When to go and how far is the walk from DLH to the parks?

[disneydenisel]

We're planning a trip to celebrate my daughter's 5th birthday this month and need some help.

We're trying to decide between the DLH and GC for a 3-night visit with our two kids, ages 2 and 5. I was able to get a great AP rate at the DLH, but it seems like a much farther walk to and from the park. We've stayed at the GC before so we know how convenient that location is, but the AP rate was not available. We love the GC but it's hard to justify spending $1,000 more...I think.

Does anyone know how long it takes to walk from the DLH to the parks? Is there a quicker way to get there (tram, shuttle)?

Also, we're trying to decide between March 28-31 (when the parks will have shorter hours, no fireworks and Dumbo is being refurbished) and April 4-7, (when the parks will have long hours and fireworks and the Electrical Parade every night, and Dumbo).

Will the parks be unbearably crowded in April because of Spring Break?

Thanks for any advice!

 

[Amy&Dan]

The walk to the parks from DLH is about 10 minutes. Only a couple of minutes longer than GC. The big advantage to GC is the private entrance to California Adventure. From DLH, you can catch the monorail, only 3-4 minutes which will take you right into Tomorrow Land. I think your daughter will really love the DLH because it has a lot of Disney "feel" to it. The pool at DLH is great. As far as timing, go when its less crowded! I know its a bummer about Dumbo but its also a real bummer to have to navigate crowds and ride less, especially with kids. There is always something closed it seems so you might as well go when the crowds are low!

 

[curtessey]

We were there last year on March 28th & 29th, if I remember correctly, it was a Friday & Saturday and DL was PACKED! Wasn't so bad at CA, but it was spring break, lots of families. Thank heavens for the Fast Pass! We still had a great time.