I've never been to Disneyland

[Carolynleanne]

We almost always do 5 days in the Parks. We're from Canada, so we aren't local and can't get there as much as we'd like. And with two kids under the age of 4, we need as many days as possible so that we can take breaks for naps, early bedtimes, etc. On our upcoming trip we'll have 3 full days and 2 half days - it'll be the least we've ever done so I'm trying to plan extra well!

 

[TeresaR]

You may also want to consider also going to Knott's Berry Farm (about 20 minutes away) or Universal Studios as well. Another tip is to try and plan to be in Carsland at dusk to see the Sh-Boom and lights coming on. And take time to visit the Gallery that is in with Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. I think they still have a mock up of Walt's office.

 

[kjetjl]

We did 3 day park hoppers and I wish we had at least 1 more day because there were things we missed that I really wanted to do. My son is active duty military so we had a great deal on the tickets and could not justify the added cost. But if we ever go again, I would definitely do 4 or 5 days. When we go to Disney World, we usually go pretty hardcore for the first 4 days at each park and then take a more relaxed pace to do each park again to cover what we missed and ride our favorites a second (or third time) and then we usually do a bonus MK day. We never park hop at Disney World but it was very easy to park hop between Disneyland and California Adventure. Have a great time! I loved our trip. I felt like a little kid experiencing all the new things at Disneyland.

 

[JadeDarkstar]

I highly suggest 5 day park hoppers. Those who say you cans ee it all in 3 are crazy in my book. DL has more to see and do then wdw if you add it all up. (from what I have heard.) Dl has more rides.
I always do 5 days and only even consider a 3 day trip when I am trying to give my self the idea that I can do it cheap and quick. However it always ends up at least 5 days in the park.
When they had 6 and 7 day hoppers I did those too. I hate that they changed it where they don't offer them any more.


This is a post I did a few days ago to another poster with same type of question as yours. I thought I'd post it for you to se if any of it also helps you.

One thing I would say is make sure to look at the harbor hotels. Like Best western is right across the street. As you know WDW you may not understand the hotels at the cross walk are only 5 mins from the gate.
With your kids I highly suggest Minnie and friends as your Chr meal if you only do one. This one has 7-12 chrs each time we have been their.
Don't be afraid to take it slow, and try to go for 4 or 5 days and hoppers.
You may be surprised to know DL has as many rides or more (?) then wdw.
Don't skip Toon Town, I suspect it will be gone soon but as we have not heard of it going byebye yet I think next year you would be able to see it before it closes. Toon town is not my fav, however it is a place every one should see once.
Take your time, enjoy main street. , take a tour if you can.
Remember this was Walt's park. He walked Disney Land.