Too much Disney???

[Fºoºz]

Will be going on B2B 7-day cruises aboard Disney's new Fantasy this fall. Planning on staying at WDW for a week afterwards and then flying back home.

Found two flight options ... MCO to SEA direct ... or ... MCO to LAX to SEA ...

Was tinkering with the idea of the second option . Would then amend our travel plans to a few nights at WDW followed by a few nights at Disneyland, as it has been an incredible 16 years since DW and I have been to Disneyland ... in the "pre-California Advenure era" ...

I know a LOT has changed at DL since our last adventure there though. The question(s) is/are ...

• Is Disneyland worth the diversion to LAX or is DL and it's version of Downtown Disney too similar to the one in WDW? We have been to WDW twice in the past 12 years (the last time we stayed was at what was then the Dixie Landings Resort and loved it there.)
• Or is that too much Disney in one shot? The way I look at it is that two weeks aboard DCL will be much different than two weeks at Disney on land. So would a week or a week and a half split between WDW and DL be enough of a unique experience to go for it?
• Just read about the Disneyland Resort Express for bus service between DL and LAX. Is that more like the Magical Express between MCO and WDW? Or would a car service be more convenient and worth the cost?
• Has things changed that much in Anaheim and around DL in the past 16 years? I was thinking of getting away from renting a car and just staying around the DL area. Or is there a lot more to see and do such as shopping or going to Universal Hollywood if it has changed that much?
• I would like to stay at one of the three DL resorts as there is nothing like staying on-site. Would the Grand Californian be the premier hotel followed by the Paradise Pier and then the Disneyland Hotel (this was the old DL hotel right?)
• Or has the hotels around DL really improved in their services, accommodations etc in the past 16 years and would provide a better value? (Travelling with no kids). I assume that there would be a lot of good dining choices close by around DL?

Your feedback / opinions would be appreciated

 

[Butterfly123]

I'm sorry, did you say "too much Disney?" I'm quite sure there is no such thing! I think your plans sound like a lot of fun!

 

[Geemo]

If you find it's too much for you, let me know and I'd be glad to step in to your place for ya!

Fall is a very nice time for So.Cal. All joking a side. I do not think it would be too much. You will visit different locations which will give you different views of Disney. The variety will be exciting.

Go for it!!!! And Enjoy all of the trips you have in the one.

 

[helenb]

There is NO SUCH THING as 'too much Disney'. Your trip sounds awesome!

I think you'll be surprised as to how different DL is from WDW. Even rides with the same name (such as Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, etc.) can be quite different. And if you've never been to Califoornia Adventure, then that's a must! The new Carsland will be open and I'm sure you'd enjoy experiencing that, as well as the other unique Disney things DCA has to offer. September is a 'slower' time of year, so I'm guessing you'd do fine with a 3 day parkhopper.

I haven't taken the express service from LAX, but yes, once you're on Disney property there is no need for a car. Universal Studios is fun, but isn't *too* different form the Orlando version (other than the backlot tour) so if you've been to the Orlando version you'll have an idea of whether or not you want to go to the one in Hollywood.

GCH is definitely the premiere Disney hotel. Personally, I consider Paradise Pier second, but a lot of people like the Disneyland Hotel better. Yes, it's the original, but it was recently renovated and is spanking new. It also costs more than Paradise Pier.

The hotels off property are definitely a better 'value' in that they are cheaper, but they are not the four/five star resorts that Disney offers, nor do they have the Disney perks such as the special entrance to DCA or the Magic Morning privileges. If the cost doesn't break your budget, it's *always* better to stay at a Disney hotel.

For dining, you're not going to have the international flavor or high quality of WDW, but there is a lot available. There are many restaurants worth visting in the Disney parks, in the hotels, and in downtown Disney.

 

[Disney Dreams]

I'm having trouble understanding a few words in your post.

Too much Disney - I'm sorry, what does that mean? I don't understand. Translation needed.

No. Never! In my opinion, anywoo.

As for some of your questions:

- DLR's DtD and the rest of the DL and DCA for that matter are similar to WDW, but different all at the same time. I think it would be a GREAT diversion to work into your plans.

