Grand Californian vs Disneyland Hotel

[SLThomas318]

Disneyland newbie here and considering May or June 2024. Planning on 5 nights with 3 park days (coming from the East coast so wanted a down day to start depending on flights). Is Grand Californian worth the splurge? Disneyland hotel looks awesome too and my boys LOVE monorails... are you able to walk to the park from there? We were also considering club level, but probably only at Disneyland hotel due to the cost.

We are DVC members so if I'm lucky enough to snag a room on points then we'll go that route, but I'm not holding my breath!

 

[wench]

Theming wise DLH is probably my favorite Disney Hotel. And there is so much great history. You can definitely walk to the parks or monorail to/from DL.

But, with all that said, GCH is amazing & 100% my favorite place to stay. It's so majestic & you can’t beat the convenience to DCA. I too stay on points whenever possible, but have forked up the cash a couple times without any regrets. Even though it’s not technically our home resort, my son & I consider it to be our home away from home.

 

[Royal Consort]

It's been an evolution for me having mostly stayed at the DLH over the past 10 years. However, tastes have changed and over time I've favoured GC for its theme and amenities. It feels like a resort rather than a hotel consisting of separate towers. Therefore I bought VGC on resale rather than wait for VDH to go on sale. I prefer GC but whenever I see the cash rate I am horrified.

You could always try your luck with DVC points (if they are not restricted) to get in to VDH which will be open by 2024. This will be easier than VGC. Book a cash stay which you can always cancel.

 

[monkeypat83]

This may be an unpopular opinion but in terms of Club Level I actually prefer Club at Disneyland Hotel to the Club level at GCH. There is something about sitting in the Club at night in your pajamas eating dessert and drinking a glass of Champaign watching the Disneyland fireworks with the music piped in and then being able to just curl up in bed afterwards. This is especially nice on arrival day or a day you don't go to the parks. I have little kids so late nights in the park are not on our agenda yet.

In terms of non-club level all the over posters have made some valid points. You can't beat the convenience of GCH and the lobby is lovely. DLH is a further walk (but all through Downtown Disney so staying in the bubble) but has a monorail slide at the pool which sounds like something your boys would like and the light up headboards are great too.

 

[DizMe]

I agree with what others have said. Honestly, you can't go wrong. DLH is wonderful and near and dear to my heart. It has whimsy and old-school art, photos, and memorabilia all over the hotel. It's very mid-century modern. The rooms are large and well-appointed, with fabulous giant window walls. Lots of fun for younger kids/families and even many of the standard rooms have great fireworks views. I enjoyed sitting in the hot tub in the evening while my grandson played with his mama in the shallow water beneath the (closed) waterslides. They close the slides at dusk, but kids can still play in the water, which has built-in lights in the floor that are different colors. We were the only ones out there playing when we went. I think people assume the whole area is closed when they close the slides.

What I like less about DLH is the lack of cohesion. The towers are all separate from one another and there is no main lobby to connect anything or provide a place to hang out like you'd find at GCH. If you choose DLH, I'd highly recommend a DTD view so you can see the fireworks or, if you prefer a standard room, the Fantasy Tower upper floor, which should also give you a good view of the fireworks. I don't really find club level useful unless you're a family, so in your case, I think it would be great! It's nice to just go to the lounge for breakfast and your kids and can pick what they want. Parents can take advantage of mimosas, beer, etc throughout the day if so inclined.

GCH is ideal as a splurge retreat, mainly IMO attractive to older kids and adults. It feels much more sophisticated and detailed, and the lobby is incredible. The entrance to DCA is fantastic and the dining options are far superior (which didn't used to be true). But if you have younger kids, you may not be interested in fancy dining or the great lounges/bars. They do have quick dining also and Storyteller's character meal, but it has been years since I dined there.

Either way, you'll have a magical stay, but I would advise requesting Fantasy or Adventure tower if you're getting standard. The rooms are mostly the same, but the views are not. If there are no kids involved, I'd recommend GCH. There are so many fun places to hang out, have a drink, and explore.

 

[SLThomas318]

This may be an unpopular opinion but in terms of Club Level I actually prefer Club at Disneyland Hotel to the Club level at GCH. There is something about sitting in the Club at night in your pajamas eating dessert and drinking a glass of Champaign watching the Disneyland fireworks with the music piped in and then being able to just curl up in bed afterwards. This is especially nice on arrival day or a day you don't go to the parks. I have little kids so late nights in the park are not on our agenda yet.

In terms of non-club level all the over posters have made some valid points. You can't beat the convenience of GCH and the lobby is lovely. DLH is a further walk (but all through Downtown Disney so staying in the bubble) but has a monorail slide at the pool which sounds like something your boys would like and the light up headboards are great too.

