First trip to Disneyland

[twokids0204]

We've batted around the idea of going to Disneyland for a while now, but summer 2013 we are going to finally get there.

What would you reccomend as the best summer week to go? Keeping in mind crowds, weather, any attraction closures, special events, anything you can recommend for a first time visitor (we've been to Orlando many times )

Also anyone know if the Southern California CityPass can be upgraded to 4 or 5 days?

 

[aymekae]

I really liked the few days we went in early June last year. I was surprised how short the lines were for being summer. The only time it felt crowded was during the fireworks, and they also had Grad Nite that night. The only other time in recent history I went during the summer was mid-July (Sunday-Tuesday). People told me it would be hot and crowded and not worth it. But even though the lines were a little longer, it was still a great trip. Just had to make more efficient use of Fast Passes, take naps during the heat of the day, and know which rides/queues were the most pleasant for cooling off (Enchanted Tiki Room and Pirates of the Caribbean are my favorites).

 

[HydroGuy]

Any time the week after July 4 up thru mid-August. If I could choose my perfect week each year it would be the week after July 4.

See

"A DLR Guide for WDW Vets" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

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

 

[twokids0204]

Any time the week after July 4 up thru mid-August. If I could choose my perfect week each year it would be the week after July 4.

See

"A DLR Guide for WDW Vets" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

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

Thanks... I Have skimmed thru the guide in the past, will read it in more detail now.

How many days would you recommend to see as much as possible? Which days (I am guessing avoid weekends - if not tell me why)?

 

[HydroGuy]

Thanks... I Have skimmed thru the guide in the past, will read it in more detail now.

How many days would you recommend to see as much as possible? Which days (I am guessing avoid weekends - if not tell me why)?

For someone who goes every year or two, and wants to have a full experience where they had a chance to do most everything and see all the majors shows, I would say four days. For someone who is less familiar with the parks, and maybe does not go as often, I think a fifth day would make the trip feel more complete.

Generally I try to avoid weekends in the summer. But it does not seem to be as important as it used to be. If you have to be there on a weekend day, then Saturdays would generally be better because at least the Deluxe AP holders (like me) are blocked out and can't go.

Good luck!

 

[dizneekrazee]

I just have to add, we have gone in August for the past 3 years, usually mixing some weekend days with some weekdays. As HydroGuy pointed out, some APs are blocked on Saturdays. This past August, we were in the parks Su, M, Tu. Tuesday was by far the most crowded.

Also, be sure you check events going on outside if the resort, D23 is next summer, for example. In 2011, we were there that weekend, which was quite tolerable, but the Monday after was a mess. Also check the schedule for the Anaheim Angels. That may bring more crowds pre/post game.