Hilton vs DLH vs GCH

[coopersmom]

I don't know why I agonize so over my hotel choice for every Disney trip. Not something I do so much for our non-Disney vaccys where it seems so much easier to just pick something and be happy with it.

So, we are going the last week in September and, from what I can see, there are ZERO (so far) hotel deals/discounts for any of the Disneyland resorts, which means paying rack rates (ouch!).

So, we are a family of three (me, hubby, five-year-old son) and I am a total hotel snob. On our relatively rare family vacations, I'm a Ritz, Four Seasons kind of girl ... Spoiled in part by years of business travel. I've stayed at the Polynesian in WDW and found it sorely lacking (never again). Stayed at a "deluxe" room in the FL Grand main building and found it much nicer, but still not true four or five-star hotel quality. (Meaning: nice, but service and in-room decor/amenities don't match price; public areas were amazing and stunning.)

Anyway, the above makes me very hesitant to pay the super-high rates for either the DLH or GCH, which, based on pictures, look pretty ho-hum, room-wise (though, again, gorgeous public spaces). But then I start to worry about location, transportation (I am NOT a bus person; again, snob, I know) and EMH to Carsland and worry I'll be unhappy staying off property.

Price makes me think we are better off staying at the Anaheim Hilton, where my husband is a high-status honor members, meaning we get use of their HHonors "lounge" (mostly useful for breakfast) and potential room upgrades. We can get a two-room suite there for about the same as a resort view room at the Disneyland Hotel, and quite a bit less than at same category at the Grand Californian. And if we wanted club level at either of those Disney resorts (which is probably analogous to the Hilton lounge offerings), well, the cost just boggles my mind. (Though I do worry we'd miss having those quick grab-and-go breakfast options, soda, etc. since we've only ever stayed club-level on our two FL Disney trips.) The suite has even more appeal since this trip is kind of our "reward" for the fact that my husband has been gone a lot this summer (most of it, actually) and will be coming off a month-long absence just before we travel. Having some grown-up private space would make it feel more like a vacation for us.

To me the newly-rennovated DLH hotel rooms look nicer than the GCH, based on the photos I've seen, and I hear they are larger too, is that correct? But then I read people saying it's the "only" place to stay and I'm torn all over again.

Since we don't plan another big Disneyland trip for quite some time, I feel pressure to make the right accommodation choice for my family (all self-imposed pressure, I might add; they could probably care less).

So, for anyone who wants to share their opinion and further confuse me (ha, ha!), I'd love to hear it. I already know that I should just decide already and quit agonizing over it as wherever we stay we will almost certainly have a great time.

 

[Malcon10t]

Price makes me think we are better off staying at the Anaheim Hilton, where my husband is a high-status honor members, meaning we get use of their HHonors "lounge" (mostly useful for breakfast) and potential room upgrades.

Just to clarify, this Hilton does not have an Executive floor anymore, so there is no lounge. But they do give you a "continental" breakfast ticket you can use in the restaurant or at the Starbucks onsite.

My kids prefer the Hilton to the DLR hotels.

 

[interstate70s]

My family loves the GCH. The rooms are very nice, though perhaps not as fancy as others in the 4 star category, but its no dump by any stretch. The amenities are great too. Early entry, private entrance to DCA, several restauraunts, and location. It definately has a resort feel. Also the pools at DLRHs are the best in the area. I can 't speak to the concierge, (out of our budget) but there is a mini fridge in the rooms if you want to bring snacks and soda.

 

[coopersmom]

Well, talking about it with my husband and we are leaning back towards the DLH now for transportation and theming. We can take a shuttle/car service from LAX and then not rent a car until after the Disneyland portion of our vacation is over, which seems like, combined with having everything in the resort within walking distance, it might pay off to avoid parking fees at hotel/parks.

So, for those that prefer the GCH over the DLH, can you tell me why and if it's worth the $100/night difference?

Thanks!

 

[interstate70s]

I don 't know that it would be worth $100 night difference. I think its more a matter of personal preference. The only difference as far as amenities is distance to the parks and valet parking (which won 't affect you if your not driving) Spa and child care is locate at GCH but you could use those anyway. It's a tough call, I obsess over hotel choice too on Disney vacations!

 

[coopersmom]

Just to clarify, this Hilton does not have an Executive floor anymore, so there is no lounge. But they do give you a "continental" breakfast ticket you can use in the restaurant or at the Starbucks onsite.

