WDW vets, first time DLR… help for August please :)

[Mrs~Incredible]

Hi everyone! I’ve been reading this board for months and picking up so many helpful tips. Thought I’d post here to see if the experts here can offer any additional advice.

It will be my me, husband and 14 yo daughter. We have been to WDW many times and know it like the backs of our hands- but this is our first trip to DLR!!

We will stay off site just west of walnut. We have 4 day park hoppers. Will likely arrive later (10-11?) and stay later in the parks (until close?). We used to rope drop but now that daughter is older we’ve learned we prefer evenings.

1. We have a reservation for blue bayou and brunch at lamplight lounge, plus a list of snacks to try. What is your “do not miss” favorite restaurant or snack?

2. We love all rides and shows. Hoping the 4 days and LLMP will give us plenty of time to see most of the things with time for re-rides (husband loves Pirates!). Any special off the beaten path experiences or attractions you would recommend?

3. Love hidden details, secrets etc… any favorites?

4. Little overwhelmed with all of the nighttime entertainment and how to navigate in the parks with crowds, at night, and in a new environment for us. Don’t have a game plan yet on how to try to see it all. We do have a fantastic dining package. I worry about bringing salmon swimming upstream. Any favorite tips/ tricks or his to get package things together? We want to see it all but not sure that’s possible!

Any other favorite tips?

Thanks everyone, love this board!!

 

[LKing]

I can help you with the entertainment. Will you have four nights for entertainment or three? What night is your Fantasmic package?

 

[irlandaise]

1. Churros, Dole Whips, Bengal BBQ skewers. Disneyland (both parks) also has a number of fruit stands for healthier snacks.

3. The Grizzly Pass Trail behind Grizzly River Run. Relaxing, nice views of the waterfalls, and you can watch people come down the big drop. Similarly, the walkway behind Harbour Galley, where you can see people laughing (and soaked wet) just after they've come down the big drop on Tiana's Bayou Adventure.

 

[mdmost]

I have to be totally honest, if you don't rope drop at least once, you're doing yourselves a disservice, in my opinion. It's so much cooler as far as the weather, easier to just walk on rides, easier to not even touch a Lightning Lane until later in the morning. It's a push for some but it is very rewarding. We counter that with knocking off around 2pm to go back to the hotel to swim and recharge. Then we head back around 5 to tackle more rides, dinner, and watch the shows. Just my two cents.

1. Dole Whip while watching the Tiki Room. You have to mobile order for that or you can just get one at Tropical Hideaway. I don't know if they still have the spicy one but that's pretty good. Plus, it's right next to the Jungle Cruise so you can watch the boats and there's a special bird just for the area. Jolly Holiday is great. Matterhorn Macaroon is always a treat. Mickey Beignets in New Orleans Square.

2. Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough. I feel like that's one people miss. I would ride the Mark Twain Riverboat or the Columbia since those are no longer going to be an option at WDW. The trains at DLR are different because of the dioramas. Sadly, it seems Casey Jr and the Storyland Canal Boats are down in August. Hopefully they come back up during your visit.

Make sure to look at the window in Walt's apartment above the fire station.

If you do Peter Pan, use the Disneyland Play app to activate some fun things when you're walking through.


3. There's an awesome secret path when you walk just to the right of the Harbour Galley by the Haunted Mansion. Has a beautiful shot of the opening of Tiana's drop.

When walking from the back of the castle in Fantasyland, head to the right and there's a path that takes you by Royal Hall and the Royal Theater to Frontierland. Keeps you out of the Hub. You can either go left to the front of Frontierland or right before the Royal Theater and you'll walk out by Rancho del Zocalo.

or

One of my favorite places to sit for a breather is the area under the monorail in between the Matterhorn and It's a Small World. It's an area that used to house a tiny motor boats attraction in the 60s. It's just to the left behind Edelweiss Snacks.

4. I would stay in the area if you have a dinner package for Fantasmic. Which one did you get? You could stay close by riding Pirates or Big Thunder. Where you don't want to go is outside of Frontierland towards the Hub and then try to get back in. That's the real choke point. It's easier to go from Fantasyland toward New Orleans along the river.

