First Timers w/?s about DL and DCA

[Pammy]

Hi,

We looking at making a trip to CA, the San Diego area and want to visit these two parks, but have some questions.

1. How many days are needed to see these two parks, at a slower pace? We are traveling with a toddler and my mom, who is not in super great health and needs breaks pretty often. I was thinking 3 days was good, but looking at the Disney site I'm now wondering if we're going to need longer. All we'd have is 1 more day to put toward Disney, the other 3 will be spent in San Diego.

2. I saw there were 3 "Disney" hotels in my book. Are all 3 really nice or is there one that is nicer and we should try to book? Or are off-site better when traveling to DL/DCA?

3. Character breakfasts... we LOVE them! Are there any offered here? How are they? We're planning a very last minute trip, are these going to be like WDW ones that you have to book early, early, early?

4. Now I know there are lots of rides for my teen, but what about my toddler? I think DL would have a good chunk of them, but what about DCA? I did look at the site, but it was hard to weed out which are good for toddlers.

I guess that's it for now. Thanks in advance for any help with this one.
Pam

 

[teri]

That is a lot of questions! You need to browse through the board a bit, I'll bet you pick up some great ideas! Be sure to click on teh link in my signature for information to help people with medical and mobility issues at Disney park, and be sure to come over and visit us on the disABILITIES Board. I think 3-4 days would be plenty for you all.

If you mom is low-energy, your absolute best bet is to stay at the Disney's Grand Californian Resort Hotel. She will be as close to the parks adn Downtown Disney as possible and able to take breaks when she needs them.

There are several character breakfasts... each Disney hotel has one and they are all good. Also they have character breakfasts at the Plaza Inn in Disneyland. You don't have to book them way in advance like WDW, usually a day or 2, or even same day will do.

Your toddler will have a few play areas and some good rides over near the Paradise Pier area... much of the park will be over a toddler's head, but the visuals and the characters will make it fun. I would suggeset that you go look around the Disneyland Hotel grounds, the toddlers we have travelled with have found plenty to delight them there. The thing to keep in mind is that your toddler and mom will probably poop out long before you and your teen do... just anticipate that in advance and don't fight it! The GC is right there... the Paradise Pier is right across the street.. Disneyland Hotel is just a short walk... can you tell I am partial to staying onsite?