Help with CA schools question

[Glynis]

DH is bringing me to DL to celebrate 16 years of wedded bliss! I'm so excited. We want to come at the first of June (preferably 1st week of June). At what point do most schools in CA let out for the summer? Will it be terribly crowded at this time? The only other alternative is late July. How crowded is it then? We've only ever been to DL in April or September. Any ideas, suggestions, advice?

 

[Stacerita]

Most schools in the area get out the end of the second full week of June. There are a few that get out prior to that and a few after that, but the majority get out the second week of June.

Begining of June will be less crowded than late July when almost everyone (but some year round tracks) will be out of school.

Week days will be less crowded than the weekends. And tour early to avoid most crowds. Weather is usually really nice early June.

You should have a really nice trip.

 

[munchkinsmom]

The majority of the school districts (if not all) in the area of SoCal I live in gets out around mid-June. You might get crowds from out-of towners whose children get out of school late May, though, but at least it's better than late July when everyone is off for the summer.

HTH and have a great time. My DH and I spent our last anniversary (in mid-July) at the DLR, staying at the Grand Californian. The parks were crowded, but still a lot of fun.

Oh yeah, one more thing. If you're staying at one of the DLR hotels or eating at one of the nicer restaurants at the resort, make sure they know that it's your anniversary.

 

[Glynis]

The only really important meal for me is lunch at the Blue Bayou! I've never done it, and the lunch prices are more to our liking than the dinner ones. Can anyone tell me how early I can make ressies? Anyone got a number?

 

[FanofTink]

Up to 60 days prior at 714-781-DINE........

 

[munchkinsmom]

I believe you can call 90 days in advance to reserve, but I'm not positive so call and double check their policy. When you do make reservations, try to get an early lunch time (like when they open). That way, you'll have more of a chance to get a waterside table.

Here's the number: (714) 781-DINE

Edited to add: Just saw the above post...looks like they may have changed their policy on advance reservations. Unfortunately, the Blue Bayou will be CLOSED in early June (March 6 – June 16, 2006 to be exact) coinciding with the Pirates of the Caribbean refurb. Bummer.

 

[Glynis]

Thanks, everyone. I just read that Pirates of the Caribbean will be closed until the end of June. I'm assuming that that means the BB will be closed as well. Does anyone know for sure? If that's the case, we'll have our special meal somewhere else. I'd love to know where you all like to eat. Some of our favorite places are Rancho del Zocalo, the Plaza, The Pacific Wharf Cafe. Where do you like to eat and what do you order?

 

[RangerPooh]

While most of the schools will still be in session, the colleges will be wrapping up then. Another thing to think about is Grad Nite. It starts in mid May and runs through mid June. So the parks may be closing earlier than you prefer. Just a note.

 

[disneefamily]

Disnee Dad Says............................................It's not a bad thing that BB will be closed during your trip. You know what that means.

Time to start planning another trip!

Get an early start and things will be fine.

 

[disneegrl4eva]

While most of the schools will still be in session, the colleges will be wrapping up then. Another thing to think about is Grad Nite. It starts in mid May and runs through mid June. So the parks may be closing earlier than you prefer. Just a note.

actually the colleges end in the middle of May...Graduation is 3rd week of May and as previous poster stated they are doing tons of Grad nite during that time...so parks will be closing early and frequently

 

[hip]

We went last year during the first week in June and it was great. The crowds were not bad at all (only waited about 20-25 min. for popular rides). The weather was perfect and we had a fantastic time. The park hours are shorter and we did hit one grad. night, but our kids are young, so we didn't mind the earlier closing time. We are seriously considering returning this year during the same week. Hoping we can find airfare deals.



Tricia

 

[blackjackdelta]

Does anyone know those Grad nite dates?

 

[disneegrl4eva]

you know, they are all throughout may and june...but first week in June they will still be doing it...I wouldnt worry too much because these kids dont come in the park until really late in the evening...so its not like they will be there during the day

 

[disneychrista]

One thing to keep in mind in going early June is that many elemenetry schools have their year end field trip to Disneyland, bring tons of kids to the parks. I made this mistake twice and will avoid early June from now on.

I would try to go the week before Memorial Day instead.

 

[Glynis]

This gives me lots to think about. I had completely forgotten about Grad Nite. Hmmm. Will have to talk to hubby about that. I wonder, is there any way to find out when elementary schools will have their field trips? Probably not. If anyone knows, let me know. I'd love to go in May, but our schools are still in session then, and I can't work around that. Any other suggestions?

 

[JenniferW]

Just thought I'd add my 2 cents, we are in No Cal and our kids get out of school end of May, I'm sure others vary, but some of us are out.

Jenn

 

[disneychrista]

Grad Nights will close the parks early. But Elementry school kids will mob the parks during the day. So between the two, Early June is a time to skip

 

[macbaby]

Does anyone know those Grad nite dates?

Thursday nights, May 11 through June 22 and Wednesday, June 14.

 

[Freyja]

According to DL´s website´s calender. BB will be closed because of the Pirate´s refurbishment. So sorry. Hope you find some other great place to celebrate at. Have a wonderful time.

 

[munchkinsmom]

Does anyone know those Grad nite dates?

Here you go:

Thursday Nights:
May 11th
May 18th
May 25th
June 1st
June 8th
June 15th
June 22nd

Wednesday Night:
June 14th

There's also a "pre Grad Nite event" that's called "Blast Off." It's at California Adventure and will be held on all the nights, except June 22nd.

Edited to add: On Grad Nites, Disneyland closes at 9 PM and Grad Nite is from 12AM to 6AM. I don't know the schedule for DCA.