Planning first visit

[86cammie]

When is the best time to visit / when is it less crowded? And how many days should I plan to stay?

 

[iceskatejen]

If you're looking for low crowds, the best times are January, Februrary (avoiding holiday weekends), September, November (avoiding Thanksgiving week) and the first couple weeks of December. But, these are times when rides are often down for refurbishment (except in Nov/Dec). I recommend Nov or early Dec because the holidays are pure magic at DL. For a first visit, anywhere from 3-5 days would be good.

 

[LucyKate]

Late November/early December - wonderful holiday makeover and spirit in the parks and no crowds. Mid week crowds always less than weekend, especially Tuesday-Thursday

The graphs here - http://www.scottware.com.au/theme/feature/crowds.htm are useful for tracking crowd patterns.

Stay 3 days minimum - 4-5 would be optimal.

 

[CalGal]

I agree that early Dec. is ideal with the holiday makeovers and low crowds. The weekdays are naturally less crowded than weekends, however, its a good idea to fit in a weekend day during the off season so that you can experience some of the evening shows, including the fabulous "Remember Dreams Come True" fireworks show and/or Fantasmic.

 

[monkeygirl]

As someone who visits Disneyland at least once a month, I'd agree with early December. Also the Haunted Mansion is usually decorated in the theme of "Nightmare Before Christmas"....very cute