My wife and I have been to WDW countless times, we have never been to Disneyland though and are considering a weekend trip to Southern California. We are considering ONE day at Disneyland and would like to go to both parks to hit the highlights. I am not sure how doable this is but I figure that there are some skippable attractions as we don't much care to see the ones that are the same as at WDW. Although I know there are some rides that have the same name but are not the same ride which we would be interested in. That said, what are the things to do and what are the things to skip for someone visiting Disneyland for a day that has been to WDW many many times?
Things to do and things to skip at Disneyland for a WDW veteran
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tobikaye
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I suggest posting this in the Disneyland Forum: https://www.disboards.com/forums/disneyland-california.26/. This is where I have been looking in preparation for a possible trip to DL in the near future.
Some threads I have found helpful:
Some threads I have found helpful:
DisBud
Earning My Ears
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We've only been to DL once and WDW many times as well. Loved DL Pirates. We liked doing the few that aren't at WDW any longer or never were like Mr Toad, Snow White, Alice and Lincoln. Space Mountain and Splash were different, but I preferred WDW versions. I was surprised how much we liked CA. LOVED Carsland and California Screamin. I was hesitant to do TOT as it had just opened as Misson Breakout, but I almost liked it better than TOT, even though that is my favorite ride! We ended up spending more time in CA than I thought when planning.
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Moved this to the DL forum. 
hakepb
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I think you would definitely want MaxPass (I think it’s fast pass you book via app, and you keep booking new ones when you enter the line)
https://disneyland.disney.go.com/guest-services/maxpass/
And Hydroguy’s post is a must-read.
https://disneyland.disney.go.com/guest-services/maxpass/
And Hydroguy’s post is a must-read.
BrianL
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Yes, some of the "same" rides aren't really that similar. Some are exact clones though. Here's what I can tell you, since I am utterly fascinated with the little differences:
DISNEYLAND:
Tiki Room - DL still runs the longer show so if you like this one don't miss it. You can grab a Dole Whip right in the waiting area too!
Jungle Cruise - It's a little shorter at DL and no temple but otherwise the same.
Pirates of the Caribbean - This one is MUCH better at DL. It's longer and has two drops and more scenes.
Haunted Mansion - It is actually slightly shorter than the MK version and some scenes are a little different. It is worth going on to see the new Hatbox Ghost, who is awesome!
Splash Mountain - You sit in single-file logs at DL and some of the scenes are different, but it's mostly the same.
Winnie the Pooh - It's a little different but not a lot. The cars are bee hives but still do the bouncing thing.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad - This is basically the same with some recently added projections in the last cave. They are really cool so this may be worth a go if the line is short.
Fantasyland Dark Rides - So DL still has all the classics here: Pinocchio, Peter Pan, Snow White, Mr. Toad, Alice in Wonderland. Peter Pan is a bit shorter and not quite as good as the MK one so if you are skipping one, this is it.
It's A Small World - It's quite similar, but there are some Disney characters interspersed into the scenes. Do check out the outdoor facade though as it is much cooler than the MK one and they do projections on it at night.
Matterhorn - What? That's not at MK? No, but it kind of is. It is the basis for Space Mountain at MK, so the ride vehicles and track are similar, and it's the same bumpy ride. It's worth doing though.
Gadget's Go Coaster - This is basically exactly like the Barnstormer.
Space Mountain - The DL version is TOTALLY different! It's generally regarded as better, but it's a matter of taste. You sit side-by-side on this one.
Autopia - Longer than the Tomorrowland Speedway, but that's about it.
Star Tours - This is exactly the same except that it has two fewer simulators so expect longer waits.
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters - Buzz is similar but a little better because you can hold your gun as opposed to it being attached to a pivot. It's a little easier to play that way.
CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE
Soarin' - This is identical to the Epcot counterpart but with only two theaters. The line is never as long at CA though.
Grizzly River Rapids - This is like a longer, wetter version of Kali River Rapids. It really is much longer though and more worth the wait. You actually dry off quicker in the warm California sun more than the hot but too humid Orlando climate.
