How is traffic in So. Cal. for driving to DL?

[ExcitedMama]

I'm planning on taking the kids solo to DL from Newport Beach the first week of Dec. DH will be at a conference so I'll have the kids M-F which seems like a great time to take them to Disney. I'm hoping crowds will be light because I don't think schools are out the week after Thanksgiving (right?) but I have no idea if that route is at all busy during rush hour mornings. Should I just get up and head to the park for openings or will we be sitting in traffic? My kids are little (4 and 2) so I don't want to force them to sit in traffic too long if we could just get there quickly later.

 

[Fantaluminishes]

Newport to Anaheim is generally not that bad. You'll probably notice traffic in the reverse direction. Plus, you can use the carpool lane, which also has its own exit to Disney Way. Depending on where you'll be in Newport, plan on about 30 to 35 minutes driving time to DLR.

 

[Godzilla55]

The week after thanksgiving has been traditionally a great week to be in the parks. We used to go there every year before the kids were in school. My cousins that lived in So Cal clued us in to visit that week, or the week before thanksgiving. I know the parks are busier now then they were 5 and 6 years ago, but still a great time to go. The Christmas theming is amazing. Keep in mind you will likely find shorter park hours, so getting there for park opening will pay dividends. Enjoy your trip, and please report back what you thought of the crowds.

 

[ExcitedMama]

Thanks so much! Any tips on parking? Does it matter which garage or entrance I take in?

 

[mrkyyyle]

As mentioned the 55 North/5 North at that time is opposite traffic mostly so shouldn't be a tough drive.

Regarding parking - I generally park at the big parking structure if I am going for more than a few hours. There are a variety of surface lots with buses running as well.