Thinking of going Disneyland next summer, tips, info, review, do's don'ts etc

[mikewdw]

thinking of driving to Disney Land next summer with kids, sort of see the country thing before they get to old. anyone have tips on how/what to do Disneyland? been WDW 20+times so would be totally new experience for us. any info/advice appreciated
thanks
mikewdw

 

[soniam]

I like the Unofficial Guide to Disneyland. It's more common there for people to stay offsite, because there are hotels right across the street. If you are used to moderates or deluxes, over maybe even values, the hotels near the main gate will probably disappoint. However, they are incredibly cheaper than the DLR hotels. You probably won't need as much time either, 3 or 4 days max. We really liked it and hope to get back once Star Wars Land opens. I felt it was different enough from WDW, that it didn't feel boring or repetitive. Also, you can't plan out dining as far in advance. It's easier and more frustrating

 

[Pesky]

Head down to the Disneyland board. There is a sticky there by hydroguy I think that is a WDW vet's guide to DLR. Lots of useful information. Less driven by ADRs but crowd fluctuations are a pain because it's so close for all the locals. If you want to get the early admission (which is super useful) consider staying onsite. I rented points for VGC and that was great. -- And it's now on the DLR board so you're where you're supposed to be! FYI, I found the board to be a far greater resource than tour books. Have a great trip!

 

[hakepb]

A great resource from our Disneyland board
http://www.disboards.com/threads/a-dlr-guide-for-wdw-vets.1162599/

 

[pa. dad]

I am a DW vet who has gone to DL ca twice. There are many attractions that are unique to the Ca parks so it's very worthwhile.
I used the Unofficial Guide also and it has much helpful info.

What else out there- Universal ca. , Hollywood, the beaches. Dodger Stadium and Angels Stadium. We did the Knotts Berry water park but did NOT like it as it was not clean. And there is lots of traffic out there. Driving to san diego from anaheim is like driving to tampa from orlando- a good drive but not too far.

 

[Laz]

One thing I found out is that by using a traditional, WDW legacy FP strategy (Early morning, afternoon break, return in late afternoon/evening) ,We could accomplish quite a bit in a shorter time. We have a more relaxed approach to DLR than WDW

 

[RustManFan]

who gets too old for Disneyland?

 

[RustManFan]

investigate the Good Neighbor hotels right across the street from DL. We stayed at the Howard Johnson's one. Parking was free and was an easy walk to the gates!! There is no such thing as a value or moderate at DL

https://disneyland.disney.go.com/hotels/good-neighbor/