First Timer visitor to Disneyland/ WDW Veteran

[jimmaher69]

Hi,

I am planning my first trip to Disneyland. Can someone start me off in the right direction as far as Best or least expensive time of year to go.

Wife is a teacher so we are usually stuck to School vac or summer.

Thanks

JIm

 

[Raindown]

I'm not too sure about costs, but I would avoid spring break. It tends to be extra busy. I'd say stick to summer or select holiday times.

 

[Rupert B Puppenstein]

It is really no different than WDW with peak times and slower times. I personally went in February the last time and it was great because it was of course more affordable, the crowds were few and far between, and the weather was pretty mild. I think you will love it regardless.

 

[vpalmer]

We are WDW vets who just returned from a DLR trip. The biggest difference is weather. We are from the south and are used to warm temps. We have visited WDW in December, June, September and October. I have actually vowed to stay away from WDW in the June - September because it is just too hot!

On the other hand, visiting DLR from June 22-26, it was almost chilly! I think the highs were around 79 degrees but the breeze made it feel cooler. We wore shorts or capris with a light jacket most days. Definitely be prepared for cooler temps.

Another huge difference is crowd control. IMO, DLR does a poor job managing crowds and you can barely move through a park if there is a parade going on. We arrived during the Celebrate Street Party at 6 pm and it took us 40 minutes just to make it to Toon Town because we kept getting blocked or redirected.

 

[specialks]

Check out these HydroGuy threads:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1520483
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

 

[HydroGuy]

Hi,

I am planning my first trip to Disneyland. Can someone start me off in the right direction as far as Best or least expensive time of year to go.

Wife is a teacher so we are usually stuck to School vac or summer.

Thanks

JIm

Summers at DLR are much nicer than WDW. Here are some links that may help:

"Choosing When To Visit DLR: Summary of High and Low Season and When Each Happens " http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=36509602

"Understanding AP Blockouts and Impact on Crowds" http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2365983

"Getting The Most Out of a Summer Visit To DLR" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1345319

"What You Should Know About Off-Season at DLR" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=18462889

 

[Disney-Kim]

The biggest difference is WEATHER....

We were at DL in July 2008 and had to wear light jackets in the am/afternoons/evenings...its sooooooooo much more tolerable there.

and I really get the impression that you don't have to make dining reservations in order to eat...which you know at WDW is a must in the busier months;)