Using Points at Grand Californian

[Momof2]

Just a couple quick questions - I know I'll get an answer here sooner than waiting for MS to open. If we use points to stay at Grand Californian at Disneyland - #1 Am I correct that we pay the $75 fee? and #2 - If we had to cancel, do those points have to be used in Disney Collection (hotels) or can we use them for DVC resort? Hope that makes sense. Thanks.

 

[CarolAnnC]

You do not pay the $75 fee to book at the Grand Californian. If you cancel a ressie there booked with points, however, those points become "reservation" points and cannot be used at the DVC resorts. You will have to use them prior to the use year ending at something other than DVC. Grand Californian is a beautiful hotel and I am hoping to return there this spring! Good luck!

 

[Momof2]

Thanks Carol. I think we'll check into how much it would cost to pay cash and save the points. It sounds like you've stayed there before. Is there anything you can tell me to help convince DH that we should stay there and not outside the park? Are the rooms comparable to a DisneyWorld deluxe? Thanks.

 

[sueg]

Last Aug., we used pts. to stay at GC & we felt it was a wondeful use of pts. GC is definitely deluxe WDW hotel quality. Soooo convenient-you can walk right into California Adventure. Beautiful pool area & really nice dining. We spent our first nt. off-property in the Hilton. Nice package inc. breakfast. But it couldn't match the convenience & tranquility of GC. I say go for it!

 

[Mooobooks]

Momof2: Grand Californian is a beautiful hotel, and a FEW steps, like less than a minute, from California Adventure and Downtown Disney, and a two-minute walk from Disneyland.
Unless you've stayed at the Disneyland Hotel in Paris, you've never experienced anything like walking out the door and into the parks: no cars, no buses. And, when you get soaked on Grizzly River Rapids (and you will), you just step into your room and change.
You really can't beat it.
If you pay cash, the rooms are VERY expensive: Grand Floridian level, at least $325 a night for a decent view.
Contrary to the negative jibber-jabber on MousePlanet, California Adventure is a LOT of fun has great rides.