My kids prefer the Hilton to the DLR hotels.

Good to know, since we'd stayed there in the past (not for Disney) and they did have it, so was unaware of this change. Definitely something to consider as coupons not nearly as helpful as grab-and-go option.

 

[blackjackdelta]

I would think based on where you have stayed then you could not settle for anything less than the GrandCalifornian or DVC. Nothing else compares. I have not stayed in the newly remodeled DLH so I will hold judgement there.

Jack

 

[coopersmom]

I would think based on where you have stayed then you could not settle for anything less than the GrandCalifornian or DVC. Nothing else compares. I have not stayed in the newly remodeled DLH so I will hold judgement there.

Jack

Yeah, one or two-bed DVC looks to be ideal ... Unfortunately trip came together too late for us and there was nothing available when we looked at points rental. Major bummer. (If anyone knows differently, please let me know!)

Why would you recommend the Grand over the Disneyland hotel? I looked at room pics and, unless I'm missing something, the newly-rennovated DLH looked "nicer" to my eye ... But this is coming from someone who has never stayed at either and never even been inside, unless you count a 5th grade DLH lobby visit. (Not even sure it's same DLH as monorail ran through lobby then.)

Is there something, besides location, and what appears to be a truly stunning lobby, about the GCH I'm just not getting?

 

[blackjackdelta]

Yeah, one or two-bed DVC looks to be ideal ... Unfortunately trip came together too late for us and there was nothing available when we looked at points rental. Major bummer. (If anyone knows differently, please let me know!)

Why would you recommend the Grand over the Disneyland hotel? I looked at room pics and, unless I'm missing something, the newly-rennovated DLH looked "nicer" to my eye.

Is there something, besides location and what appears to be a truly stunning lobby, about the GCH I'm just not getting?

The Grand is my home, just the way it is, like Mandarin Orientals are when I traveled(blah), I have yet to stay in the new DLD so can not say anything, I was reflecting on what you said, I am sure the DLH will be nice and it is finally 4 start rated(if that really means anything.) Have fun deciding..

Jack

 

[Momrow]

I had the same issue for our trip next month. Last time (2010) we stayed at the GCH and it was really so great. No so much the rooms themselves but the location, ambiance, etc. Loved Napa Rose, Storytellers for breakfast, etc. For this trip I started out with a Marriot booking (next door to Hilton, stayed there in 2009) but on Monday I changed my mind and booked the DLH. I agree that the rooms themselves look nicer than the GCH. I would have liked to book the GCH again, but the DLH was already more than double the Marriot so it would just add insult to injury booking the DLH. In late August I think it is about a $40-50 difference/night.

How many nights are you staying? If you really need a 4/5 star hotel, what about the Ritz at Dana Point? Or split your stay.

I am excited about the EMH everyday but with a young teen it is not that realistic that I can get her up and about in time. I'm hoping for one of the 5 days.

Good luck, I know how stressful it is.

 

[wbl2745]

Although the redecorated rooms at the DLH are really nice and the pool and restaurants are very nice, if I could afford it I would absolutely stay at the GCH (or VGC if possible). The lobby and atmosphere of the GCH are out of this world. But the best benefit is being so close to the parks. Getting back to the room for a mid-day nap or swim is a matter of 5 minutes. The DLH is 1/2 mile from the esplanade. Routinely we ride Grizzly River Rapids a couple of times, get completely soaked, and then go back to our room in VGC to change. (If we're staying at VGC we throw all of the wet clothes in the dryer!) At the end of the day, when everyone's feet hurt, the walk back to the GCH is mercifully short.

You ask if it is worth $100 per day. Only you can answer that. If you want value, stay at the Tropicana which is only a little further away than the GCH, but is very basic. There's nothing wrong with the Tropicana, but it is not fancy.

Hope you have a great time!

 

[sonjaandsue]

We are picky about hotels too - maybe slightly less picky because we liked the Poly OK. We love, love the GCH and the rooms are more updated than the Poly, (although smaller). You are right to not expect rooms that are comparable to the Ritz or Four Seasons. However, the location of the GCH can not be beat. It is a blast to stay so close to the action!

It sounds like you might have to decide whether the priority is time in the parks or a more luxurious room to relax in. You can't really lose with either decision!!

