New to Disney land

[lesled]

Hi,
We have been to WDW about 30 times.
I would like to try Disney land for a change.
We are thinking about 12/26/12-12/31/12.
Couple of ???

Are we crazy for going this time of year? (crowded)
Does DL ever offer the Free Dining plan like WDW does?
Is it worth staying on site or paying far less for a hotel less than a mile away?
Is 4 days in the parks enough for a first visit?
Do the Disneyland have resort mugs like WDW?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Angel Ariel]

I haven't been to DL at that time of year, but I have heard it's crowded during that time.

DL doesn't have a dining plan like WDW does at all.

IME, it's absolutely worth staying off-site. We enjoy the Tropicana - it was $100/night when we stayed there, and it's closer to the park entrance than the other hotels (save GCH) are.

4 days should definitely be enough.

I haven't stayed on site at DL, so I am not sure on the resort mugs - but I don't think so.

 

[jlmarr]

Start with Hydroguys tips (a sticky note at the top of the forum):

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

As for your questions:

- Yes, the week between Christmas and New Year's is crazy crowded.

- No free dining plan.

- Your best value is to stay off-site, which can be literally across the street.

- 4 days is plenty if you're familiar with WDW.

 

[merrrydeath]

I think if you are prepared for crowds, and read through other threads on how to deal with them, then you should be fine. The Holiday Season is beautiful.

There is no Free Dining Plan. DL has a dining plan but most everyone advises against it because they are basically vouchers worth a certain dollar amount that you do not get change from. So either you pay partially out of pocket, or lose money.

If you feel you want the all-encompassing Disney environment, then stay on site. If you'd prefer to pay less, there are a good number of hotels on Harbor Blvd. that are actually a closer walk than DLH and PPH.

I've never been that close to Christmas so I'm not sure about 4 days. In general, I'd say yes 4 days is a good amount.

They have mugs, but if you really mean can you buy one and get refills everywhere then no.

 

[skiingfast]

You really should read these threads. Then you will be better prepared to ask questions.

DL tips for WDW vets by Hydroguy

 

[Funball]

you will also need park maps of the parks. real actual park maps .. and i am the park map girls if you have enough pm's just me and i will tell you how to get your maps, its a free thing i offer to dis board members to plans trips!

 

[lesled]

Thanks so much.
You have all answered my questions in one place.
I didn't have to go searching thru pages of theads.

I think we will try it at that time and stay off-site.
The tropicana looks cool.
Thanks again!!

 

[jlmarr]

Sure. Btw, it's all one word - "Disneyland".

 

[SplashMo]

Staying on-site should insure admitance into the park on crowded days??? SOmeone will know for sure. It use to be this way.

Also CGH is amazing. If you can stomach the price you wont be disapointed...