Other tips: sunscreen in heavy doses. I live in a hot climate and Anaheim weather can be sneaky hot. The sun just feels warmer there. Bring a water bottle or make sure to stop in for a free cup of ice water when you can. We love the frozen lemonade slushies.

For Indiana Jones, if the wait time is under 40 minutes, walk to the start of the queue and look if the outer queue is full heading towards the temple. If it isn't, get in line. The lightning lane only gets you to the front of the outer queue line. Once you get past that, you're in line with everyone else. If the outer queue is full, then it's worth using the lightning lane.

If you book a lightning lane and the ride goes down, you can get a multi use pass. Some will try to actively book LLs for rides that frequently go down like Matterhorn. Then you can use the LL for other rides. There's a thread on here about it.

 

[pyratgrrl]

It's not in either park, but I highly recommend Din Tai Fung in Downtown Disney. Definitely make a reservation if you decide to try it. I was just there a couple of weeks ago, and this was some of the most delicious food I've had in awhile.

Pineapple Dole Whip, beignets, churros, pineapple spears, and Tigger Tails are always delicious!

We also did the 70th Celebration Tour which includes a reserved spot to watch Paint the Night. The reserved seating area is in Town Square. At the time we did this just a couple of weeks ago, the area is across from the Main Street Railroad Station. It was great! It's curb seating or standing, but it was great to be able to show up about 45 minutes before the parade. They also included a nice treat. The tour itself lasted about 2 hours. I've been on two other tours, and I find they are always enjoyable.

With 4 days, you should be able to thoroughly enjoy everything. Have a wonderful time and remember to keep an eye out for unexpected magic!

 

[smallsy]

I can help you with the entertainment. Will you have four nights for entertainment or three? What night is your Fantasmic package?

I'm not the OP, but I'd love to hear your suggestions. We're going early August and trying to fit in as much of the nighttime entertainment as possible (including GE shows).

 

[Mrs~Incredible]

I can help you with the entertainment. Will you have four nights for entertainment or three? What night is your Fantasmic package?

Great, thank you! 4 nights at the parks. Fantasmic package Wednesday. Appreciate any help!

 

[Mrs~Incredible]

I have to be totally honest, if you don't rope drop at least once, you're doing yourselves a disservice, in my opinion. It's so much cooler as far as the weather, easier to just walk on rides, easier to not even touch a Lightning Lane until later in the morning. It's a push for some but it is very rewarding. We counter that with knocking off around 2pm to go back to the hotel to swim and recharge. Then we head back around 5 to tackle more rides, dinner, and watch the shows. Just my two cents.

1. Dole Whip while watching the Tiki Room. You have to mobile order for that or you can just get one at Tropical Hideaway. I don't know if they still have the spicy one but that's pretty good. Plus, it's right next to the Jungle Cruise so you can watch the boats and there's a special bird just for the area. Jolly Holiday is great. Matterhorn Macaroon is always a treat. Mickey Beignets in New Orleans Square.

2. Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough. I feel like that's one people miss. I would ride the Mark Twain Riverboat or the Columbia since those are no longer going to be an option at WDW. The trains at DLR are different because of the dioramas. Sadly, it seems Casey Jr and the Storyland Canal Boats are down in August. Hopefully they come back up during your visit.

Make sure to look at the window in Walt's apartment above the fire station.

If you do Peter Pan, use the Disneyland Play app to activate some fun things when you're walking through.


3. There's an awesome secret path when you walk just to the right of the Harbour Galley by the Haunted Mansion. Has a beautiful shot of the opening of Tiana's drop.

When walking from the back of the castle in Fantasyland, head to the right and there's a path that takes you by Royal Hall and the Royal Theater to Frontierland. Keeps you out of the Hub. You can either go left to the front of Frontierland or right before the Royal Theater and you'll walk out by Rancho del Zocalo.

or

One of my favorite places to sit for a breather is the area under the monorail in between the Matterhorn and It's a Small World. It's an area that used to house a tiny motor boats attraction in the 60s. It's just to the left behind Edelweiss Snacks. View attachment 980463

4. I would stay in the area if you have a dinner package for Fantasmic. Which one did you get? You could stay close by riding Pirates or Big Thunder. Where you don't want to go is outside of Frontierland towards the Hub and then try to get back in. That's the real choke point. It's easier to go from Fantasyland toward New Orleans along the river.