 

[cgh]

We are quasi hotel snobs too (leaving DLH to head to Pelican Hill) If you can't stand busses I'd definitely stay onsite. I thought the DLH was equivalent to a Hilton last year. We ended up choosing it over the GCH because we liked the pool better for our 3 1/2 year old. (and well, they say the rooms are bigger) Another deciding factor was watching fireworks from our room. It seemed like that was a bit more questionable from the GCH side.

We didn't want to do busses and we wanted to have a quick walk back to the hotel.

GCH though I think has the opportunity for a child to spend the night in a tent or something so if you think your son might like that that might be something to consider.

 

[coopersmom]

We are quasi hotel snobs too (leaving DLH to head to Pelican Hill) If you can't stand busses I'd definitely stay onsite. I thought the DLH was equivalent to a Hilton last year. We ended up choosing it over the GCH because we liked the pool better for our 3 1/2 year old. (and well, they say the rooms are bigger) Another deciding factor was watching fireworks from our room. It seemed like that was a bit more questionable from the GCH side.

We didn't want to do busses and we wanted to have a quick walk back to the hotel.

GCH though I think has the opportunity for a child to spend the night in a tent or something so if you think your son might like that that might be something to consider.

Spend the night in a tent? Oh my, he'd definitely go for that! Better not say anything.

I want to see fireworks, too (would pay for a resort/premium view, does that guarantee such?) and my son loves the idea of the monorail slide. Hopefully we'd have some swimming weather in September.

Did you not mind the walk? I keep looking at distance and thinking it seems really close, but then the GCH seems so much closer I wonder if we'll mind?

Heck, now that I think we're set on staying on-site, I'm even tempted by Paradise Pier due to the lower cost and the potential World of Color view. (Have seen some awesome photo and videos from rooms online.) Room quality seems less important when you're paying a little less.

We are picky about hotels too - maybe slightly less picky because we liked the Poly OK. We love, love the GCH and the rooms are more updated than the Poly, (although smaller). You are right to not expect rooms that are comparable to the Ritz or Four Seasons. However, the location of the GCH can not be beat. It is a blast to stay so close to the action!

It sounds like you might have to decide whether the priority is time in the parks or a more luxurious room to relax in. You can't really lose with either decision!!

Thanks. My problem with the Poly could have just been a bad time. But the lobby was always crowded/far away, maid service was dismal, when they even bothered to come at all, the club lounge always ran out of EVERYTHING (but we met lots and lots of nice folks there) and the room was equivalent to a not-so-well-kept Hampton Inn. Now, if I'd been paying Hampton Inn prices, that might not have been a big deal, but we weren't.

At the Grand I had far fewer issues, though I still thought cleaning could have been better (especially in the lounge) and the room showed way too much wear and tear for that price point.

 

[sierranevada]

Well here is my two cents worth and glad you decided to stay onsite. With EEMH it really is a huge benefit!

Paradise Pier - the updated the rooms recently and now they are very nice. Pillow top mattresses with triple sheeting. Really cute decor. Can watch fireworks from roof. Pool is just okay but nice slide. Concierge level is great. The lounge itself is not a nice as DLH or GCH but the offerings are just as good. The lounge has the best CM on duty that I have run across - Jerry! I stayed there last August with my sister, my son and 3 of his friends - all 16 yr old boys. I chose PPH Concierge since it was the same price as a standard room at the GCH and it would keep the 4 teenagers supplied with food and drink. If you cross the street and cut through the lobby of the GCH, it is a quick walk to the parks.

Disneyland Hotel - new rooms are wonderful. Pool and slides are the best of the three hotels. Drinks and appetizers at Tiki Sam's is a must do! Concierge lounge is really nice. The far wall is all glass and you can watch the fireworks from the lounge. Nice walk through DTD to the parks or take the monorail

Grand Californian - it is my favorite hotel! Love the craftsman theming. Rooms are comfy and nice. Love hanging out in the lobby by the fireplace with a drink. DTD view rooms can see the fireworks. Easiest entry into the parks. Concierge lounge is the largest of the three - great food with a few extras not in the other 2 lounges.

Your son would probably love the pool and slides at the DLH the best.

Can't go wrong with any of the DLR hotels.

Enjoy!

 

[goofyfordisney]

Hi,

I totally relate to you and your dilemma about where to stay for Disney vacations. I obsess over my Disney vacations - especially over the hotel! Traveling for business over the years has made me (and everyone in my family) a hotel snob.