- I understand your question about 2 weeks on DCL and then two weeks at the Parks. The Parks and the ships are different. However, they are still Disney. To me? It sounds fantastic! But I'm a Disney die-hard. There could never be too much Disney for me -- truly. On the ship you will have a wonderful cruise experience, with Disney touches throughout. You will certainly know you are on a Disney ship, but you will not have Pirates of the Caribbean or its a small world, etc. You will see Mickey and Princesses and experience the Disney service that is wonderful whether on sea or on land.

- Disneyland Resort Express: It is not the equivalent of the Magical Express. That said, I have heard it is a reliable shuttle service. I would suggest Super Shuttle. They are the shuttle service we prefer. Personal preference.

- I think anywhere changes quite a bit in 16 years. If you are interested in exploring the surrounding areas, you could easily rent a car, but if you just want to stay at the resort, you won't need one.

- On site: This is very different at DLR than at WDW. Motels directly access the street at DLR are very close to the Parks and DtD. That said, I think the Disney hotels have that Disney touch that make it a special experience. You mentioned the Grand Californian. It is wonderful. As two adults with no children, I think you will love it! Btw, the "Old Disneyland Hotel" has recently gone through a complete remodeling and is "new" again.

I hope this helps with some of your questions.

Congrats on your upcoming anniversary,
Dreams

 

[Huff]

Disneyland Resort has changed considerably since 16 years ago. Back then it was just Disneyland and a huge parking lot in front of the gates extending all the way to Disneyland Hotel.

It is now one large entertainment complex with two parks (almost as many attractions as WDW's 4 parks), 3 resorts and downtown Disney all in walking distance from each other. No need for buses or boats to get around.

Grand Californian is the premier resort. It has its own gate into California Adventure and borders downtown Disney. Disneyland Hotel would rank #2. It has been significantly improved over the years especially the pool area thats great for kids. Paradise Pier ranks #3. Very nice resort but not as immersed in Disney as the other two.

Disneyland itself has quite a bit more to offer than Magic Kingdom. I find it has far more attention to detail, especially in Fantasyland buildings. Take a look at Small World facade for instance. Space Mountain and Pirates are far superior rides. DL has Indy which is awesome.

 

[Anaheim boy]

So 1996 was when you were there last. Wow, have things changed immensely!!! You will be shocked at the difference. You used to come in off Harbor Blvd to the main gates with a that famous huge Disney marquee, turning right and then through the pay booths and into the big flat parking lot. That is no more. That huge parking lot is now where Cal Adv is. You won't recognize it.
There is a direct off ramp from I-5 onto "Disneyland Way" that crosses Ball road and puts you right into the massive Disney parking structure. From there you pass Downtown Disney while on the parking lot tram and get dropped off buy a GIANT World of Disney shop and walk over to the main gates of both parks, which face each other and are about 100 yards apart. Downtown Disney now spans from the ticket booths all the way to the "old" Disneyland Hotel, with the Grand Cal on your left behind the DD shops. It goes over the road that used to separate the old hotel from the park.
It is completely different and I think you'd be surprised at how it's grown. The whole area has really been built up a bit, and you'll find quite a few restaurants all around, on and off the Disney property. If you're just planning on staying there at the resort and not travel around to far, you won't need a car. Everything is walking distance.
The Grand Cal is definitely the premiere resort of the 3 Disney's, but the Disney Hotel would be number 2. It has just earned the AAA Four Diamond Rating after the recent refurb, one which the Grand Cal has had for a while now. Paradise Pier would be number 3. It has changed quite a bit, and I think you really won't recognize it. Some rides as well in the Disney park have changed a bit in that time and think you might find it interesting to see. May well be worth it.

 

[Anaheim boy]

Hmm, posted twice, sorry...

 

[EmmersIsTheMommy]

You know, Before I even clicked on this thread, I knew what the answers would be ROFL.

too much Disney? NEVERRRRRR! lol

My mom hasn't been since 1996 either and I am DYING to take her. You will love the changes.

 

[Kittyskyfish]

You really have to do DL and DCA!!!! A MUST, you hear me? Disneyland is a far superior park to its counterpart The Magic Kingdom. That's just my opinion, but I grew up on MK and quickly converted to DL once I caught its magic.

