Should I skip the rides that I've been on at DLR for our first WDW trip?

[SFMommy]

We are a California family that has and will continue to visit DLR many times (at least every 2 years, if not more often).

I am planning a trip to WDW in 2016 and it will probably be our only visit there while our DD is a child. I don't know if we'll ever get back there due to distance and cost.

So my question is, am I right in making touring plans focused on attractions that are not offered in DLR?

Right now I am focused on fitting in the attractions that I will never get to see in DLR...Enchanted Tales with Belle, Mine Train, Barnstormer, Philharmagic, everything in AK, Test Track, Great Movie Ride, Rock n Roller Coaster, etc. I am not that interested in trying to accommodate rides like Soarin, Toy Story Midway Mania, Pirates, Jungle Cruise, Haunted Mansion, etc.

It seems to me like there are so many shows, resorts, restaurants and other "new" things that I would like to focus on. I can't imagine fitting everything in and don't want to "waste" our time doing attractions that we have done many many times already. Do other DLR vets do the same?

BTW - we will be touring during a very busy time...either Easter or Thanksgiving.

Thanks!

 

[Reddog1134]

I feel that Haunted Mansion and Tower of Terror are not only different enough in WDW to warrant a visit, they are also better (2 of the few rides that are).

The other ones, I pretty much agree. Concentrate on the new, and then do the familiar if you have time.

 

[alvernon90]

I think this is pretty subjective, but I will say that our plan is to skip Toy Story Midway Mania and Soarin' Over Some Place We Dare Not Name. Neither attraction adds anything over the DL counterpart except insanely long lines. Since both WDW versions fall into FP tiers and have insanely long lines from rope drop, you might make better use of your time exploring WDW exclusives rather than hitting these.

 

[MillauFr]

I feel that Haunted Mansion and Tower of Terror are not only different enough in WDW to warrant a visit, they are also better (2 of the few rides that are).

The other ones, I pretty much agree. Concentrate on the new, and then do the familiar if you have time.

Agreed. I would add Jungle Cruise. I liked going though the temple.

Yes many of the rides are a skip. In some cases the Disneyworld equivalent is far inferior, Pirates, Indy Speedway, Buzz, Space Mountain.

 

[hookedonears]

We are a California family that has and will continue to visit DLR many times (at least every 2 years, if not more often).

I am planning a trip to WDW in 2016 and it will probably be our only visit there while our DD is a child. I don't know if we'll ever get back there due to distance and cost.

So my question is, am I right in making touring plans focused on attractions that are not offered in DLR?

Right now I am focused on fitting in the attractions that I will never get to see in DLR...Enchanted Tales with Belle, Mine Train, Barnstormer, Philharmagic, everything in AK, Test Track, Great Movie Ride, Rock n Roller Coaster, etc. I am not that interested in trying to accommodate rides like Soarin, Toy Story Midway Mania, Pirates, Jungle Cruise, Haunted Mansion, etc.

It seems to me like there are so many shows, resorts, restaurants and other "new" things that I would like to focus on. I can't imagine fitting everything in and don't want to "waste" our time doing attractions that we have done many many times already. Do other DLR vets do the same?

BTW - we will be touring during a very busy time...either Easter or Thanksgiving.

Thanks!

There are subtle differences between most of the attractions of the 2 parks. Some better at WDW, some better at DL, some very little difference.
IMO, Space Mt. is much better at DL then it is at WDW. Unless you just want to see the difference, I'd wait on that one.
IMO, Winnie the Pooh is much better at DL then it is at WDW. Same as above.

 

[soniam]

That's what we did when we did DLR, since we had been to WDW, except for Pirates, JC, and HM. You could also skip Test Track, if you are short on time. Radiator Springs Racers is far superior.

 

[Luckymommatoo]

You definitely have the right idea. We are DL locals who met family at WDW this summer. While we skipped some of the duplicates, some we rode to stay with family. My kids were hilariously indignant about Pirates. "How can it be over?? We just got on!" Definitely skip Pirates, Space Mtn., Buzz, Small World. I know the general consensus is that HM at MK is better, but the only thing we noticed was that we preferred the hitchhiking ghosts at the end in MK. It wasn't a major deal to us, though, so I do think you could skip that.

It was fun for us to keep our eyes open and seek out the different magic in FL. We were able to be a little less ride-focused, which was kind of nice. Enjoy!

 

[SFMommy]

Thank you!

Is there a thread that helps a DLR know what a WDW ride is comparable to at DLR? For example, I can ride BTMM and the Matterhorn, but Star Tours and Space would make me throw up! I'm trying to determine if I can ride Rock n Roll, Everest, Barnstormer, Mine Train, etc. or if I will get sick! I just can't tell from the description and videos.