Guardians of the Galaxy Mission Breakout - Well, this was the Tower of Terror, which was actually different than the WDW version. It's similar but the cars do not move through the scenery. The new theme makes it a very different ride.
It's Tough to be a Bug - This is the same show unless it is running a movie preview, which you should also avoid.
Radiator Springs Racers - This is like a bigger, longer version of Test Track, but don't think that means you can miss it. This is top-notch!
Under the Sea - This has a very different looking exterior, but the ride is identical in every way.
Toy Story Mania - This is the same thing, just with an outdoor queue.
That covers the rides I think, however if you are there for one night you may be able to catch some nighttime shows. Fantasmic! has actually been redone at DL and has new scenes and technology. I haven't seen it yet but it may be worth checking out. I do recommend Paint the Night if it is running when you are there and you can only see one thing.
Disneyland is very worth doing for a WDW vet, so have fun!
DISNEYLAND:
Tiki Room - DL still runs the longer show so if you like this one don't miss it. You can grab a Dole Whip right in the waiting area too!
Jungle Cruise - It's a little shorter at DL and no temple but otherwise the same.
Pirates of the Caribbean - This one is MUCH better at DL. It's longer and has two drops and more scenes.
Haunted Mansion - It is actually slightly shorter than the MK version and some scenes are a little different. It is worth going on to see the new Hatbox Ghost, who is awesome!
Splash Mountain - You sit in single-file logs at DL and some of the scenes are different, but it's mostly the same.
Winnie the Pooh - It's a little different but not a lot. The cars are bee hives but still do the bouncing thing.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad - This is basically the same with some recently added projections in the last cave. They are really cool so this may be worth a go if the line is short.
Fantasyland Dark Rides - So DL still has all the classics here: Pinocchio, Peter Pan, Snow White, Mr. Toad, Alice in Wonderland. Peter Pan is a bit shorter and not quite as good as the MK one so if you are skipping one, this is it.
It's A Small World - It's quite similar, but there are some Disney characters interspersed into the scenes. Do check out the outdoor facade though as it is much cooler than the MK one and they do projections on it at night.
Matterhorn - What? That's not at MK? No, but it kind of is. It is the basis for Space Mountain at MK, so the ride vehicles and track are similar, and it's the same bumpy ride. It's worth doing though.
Gadget's Go Coaster - This is basically exactly like the Barnstormer.
Space Mountain - The DL version is TOTALLY different! It's generally regarded as better, but it's a matter of taste. You sit side-by-side on this one.
Autopia - Longer than the Tomorrowland Speedway, but that's about it.
Star Tours - This is exactly the same except that it has two fewer simulators so expect longer waits.
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters - Buzz is similar but a little better because you can hold your gun as opposed to it being attached to a pivot. It's a little easier to play that way.
CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE
Soarin' - This is identical to the Epcot counterpart but with only two theaters. The line is never as long at CA though.
Grizzly River Rapids - This is like a longer, wetter version of Kali River Rapids. It really is much longer though and more worth the wait. You actually dry off quicker in the warm California sun more than the hot but too humid Orlando climate.
Guardians of the Galaxy Mission Breakout - Well, this was the Tower of Terror, which was actually different than the WDW version. It's similar but the cars do not move through the scenery. The new theme makes it a very different ride.
It's Tough to be a Bug - This is the same show unless it is running a movie preview, which you should also avoid.
Radiator Springs Racers - This is like a bigger, longer version of Test Track, but don't think that means you can miss it. This is top-notch!
Under the Sea - This has a very different looking exterior, but the ride is identical in every way.
Toy Story Mania - This is the same thing, just with an outdoor queue.
That covers the rides I think, however if you are there for one night you may be able to catch some nighttime shows. Fantasmic! has actually been redone at DL and has new scenes and technology. I haven't seen it yet but it may be worth checking out. I do recommend Paint the Night if it is running when you are there and you can only see one thing.
Disneyland is very worth doing for a WDW vet, so have fun!
