Holiday Visit to DL/DCA

[akasleepingbeauty]

We promised dd a trip for her 16th bday this Dec (2001). We had originally planned on going skiing but due to change in school schedules will only be able to squeeze out 5 days so that is out.

We have been to WDW several times and I have been to DL once. We decided it would be a good time to visit since DCA has opened as well as the GC.

Anyway, our ONLY option is to go Dec 27-31. We have a reservation at the GC for a standard room with standard view and 3 day passes for 3 of us. The total, with DC discount, is $1530. Although we are obviously paying "holiday" prices that is not my biggest concern. I am very worried that due to holiday crowds we just won't have time to see everything or won't have fun doing it.

I have considered a "good neighhbor" hotel but wonder if the parks are so full that they are closed will being "on-site" help? I have read that sometimes the parks have closed to admission at 10 a.m. during this week - yikes!

Any insight into this would be helpful. I feel bad not taking this trip as my dd will be disappointed but don't want to spend sooo much money and end up not enjoying ourselves.

Thanks for any assistance you can provide!

 

[teri]

I hate to say this, but that is a VERY busy week. Last year they had to close the gates because of the crowds for 3 or more days of that week.

 

[WebmasterMaryJo]

<font color=navy>We tend to avoid the parks during the week between Christmas and New Years. It is extremely busy, and now with the added attraction of snow, it reaches capacity crowds.

I think you will be spending a lot of time walking with a LOT of people and waiting in long lines. Just MHO

 

[Niagara2]

We were just there at Easter which is also one of the busiest times. On site you have early entry - use it!! Use fast pass in Am too and you will enjoy all the good rides too. We really had no big problems. We thought this busy time was no worst than spring and fall at WDW, which is suppose to be slower. Plan and you will be fine. We found CA to be deserted after the parade. Just get fast pass in AM for Soaring. Do not miss Soaring...it is great!

 

[scrappinmom_2000]

If you're staying on-site, & enter the park early, you can get in. They closed the park last year 4 times between the 26th and 2nd due to capacity. Most folks don't get to DL until about 11:00 a.m. DCA will not be that crowded. There's even a special entrance from GC lodge into DCA. DL doesn't have early entry on Wednesdays & Sundays.

The park decorations will make it worth your while. Our weather is usually pleasant.