Other tips: sunscreen in heavy doses. I live in a hot climate and Anaheim weather can be sneaky hot. The sun just feels warmer there. Bring a water bottle or make sure to stop in for a free cup of ice water when you can. We love the frozen lemonade slushies.

For Indiana Jones, if the wait time is under 40 minutes, walk to the start of the queue and look if the outer queue is full heading towards the temple. If it isn't, get in line. The lightning lane only gets you to the front of the outer queue line. Once you get past that, you're in line with everyone else. If the outer queue is full, then it's worth using the lightning lane.

If you book a lightning lane and the ride goes down, you can get a multi use pass. Some will try to actively book LLs for rides that frequently go down like Matterhorn. Then you can use the LL for other rides. There's a thread on here about it.

Omg thank thank thank you sooooo much!
Will definitely consider rope drop one day.
I LOVE your maps!!!!
I’ve been an active member on this board (wdw) since forever and I truly appreciate the time you took to give me some of those tips. Happy to return the favor if you head to the east coast and are looking for opinions

The highlighted paths on the maps? Chef’s kiss to you!!!
Thanks!!!

 

[NVDISFamily]

1. We have a reservation for blue bayou and brunch at lamplight lounge, plus a list of snacks to try. What is your “do not miss” favorite restaurant or snack?

I don't believe they have the beyond meat Ronto-less Garden Wrap at HS and they do have it at Disneyland's version. It's amazing and better than the meat one. I do like the classic meat one, but even for me, someone who usually is less keen on the beyond meat options, this is a winner. A good thing to try that's unique to DLR.

Do they have churro toffee at WDW? I don't think I've seen it there but I can't say I've looked hard for it. It's amazing and it's available at the large sweet shops at both parks and Downtown Disney.

Churros are way better at Disneyland and the best (non-special/seasonal) version is at the Cones in Cars Land (the caramel sauce takes them to a higher level).

Chili Con Queso at the Cars Land Cones is another awesome/heavy snack that you should share

There is just a ton of great eats in Sanfransokyo.

The Beef Birria Toasted Cheese at Jollly Holiday.

Corn Dog Castle has the best corn dogs on property but the Hot-Link one is the way to go if you like your snack taken up a level.

Bangel BBQ is good/popular.

Overall the quick service/snacks at DLR are way better on average vs WDW.

Great food and the best pizza on property (nachos are amazing too) are within the Craftsman Grill in the Grand Cal. The Grand is literally next to DCA and a short walk from the park. The same kitchen serves both the sit down and quick service version of this gem and the quick service is a great escape from the heat and good AC with a freestyle machine to give me all of the cherry coke zero goodness my heart desires.

2. We love all rides and shows. Hoping the 4 days and LLMP will give us plenty of time to see most of the things with time for re-rides (husband loves Pirates!). Any special off the beaten path experiences or attractions you would recommend?

Characters do much more and are more "off the leash" at DLR. Some favorite moments include meeting Jack Sparrow and Red on Tom Sawyer island, the kids getting a bunch of interaction/play with them, and ridding the boat back with them and the band playing with them dancing with the kids. If you are very lucky and get on the tea cups when it's not busy a princess/character or two have been known to sneak in the exit and jump into an empty cup and ride next to the group. My daughter still speaks of having Elsa on the ride with her. Mary and Bert love to hop on the carousel from time to time and so do others. Cruella loves to ride the Main Street vehicles with guests. A lot of this is lightning in a bottle but good to look out for. At DCA, if it's slow and the characters are around, it's fun the dance with the characters to the music of the Five and Dime.

DLR feels more like a park with many more benches/tables to sit and relax at.

Love hidden details, secrets etc… any favorites?

If the museum/gallery is still open around Main Street go see the bench Walt sat on where he got the vision for Disneyland. Other similar awesome stuff around that area.

