Newbie Parking ??

[twitch]

We've been to the park once, and it seemed like we drove all around Robin Hood's Barn to get to the Toy Story parking lot, which seems like it wasn't the best parking lot.

On Thursday, I'll be driving north on I-5, probably arriving about 8am (intending to go to DCA for 9am open).

What's the best way to the best parking area? (It seems like the best M&F approach is a southbound ramp only?)

 

[SMD]

M&F and TS are both in Waze. You can get directions from the app.

 

[Darkbeer1]

Since you said "We", the best option going north on I-5 (San Diego area, and of course south Orange County) is to use the special carpool lane (only requires 2 or more people) om I-5, and then take the special Disney Way carpool exit, this will place you west bound on Disney Way, at the end of the roadway, make a left turn (south) onto Harbor and stay in the left lane. Make a left at Convention Way, and that takes you direct to the toll booths for the parking lot.

 

[Nonsuch]

Navigation apps and other mapping programs do not utilize HOV (carpool) lanes and exits.

A variation on the PP:

• Stay in the HOV lane on 5 North
• Take the HOV exit to Disney Way (this is from the #1, left lane)
• Left at the first signal, Gene Autry Way
• Left on Haster Street
• Right on Orangewood Avenue
• Right on Harbor Blvd
• Right into Toy Story Parking Lot

 

[Darkbeer1]

I need to correct nonsuch a bit.

Ever since Gene Autry Way was extended west over I-5, the freeway signage clearly states "Gene Autry Way" and "Disney Way" as two separate carpool exits, so if you want the second option, It should state "Take the HOV exit to Gene Autry Way". Just a heads up.

 

[twitch]

Thanks for the detailed instructions that include the HOV info. There are two of us, so that is definitely preferred.

I take it, from your responses, that the easiest lot for traffic from the south is the Toy Story lot, and that I shouldn't bother with M&F?

 

[Darkbeer1]

Yes, the Toy Story Lot is actually preferred by some AP holders, and they take the Disney Way exit (main exit) from Southbound I-5.

Benefits of the Toy Story lot, usually faster parking including less wait at the booths, and less driving in the lot, which is a ground level lot.

The Shuttle Buses are easier to access and less walking as compared to the Mickey and Friends Shuttle trams.

Main drawback, lack of shade as compared to a structure.

 

[Winnowill]

I will never again park in the M&F lot if I can possibly avoid it. Not because of anything wrong with the lot itself, but those trams at the end of the night are murder, whereas the Toy Story shuttles are nice, air-conditioned buses, easily accessed without enormous crowds trying to get on them.