 

[LisainCalifornia]

I say skip Disneyland Express and Supershuttle, and just take a cab. That is what we do, anyway! Much simpler and they have set rates for a ride to Disneyland or the surrounding hotels.

Grand Californian is considered premiere hotel--but we actually like the Disneyland Hotel better. Some people do--it is a taste thing. We like higher tower views and bigger, brighter rooms--and that is the the Disneyland Hotel. Grand Californian is tighter, smaller, darker rooms with a "lodge" look and a great big (super airconditioned) lobby. The lobby is part of the draw for some people.

Paradise Pier is a great hotel with very packed, slow, elevators. It is the hotel that is most likely to grant you a free upgrade if you are into that. Very good views (if you pay for them) of California Adventure Park and World of Color. The rooms are big like the ones at Disneyland Hotel. I liked this hotel for the price, which is often much lower than the other 2. I can see why it is on the lower end of the DLR tier, but it is still very nice. Feels like a vacation, which is a feeling you won't get at an off property motel/hotel in Anaheim.

Anaheim is still Anaheim--and when going there I tend to stay right around Disneyland and Downtown Disney. It really isn't a vacation destination other than Disneyland.

 

[BensDaddy]

I have to say that your plan sounds FANTASTIC!!

My family and I sailed on Dream last October and when the cruise was over and we were boarding the shuttle to the airport, we were right next to another shuttle going to WDW. It felt kind of like... "awwww... I wanna go to WDW".

Along those same lines, I found some great airfare to LA for Spring Break and told my wife that I wanted to take our little guy to Disneyland again. She actually said to me... her words... "Isn't anybody else a little sick of Mickey Mouse?"

<GASP!> HOW COULD I HAVE MARRIED YOU?! <GASP!>

Seriously. Ok, so in 2010 we did WDW and DL, in 2011 we did the cruise, and in 2012 we're going to DL again... but she should have known better than to say that to me!

<grin> Have a wonderful trip!!

 

[Fºoºz]

I'm sorry, did you say "too much Disney?" I'm quite sure there is no such thing! I think your plans sound like a lot of fun!

If you find it's too much for you, let me know and I'd be glad to step in to your place for ya!

There is NO SUCH THING as 'too much Disney'. Your trip sounds awesome!

I'm having trouble understanding a few words in your post.

Too much Disney - I'm sorry, what does that mean? I don't understand. Translation needed.

No. Never! In my opinion, anywoo.

You know, Before I even clicked on this thread, I knew what the answers would be ROFL.

too much Disney? NEVERRRRRR! lol

I ... A M ... S O O O ... E M B A R R A S S E D ...

I feel like Heffalump in the picture and wish to apologize for my momentary lapse in judgement for thinking there is such a thing as too much Disney ...

Please forgive me ... ????

 

[Disney Dreams]

...

Please forgive me ... ???? [/color] [/font]

Well, clearly you were suffering from a momentary mental lapse of some sort and since you have recovered, of COURSE we forgive you!

My dream vacation btw it to visit all Disney Parks around the world with a DCL cruise mixed in --- all on the same vacation. Someday....

One obstacle (in addition to the time and money )? A travel partner, because DH has said that doing THAT might be "too much D..---" well, you know!

Now, about your trip... have you booked the airfare yet?

- Dreams

 

[EmmersIsTheMommy]

BAHAHHAHAH OP I literally just gafawed. My daughter is looking at me like I'm totally nuts.

btw, we're totally all enablers here.

 

[Fºoºz]

... I am having way too much fun ... or I'm losing my marbles ...

There is NO SUCH THING as 'too much Disney'. Your trip sounds awesome!

I think you'll be surprised as to how different DL is from WDW. Even rides with the same name (such as Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, etc.) can be quite different. And if you've never been to Califoornia Adventure, then that's a must! The new Carsland will be open Heard about that - will be something to look forward to! and I'm sure you'd enjoy experiencing that, as well as the other unique Disney things DCA has to offer. September is a 'slower' time of year, so I'm guessing you'd do fine with a 3 day parkhopper.

