This is my 2nd trip to Disneyland but the last time we went was for 1 day only (and there were no crowds, we walked on a lot of rides and were able to get a lot done in both parks!). We didn't reallly have a plan when we went.
I have been to WDW several times, armed with lots of research and Tour Guide Mike. I guess this is making me feel somewhat unprepared for our trip to Disneyland in July.
We will be there July 17 - 20. We are staying at an offsite hotel about a block from the park. I bought 4 day park hoppers online with one magic morning entrance. There are two of us.
I know that July 17 is the park's anniversary. My husband's cousin works at Disneyland and he couldn't get us in for free because it is a blackout period on their passes. So I am assuming it will be BUSY!
So here are a few of my questions...
1) I already booked two meals. I was surprised that you don't receive a confirmation number. The woman I spoke to said they go by your name only. Should I be worried about this? I have never made a meal reservation at Disneyland before, only at WDW.
2) We are thinking about booking the Welcome to Disneyland Tour. Is it worth it?
3) Should we use Ridemax?
4) If it is going to be as busy as I imagine, will the park get so busy that they shut down? Our style of park touring is probably more relaxed (I used to be really commando and my family hated that, including my teen daughter). We usually visit WDW early in the morning, then head back to hotel for break and return in evening. Will this be an issue at DL if parks are busy?
5) Is there anything else I need to know?
Thanks so much for reading and sorry so long! Just really nervous since the trip seems to be approaching fast!
Thanks,
Jes
I have been to WDW several times, armed with lots of research and Tour Guide Mike. I guess this is making me feel somewhat unprepared for our trip to Disneyland in July.
We will be there July 17 - 20. We are staying at an offsite hotel about a block from the park. I bought 4 day park hoppers online with one magic morning entrance. There are two of us.
I know that July 17 is the park's anniversary. My husband's cousin works at Disneyland and he couldn't get us in for free because it is a blackout period on their passes. So I am assuming it will be BUSY!
So here are a few of my questions...
1) I already booked two meals. I was surprised that you don't receive a confirmation number. The woman I spoke to said they go by your name only. Should I be worried about this? I have never made a meal reservation at Disneyland before, only at WDW.
2) We are thinking about booking the Welcome to Disneyland Tour. Is it worth it?
3) Should we use Ridemax?
4) If it is going to be as busy as I imagine, will the park get so busy that they shut down? Our style of park touring is probably more relaxed (I used to be really commando and my family hated that, including my teen daughter). We usually visit WDW early in the morning, then head back to hotel for break and return in evening. Will this be an issue at DL if parks are busy?
5) Is there anything else I need to know?
Thanks so much for reading and sorry so long! Just really nervous since the trip seems to be approaching fast!
Thanks,
Jes
You have ample time at the DLR and will enjoy the visit much more if you are relaxed and take things easy. As for the dining reservations, you really do only need your name. I think your plan of getting there early (like opening early) is a great idea - the crowds are generally minimal at this time and same with early entry. I wouldn't be concerned that the park would reach capacity - but if it did you could always head over to DCA for a few hours. 
