Onsite Disneyland Hotels.

[rozpetal]

Do the prices at the Disney hotels go down? I put in our dates and the prices were a lot higher than if you are booking with 6 weeks or less! We are going at one of their quieter times so is it worth waiting until a month before we go to book a room?

 

[Aussiefamof5]

Has anyone ever stayed in any of them? If so, what did you think?
Or, even if you haven't stayed in any of them, which of the 3 would you pick for a one night stay and why?

I made a slight change to my itinerary which now means I have a free night in which to fill.
Also, after getting some really helpful advice here on the Australian boards, I have decided to now visit Universal mid week to avoid paying extra for VIP or front of line passes. Because we'll save quite a bit of money by doing this, it's been easier to justify splashing out on a nice hotel for our extra night. The first thing that came to mind was a Disney owned hotel so we can get EMH for Cars Land.

At present Disneyland Hotel is probably the top contender, but I'm keen to hear people's opinions.

Also, I am open to people suggesting something completely different, such as a night in a nice beach hotel. At present nothing is set in stone.

Hi I would highly reccommend the Disneyland Hotel. We stayed in november this year and it was amazing!!!!! We booked a standard room for 5, upon arrival we were upgraded to a downtown disney view, not sure if they felt sorry for us as we arrived at LAX when the tragic shooting happened, but the view was amazing!!! The room was immaculate, housekeeping were brilliant giving us extra towels and disney H20 toiletries.

The staff at disney were amongst the best in customer service I have come accross, always willing to assist. Tangora terrace had the best food, and the whole site is very private, and extremely modern, and the disney gym is fab.
downtown disney is great being so close by, with plenty of food choices and great shops.

I loved the disney hotel, and we will be staying there again on our return trip in october november 2014.

One tip is if you are staying in anaheim or elswhere do that first and disneyland hotel last, so you will not have the same high expectations at other hotels.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Wanderlust- the GC isn't the same rustic property as WL. We adore wilderness but don't get the same feeling from GC. The GC has a lot of fans and it is so close. I don't mind the walk from the Disneyland Hotel and can always take the monorail into the park. We had booked last year at the GC but changed our reservation back to the Disneyland Hotel. Check out YouTube walkthroughs of each room in the hotels to compare. Personally I feel you get better bang for your buck at DLH and its also cheaper but others disagree. I love the Disney touches such as the mickey taps on the sinks and the castle headboards. I think the GC has a nice lobby but the rooms need improvements for the price.

Thanks Royal Consort. I think I have pretty much eliminated GCH now as a contender. Given the price of this hotel, the only thing that really appeals to me is the look of the lobby and I can visit that at anytime throughout our trip. The location is not really a deal breaker as we will only be there the one night and plan on entering through DCA's main gates on our early entry morning since I've read that this is the better entrance for Cars Land.

I'm a little bit tempted by PPH due to it's price and the fact that you can watch the fireworks from the pool roof followed by WOC from the bedroom window. But overall DLH is the one that I think looks the nicest - especially as far as the grounds, pool, and bedroom decor goes. I just know that my son would love those headboards and monorail slides.

I just need to decide what our plans will be for that Sunday so I can pick the hotel that will suit best. Also, I'm holding out for a bit of a discount before I book.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Do the prices at the Disney hotels go down? I put in our dates and the prices were a lot higher than if you are booking with 6 weeks or less! We are going at one of their quieter times so is it worth waiting until a month before we go to book a room?

I would like to know this also.

It was so easy researching the history of room discounts when we went to WDW, but Disneyland seems to be quite different. I can't even work out from my research when Disneyland set and change their room prices. I'm hoping they don't go up early in the year before I book.

I'm not sure when you're traveling Rozpetal, but I did read one post that said that discounts over Halloween are becoming rarer.

I think I'm going to look out for a good discount code from the likes of Expedia or Travelocity.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Hi I would highly reccommend the Disneyland Hotel. We stayed in november this year and it was amazing!!!!! We booked a standard room for 5, upon arrival we were upgraded to a downtown disney view, not sure if they felt sorry for us as we arrived at LAX when the tragic shooting happened, but the view was amazing!!! The room was immaculate, housekeeping were brilliant giving us extra towels and disney H20 toiletries. The staff at disney were amongst the best in customer service I have come accross, always willing to assist. Tangora terrace had the best food, and the whole site is very private, and extremely modern, and the disney gym is fab. downtown disney is great being so close by, with plenty of food choices and great shops. I loved the disney hotel, and we will be staying there again on our return trip in october november 2014. One tip is if you are staying in anaheim or elswhere do that first and disneyland hotel last, so you will not have the same high expectations at other hotels.