I haven't taken the express service from LAX, but yes, once you're on Disney property there is no need for a car. Universal Studios is fun, but isn't *too* different form the Orlando version (other than the backlot tour) so if you've been to the Orlando version you'll have an idea of whether or not you want to go to the one in Hollywood. Good to know

GCH is definitely the premiere Disney hotel. Personally, I consider Paradise Pier second, but a lot of people like the Disneyland Hotel better. Yes, it's the original, but it was recently renovated and is spanking new. It also costs more than Paradise Pier.

The hotels off property are definitely a better 'value' in that they are cheaper, but they are not the four/five star resorts that Disney offers, nor do they have the Disney perks such as the special entrance to DCA or the Magic Morning privileges. Special entrance to DCA? ... is that avail to all Disney Hotel property guests? Do you also know if DL offers special late night events such as opening the theme park to Disney Hotel Guest members - I remember doing this once at WDW If the cost doesn't break your budget, it's *always* better to stay at a Disney hotel.

For dining, you're not going to have the international flavor or high quality of WDW, but there is a lot available. I remember the turkey legs at WDW .. first time they were great ... second time we had them ... not so much ... There are many restaurants worth visting in the Disney parks, in the hotels, and in downtown Disney.

Disneyland Resort has changed considerably since 16 years ago. Back then it was just Disneyland and a huge parking lot in front of the gates extending all the way to Disneyland Hotel.

So 1996 was when you were there last. Wow, have things changed immensely!!! You will be shocked at the difference. You used to come in off Harbor Blvd to the main gates with a that famous huge Disney marquee, turning right and then through the pay booths and into the big flat parking lot. That is no more. That huge parking lot is now where Cal Adv is. You won't recognize it.
There is a direct off ramp from I-5 onto "Disneyland Way" that crosses Ball road and puts you right into the massive Disney parking structure. From there you pass Downtown Disney while on the parking lot tram and get dropped off buy a GIANT World of Disney shop and walk over to the main gates of both parks, which face each other and are about 100 yards apart. Downtown Disney now spans from the ticket booths all the way to the "old" Disneyland Hotel, with the Grand Cal on your left behind the DD shops. It goes over the road that used to separate the old hotel from the park.
It is completely different and I think you'd be surprised at how it's grown. The whole area has really been built up a bit, and you'll find quite a few restaurants all around, on and off the Disney property. If you're just planning on staying there at the resort and not travel around to far, you won't need a car. Everything is walking distance.
The Grand Cal is definitely the premiere resort of the 3 Disney's, but the Disney Hotel would be number 2. It has just earned the AAA Four Diamond Rating after the recent refurb, one which the Grand Cal has had for a while now. Paradise Pier would be number 3. It has changed quite a bit, and I think you really won't recognize it. Some rides as well in the Disney park have changed a bit in that time and think you might find it interesting to see. May well be worth it.

WOW ... I do remember how DL looked like back then ... I'm sure we'll be shocked to see what it is like now.

I say skip Disneyland Express and Supershuttle, and just take a cab. That is what we do, anyway! Much simpler and they have set rates for a ride to Disneyland or the surrounding hotels.

Grand Californian is considered premiere hotel--but we actually like the Disneyland Hotel better. Some people do--it is a taste thing. We like higher tower views and bigger, brighter rooms--and that is the the Disneyland Hotel. Grand Californian is tighter, smaller, darker rooms with a "lodge" look and a great big (super airconditioned) lobby. The lobby is part of the draw for some people. THANKS for the insight re: the differences in the hotel - always had wanted to stay at the Disneyland Hotel - will have to see if there are any photos of the recent renovations

Paradise Pier is a great hotel with very packed, slow, elevators. It is the hotel that is most likely to grant you a free upgrade if you are into that. Very good views (if you pay for them) of California Adventure Park and World of Color. The rooms are big like the ones at Disneyland Hotel. I liked this hotel for the price, which is often much lower than the other 2. I can see why it is on the lower end of the DLR tier, but it is still very nice. Feels like a vacation, which is a feeling you won't get at an off property motel/hotel in Anaheim.