This is great to hear... club level at Disneyland hotel seemed to be a little more reasonable for some of the dates I was playing with on the website. It also seemed much more themed, which for this trip I think we'd prefer. We go to Disney World a lot, but this will probably be a one and done trip for Disneyland which is why we thought about splurging.

 

[SLThomas318]

I agree with what others have said. Honestly, you can't go wrong. DLH is wonderful and near and dear to my heart. It has whimsy and old-school art, photos, and memorabilia all over the hotel. It's very mid-century modern. The rooms are large and well-appointed, with fabulous giant window walls. Lots of fun for younger kids/families and even many of the standard rooms have great fireworks views. I enjoyed sitting in the hot tub in the evening while my grandson played with his mama in the shallow water beneath the (closed) waterslides. They close the slides at dusk, but kids can still play in the water, which has built-in lights in the floor that are different colors. We were the only ones out there playing when we went. I think people assume the whole area is closed when they close the slides.

What I like less about DLH is the lack of cohesion. The towers are all separate from one another and there is no main lobby to connect anything or provide a place to hang out like you'd find at GCH. If you choose DLH, I'd highly recommend a DTD view so you can see the fireworks or, if you prefer a standard room, the Fantasy Tower upper floor, which should also give you a good view of the fireworks. I don't really find club level useful unless you're a family, so in your case, I think it would be great! It's nice to just go to the lounge for breakfast and your kids and can pick what they want. Parents can take advantage of mimosas, beer, etc throughout the day if so inclined.

GCH is ideal as a splurge retreat, mainly IMO attractive to older kids and adults. It feels much more sophisticated and detailed, and the lobby is incredible. The entrance to DCA is fantastic and the dining options are far superior (which didn't used to be true). But if you have younger kids, you may not be interested in fancy dining or the great lounges/bars. They do have quick dining also and Storyteller's character meal, but it has been years since I dined there.

Either way, you'll have a magical stay, but I would advise requesting Fantasy or Adventure tower if you're getting standard. The rooms are mostly the same, but the views are not. If there are no kids involved, I'd recommend GCH. There are so many fun places to hang out, have a drink, and explore.

Thanks.... this is all great info! We were also thinking going with DLH would allow us to go for the better view too. Still on the fence about club level, but being able to grab food/drinks especially breakfast would be helpful. We stay DVC in Florida so we always order food/snacks/drinks for the room. I got the same impression from the little bit of research I've done that Grand Californian would be ideal if it was just us adults, but that my boys would eat up all the theming of DLH.

 

[SLThomas318]

It's been an evolution for me having mostly stayed at the DLH over the past 10 years. However, tastes have changed and over time I've favoured GC for its theme and amenities. It feels like a resort rather than a hotel consisting of separate towers. Therefore I bought VGC on resale rather than wait for VDH to go on sale. I prefer GC but whenever I see the cash rate I am horrified.

You could always try your luck with DVC points (if they are not restricted) to get in to VDH which will be open by 2024. This will be easier than VGC. Book a cash stay which you can always cancel.

I had the same thought too in terms of trying to use our points. They are unrestricted. I know the first year would prob be our best shot at getting in. Figured the same for the villas at Grand Californian... it would be a long shot to snag a room on points, but we'll probably still try.

 

[wench]

I had the same thought too in terms of trying to use our points. They are unrestricted. I know the first year would prob be our best shot at getting in. Figured the same for the villas at Grand Californian... it would be a long shot to snag a room on points, but we'll probably still try.

I have managed to get several stays at GCH on my points, booking at 7 months. On waitlist I’ve only been able to pick up 1 or 2 nights here & there. It is tough to book, but it’s so worth it.

 

[MikeRx]

VGC is our home resort (best re-sale purchase ever in 2017) and love the Grand. We will be there Sunday!

If this is a first time question and you love Disneyland history, the DLH would be my choice. For kids I feel the the pool at the DLH is a better choice and should not be missed. The pool at the grand is lovely, but more relaxed. The walk out of DCA into the Grand after a long day is in itself, magical.

So, we love the DLH for the history/nostalgia (light up musical headboard), Trader Sam's, pools, and hopefully one day again...breakfast at SH55. We love the Grand for the majestic beauty of the lobby, Napa Rose, and proximity to the parks. Now if they would only refurb the DVC rooms.... If this were a Christmastime trip I'd go the Grand, hands down....May/June will be warn and could be down right hot so another vote for the DLH pools....

You can't go wrong and soak up whichever resort you choose and choose the other one the next time.

p.s. don't forget the PPH after the refurb. While the jury is still out on the redo, the newer back entrance to DCA and access to the Grand is a real plus. We stayed there over Labor Day weekend and will wait until it returns to normal before doing so again...