 

[TXAKDisneyFan]

I think this is pretty subjective, but I will say that our plan is to skip Toy Story Midway Mania and Soarin' Over Some Place We Dare Not Name. Neither attraction adds anything over the DL counterpart except insanely long lines. Since both WDW versions fall into FP tiers and have insanely long lines from rope drop, you might make better use of your time exploring WDW exclusives rather than hitting these.

I thought I'd read that when the Soarin' videos are redone, the versions at DLR and WDW will be different? Something about the WDW version showing scenes from around the world, or at least across the US?

I'd definitely say do NOT miss ToT. The Hollywood Studios version is far superior to the DCA one.

I also prefer Splash Mountain at WDW.

Even though the DLR version of PotC is longer (and generally better), would a visit be warranted after the upcoming extended refurb is completed?

 

[TXAKDisneyFan]

Thank you!

Is there a thread that helps a DLR know what a WDW ride is comparable to at DLR? For example, I can ride BTMM and the Matterhorn, but Star Tours and Space would make me throw up! I'm trying to determine if I can ride Rock n Roll, Everest, Barnstormer, Mine Train, etc. or if I will get sick! I just can't tell from the description and videos.

Star Tours (the new version) is the only Disney ride that I've ever felt sick on. I was nauseated for a good hour after getting off.

If you have trouble with Space Mountain, I'd say Rockin Roller Coaster is out. It's a 'real' coaster (goes upside down), mostly in the dark (there are neon signs along the track). I consider Expedition Everest to be a fairly tame, smooth, coaster, but still a favorite. It's not in the dark like Space Mountain and RRC. One of the saving graces for me is that it doesn't really have straight drops, you kind of swoop, so my stomach doesn't jump like it doesn't on Splash Mountain, for instance.

I've never been on the SDMT, but I most often see it compared to a tamer BTMR. I've read it's a smooth, short ride (disappointingly short?) The Barnstormer is a kiddie ride; DD went when she was I think 3 and was fine.

 

[SFMommy]

I'd definitely say do NOT miss ToT. The Hollywood Studios version is far superior to the DCA one.

My DH and I went on ToT once pre-kid. He screamed so loud that I thought someone was stabbing him!

Our DD8 doesn't like to walk anywhere near ToT and changes the channel if there is a DLR commercial with the ToT hotel on it. So it is a must-NOT-do attraction for our family!

 

[chalee94]

Is there a thread that helps a DLR know what a WDW ride is comparable to at DLR? For example, I can ride BTMM and the Matterhorn, but Star Tours and Space would make me throw up! I'm trying to determine if I can ride Rock n Roll, Everest, Barnstormer, Mine Train, etc. or if I will get sick! I just can't tell from the description and videos.

it's hard to tell exactly. RNR coaster is similar to california screamin (except for no big drop and RNR is indoors). expedition everest is probably worth a shot but it might be a little uncomfortable in places. the other wdw coasters are pretty tame.

make sure you check out this thread if you haven't already:

http://www.disboards.com/threads/an-introduction-to-wdw-for-dlr-vets.1332683/#post-16541636

 

[dwheaton]

I think like others have said, it depends on the ride. Pirates isn't necessary, though it is interesting to see how different (and short) it is compared to DLR. I would do Haunted Mansion and Splash, which both feel different. I'll also add to the other comment that Tower of Terror is a must do in Florida. It all depends on how much you're into the rides in the first place.

That said, since you have limited time and want to visit the other big resort (which is great), I agree that focusing on new experiences is the way to go.

 

[DizDaD7]

My first question to the Original Poster would be this? For How long are you going for ? Park days ? & will you be having park hoppers....

Then I'll be able to give you my lil bit of advice..

 

[HydroGuy]

I feel that Haunted Mansion and Tower of Terror are not only different enough in WDW to warrant a visit, they are also better (2 of the few rides that are).

The other ones, I pretty much agree. Concentrate on the new, and then do the familiar if you have time.

I agree with this and pretty much all the advice everyone has given you here so far.

I also second (or third) the questions on how many days you will have. I would encourage you if possible to plan at least seven days at WDW. Two days each at Epcot and MK, and one day each at AK and DHS. And then take a day off at the half way point to hang at the pool, see a show or go to a water park. Something more relaxing with time for everyone to sleep in that day and rebuild energy. I highly recommend not to go commando at WDW or by day 4 you will be dragging something awful.

If you have less days than the above then your plan to prioritize rides is even more important. If you have more days then it is less important to prioritize.

Other quick advice is to skip Fantasmic! It just can't compare with DL's version. But do plan to see Illuminations at Epcot. Shows I would also recommend are Festival of the Lion King and Flights of Wonder at AK, and Light, Motor, Action at DHS.

And make sure to put some effort into dining reservations. Have a great trip!

 

[DizDaD7]

I agree with this and pretty much all the advice everyone has given you here so far.

I also second (or third) the questions on how many days you will have. I would encourage you if possible to plan at least seven days at WDW. Two days each at Epcot and MK, and one day each at AK and DHS. And then take a day off at the half way point to hang at the pool, see a show or go to a water park. Something more relaxing with time for everyone to sleep in that day and rebuild energy. I highly recommend not to go commando at WDW or by day 4 you will be dragging something awful.