I have stayed at DLH (before renovations) quite a few times, the GCH - just once (when they first opened), AKL, BC and CBR in WDW.

So far, none of the Disney hotels have even come close to a Four Seasons hotel stay...but, I try not to compare them to that.

I go to Disney for the 'disney theme' and the 'magic' of being totally immersed in Disney. When we go to the Four Seasons or Westin in Maui, we want a relaxing pool and luxurious hotel room. Even at Disney, I do like to have a clean, well-appointed room. I like to be within walking distance to the parks. And, I like to enjoy the pool. I would say that DLH and GCH are both great. I hope to try out PPH sometime too.

You are going in September...so, you will enjoy nice weather and will use the pool, for sure. Your son may enjoy the pool slides at DLH more than GCH. Our kids are older now, so the pool slides aren't as big of an issue for us. We would rather relax by the pool - so, I find that GCH is a better choice for that.

As far as walking distances - depending on what room or tower you are in at either hotel, the walk won't be more than 7-8 minutes to the gates.

The DLH rooms are probably nicer now because they've just completed the refurbishment and they are slightly bigger than GCH. The rooms at the GCH are really nice too. The lobby area of the GCH is very beautiful - but, you don't have to stay there to enjoy that...

You just need to decide how much time you plan on being in your room and at the pool to make your decision. I really don't think you can go wrong with either DLH, GCH or PPH.

We are staying at GCH for our upcoming September trip because its just me and DH (celebrating our 25th anniversary).

Hope you have a nice trip!

 

[lana772]

I could have written your post... if my husband reads it he will laugh and say there are two of me.

We have stayed at all three of your choices. My answer is NO NO NO do not stay at the Anaheim Hilton! It does not measure up to other Hiltons at all! When we stayed there our room was dirty and the lock was broken on the door.
The DLH is nice, but if you are expecting 4 star you will be very disapointed even with the "upgrades" and remodeling. Frankly I prefer PPH over DLH.

The GCH is a beautiful hotel. Rooms are not huge. CL is nice. Still not the Ritz, but I think you will be surprised at how nice it is for a "theme park" hotel. The spa is wonderful. GCH is by far better than the Polynesian in WDW. Very similar to GFH.

 

[lana772]

Oh yeah... As far as the pools go... DLH pools are quite noisy. Lots of kids running around and the bar (Trader Sams) can get noisy too.

The GCH is very peaceful and the children seem to be better controlled. My kids (DD10 and DD12) prefer the slide at GCH because they don't have kids pushing them out of the way to get on it. There is also a pool that is unofficially for adults only and very relaxing .

 

[cgh]

We were at Frontier tower (the furthest one away) and didn't think the walk was bad. I actually lost 3 lbs on our last visit though because I would power walk to the park, power walk back for nap, then back and forth during nap, then back and forth post nap. (and well, walk quickly throughout the park) I'd say it was probably a 2-3 minute walk further then GCH. But, it was all through greenery and downtown Disney. From what I heard about the size of GCH it seemed like there'd be quite a walk inside so it was kind of a wash. We haven't stayed there though-we just thought about it for the trip this year, then decided to do DLH until our son is older and would better able to take advantage of the GCH pool. (ie. after he is swimming) As for fireworks, I asked on here about that when we were contemplating staying there and it seemed like it was less assured. (we could need to make a request-but I wasn't willing to risk it since that was important to us)

One consideration of PPH is that you must cross a road to get to GCH. Again, I haven't stayed there but that and the pool is what pushed us over to DLH.

All of this is so personal-finances, what your priorities are etc. if distance is your number 1 concern then GCH would hands down be it, if views are your number 1 concern then that would depend on what you'd want to see, and if pool was your number 1 concern then it would depend on what you wanted.

 

[Amy&Dan]

Having stayed at the GCH twice (once in a room, once in a one bedroom villa) and the DLH many times I have to vote for the DLH.

The remodel of the DLH was a success in my book, we love the new pool area, the rooms are lovely and even though you don't have a balcony, I do prefer them to the GCH ones.

Our room in the Frontier tower was just steps from the athletic club, laundry room, fire place, pool area and slides. The walk is not that much further at all than the other two towers. We love that tower the most and find the rooms in that tower to be the largest. We had a daybed room that was very spacious (not quite as spacious as the Poly but close).

I think the DLH is hands down nicer than the Poly.

I will add that I think you can't really go wrong between DLH and GCH.