for a few days (totally bummed that it's not part of the school trip). I need some help...

We have been to WDW many times. We typically stay in a moderate resort, do a character meal once during the week-long trip, eat a lot, ride all the rides we can, and relax.

Will 4 days be enough/too much? I want to do at least 3, 1 in each park and then 1 in whichever park we liked better, but I'm more than happy to add an extra day. I don't plan on buying park hoppers, but should I? I do want to visit DTD, too. At WDW we typically head out early, come back for an afternoon break, go back around dinner and stay until close.

I was checking out renting DVC points for the Grand Californian. It is cheaper to do that than to stay at Paradise Pier. Or should I look at Good Neighbor Hotels? I know there are a lot that are close, but am I missing something by not staying at a Disney hotel out there? At WDW, I would never stay offsite... the horror!

Where should we eat? Our favorites at WDW are 1900PF, Sanaa, 50's PTC, Via Napoli, and BOG. DD is not an adventurous eater, I can be sometimes. She loves pizza, potatoes (fries, mashed, baked), and hot dogs.

What are some must-do's? We love rides (not too adventurous there either). I am excited to compare POTC, HM, and others. I am beyond excited to experience Cars Land! I am thrilled to experience the nighttime shows at DL (and really hoping Paint the Night is back, is it likely?). OMG I seriously can't wait!

Being a WDWer, I am used to planning well ahead of time. Is that unnecessary for DL? I'm already bugging DH about getting this trip booked, but he's telling me to slow down, we have plenty of time. It's nice that I already have firm dates, we usually can't do that but being the school trip is already booked, the dates for our trip won't be changing.

Thanks for any advice!

 

[Frozen2014]

We just completed our first trip. We did 4 days and it was definitely not too long. We had park hoppers and loved it as the parks are across from each other, but you can do without if you prefer.

Haunted Mansion was closed but my favourite at WDW (i.e. so would have been my favorite), but other favorites we're Radiator Springs, Soarin, Indiana Jones, Big Thunder and Pirates. Hard to pick just one. Cars Land is amazing...so cute and like the movies.

Don't miss World if Color. Really impressive show.

P.S. - Planning isn't as necessary but I'm like you and started planning a year in advance.

 

[HydroGuy]

You are the beneficiary of the newly updated (yesterday, first update in 3 years!) "A DLR Guide for WDW Vets" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

Lots of good advice on the newby sticky thread too!

 

[deetman]

Unless it's cost prohibitive, I would do parkhoppers. It's truly like walking from Futureworld to World ShowCase, going between DL and DCA.

The savings you get if you buy tix from LMTClub may end up being about the same.

 

[HydroGuy]

PTN is highly likely by next summer at DCA. That is an incredible parade not to be missed.

For dining it will be hard to compare to your WDW faves. There is a Via Napoli in DTD at DLR. Nothing like Sana'a. Nothing really like 50's PTC. Kinda sorta like Flo's V8 cafe in Carsland which I recommend although it is counter service so no ADR. Nothing like BOG either. But DLR has some good options so explore. Blue Bayou is always a good choice and very special.

We just booked DVC for GCV next June for a one bedroom. My first time using DVC. Those units go fast I understand so do not delay.

Plan for a minimum of 4 days. 5 will be better on a first trip but not less than 4.

And so read the DLR guide I posted above. It will answer 90% of your questions and get your point of view and expectations set up for success.

 

[MrJT]

I just want to add that visiting Downtown Disney is EASY. Especially if you're staying at one of the three Disney resorts. You have to walk through DTD just to get to the parks.