To go or not to Go?

[jeanelain]

Hi, we've gone to WDW once a year for the past 8 years. We are DVC members and are thinking about traveling to the west coast to do DL (we are from PA). I love disney but the last few trips have felt like more work than fun. I'm not sure if it's because we know what to expect and the place is so huge it wears you out.

So, DL sounds nice and compact but i'm kind of leary about traveling that far to see it if it's not all that much.

Also, my husband isn't coming. It'll just be me and my two dd's. we've traveled before alone but not that far.

Is it worth the trip? Knotts berry farm doesn't appeal to me. I don't really like "amusement" parks. I like theme parks.

How far is Universal Studios from DL? thanks for any advice.

 

[Marilyn]

If you love Disney then you must visit Disneyland! No ifs, ands or buts! It is THE original and the classic Disneyland. We go to Disneyland about 2-3 times per year. We drive 6 hours to do this each way. We have only been to WDW 4 or 5 times. We love them both! They are different and unique. At DL you can walk from your hotel if you stay at one of the ones on property (also a must) and you can also walk to California Adventure. You can't do that at WDW! Do not expect it to be the same because there are some differences between the 2 Kingdoms. But again if you LOVE Disney there is no question that at least one visit is warranted! Have fun! Marilyn

 

[iceskatejen]

As Magic Kingdoms go, I prefer DL. Admittedly, it's my home park and I've been more times than I can count, but it has a charm that the MK at WDW lacks because it's so big. Plus POTC is soooo much better at DL that the one at WDW is kind of a joke. The only caveat I might have is that if you choose to go before May of 05, there is likely to be a lot of refurb going on in preparation for the 50th and starting in May it'll be likely more crowded than normal because of the 50th celebrations. Also, Space mountain won't be open until November of next year. I am also a fan of DCA and it has some attractions and shows that aren't at WDW, like Soarin' (though that'll be there next year) and the Aladdin show.

 

[Firefly777]

Hey jeanelain!

It sounds as though you want a change of pace. I think it would definitely be worth it, especially if you want to visit other theme parks in the area. Like said above, it's something that you should do at least once.

It's very easy to get around the resort and you never have to worry about busses if you stay onsite or at one of the closer offsite hotels.

Knott's Berry farm is considered a theme park, in fact, it was the first theme park in the area. There is plenty of theming in the park, but they seem to have strayed away from really theming their rides. So while it has a nice atmosphere, many of the rides are standard amusement park rides (theme-wise).

Universal Studios is about 40 minutes away without traffic.

 

[Al's Jasmine]

I'm new on these boards, but definitely not new to Disneyland! I say GO GO GO! It seems a little premature of me, I feel almost ashamed to say I haven't ever been to WDW (but hopefully for my honeymoon). But, I think Disneyland is just the size and pace it seems you need to try. I have read up on WDW and have seen numerous specials on TV, WDW seems like an experience. DL is like a home away from home. The best I can descirbe it, is like going to your grandma's house; a little aged but still offers the same kick and feeling everytime.

Its grate to walk through the gates and look around you and below you and wonder " this is where Walt Disney first stepped back in 1955". You can almost "feel" the history and the magic. You can get through disneyland comfortably in a couple days having done everything.

Just my two cents and persuasion to get you to come on out to California!!

 

[lulubelle]

jeanelain,
All I can say is PLEASE give DL and CA Adventures a chance. You will not regret it. It is an absolutely wonderful vacation destination and you and your DD's will have a blast! We go a few times a year and have been to WDW three times. DL is more laid back and it is easier to see everything within 4-5 days and feel content that you saw everything on your agenda without "commando-ing" the parks. Plus there are fabulous beaches and Knotts/Universal to consider.

Good luck with your decision, but I urge you to visit the DL resort.