Thanks Aussiefamof5. It's great to hear about your positive experience. I'm thinking of booking a standard room and possibly paying for an upgrade once we get there. If we decide we want to watch the fireworks from the room, I can be quite specific in my upgrade request and only pay if we can get a room with a good view.

Also, it will be our second to last night in California (the last is in an airport hotel) and then (fingers crossed) we will be ending our trip with a stay in Aulani. I'm beyond excited about the prospect of Aulani. The hotel looks stunning.

 

[cola]

I've not stayed at DLH but did do one of the tours, it covered the grounds, each tower, restaurants, but not any rooms. I did not think 'wow, I must stay here one day' (I do think that of lots of WDW resorts) it is a long way away,but there is the monorail.
GC is stunning, but it is a bit dark and gloomy. I had some housekeeping issues there which didn't help. Even if you don't use the entrance to DCA for early entry, the entrance is absolutely amazing for later in the day. Leaving DL my preference was walk straight over to DCA and go through the GC entrance rather than go through Downtown Disney. The GC pool is great. The theming doesn't scream Disney, but it is everywhere.

I'd choose GC over DLH.

 

[Royal Consort]

I would like to know this also.

It was so easy researching the history of room discounts when we went to WDW, but Disneyland seems to be quite different. I can't even work out from my research when Disneyland set and change their room prices. I'm hoping they don't go up early in the year before I book.

I'm not sure when you're traveling Rozpetal, but I did read one post that said that discounts over Halloween are becoming rarer.

From my experience Disneyland sets a room rate each year that doesn't appear to fluctuate that much. That's the price they ask and that's what you are going to pay whether you book now or in several months. Of course if one room sells out you're going to have to pay for a view room etc. One thing to take note, Disneyland raise their ticket prices mid-year. Sometimes the increase can be quite substantial so it may be worth buying these beforehand or booking before this deadline. Disney also 'surprise' you when they do it as they don't give much notice.

Disneyland discounts almost don't happen anymore. Occasionally they may have an offer for 25% off room rate but the window is generally very small and they announce it when it's basically useless for Australians/New Zealanders as we can't plan a trip that short notice. The hotels are always booked solid and they have occupancy rates many hotels would be envious over. Therefore they don't really need to discount at all. They have enough people willing to pay full price. Basically don't worry about researching historical discounts as there is no pattern like WDW and unlikely to occur. If you're lucky and one is released that's a bonus.

 

[zanzibar138]

Oooh lucky duck! I've ALWAYS wanted to stay at the Disneyland Hotel. I love the subtle theming, and I guess I think of it as the original. May as well stay at the original hotel if you're going to the original park

Paradise Pier seems a little tacky to me. At that price, I want to feel like it's going to be a bit luxurious. However, being able to afford concierge level might give you that feeling, as would the views.

I'm a big fan of the lodge style theming, and I've had my eye on the Wilderness Lodge at WDW for years! I even wanted to get married there! However, the GCH doesn't appeal to me as much. I think price is a big factor that puts me off. It doesn't seem like you get much bang for your buck with the rooms. I'm a sucker for a balcony though And it's probably the best location for DCA if that's where you're planning to spend your time that day.

You know what though, at the end of the day, I would be thrilled to stay at any one of them So really, I haven't been any help at all

 

[WanderlustNZ]

So thanks everyone for your advice - I have booked. Travelocity had a $75 off code (which worked out at roughly 17% off the booking) and I figured that this might be as good as it gets so I jumped on it. If not, I can always cancel later on and rebook.

The booking process was a bit of a pain and Travelocity's system didn't book the right number of people (I already need to ring Disney to make some adjustments to my booking), but overall I'm just happy to be booked. I was kind of at the stage where I was beginning to drive myself crazy trying to decide which option would work best and spending way too many hours researching it.

So my booking in the end was for the Disneyland Hotel lower level Deluxe Room. I have pretty much decided that we will go into the park to watch the fireworks and Fantasmic so spending heaps more on a high level room would be a bit of a waste of money. But at the same stage, I wanted to upgrade from a potential car park view, since it is a splurge treat night after all. Our view will either be of the pool or DTD and I have requested DTD. If this doesn't pan out, the pool view looks lovely also.

Our plan is to check in early even though we probably won't get our room, and enjoy the resort for the day.

I'm thinking brunch at Goofy's Kitchen, followed by an afternoon around the pool, followed by a cocktail at Trader Sams. Then perhaps dinner somewhere at DTD and into DL for fireworks and Fantasmic. Then we get to enjoy the fireworks on our headboard, before getting enough sleep so we are up early for Early Entry into DCA. Can't wait!

Just checking, however, does anyone know if there will be a problem with us using the pool before official check-in time. We will have already checked in, but we probably won't have a room. So I'll make sure I have a separate day bag with our swimwear in.