The story of the Dominguez family and the Dominguez Palms is cool and is a happy moment/story. We always pause and pay our respects for a moment while getting into the line for Jungle Cruse. There is a cool bit of lore/history as you enter the start of the line.

Not sure if they do it at WDW but the lower of the flag on Main Street is a good experience and I like to observe it once and a while.

We want to see it all but not sure that’s possible!

Any other favorite tips?

Disneyland is open very late all the time compared to MK/WDW. With the number of days your going you should be able to get a lot in. Rope drop, smash the AM, take a break, do some shows, and finish strong makes for great days if you can relax/nap and not burn out.

Sorry for the huge post/wall of text but hope that helps.

 

[Mrs~Incredible]

I don't believe they have the beyond meat Ronto-less Garden Wrap at HS and they do have it at Disneyland's version. It's amazing and better than the meat one. I do like the classic meat one, but even for me, someone who usually is less keen on the beyond meat options, this is a winner. A good thing to try that's unique to DLR.

Do they have churro toffee at WDW? I don't think I've seen it there but I can't say I've looked hard for it. It's amazing and it's available at the large sweet shops at both parks and Downtown Disney.

Churros are way better at Disneyland and the best (non-special/seasonal) version is at the Cones in Cars Land (the caramel sauce takes them to a higher level).

Chili Con Queso at the Cars Land Cones is another awesome/heavy snack that you should share

There is just a ton of great eats in Sanfransokyo.

The Beef Birria Toasted Cheese at Jollly Holiday.

Corn Dog Castle has the best corn dogs on property but the Hot-Link one is the way to go if you like your snack taken up a level.

Bangel BBQ is good/popular.

Overall the quick service/snacks at DLR are way better on average vs WDW.

Great food and the best pizza on property (nachos are amazing too) are within the Craftsman Grill in the Grand Cal. The Grand is literally next to DCA and a short walk from the park. The same kitchen serves both the sit down and quick service version of this gem and the quick service is a great escape from the heat and good AC with a freestyle machine to give me all of the cherry coke zero goodness my heart desires.



Characters do much more and are more "off the leash" at DLR. Some favorite moments include meeting Jack Sparrow and Red on Tom Sawyer island, the kids getting a bunch of interaction/play with them, and ridding the boat back with them and the band playing with them dancing with the kids. If you are very lucky and get on the tea cups when it's not busy a princess/character or two have been known to sneak in the exit and jump into an empty cup and ride next to the group. My daughter still speaks of having Elsa on the ride with her. Mary and Bert love to hop on the carousel from time to time and so do others. Cruella loves to ride the Main Street vehicles with guests. A lot of this is lightning in a bottle but good to look out for. At DCA, if it's slow and the characters are around, it's fun the dance with the characters to the music of the Five and Dime.

DLR feels more like a park with many more benches/tables to sit and relax at.




If the museum/gallery is still open around Main Street go see the bench Walt sat on where he got the vision for Disneyland. Other similar awesome stuff around that area.

The story of the Dominguez family and the Dominguez Palms is cool and is a happy moment/story. We always pause and pay our respects for a moment while getting into the line for Jungle Cruz. There is a cool bit of lore/history as you enter the start of the line.

Not sure if they do it at WDW but the lower of the flag on Main Street is a good experience and I like to observe it once and a while.



Disneyland is open very late all the time compared to MK/WDW. With the number of days your going you should be able to get a lot in. Rope drop, smash the AM, take a break, do some shows, and finish strong makes for great days if you can relax/nap and not burn out.

Sorry for the huge post/wall of text but hope that helps.

This is fantastic, thank you so much for taking the time!! We’ve heard so much about how different the vibes are at DLR compared to WDW, very much looking forward to experiencing that and soaking it in. With a churro (haha).

 

[mom2rtk]

Welcome to the other coast, @Mrs~Incredible ! You are in for such a treat. Prepare yourself for that odd "where did they put that?" feeling. We were regular WDW visitors and now consider DLR our home base.

If you like character meals, the Plaza Inn breakfast is just so charming. Adorable setting (reminiscent of Crystal Palace) and a fun mix of characters. We typically see around 8 over the course of our meal. Some Pooh, some classic, some surprises (often including Cinderella's mice). It's fun to rope drop and get a lot of rides in, then have breakfast at Plaza Inn around 10 or 10:30. Ask for an inside table though as the characters seem more hit or miss outside. Plus, it will be August and hot.