 

[KVH]

DLH by far. The extra couple hundred yards to walk isn't a problem. We have done the GCH a couple of times but recent changes make the extra cost questionable. Little things like the snack bar changes. Or everyone thinking they can just camp out for a few hours in the main hallways (picnics are evidently popular). But the worst is just trying to be in the hotel when WoC ends. The mass of humanity that exists thru the hotel is unbelievable. We had to get to our room one nite walking AGAINST the crowd flow. The verbal and physical attacks we rec'd just trying to get to our room was the last straw.

 

[DizMe]

DLH by far. The extra couple hundred yards to walk isn't a problem. We have done the GCH a couple of times but recent changes make the extra cost questionable. Little things like the snack bar changes. Or everyone thinking they can just camp out for a few hours in the main hallways (picnics are evidently popular). But the worst is just trying to be in the hotel when WoC ends. The mass of humanity that exists thru the hotel is unbelievable. We had to get to our room one nite walking AGAINST the crowd flow. The verbal and physical attacks we rec'd just trying to get to our room was the last straw.

Wow! I've never had any experience like that, and I've been going since it opened. What time of year was this??

 

[SLThomas318]

VGC is our home resort (best re-sale purchase ever in 2017) and love the Grand. We will be there Sunday!

If this is a first time question and you love Disneyland history, the DLH would be my choice. For kids I feel the the pool at the DLH is a better choice and should not be missed. The pool at the grand is lovely, but more relaxed. The walk out of DCA into the Grand after a long day is in itself, magical.

So, we love the DLH for the history/nostalgia (light up musical headboard), Trader Sam's, pools, and hopefully one day again...breakfast at SH55. We love the Grand for the majestic beauty of the lobby, Napa Rose, and proximity to the parks. Now if they would only refurb the DVC rooms.... If this were a Christmastime trip I'd go the Grand, hands down....May/June will be warn and could be down right hot so another vote for the DLH pools....

You can't go wrong and soak up whichever resort you choose and choose the other one the next time.

p.s. don't forget the PPH after the refurb. While the jury is still out on the redo, the newer back entrance to DCA and access to the Grand is a real plus. We stayed there over Labor Day weekend and will wait until it returns to normal before doing so again...

Thanks for this... was thinking the same in terms of pools/history/theme for DLH. Our boys first stay in Fl was theme park view at the contemporary because of the monorail... so the DLH pool feels like a must! I do have PPH on the list to re-visit once it's completed.

How are the DVC rooms... are they in need of some love? I still might try for a 1 bedroom on points, but if the rooms need some TLC then I think we'll just save the points.

 

[SLThomas318]

DLH by far. The extra couple hundred yards to walk isn't a problem. We have done the GCH a couple of times but recent changes make the extra cost questionable. Little things like the snack bar changes. Or everyone thinking they can just camp out for a few hours in the main hallways (picnics are evidently popular). But the worst is just trying to be in the hotel when WoC ends. The mass of humanity that exists thru the hotel is unbelievable. We had to get to our room one nite walking AGAINST the crowd flow. The verbal and physical attacks we rec'd just trying to get to our room was the last straw.

This is good to know. The walk from DLH looks like a breeze. The mass of humanity sounds horrible...

 

[brentm77]

You can't go wrong. Both are great in their own ways. We personally slightly prefer the Disneyland Hotel. We love the tropical theming, the quick service next to Trader Sams. The retro feel and lobby, and the walk to the parks is still a breeze. Add on that it is less expensive, and it is usually our go to.

Grand California is absolutely beautiful. The better location is great, but really isn't that much of an improvement time wise. We love sitting in the lobby by the fireplace, but we sometimes do that anyway when we stay at DLH. It is for sure more upscale in feel and vibe, at the cost of being less whimsical. But I absolutely love it too.

Honestly, it really just comes down to the style you prefer and how important being slightly closer to the parks is.

P.S. If you stay at DLH and have extra time, walk to their convention area and check out the artwork. It is like a visit to a Disney art exhibit with some great paintings.

 

[Astylla]

I just stayed at DLH and GCH (Dvc studio rented last minute) and both have value to me still as a long time guest.

DLH lacks dining that I prefer
(other than Trader Sams) but love the monorail is so close for Disneyland days. Now that it is running until midnight ( may change as holidays end) was a huge perk. Previously it was only 7pm which was a bummer. So when I arrived Wednesday at 430pm , my room had been ready since noon via text , I was able to drop my bags off in the room , shower and change then walked right o to the monorail and in the park by 5:45pm. That was the night I had Skyline Terrace reservation at 7pm so worked perfectly getting to and after too.
I didn't do Early Entey that morning because I had set it for DCA and didn't feel up to the walk early lol, so can't comment how monorail might be for that.