We've done WDW a few times and just got back from our first DLR visit! Brian definitely gave you some great info.
Must do for us? Pirates, Alice, Snow White, Mr Toad, Indiana Jones, Matterhorn, Space Mtn and Toontown. And since we had time, we did the little walkthrough in the castle and Storybook Canal. We also did some favorites - Big Thunder and Haunted Mansion, although those are about the same as WDW.
At DCA, we loved RSR. We also did GotG and enjoyed Monsters Inc (since that isn't at WDW)
We never saw Fantasmic at WDW but we saw it this trip at DL and we were very impressed! Also, maxpass is most definitely worth it. (And FYI, RSR FP run out quickly!)
Have fun!!
Must do for us? Pirates, Alice, Snow White, Mr Toad, Indiana Jones, Matterhorn, Space Mtn and Toontown. And since we had time, we did the little walkthrough in the castle and Storybook Canal. We also did some favorites - Big Thunder and Haunted Mansion, although those are about the same as WDW.
At DCA, we loved RSR. We also did GotG and enjoyed Monsters Inc (since that isn't at WDW)
We never saw Fantasmic at WDW but we saw it this trip at DL and we were very impressed! Also, maxpass is most definitely worth it. (And FYI, RSR FP run out quickly!)
Have fun!!
theluckyrabbit
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This thread (yes, one of HG's!) is a must read: A DLR Guide for WDW Vets.
By the way, what is your visit date? There is a lot of construction going on right now, Pixar Fest is getting ready to start next month (which includes a new fireworks show in DL, a new-to-DL parade, and PTN in DCA), and Pixar Pier will open in June. If you are within 6 weeks of your date, you can check the DLR website or app to see what will be open and running on the entertainment and ride schedule.
By the way, what is your visit date? There is a lot of construction going on right now, Pixar Fest is getting ready to start next month (which includes a new fireworks show in DL, a new-to-DL parade, and PTN in DCA), and Pixar Pier will open in June. If you are within 6 weeks of your date, you can check the DLR website or app to see what will be open and running on the entertainment and ride schedule.
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MouseLover
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Great advice above!
Try to see Paint the Night, don't miss Indy, and def see a night show. I'm in the minority here, but I would see World of Color over Fantasmic.
Try to see Paint the Night, don't miss Indy, and def see a night show. I'm in the minority here, but I would see World of Color over Fantasmic.
gottalovepluto
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MaxPass is a must for you.
DCA: RSR, GOTG, the new Incredicoaster if it's open. Skip: GRR (it's just a rapid ride, great but not worth the soaking/time for you), Soarin (EXACT same as WDW, ok the cue is a lot cooler with all the photos of old aviators and write-ups) but even with a FP you could wait 15-20 mins, no FP and you're looking at 90-120 min wait), TSMM is same.
DL: I'll lap the park in my mind starting in the back with Alice for the dark rides (no other park has it), skip PP for sure, Story Land Canal Boats are a must, Matterhorn is a must, SM is very different, Tiki if you need a break at some point (I like DL's better the smaller theater just seems better but that could be because it's what I grew up with; if you want dole whip go into the tiki room waiting area instead of waiting in the line outside it- they sell out of both sides of the dole whip booth), Indy is MUST DO (don't put it off until last because it breaks a lot, multiple times a day sometimes), POTC is better here (imho because floating by the restaurant and much better drops), HM has hatbox ghost as mentioned above, BTMRR is pretty similar but it's a personal fave so I have trouble saying skip it
(and is easy to get a MP for) and finally the train! I'd do the grand circle tour when you need some time off your feet at DL (the new waterfalls are beautiful and the dinosaurs between tomorrowland and main st have been updated a bit) you can get a feel for the whole park since the train is SO close to everything, it even goes through Small World which is pretty cool!
DCA: RSR, GOTG, the new Incredicoaster if it's open. Skip: GRR (it's just a rapid ride, great but not worth the soaking/time for you), Soarin (EXACT same as WDW, ok the cue is a lot cooler with all the photos of old aviators and write-ups) but even with a FP you could wait 15-20 mins, no FP and you're looking at 90-120 min wait), TSMM is same.