 

[hardcorestitch]

Hi everyone! I’ve been reading this board for months and picking up so many helpful tips. Thought I’d post here to see if the experts here can offer any additional advice.

It will be my me, husband and 14 yo daughter. We have been to WDW many times and know it like the backs of our hands- but this is our first trip to DLR!!

We will stay off site just west of walnut. We have 4 day park hoppers. Will likely arrive later (10-11?) and stay later in the parks (until close?). We used to rope drop but now that daughter is older we’ve learned we prefer evenings.

1. We have a reservation for blue bayou and brunch at lamplight lounge, plus a list of snacks to try. What is your “do not miss” favorite restaurant or snack?

2. We love all rides and shows. Hoping the 4 days and LLMP will give us plenty of time to see most of the things with time for re-rides (husband loves Pirates!). Any special off the beaten path experiences or attractions you would recommend?

3. Love hidden details, secrets etc… any favorites?

4. Little overwhelmed with all of the nighttime entertainment and how to navigate in the parks with crowds, at night, and in a new environment for us. Don’t have a game plan yet on how to try to see it all. We do have a fantastic dining package. I worry about bringing salmon swimming upstream. Any favorite tips/ tricks or his to get package things together? We want to see it all but not sure that’s possible!

Any other favorite tips?

Thanks everyone, love this board!!

Do not miss ANYTHING that is Mickey shaped… at least the Mickey pretzels.

 

[LKing]

Great, thank you! 4 nights at the parks. Fantasmic package Wednesday. Appreciate any help!

Do you mind sharing which days in August you will be visiting? Are any of your days OBB nights? The entertainment schedule is changing in August. It looks like the Shadows of Memory will end on August 2, Better Together Parade will end on August 3, and Celebrate Happy Cavalcade will end on August 10.

Is Wednesday day 1, 2, 3 or 4? Same for Blue Bayou and Lamplight. Are your reservations for your first day or your fourth day?

For nighttime entertainment, can you prioritize the following? Which is most important to you and which do you not care as much about?

• Fantasmic + fireworks
• World of Color
• Paint the Night, fireworks, Tapestry of Happiness viewed at Small World
• Fire of the Rising Moon and possibly Shadows of Memory in SWGE
• Paint the Night, fireworks viewed on Main Street

 

[DLRExpert]

Hi everyone! I’ve been reading this board for months and picking up so many helpful tips. Thought I’d post here to see if the experts here can offer any additional advice.

It will be my me, husband and 14 yo daughter. We have been to WDW many times and know it like the backs of our hands- but this is our first trip to DLR!!

We will stay off site just west of walnut. We have 4 day park hoppers. Will likely arrive later (10-11?) and stay later in the parks (until close?). We used to rope drop but now that daughter is older we’ve learned we prefer evenings.

1. We have a reservation for blue bayou and brunch at lamplight lounge, plus a list of snacks to try. What is your “do not miss” favorite restaurant or snack?

2. We love all rides and shows. Hoping the 4 days and LLMP will give us plenty of time to see most of the things with time for re-rides (husband loves Pirates!). Any special off the beaten path experiences or attractions you would recommend?

3. Love hidden details, secrets etc… any favorites?

4. Little overwhelmed with all of the nighttime entertainment and how to navigate in the parks with crowds, at night, and in a new environment for us. Don’t have a game plan yet on how to try to see it all. We do have a fantastic dining package. I worry about bringing salmon swimming upstream. Any favorite tips/ tricks or his to get package things together? We want to see it all but not sure that’s possible!

Any other favorite tips?

Thanks everyone, love this board!!

