WDW vet hoping to go to DL in October

[Paulie628]

My DH and I are trying to plan a vacation to DL in mid-October and are wondering about crowds at that time of year. We're DVC members and will be staying at one of the three Disney hotels; Disneyland Hotel, Grand California Hotel or Paradise Pier Hotel. We realize that DL does not have DVC Villas but we can use our points for a room. Anyone have any hotel preference? I've been told that all three hotels are within walking distance to the two parks; is this accurate information? Also, we'll be flying in from Connecticut to LAX and we're not sure if we'll be renting a car at the airport. Again, I've been told that there is bus transportation (like Mears) called Greyline that can get us to DL. Anyone use this transportation and like it rather than renting a car? One last thing. After a few days at DL, we're thinking of renting a car at this point and driving to San Diego for a few days. Does DL have onsite car rental? Any help with these questions would be greatly appreciated!

 

[ShawnaF]

Hi there! We always go in October for our little one's birthday, love it! Reduced hours usually 10am to 8pm (DCA closes at 6pm usually.) Check out the topics for Mickey's Halloween Treat, that's a neat party.

We've done both PP and the DLH - both are fine. PP is newer and more updated, but soundproofing isn't great, not so bad you won't sleep either. Nice pool, restaurants right downstairs. DLH is nice, more "magic" decor throughout, rooms need some renovations and fixing but not unsafe. Closer than PP and easy walk to monorail or DTD. The GC is supposed to be the ultimate one - not stayed there, we are doing that this October. We ALWAYS walk and we have a 2 year old.

When you get to the airport, walk out the doors - there is a variety of taxi, shuttles, etc. to take to DL. We've never made reservations. L.A. is geared for tourism, no worries there. We prefer the shuttles or taxis to the bus, and have heard lots of not so great comments lately about Disneyland Express - waits, no tvs as advertised, transfers... We always rent cars from the airport but I think DL has onsite car rental - someone will have to confirm that one though!

 

[Paulie628]

Thanks for the information - it's helpful!

 

[ShawnaF]

My pleasure - if there are any questions that I haven't answered, I'd love to help you more if I can! Say the word!

 

[ShawnaF]

One other thing on car rental. If you're staying AT the resort, you don't need a car. If you want to wander down to San Diego or elsewhere on your trip, most of the rental agencies now will deliver to you with a reservation and phone call - so I'd do that rather than worrying or driving & paying for it more than you need.