Anaheim is still Anaheim--and when going there I tend to stay right around Disneyland and Downtown Disney. It really isn't a vacation destination other than Disneyland. I wonder if it will be like what Peter Bishop is experiencing in the current season of FRINGE ... a TV show reference here ... Anaheim outside remains the same but DL totally new

You really have to do DL and DCA!!!! A MUST, you hear me? Disneyland is a far superior park to its counterpart The Magic Kingdom. That's just my opinion, but I grew up on MK and quickly converted to DL once I caught its magic.

I remember one of the factoids back when we were at WDW, that all of DL (the original version) could fit in one of the parking lots at WDW ... it would be great to compare the differences if we do divert to DL!

I have to say that your plan sounds FANTASTIC!!

My family and I sailed on Dream last October and when the cruise was over and we were boarding the shuttle to the airport, we were right next to another shuttle going to WDW. It felt kind of like... "awwww... I wanna go to WDW".

Along those same lines, I found some great airfare to LA for Spring Break and told my wife that I wanted to take our little guy to Disneyland again. She actually said to me... her words... "Isn't anybody else a little sick of Mickey Mouse?"

<GASP!> HOW COULD I HAVE MARRIED YOU?! <GASP!>

Seriously. Ok, so in 2010 we did WDW and DL, in 2011 we did the cruise, and in 2012 we're going to DL again... but she should have known better than to say that to me!

<grin> Have a wonderful trip!!

I think my DW asks the same question of me, particularly coming up on 20 years ...

I'm having trouble understanding a few words in your post.

Too much Disney - I'm sorry, what does that mean? I don't understand. Translation needed.

No. Never! In my opinion, anywoo.

As for some of your questions:

- DLR's DtD and the rest of the DL and DCA for that matter are similar to WDW, but different all at the same time. Boy I had to stop and think for a moment - make that LONGER - to decipher new anagrams again I think it would be a GREAT diversion to work into your plans.

- I understand your question about 2 weeks on DCL and then two weeks at the Parks. The Parks and the ships are different. However, they are still Disney. To me? It sounds fantastic! But I'm a Disney die-hard. There could never be too much Disney for me -- truly. On the ship you will have a wonderful cruise experience, with Disney touches throughout. You will certainly know you are on a Disney ship, but you will not have Pirates of the Caribbean or its a small world, etc. You will see Mickey and Princesses and experience the Disney service that is wonderful whether on sea or on land.

- Disneyland Resort Express: It is not the equivalent of the Magical Express. That said, I have heard it is a reliable shuttle service. I would suggest Super Shuttle. Thanks for the suggestion - see that they also offer an ExecuCar service so have to check that out - after a long flight and with lots of luggage, I think a more private transportation option will be the way to go They are the shuttle service we prefer. Personal preference..

- I think anywhere changes quite a bit in 16 years. If you are interested in exploring the surrounding areas, you could easily rent a car, but if you just want to stay at the resort, you won't need one. I remember the LA freeways back then ... shudder to think what they are like now

- On site: This is very different at DLR than at WDW. Motels directly access the street at DLR are very close to the Parks and DtD. Forgot that motels are quite numerous around DL - can't remember which motel we stayed at oh so 16 years ago. I think DW and I prefer the "hotel" experience now but will have to see what is around there. That said, I think the Disney hotels have that Disney touch that make it a special experience. We agree! You mentioned the Grand Californian. It is wonderful. As two adults with no children, I think you will love it! Btw, the "Old Disneyland Hotel" has recently gone through a complete remodeling and is "new" again.

I hope this helps with some of your questions.

Congrats on your upcoming anniversary,
Dreams

It appears that DL now seems to be a whole new experience ... I just read a post about Fantasmic Dessert? ... never heard of that experience before. Makes me realize I'll have to check back more on this board as have mainly been focused on DCL (and not much on WDW as I assume it hasn't changed that much in 10 years ... but then you know what they say about when you assume ) ...

Another quick question or two ...

• Does DL offer a motorized scooter service ... DW uses a cane to get around and now that DL is much bigger, would like to not overtax her abilities.
• Anything in particular in DL that we shouldn't miss?

Thanks

 

[SeattleRedBear]

Is Disneyland worth the diversion to LAX or is DL and it's version of Downtown Disney too similar to the one in WDW? We have been to WDW twice in the past 12 years (the last time we stayed was at what was then the Dixie Landings Resort and loved it there.)

