WDW vet returns from first DL/DCA visit

[Fargoman2]

Equipped with good insights provided by a number of you, most notably the remarkably famous "Hydro-Guy," we made our inaugural visit to DL/DCA last week. (3 DAYS with a Park hopper)

FWIW, here are my observations/first impressions--in no particular order--:

1. That is a small castle! (Every WDW vet mentions that, I'm sure...so consider this observation like a "free space" on your bingo card)

2. World of Color: Very impressive light show, but certainly not my favorite. Needs to be edited; it feels a bit repetitive. Also, while there is a brief quote in the beginning, I wish they could open with a Walt clip welcoming guests to DL (but perhaps that's not technically possible?) which would elicit more emotion I think. Still a very impressive show--maybe in my top 3 or 4.

3. Matterhorn--a "sleeper" hit for us. My DS (15) and I liked the double dose of Yeti

4. River ride (I forget the name) is MUCH better than Kali River Rapids

5. Toy Story Mania queue concept is pretty bland compared to WDW version

6. Carthay Circle provided a great dining experience. Food quality wasn't commensurate with the price but atmosphere was priceless! Our party of 5 had our own private dining room!! We did purchase the WOC package, which contrary to prevailing opinion on these boards, was worth the convenience of showing up minutes before show time as opposed to fighting lines an hour or more earlier.

7. Less frenetic pace at DL/DCA was appreciated, as was midnight closing time for DL.

8. Miss the resort feel of WDW. DL/DCA feel more like going to a theme park not a Disney vacation.

9. Grand Californian (villas) is (are) indeed impressive. Wish we would have had more time to soak in the ambiance. Was not thrilled with ground floor view of bushes.

10. Absolutely loved the convenience of walking between parks and to our hotel after touring...didn't miss the crowded boats and buses at all.

That's my top of mind recollections. Many more observations, but I think I've bored you already. Suffice it to say that DL and DCA are great in their own right--just different from WDW. I'm clearly biased toward WDW simply because that's where my family grew up.

 

[Lights_Out]

As a DL vet that's visited WDW for the first time a few years ago, yes, our castle is TINY! We always make fun of it now But let's just say it's charming

I can't believe you were underwhelmed (sounds like it?) by WoC though Maybe your expectations were built up too high? I even think WoC is more beautiful and emotional than Fantasmic (but I understand how Fantasmic would be the "best" for a lot of people given the huge nostalgia factor)

DL is definitely more intimate and convenient. I grew up with DL, but I fell in love with WDW so you don't need to feel guilty about being biased

It's just the idea that Disneyland is "the original" and "Walt's Park" that makes it special for WDW vets. And the amount of easily overlooked details that goes into our parks (in all aspects of the experience, whether it's the decor, the ride, customer service) because it IS smaller than WDW.

 

[superlarz]

I agree that WoC needs to be edited. It has major "flow" problems and is probably about ten minutes too long. They really just need to remove/rework many of the water screen scenes. Anything parts that are primarily colorful fountains are amaznig.

 

[GatorChris]

1. That is a small castle! (Every WDW vet mentions that, I'm sure...so consider this observation like a "free space" on your bingo card)

8. Miss the resort feel of WDW. DL/DCA feel more like going to a theme park not a Disney vacation.

10. Absolutely loved the convenience of walking between parks and to our hotel after touring...didn't miss the crowded boats and buses at all.

LOL Yes, that's what we thought after a few trips to WDW and then going to DL. "Where is it?", I remember my wife saying when we first turned the corner to Main Street. I've taken some heat here for my comments about it. I guess you just can't get it until you see Cinderella's Castle - such a HUGE difference.

For 8 and 10, the kinda go together. I miss the "escape" feeling, or resort feel as you call it, that WDW provides. You just never leave the Magic. That said, being in a close hotel is a big plus compared to waiting for that second or third bus to come by at the end of the day, only to wait for two ECVs and their entire family reunions load up first and take all the seats. I will never miss that about WDW.

 

[disneychrista]

I am another one who feels that WoC is just too long & needs to be reworked.

 

[JKalai]

I am another one who feels that WoC is just too long & needs to be reworked.

I agree. IMO the montages are the best part. I kind of when the slow parts come on such as the Wall-E/Finding Nemo/Toy Story/Windmill parts.

 

[RandFamily]

I agree that WoC needs to be edited. It has major "flow" problems and is probably about ten minutes too long. They really just need to remove/rework many of the water screen scenes. Anything parts that are primarily colorful fountains are amaznig.

Yes, Yes, Yes! The best parts are those with just the fountains. I can watch video clips at home, give me the FOUNTAINS!

 

[MasonDuo]

I love WOC but agree it could use a little rework - its time for that Brave section to be removed (it hasn't always been there). I feel like that section is just wedged in there and makes the show a tad too long.

 

[HydroGuy]

No surprise to anyone here but I feel WOC is the perfect length. About the same as Fantasmic (a couple minutes longer). I love, love, love the Brave seen and music.