First Visit to DL -- how long & DLR?

[Pesky]

I'm starting the savings (and later the planning) for a trip to Disneyland the week before Christmas 2013 (so next Christmas -- yes, I plan ahead). Our kids will be 6 and 4 and we are planning on driving out from my ILs. I figure we will likely need a break during the day, especially for the 4YO.

Given that, do you think arriving late Monday, hitting the parks on T, W and most of TH is enough? or should I plan to take all day TH and leave to go back to my ILs (about 2.5 hrs away) on Friday? Also, given the break issue, would a DLR make the most sense or is a nearby hotel/motel just as convenient? The last time I was in DL was about 20 years ago so I'm no use. TIA!

 

[Susie63]

The longer the better since this is a first trip for your family.On our first trip we spent 6 days in the parks and still did not see everything.Our next trip is 10 days in the parks .We do not race through the parks and enjoy a more laid back holiday.
There is a lot of information on these boards and as this is your first post(WELCOME),start with the stickies(the first posts on the top of the page).There is info about everything in there. Enjoy your planning.

 

[coaches24]

Ive been only twice as an adult (once as a kid) and have never done more than 3 days. Our next trip in May will be a 4 day trip so we are excited about that. But 3 days is a decent amount and the minimum I would recomend to see everything (by everything I mean the main shows and attractions). If you can swing more than 3 days then absolutely do it. You will find it more relaxing the more time you have and I am sure you will not get bored as there really is so much to see. It will allow you to soak in the sites instead of rushing through the parks from one spot to another (which is what we always end up doing).

 

[skiingfast]

For that week 5 days.

Staying onsite isn't required but nice to do. Though you should stay within a 10-15 minute walk at longest.

 

[tinkcollector]

Staying in walking distance on Harbor Blvd. is nice but not necessary. There are shuttle services available.

 

[Pesky]

Thanks for the input so far! Helps me get a much better idea of what to plan for, given all the changes since I was last there.