If the last time you were there was pre-DCA, then yes, it's time to go back.

Or is that too much Disney in one shot? The way I look at it is that two weeks aboard DCL will be much different than two weeks at Disney on land. So would a week or a week and a half split between WDW and DL be enough of a unique experience to go for it?

It's a good think you've apologized for even asking the question. REALLY???

Just read about the Disneyland Resort Express for bus service between DL and LAX. Is that more like the Magical Express between MCO and WDW? Or would a car service be more convenient and worth the cost?

When we fly into LAX, we always rent a car. Probably not much more than a cab, saves time and gives us some flexibility (although you will have to pay for parking if you stay at any of the DLR hotels and many of the local hotels). Can't speak to ME vs. towncar (but ME is not a complimentary service...unlike at WDW). It's a shame you can't fly into SNA...much easier if your sole purpose is DLR.

Has things changed that much in Anaheim and around DL in the past 16 years? I was thinking of getting away from renting a car and just staying around the DL area. Or is there a lot more to see and do such as shopping or going to Universal Hollywood if it has changed that much?

Can't speak for Universal, but things have changed a LOT around DLR in the past sixteen years. Most of the small, family-run motels are gone, but they've widened the streets, put in lighting, brought in the Anaheim Resort Transit, etc. etc. In some respects, sort of like International Drive was sitting right next to Magic Kingdom.

I would like to stay at one of the three DL resorts as there is nothing like staying on-site. Would the Grand Californian be the premier hotel followed by the Paradise Pier and then the Disneyland Hotel (this was the old DL hotel right?)

Personally, I would stay at the DLH over PPH. The recent renovation has upgraded the original to a really nice property. The monorail slide on the pool is a nice touch and Trader Sam's is a great place to have a drink and see the Disney "magic"

Or has the hotels around DL really improved in their services, accommodations etc in the past 16 years and would provide a better value? (Travelling with no kids). I assume that there would be a lot of good dining choices close by around DL?

Over the last 16 years, for sure. Granted many/most of them are still 'family' hotels (including larger rooms and micrwoves standard) but very few of them are the cheap mom & pop's motels anymore. As for the 'magic', I think the on/off site proposition is dramatically different for DLR and WDW. $100 a night difference goes a long way towards bringing more 'magic' home with me at the end of the trip. And if you're walking to the parks, many of the non-Disney hotels are closer to the maingate then DLR hotels.

 

[croppincolburn]

I prefer to spread my Disney throughout the year. After our relaxing Disney 7 night cruise, I was happy to shop the Disney stores in MCO and head home. A couple months later we did DL. You definitely need to see all the changes at DL sometime.

 

[helenb]

My dream vacation btw it to visit all Disney Parks around the world with a DCL cruise mixed in --- all on the same vacation. Someday....

Oh! Wouldn't that be AWESOME? A DCL cruise that starts in LA. You board the cruise after a trip to DL, then go through the Panama Canal and stop at Port Canaveral for a few days to experience WDW. Then you hop back on the cruise and sail to Europe, where you get off for a few days to experience Disneyland Paris. Then a cruise through the Suez Canal and over to Hong Kong, and Tokyo... and then back to LA!

Wow... I can see it now. I can see myself being bankrupted to go on this vacation.... wow...

 

[helenb]

Special entrance to DCA? ... is that avail to all Disney Hotel property guests? Do you also know if DL offers special late night events such as opening the theme park to Disney Hotel Guest members - I remember doing this once at WDW

Yes, the Grand California has a special entrance to DCA (next to its pool area) that can be used by ANY Disney hotel guest. This entrance is less crowded and also closer to many of the popular rides/areas, as well as the WOC Fastpass distribution area.

Disney offers Magic Mornings (not evenings) at the Disneyland park four days a week (usually Tues, Thurs, Sat, Sun). You can go to all of them during your stay if you are a Disney hotel guest. Unlike at WDW, you WANT to attend Magic Mornings, because they are an easy way to score prime ride time. You can always hop over to DCA afterward if you like.

Keep in mind that the Magic Morning schedule is likely to change once Carsland opens. The rumnor right now is that the alternating days (Mon, Wed, Fri) will be DCA Magic Mornings.