Hypothetical Question

[Annie&Hallie'sMom]

If I were going to fly from the east coast to CA just to go to DL, to which airport would you recommend? Which hotel would you recommend? (on property). How many days (have never been there before). And where would you eat?

 

[Michelle]

I would recommend flying in to John Wayne Airport (SNA) as it is a smaller airport and closer to Anaheim. However, it's usually cheaper to fly in to LAX.

If you want to stay onsite I'd choose the Grand Californian or Disneyland Hotel.

If you are just planning on doing the Disney parks, a 3-4 stay would be ideal. If you want to spend some time visiting other Southern California attractions then I'd stretch it to 5-6 days.

There are several great places to eat at the hotels, Downtown Disney and in the parks...too many to list.

 

[teri]

I agree, SNA is much better than LAX. I spent 3 hours in LAX last night when our plane was delayed... I was wishing we were stuck at SNA, I would have hopped back over to Disneyland for another hour!

The Disneyland Hotel is much cooler for kids - great pool, cool restaurants, more features, bigger rooms. The Grand Californian is more convenient to the parks, more upscale, nicer for adults. I just got back from the GC - it was quite nice, but I do like the DLH better.

There are WAAAAAAAAAAY too many nice places to eat! And I have to say, after this trip, I don't think 4 days is enough time if you really want to experience Downtown Disney and resorts in addition to both parks. If you just want to do the parks and are not into dining, 3-4 days is OK.