- DO NOT miss an attraction thinking it is the same as the WDW version. There are usually differences in the experience (ride, queue, etc).
- Unlike WDW, not every attraction at the DLR resort offers LL. Especially, the classic Fantasyland attractions (ride at park opening until 930am or after 10pm) , Nemo Submarines (ride at park opening until 930am or after 9pm), Pirates (ride before 1030am or 7pm), Chip and Dale Coaster (ride before 915am or after 10pm).
- The Fantasmic dining package is worth it. Especially to get a middle or to the left view (not sure what restaurants offer what view).
- World of Color dining packages are not worth it. Dessert package is, but expensive. Getting a normal VQ pass and arriving at the viewing area by 8pm should be enough.
- For parades a viewing spot 30-45 minutes before they start. The Small World to the Matterhorn area is usually the easiest place to find a spot
- For the fireworks, the Castle and Main Street area will be packed. The Small World area near the facade is very easy to get, you can just walk up just before it starts and be fine. You will get the projections, but usually miss what is happening near the castle.
- Dole Whip near the Tiki Room, Churros Cart to the right of castle never fails, Corn Dog at the wagon on Main Street, Bengal BBQ, Bao+sauce at the Tropical Hideaway, Tiana's Palace Jambalya, Plaza Inn Fried Chicken
- Hidden attraction Gems. Casey Jr, Storybookland (esp at night), Tom Swayers Island to take a break from the crowds, Adventurland Treehouse. Autopia is waaay better than Tomorrowland Speedway. Disneyland Railroad circle tour around the park.
- See the night shows and parade asap, just in case they are cancelled during the other visiting days (esp the fireworks) or you want to see them again.

 

[LKing]

- The Fantasmic dining package is worth it. Especially to get a middle or to the left view (not sure what restaurants offer what view).

Cafe Orleans is in the center. Rancho del Zocalo is on the left (closest to Harbour Galley)

World of Color dining packages are not worth it. Dessert package is, but expensive. Getting a normal VQ pass and arriving at the viewing area by 8pm should be enough.

We recently did the Storytellers dining package with friends. It was my first time at Storytellers in years. When I calculated the cost, it wasn't all that much cheaper than the dessert party. Wine Country, Magic Key Terrace and Storytellers are all $68 before tax and tip. The $94 dessert party includes tax and tip. It is $74.70 before tax and tip. If I add tax and the same percentage tip onto the dining packages, it comes out to $85.50. So you are comparing $94 for the dessert party to $85.50 for the dining package. One is dinner. The other is dessert. One is a reserved seat. The other is a reserved viewing area.

Hidden attraction Gems. Casey Jr, Storybookland (esp at night)

Both of these may be closed in part of August.

 

[Mrs~Incredible]

- DO NOT miss an attraction thinking it is the same as the WDW version. There are usually differences in the experience (ride, queue, etc).
- Unlike WDW, not every attraction at the DLR resort offers LL. Especially, the classic Fantasyland attractions (ride at park opening until 930am or after 10pm) , Nemo Submarines (ride at park opening until 930am or after 9pm), Pirates (ride before 1030am or 7pm), Chip and Dale Coaster (ride before 915am or after 10pm).
- The Fantasmic dining package is worth it. Especially to get a middle or to the left view (not sure what restaurants offer what view).
- World of Color dining packages are not worth it. Dessert package is, but expensive. Getting a normal VQ pass and arriving at the viewing area by 8pm should be enough.
- For parades a viewing spot 30-45 minutes before they start. The Small World to the Matterhorn area is usually the easiest place to find a spot
- For the fireworks, the Castle and Main Street area will be packed. The Small World area near the facade is very easy to get, you can just walk up just before it starts and be fine. You will get the projections, but usually miss what is happening near the castle.
- Dole Whip near the Tiki Room, Churros Cart to the right of castle never fails, Corn Dog at the wagon on Main Street, Bengal BBQ, Bao+sauce at the Tropical Hideaway, Tiana's Palace Jambalya, Plaza Inn Fried Chicken
- Hidden attraction Gems. Casey Jr, Storybookland (esp at night), Tom Swayers Island to take a break from the crowds, Adventurland Treehouse. Autopia is waaay better than Tomorrowland Speedway. Disneyland Railroad circle tour around the park.
- See the night shows and parade asap, just in case they are cancelled during the other visiting days (esp the fireworks) or you want to see them again.

This is great advice, thank you!!!