DL: I'll lap the park in my mind starting in the back with Alice for the dark rides (no other park has it), skip PP for sure, Story Land Canal Boats are a must, Matterhorn is a must, SM is very different, Tiki if you need a break at some point (I like DL's better the smaller theater just seems better but that could be because it's what I grew up with; if you want dole whip go into the tiki room waiting area instead of waiting in the line outside it- they sell out of both sides of the dole whip booth), Indy is MUST DO (don't put it off until last because it breaks a lot, multiple times a day sometimes), POTC is better here (imho because floating by the restaurant and much better drops), HM has hatbox ghost as mentioned above, BTMRR is pretty similar but it's a personal fave so I have trouble saying skip it
(and is easy to get a MP for) and finally the train! I'd do the grand circle tour when you need some time off your feet at DL (the new waterfalls are beautiful and the dinosaurs between tomorrowland and main st have been updated a bit) you can get a feel for the whole park since the train is SO close to everything, it even goes through Small World which is pretty cool!
Baptist
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I am a DL and WDW vet and love both.
In my opinion, the hardest decision would be seeing the Frozen live show. It will take some time, but it's one of the best things in Disney. The performance and overall production is amazing. But, do you spend valuable ride time?
Don't say to yourself, well we did the ride at WDW, so let's not do it at DL. For example, Pirates has differences that you will enjoy seeing (except Soarin, but that's a great ride and not to miss).
Always get MaxPass! It's awesome. With park hoppers, you can treat DL and DCA as one giant park.
Have a great time!
In my opinion, the hardest decision would be seeing the Frozen live show. It will take some time, but it's one of the best things in Disney. The performance and overall production is amazing. But, do you spend valuable ride time?
Don't say to yourself, well we did the ride at WDW, so let's not do it at DL. For example, Pirates has differences that you will enjoy seeing (except Soarin, but that's a great ride and not to miss).
Always get MaxPass! It's awesome. With park hoppers, you can treat DL and DCA as one giant park.
Have a great time!
MouseyMin
DIS Veteran
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- Sep 16, 2006
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- 1,214
California Adventure has a beautiful indoor theater with a live production of "Frozen". There's also a cute Monsters Inc. ride.
Fastasyland is huge at DL. Don't miss Alice in Wonderland and Pinocchio rides. Mr. Toad is still there too, and has a fantastic ending. The Small World ride is the original from the World's Fair but has been updated.
Fastasyland is huge at DL. Don't miss Alice in Wonderland and Pinocchio rides. Mr. Toad is still there too, and has a fantastic ending. The Small World ride is the original from the World's Fair but has been updated.
LizzyS
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For a short list, I would say don't miss these attractions at DLR:
-Space Mountain
-Pirates of the Caribbean
-Haunted Mansion (that Hatbox Ghost!)
-the "kiddie" rides in Fantasyland (Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Pinocchio, Alice, Snow White)- I LOVE them and I missed them on our trip to WDW last week!
-Indiana Jones! Dinosaur is cool and the ride vehicle behaves the same as Dinosaur, but I love me some IJ.
-The Matterhorn, which is my favorite ride anywhere, ever.
-Space Mountain
-Pirates of the Caribbean
-Haunted Mansion (that Hatbox Ghost!)
-the "kiddie" rides in Fantasyland (Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Pinocchio, Alice, Snow White)- I LOVE them and I missed them on our trip to WDW last week!
-Indiana Jones! Dinosaur is cool and the ride vehicle behaves the same as Dinosaur, but I love me some IJ.
-The Matterhorn, which is my favorite ride anywhere, ever.
DizneyMommy
Every Day is Disneyland Day!
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You mean huge as in popular right? I wouldn’t describe that tiny cramped, crowded area as huge compared to Fantasyland in WDW! ;-) But we do have all the classic dark rides!