Also, am I right to assume that we can get towels from around the pool?

Lastly, does anyone know if it will it be okay leaving our Car in DLH's park for the whole day of check-out until we pick up our bags late afternoon. If need be, we will pay for an extra day's parking but I hope it doesn't come to that.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

From my experience Disneyland sets a room rate each year that doesn't appear to fluctuate that much. That's the price they ask and that's what you are going to pay whether you book now or in several months. Of course if one room sells out you're going to have to pay for a view room etc. One thing to take note, Disneyland raise their ticket prices mid-year. Sometimes the increase can be quite substantial so it may be worth buying these beforehand or booking before this deadline. Disney also 'surprise' you when they do it as they don't give much notice. Disneyland discounts almost don't happen anymore. Occasionally they may have an offer for 25% off room rate but the window is generally very small and they announce it when it's basically useless for Australians/New Zealanders as we can't plan a trip that short notice. The hotels are always booked solid and they have occupancy rates many hotels would be envious over. Therefore they don't really need to discount at all. They have enough people willing to pay full price. Basically don't worry about researching historical discounts as there is no pattern like WDW and unlikely to occur. If you're lucky and one is released that's a bonus.

Thanks so much Royal Consort. That was the information I needed to know.

I booked yesterday as soon as I saw a deal I was happy with, as it sounds like I shouldn't be holding my breath for better offers.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Oooh lucky duck! I've ALWAYS wanted to stay at the Disneyland Hotel. I love the subtle theming, and I guess I think of it as the original. May as well stay at the original hotel if you're going to the original park Paradise Pier seems a little tacky to me. At that price, I want to feel like it's going to be a bit luxurious. However, being able to afford concierge level might give you that feeling, as would the views. I'm a big fan of the lodge style theming, and I've had my eye on the Wilderness Lodge at WDW for years! I even wanted to get married there! However, the GCH doesn't appeal to me as much. I think price is a big factor that puts me off. It doesn't seem like you get much bang for your buck with the rooms. I'm a sucker for a balcony though And it's probably the best location for DCA if that's where you're planning to spend your time that day. You know what though, at the end of the day, I would be thrilled to stay at any one of them So really, I haven't been any help at all

Lol, it sounds like we have very similar patterns of thinking.

 

[LizfromOz]

Congratulations! One less thing to worry about now, I'm sure you will have a fantastic time.

 

[PrincessInOz]

So thanks everyone for your advice - I have booked. Travelocity had a $75 off code (which worked out at roughly 17% off the booking) and I figured that this might be as good as it gets so I jumped on it. If not, I can always cancel later on and rebook.

The booking process was a bit of a pain and Travelocity's system didn't book the right number of people (I already need to ring Disney to make some adjustments to my booking), but overall I'm just happy to be booked. I was kind of at the stage where I was beginning to drive myself crazy trying to decide which option would work best and spending way too many hours researching it.

So my booking in the end was for the Disneyland Hotel lower level Deluxe Room. I have pretty much decided that we will go into the park to watch the fireworks and Fantasmic so spending heaps more on a high level room would be a bit of a waste of money. But at the same stage, I wanted to upgrade from a potential car park view, since it is a splurge treat night after all. Our view will either be of the pool or DTD and I have requested DTD. If this doesn't pan out, the pool view looks lovely also.

Our plan is to check in early even though we probably won't get our room, and enjoy the resort for the day.

I'm thinking brunch at Goofy's Kitchen, followed by an afternoon around the pool, followed by a cocktail at Trader Sams. Then perhaps dinner somewhere at DTD and into DL for fireworks and Fantasmic. Then we get to enjoy the fireworks on our headboard, before getting enough sleep so we are up early for Early Entry into DCA. Can't wait!

Just checking, however, does anyone know if there will be a problem with us using the pool before official check-in time. We will have already checked in, but we probably won't have a room. So I'll make sure I have a separate day bag with our swimwear in.

Also, am I right to assume that we can get towels from around the pool?

Lastly, does anyone know if it will it be okay leaving our Car in DLH's park for the whole day of check-out until we pick up our bags late afternoon. If need be, we will pay for an extra day's parking but I hope it doesn't come to that.

Congrats! Glad you got in early.

I don't think there will be a problem with using the pool after you've made your way past reception and leaving your bags at bell services before you get your room. I've certainly read a few TRs where other people have done that.

Can't help with the car question.

 

[zanzibar138]

Yay! Congrats

 

[izzybjenn]

We have finally returned from Disney & Disneyland Hotel (yes, some 14 days after we should have but that will be in the trip report). We loved our time at the Disneyland Hotel and can't wait to go back. You will be treated so well.

