First trip to DL!! Need advice!

[Dee & Greg]

We have been to WDW in FL every year for years. Just got word that I have a business trip to LA and can take DH for a long weekend. Was thinking about driving to San Diego or Palm Springs when DH said "Disneyland!". We have never been before! (I have never been to CA before!). What are not-to-miss attractions, restaurants, etc for two adults, no children?
Thanks for all of your help!!

 

[Grog]

Not to miss attractions....

In DL... Indiana Jones, POTC (better version than one in MK), Matterhorn

In DCA... Soarin' over California, California Screamin', Grizzly River Run

Restaurants... Without a doubt you have to do Blue Bayou. Be sure and make reservations.

 

[Grog]

Forgot to add...make sure you visit Toontown. It's much better than the MK version, IMO, and it has Roger Rabbit's Cartoon Spin which is a really fun dark ride. Also do IASW which is right before you enter Toontown (also better than MK version).

 

[Dee & Greg]

at Blue Bayou? I am used to calling 1-800-WDW-DINE. Does DL have such a number?

 

[ilovemky]

it is indise the POTC ride--awesome but try for lunch much cheaper and food just as good

Blue Bayou
You can now make same-day reservations for the Bayou (the place to make them is the reservations podium outside the Bayou entrance right next to the Pirates exit) or you can do it in advance! Just call (714) 781-DINE.

The podium opens when the Park does - long before the restaurant itself opens its doors. They do have a phone number for the podium, but it is useless for reservations as you must be present in person to make them.


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Blue Bayou

Probably the most famous of all Disneyland restaurants, the Bayou boasts the best atmosphere and accordingly some of the highest prices. It is a full-service restaurant, and the only one in the Park that accepts reservations. You should make same-day reservations (they don't accept them for the following day), so it's not a bad idea to head there first to make your reservation (there is no outside phone number to call to do this). If you fail to make a reservation, you can still eat there as they hold some tables, but there is always a line. The food is excellent - mostly Creole chicken dishes - and the service is top-notch. Don't miss the Bayou!

Location

Many people have a hard time finding the Blue Bayou. You just have to know where to look, I guess. Its entrance is located directly next to the exit for Pirates of the Caribbean (just opposite the Pirates Merchandise shop, Pieces of Eight).

Menu Items

Lunch (served 11:00 a.m. until 3:45 p.m.)
Prime Rib - $17.99
Jambalaya - $14.99
French Quarter Chicken - $14.99
Crab Cakes - $14.99
Portobello Mushrooms - $13.99
Monte Cristo Sandwich - $11.99
Roast Pork Loin - $15.99
Blackened Chicken Caesar Salad - $11.99
Shrimp and Spinach Salad - $13.99

Dinner (served from 3:45 p.m.)

Roast Pork Loin - $24.99
Beef Tenderloin - $28.99
Prime Rib - $26.99
Baked Salmon - $24.99
Crab Cakes - $23.99
Shrimp Brochettes - $24.99
French Quarter Chicken - $22.99
Mousekemeal (chicken nuggets, corndogs, or pasta) - $6.99

Vegetarian Menu

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms - $12.99 Lunch, $18.99 Dinner
Steamed Fresh Vegetables - $8.49
Tricolor Pasta - $17.99 Dinner only

Sides / Appetizers / Desserts

Shrimp Cocktail - $8.99 ($9.99 Dinner)
Calamari Rings - $7.99 ($8.49 Dinner)
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms - $7.99 ($8.49 Dinner)
Creole Gumbo - $4.49
Tossed Salad - $5.49
Clam Chowder - $4.49 (no breadbowl)
Chocolate Pecan Pie - $4.95
Crème Brulee - $4.95
Chocolate Mousse Cake - $4.95

Beverages

O'Douls Non-alcoholic Beer - $3.79
Mint Julep - $2.89 (NOT refillable)
Also espresso / cappuccino

 

[Grog]

You should make same-day reservations (they don't accept them for the following day)

They might have changed that, or maybe just changed it for people staying at the resort hotels. I made my reservations on a Saturday for Sunday lunch. I made them through the Guest Services desk at the hotel.

 

[cheshcat]

I would also reccommend the daily wine tastings at the Golden Vineyard in DCA - if you like wine.

 

[JimC]

You will enjoy your trip. DL/DCA/DD is a more intimate setting. It is very easy to park hop -- everything is within walking distance.

Favorite resort -- Grand Californian (upgrade view) -- even if you do not stay there, visit it. Signature restaurant is Napa Rose -- quite elegant and expensive.

Favorite restaurant -- Blue Bayou (make PS arrangements and ask for table by the water - you can do this in advance if a Disney travel company package guest)

Second favorite restaurant is Hook's Pointe at DLH

Favorite ride - Indiana Jones in DL and Soarin in DCA

Must do: Aladdin show at DCA (extremely popular!!), Electrical Parade at DCA, Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln (DL Main Square) and take time for the pre-show as the history on Walt is quite good.

Take in all of the rides that share with WDW -- Pirates, Haunted, Small World -- there are subtle differences that make each unique and I must say that I actually prefer DL Pirates more!

The tour A Walk in Walt's Footsteps is very interesting and a great way to learn about DL -- the only park Walt built.

 

[Judy from Boise]

Make sure to do DL IASW and the Rail Road too.....both better than the WDW equivilents.

One of my fave DL foods are the bengal BBQ skewers in AL.

 

[Dee & Greg]

I am going to print out this thread and take it with me to read on the plane. We are so excited! We love WDW, and this is going to be icing on the cake!

Thanks again for all of your suggestions. We are staying off-site at the Marriott (business trip).