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dmaxphil
DIS Veteran
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I'm a WDW vet who just finished a quick 3 day trip. So I'm a total DL novice. I can't imagine my plan if I only had a day as we had to skip a bunch of stuff during our 3 but we have young kids.
I agree that Maxpass is a must. Rope drop DL. Then, depending on what you prefer (fantasyland vs other).. I'd probably get a fastpass for Big thunder as you walk through gate then do Pirates, Haunted Mansion, BTMR, then get fastpass for Matterhorn. Then hopefully fastpass Space Mountain sometime before noon. Hit Alice, Mr Toad, Pinnochio, Snow White - Maybe Storybook if the line is manageable - then Small World. Once you are able to make next fastpass, start looking at Radiator Springs Racers availability. Actually, probably a good idea to check around 10-11 am. It doesn't take long for the times to get into late afternoon. At some point try to make time to ride Monorail in the front or back. Soarin should be the next Fastpass you try for I think. The rest would be a matter of squeezing in as much of DCA in the time you have left. Crap, I forgot Indiana Jones - it might be the best ride at DL.
Try really hard not miss list:
Pirates
Haunted Mansion
Matterhorn
Indiana Jones
Space Mountain
Radiator Springs Racers
Monorail Ride
Alice
Mr Toad
Small World
Next up:
BTMRR
Soarin
Jungle Cruise - Ok, it's pretty much the same but it's still pretty cool that this was the first attraction they started working on while DL was being built. (planting trees)
Train
Storybook - not because it's any good, but because you've never seen anything like it at WDW
Nemo - if you miss 20,000 Leagues
Grab a Dole Whip from the Tiki Room side of the kiosk while there's a long line in the front. Watch as people give you a go-to-hell look.
Just about all of Paradise Pier was shut down during our trip. My list might change if we had ridden anything there.
I agree that Maxpass is a must. Rope drop DL. Then, depending on what you prefer (fantasyland vs other).. I'd probably get a fastpass for Big thunder as you walk through gate then do Pirates, Haunted Mansion, BTMR, then get fastpass for Matterhorn. Then hopefully fastpass Space Mountain sometime before noon. Hit Alice, Mr Toad, Pinnochio, Snow White - Maybe Storybook if the line is manageable - then Small World. Once you are able to make next fastpass, start looking at Radiator Springs Racers availability. Actually, probably a good idea to check around 10-11 am. It doesn't take long for the times to get into late afternoon. At some point try to make time to ride Monorail in the front or back. Soarin should be the next Fastpass you try for I think. The rest would be a matter of squeezing in as much of DCA in the time you have left. Crap, I forgot Indiana Jones - it might be the best ride at DL.
Try really hard not miss list:
Pirates
Haunted Mansion
Matterhorn
Indiana Jones
Space Mountain
Radiator Springs Racers
Monorail Ride
Alice
Mr Toad
Small World
Next up:
BTMRR
Soarin
Jungle Cruise - Ok, it's pretty much the same but it's still pretty cool that this was the first attraction they started working on while DL was being built. (planting trees)
Train
Storybook - not because it's any good, but because you've never seen anything like it at WDW
Nemo - if you miss 20,000 Leagues
Grab a Dole Whip from the Tiki Room side of the kiosk while there's a long line in the front. Watch as people give you a go-to-hell look.
Just about all of Paradise Pier was shut down during our trip. My list might change if we had ridden anything there.
BrianL
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I think the number of attractions compared to MK's Fantasyland makes it "huge". The walking space, not so much.
While it's smaller in square feet there are SO MANY attractions in DL! I was shocked as a WDW veteran. We did 4 days and still missed some things (probably because we used our fast passes to ride Guardians of the Galaxy 6 times...... amazing)
MouseyMin
DIS Veteran
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I mean the amount of rides is huge (I don't know about square feet). But besides all of the classic dark rides, there is also Alice in Wonderland, Storybookland Canal Ride, and Casey Junior Circus Train. It's a small world is the original from the New York World's Fair and takes up a lot of space as the entrance and exit are outside.
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