Goofey's was our fav dining. More because of the "experience" then anything about the food. Which was fine but the characters made it.

We also had concierge. To some this is a luxury but for us a necessity (we have a daughter who has seizures and we didn't know how she would go, so figured at least we will have somewhere to go if she is bad and we can't go to the parks). The staff at this lounge made our stay perfect, even when everything went wrong...TWICE!! Rest assured you are in great hands. Trip report is coming but need to do my photo pass stuff first. Clock is ticking.

 

[MissHippy]

We just got back from GCH and we absolutely loved it. We had a ground floor with a balcony. It had turn down service and the beds were super comfy.

We also loved that you could walk straight into the park from the resort. But then if I'm being honest here, I'd sleep in a cardboard box if it meant being at Disneyland

 

[Aussiefamof5]

So thanks everyone for your advice - I have booked. Travelocity had a $75 off code (which worked out at roughly 17% off the booking) and I figured that this might be as good as it gets so I jumped on it. If not, I can always cancel later on and rebook.

The booking process was a bit of a pain and Travelocity's system didn't book the right number of people (I already need to ring Disney to make some adjustments to my booking), but overall I'm just happy to be booked. I was kind of at the stage where I was beginning to drive myself crazy trying to decide which option would work best and spending way too many hours researching it.

So my booking in the end was for the Disneyland Hotel lower level Deluxe Room. I have pretty much decided that we will go into the park to watch the fireworks and Fantasmic so spending heaps more on a high level room would be a bit of a waste of money. But at the same stage, I wanted to upgrade from a potential car park view, since it is a splurge treat night after all. Our view will either be of the pool or DTD and I have requested DTD. If this doesn't pan out, the pool view looks lovely also.

Our plan is to check in early even though we probably won't get our room, and enjoy the resort for the day.

I'm thinking brunch at Goofy's Kitchen, followed by an afternoon around the pool, followed by a cocktail at Trader Sams. Then perhaps dinner somewhere at DTD and into DL for fireworks and Fantasmic. Then we get to enjoy the fireworks on our headboard, before getting enough sleep so we are up early for Early Entry into DCA. Can't wait!

Just checking, however, does anyone know if there will be a problem with us using the pool before official check-in time. We will have already checked in, but we probably won't have a room. So I'll make sure I have a separate day bag with our swimwear in.

Also, am I right to assume that we can get towels from around the pool?

Lastly, does anyone know if it will it be okay leaving our Car in DLH's park for the whole day of check-out until we pick up our bags late afternoon. If need be, we will pay for an extra day's parking but I hope it doesn't come to that.

Im sure you will love DLH it is really beautiful and modern. I room key is your access to the pool so once they have activated that then you will have access, just ask them at check in. Heaps of towels at the pool and even little life jackets if you have any unsure swimmers, they have lifeguards posted at the pool as well who are very attentive.

Downtown Disney has lots of food choices we love Tortila Joes, and give Tangora Terrace a go at the hotel they have great food and very reasonable prices.

Not sure about the car on day of checkout worthwhile asking at check in

Hope you have a great time

 

[WanderlustNZ]

We have finally returned from Disney & Disneyland Hotel (yes, some 14 days after we should have but that will be in the trip report). We loved our time at the Disneyland Hotel and can't wait to go back. You will be treated so well. Goofey's was our fav dining. More because of the "experience" then anything about the food. Which was fine but the characters made it. We also had concierge. To some this is a luxury but for us a necessity (we have a daughter who has seizures and we didn't know how she would go, so figured at least we will have somewhere to go if she is bad and we can't go to the parks). The staff at this lounge made our stay perfect, even when everything went wrong...TWICE!! Rest assured you are in great hands. Trip report is coming but need to do my photo pass stuff first. Clock is ticking.

.

Looking forward to your TR

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Im sure you will love DLH it is really beautiful and modern. I room key is your access to the pool so once they have activated that then you will have access, just ask them at check in. Heaps of towels at the pool and even little life jackets if you have any unsure swimmers, they have lifeguards posted at the pool as well who are very attentive. Downtown Disney has lots of food choices we love Tortila Joes, and give Tangora Terrace a go at the hotel they have great food and very reasonable prices. Not sure about the car on day of checkout worthwhile asking at check in Hope you have a great time

Thanks Aussiefamof5. Did you try the Sunday brunch at Ralph Brennan's by any chance? I can't decide whether to book that or Goofy's for the day we'll be there. Either way, we'll do a character breakfast at some stage during our trip.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Thanks everyone for your advice and congratulations. It's only one night, but I can't wait.

I still have moments where I feel a tad disappointed we're not returning to WDW instead, but now that we'll be getting at least a taste of onsite Disney magic, I aren't missing WDW quite as much.