New to DL...best Good Neighbor suites and other questions?

[doclegler]

We've never done DL, and plan to this spring/summer. So many questions, so little time! We have done WDW 8 times, but we've never even set foot in CA!
First, what is the best suite deal in the area? We are a family of 5, so we need the space, but at a discount if possible. Also, is there a discount website for tickets to the 2 parks?
What are the best restaurants for kids? We've always done character meals at WDW, but any type of restaurant would do for us.
Thanks so much. I'm really at a loss in CA!

 

[marcielm]

I've recently started looking at DL for another client (with a family of 6) and her choices were coming up as the Anaheim Marriott & the Staybridge Suites (by Holiday Inn). They were considerable cheaper than the 3 "onsite properties" for DL. Right now if you travel before the end of April, DL has a buy 3, get 2 free promo... much like WDW's buy 4, get 3 deal.

I've been told by several people that the "dining plan" at DL isn't worth it, just pay out of pocket. BUT there is a way to add 1 or 2 character meals to your reservation. One for a resort location, and a second for a "premium" character meal, which is one in the parks.

Edited to add: Both of the above hotels have a breakfast included, plus a fridge & microwave in the rooms. This were a plus for my friend (and client) as she was hoping to save $$ on food expenses!

 

[HydroGuy]

We've never done DL, and plan to this spring/summer. So many questions, so little time! We have done WDW 8 times, but we've never even set foot in CA!
First, what is the best suite deal in the area? We are a family of 5, so we need the space, but at a discount if possible. Also, is there a discount website for tickets to the 2 parks?
What are the best restaurants for kids? We've always done character meals at WDW, but any type of restaurant would do for us.
Thanks so much. I'm really at a loss in CA!

I have lots of reading for you that will get you up to speed in no time.

First, this thread from my favorite poster HydroGuy () gets lots of mileage around here. It will answer most of your questions plus more you did not think of yet. Last I checked it had been viewed 25,000 times.

"A DLR Guide for WDW Vets" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

I would encourage you to think summer 2010 rather than spring. The Rivers of America will be drained in early January for refurb which means no Fantasmic until June and no Mark Twain, Pirates Lair on TSI (aka PLATSI), SS Columbia, or DC Canoes until May.

There is a a major new show coming to DCA called World of Color reported to debut April 24. Crowds will be insane in ways you have never seen at WDW because of the different crown mix at DLR (lots of devoted Disney fans who live in SoCal and visit DLR frequently). Crowds will still be bad after June but if it were me I would go after the SoCal AP blockout goes into effect. See these threads for more information on this trend:

"The Psychology of the DLR Annual Pass Holder" http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2244322

"At DLR now, a few thoughts UPDATED with additional thoughts p.2 "
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2342114

New Al Lutz: AP Holders Nearing 1 Million, Captain EO to Return in Feb

Al Lutz - New DLR Prez, World of Color to open April 24, Passes needed to see WoC?

AL Lutz Update - Captain EO Under Debate, MI Laugh Factory Coming to DL

Al Lutz June 16 Update - Summer Nightastic Crowds


Moving on, there are some good hotel links in this thread:

"HydroGuy's Hotel Rule" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1199862

They have mini-suites at BWPPI. There is a Residence Inn about 0.75 miles away from the DLR gates.

Discount tickets can be found at Get Away Today and ARES.

If you go in the summer here are some touring tips: "Getting The Most Out of a Summer Visit To DLR" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1345319

Make sure you understand Magic Mornings: "Magic Morning (Early Entry) Super Thread" by DLR29 www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1675403

Here is what to expect for park hours, etc.: "Historical DLR Park Hours, Entertainment and Refurbs" - www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2291124

Have a great trip!

 

[doclegler]

Thanks so much! Awesome info to start my planning!