 

[Mrs~Incredible]

Do you mind sharing which days in August you will be visiting? Are any of your days OBB nights? The entertainment schedule is changing in August. It looks like the Shadows of Memory will end on August 2, Better Together Parade will end on August 3, and Celebrate Happy Cavalcade will end on August 10.

Is Wednesday day 1, 2, 3 or 4? Same for Blue Bayou and Lamplight. Are your reservations for your first day or your fourth day?

For nighttime entertainment, can you prioritize the following? Which is most important to you and which do you not care as much about?

• Fantasmic + fireworks
• World of Color
• Paint the Night, fireworks, Tapestry of Happiness viewed at Small World
• Fire of the Rising Moon and possibly Shadows of Memory in SWGE
• Paint the Night, fireworks viewed on Main Street

Sure! We are going:

Sat Aug 2
Sun Aug 3
Wed Aug 6
Thurs Aug 7

Have blue bayou for Aug 2

We’d actually love to see everything you have listed there!! But don’t know if that is even possible with just 4 nights??

Also didn’t know about Shadows possibly stopping Aug 2, so that is a great tip. Need to check those calendars… thx!!

 

[Mrs~Incredible]

Welcome to the other coast, @Mrs~Incredible ! You are in for such a treat. Prepare yourself for that odd "where did they put that?" feeling. We were regular WDW visitors and now consider DLR our home base.

If you like character meals, the Plaza Inn breakfast is just so charming. Adorable setting (reminiscent of Crystal Palace) and a fun mix of characters. We typically see around 8 over the course of our meal. Some Pooh, some classic, some surprises (often including Cinderella's mice). It's fun to rope drop and get a lot of rides in, then have breakfast at Plaza Inn around 10 or 10:30. Ask for an inside table though as the characters seem more hit or miss outside. Plus, it will be August and hot.

Hey @mom2rtk i remember you from the other Wdw board!! Nice to see you you here

 

[NVDISFamily]

If you like character meals, the Plaza Inn breakfast is just so charming.

100% agree with this. Plus the food is good too! We have sent a few friends/families this way and they always love it. Recommended to get there hungry

 

[nyy]

We are WDW vets and just returned from our first DLR trip.
I would have to agree with mdmost's advice about rope dropping. We were extremely surprised at how much we got done at both DL and DCA at RD (with EE to be fair). We always RD WDW and can't get nearly as much done. I think this is partially because attractions are so much closer together and partially because RD crowds (and EE crowds) are so much lower. We had LLMP with 5 day PH. We went on everything we wanted to, many E tickets multiple times, and also saw Wonderous Journeys, Tapestry, Paint the Night, and WOC. We chose not to see Fantasmic, but easily could have. We watched WJ, Tap, and PTN from a bench in front/side of Small World and I would highly recommend that location. It wasn't crowded or hard to get at all. We could see the projections and the fireworks. I will say WDW has better fireworks. We watched the later version of PTN. WOC we saw the first time with the Dessert Party (2nd showing) and another time (2nd showing) we just walked up to a great spot on the bridge 5 minutes before the preshow. There were plenty of spots.
We were at DLR June 27-July 2. Crowds June 27-30 were very low (in our newbie opinion) July 1 was a little more and July 2 even more, but we were guessing it was because of the upcoming holiday? DL is open later.
Space Mtn is so much different than WDW, with DLR's version much better seating and (seemingly) faster. Buzz guns are hand-held instead of stationary, Pirates is longer at DLR, the RR is much slower but has different scenes, Guardians is Tower of Terror but starts off quicker, RISE and GE are identical, TSMM is the same, MMRR is the same, Tiana's Bayou seating in the log is different and we got soaked, RSR is better than Test Track and Cars Land at night is stunning. Do not miss it.
We did Blue Bayou and loved the atmosphere, food just ok. Storytellers Brunch felt exactly like a WDW character brunch.
My kids (DS23, DD20) loved the Incredicoaster.
My favorite part of DLR was the weather. We always had to go to WDW in August because of school/work schedules and DLR in June/July was like heaven in comparison. Zero humidity. Life changing.
DLR felt much more walkable and it was much easier to take a midday break - no busses, boats, or monorails needed!