The rooms are large and I will play the headboard music at least 20 times because yes I'm that person lol.
Keep in mind construction for thr new DVC tower is near the pool so that could affect your stay with noise or view. I just booked standard and I'm fine with a parking lot view just fyi.

GCH - It feels like home now. I have been VERY fortunate to rent DVC confirmed reservations multiple times for studios. I've also stayed hotel side woods/courtyard which I recommend and also club level on the 6th floor standard view which gave me an amazing view of the monorail below me and steps from the lounge.

Proximity just cannot be overstated especially during festival times which I always take advantage of and enjoy.
Yes there is usually a crush after WOC but I just wait for the madness and never have an issue honestly. Also the second show is so much better. In fact last night I could hear from the 2nd floor facing redwood creek area , the entire WOC soundtrack , could see the fire through the trees , etc. I had dessert on the balcony and enjoyed the show in my pajamas from Costco
I love love having a balcony and that'd a huge selling point for me.
I frequent Heartstone Lounge, Storytellers and Napa Rose frequently so again makes sense to me.

I do dislike that far too many people camp out in the lobby and eat breakfast or dinner from downtown disney. A snack from the holiday cart , or a drink, sure , reasonable. But lately I have witnessed for example huge pizzas from Naples or full on picnics like others have said. It just seems..weird to me. And something I plan to provide feedback on.

You can't go wrong with either but it really comes down to what is budget for you , what things are most important as well.

 

[RoseColored97]

DLH by far. The extra couple hundred yards to walk isn't a problem. We have done the GCH a couple of times but recent changes make the extra cost questionable. Little things like the snack bar changes. Or everyone thinking they can just camp out for a few hours in the main hallways (picnics are evidently popular). But the worst is just trying to be in the hotel when WoC ends. The mass of humanity that exists thru the hotel is unbelievable. We had to get to our room one nite walking AGAINST the crowd flow. The verbal and physical attacks we rec'd just trying to get to our room was the last straw.

I completely forgot until you mentioned this! On our first day, there was a family hanging out right outside of the room next to us. They had a blanket put out and had a bunch of toys out, a woman and three kids. They were only there for maybe an hour, hour and a half but it was odd. They were pretty loud too but noise seems to come in pretty clearly from the hallway. I went out to get ice and it made me a little uncomfortable to have to tip toe around them to get to our room.

The walkway from the lobby to the Grand Californian entrance/Napa Rose/Craftsman Bar is ALWAYS busy. We were shocked by how many weddings happened in the small time frame we stayed (3 days). Lots of catering tables getting walked back and forth, the courtyard was sometimes blocked because of it. There are perks of being so close to the parks, but you are correct - the hotel is used as a shortcut which makes things pretty busy at all times. The lobby never had an empty seat, especially next to the fireplace lol

Also agreed - the Disneyland Hotel is superior, though we've only stayed in premium view club level.

 

[RoseColored97]

I've read the opposite on here, but I feel that the Disneyland Hotel has the more updated rooms. When we stayed there back in March (and now again at this end of this month/next year....woohooo!!!!), the rooms were big and bright and felt updated and nice. The Grand Californian rooms were just different. I'm not going to say dated, but it just felt more enclosed and dark with the wood paneling. It is a nice hotel overall and MANY people rave about it, but just because it works for some doesn't mean it works for everyone. I would rather stay further away at the DLH to have the extra space and feel less enclosed in the room than to stay *right* at the parks and not have as enjoyable of a room experience.

We also greatly prefer the DLH pool and monorail slide. No little ones in our group, but we enjoy getting a cabana and going down the slides an unholy amount of times lol

All of this to say - you can't go wrong with either hotel but my preference is the Disneyland Hotel.

 

[PiratesOfTheSea]

Since your boys love monorails...I'd have to say DLH is the better choice. They would probably enjoy the overall theming and the monorail slides a lot more. Club level would be a bonus too.

Downside is that DLH is farther away, though distance-wise it's not that far from GCH, with DLR being a walking-centric resort, the distance will add up towards the end of night or the end of the trip. DLH is actually farther away from the main entry gates than several offsite properties on Harbor which cost significantly less, although you are at least still within the bubble on the DLH side of DD. The DLH room we stayed in several years ago was also quite dated, especially compared to GCH at the time. That said, the GCH room we stayed in this year wasn't exactly in great shape either, so at rack rate it's not really worth the difference unless the distance matters that much to you.

 

[katyringo]

We loved our stay at DLH. Have not stayed at CGH so take this with that in mind..

When we were over at the grand for various reasons it felt SO BUSY over there. We liked going to DLH and it felt much more secluded and quiet.