If you have less days than the above then your plan to prioritize rides is even more important. If you have more days then it is less important to prioritize.

Other quick advice is to skip Fantasmic! It just can't compare with DL's version. But do plan to see Illuminations at Epcot. Shows I would also recommend are Festival of the Lion King and Flights of Wonder at AK, and Light, Motor, Action at DHS.

And make sure to put some effort into dining reservations. Have a great trip!

This... Exactly...

 

[SplashMo]

Thank you!

Is there a thread that helps a DLR know what a WDW ride is comparable to at DLR? For example, I can ride BTMM and the Matterhorn, but Star Tours and Space would make me throw up! I'm trying to determine if I can ride Rock n Roll, Everest, Barnstormer, Mine Train, etc. or if I will get sick! I just can't tell from the description and videos.

Mine Train will be fine. Mission Space orange may cause issues for you. Barnstormer should be fine.

That leaves RNR and Everest. I would spit the difference and say go on Everest and skip RNR. But that is just a call. Hard to decide...

 

[DizDaD7]

Mine Train will be fine. Mission Space orange may cause issues for you. Barnstormer should be fine.

That leaves RNR and Everest. I would spit the difference and say go on Everest and skip RNR. But that is just a call. Hard to decide...

Besides what you wrote, I liked it, especially because of your Screename....It's My absolute Fav. ride of any here or anywhere...It epitomizes all that Disney is..

 

[bumbershoot]

I would add Jungle Cruise. I liked going though the temple.

IMO, Space Mt. is much better at DL then it is at WDW. Unless you just want to see the difference, I'd wait on that one.
IMO, Winnie the Pooh is much better at DL then it is at WDW. Same as above.

You could also skip Test Track, if you are short on time. Radiator Springs Racers is far superior.

I agree with all of the above.

SF, can you ride Screamin'? If not, I wouldn't do RocknRoller Coaster. It corkscrews at the beginning during the launch, which makes it so much harder than Screamin's launch. And it's in the dark. The rest of it is jerky and painful IMO. If you can ride Screamin' I would consider Expedition, but RnR is still questionable. Remember with Expedition, you don't go upside down, no matter how much it feels like it during the backwards portion.

If you're staying onsite, be sure to tune the TV to the Stacey channel for the "Disney Must Dos". She's a fun and perky tourguide and there's nothing like it at DLR's onsite hotels. Nice to have her on while you're getting ready for bed or getting up in the morning.

 

[disneycat321]

We've visited WDW twice, and both times we were DLR locals and visited VERY frequently (2-3 times per month at least). We pretty much had the same strategy as you. Prioritize things that are not at DLR. Then there are rides that are at DLR and WDW but are different at WDW, so those were second priority. Then there were the identical rides that have enormous lines at WDW and just weren't worth the wait for us.

Here's how that looked for us:
Epcot - Still have never been on Soarin at WDW. Line is way too long. Everything else is different.
We are obsessed with WS. That's where we spend 90% of our Epcot time. But we don't have kids yet.

AK - Dinosaur is super different from Indiana Jones, so that's a priority. Actually, everything at AK is different. (I guess Kali River Rapids is similar to Grizzly River Run. We've never done Kali though.)
Finding Nemo and Festival of the Lion King are both amazing shows!

HS - We've always skipped TSMM. The line is too long. DO NOT skip ToT. The WDW version is very different than the DCA version, and better, IMO. We skipped Star Tours also, because of the line.
EDIT: I just noticed you'll be skipping ToT and Star Tours anyway. Sorry!

MK -
1st tier (totally different attractions not at DLR): We definitely always hit Philharmagic, Monsters Inc Laugh Floor, and People Mover. We've never been there for SDMT, but we would include that. Oh, and we really like Hall of Presidents!
2nd tier (pretty different): HM, Splash, Space (though the DLR version is SO much better - we wouldn't do a long line for SM at WDW.)
3rd tier (basically the same): Everything else. Though we did enjoy BTMRR and JC. We won't wait in long lines for any of the identical attractions, but we'll ride them if we have a chance.

We had a lot of fun riding Barnstormer and Dumbo over and over again (no line) during night EMH when we went on our last trip. And on our last trip, we went at rope drop and quickly hit all the mountains within the first hour and a half or so. But yes, our priorities are always the "1st tier" rides.

A side note - Downtown Disney is SO MUCH BETTER in FL. Like, it doesn't even compare. The resorts, too. And the water parks are also a lot of fun.


Edit: I agree with PPs - RnRC is really intense. If you have trouble on SM, I would skip it. Everest is also very intense, though not as much as RnRC. DO NOT do Mission Space orange. DH and I have no problems with rides or motion sickness, but we didn't like the orange side at all. We both got headaches. Now we stick to the green side and are just fine.