Where do I start???

[MickeyMomma]

We decided to take the kids (4 & 3) to DL in late May. I've only been to DL (and CA) once, and that was 15 years ago, long before Disney added a second park. What are some things we should consider doing while we are there? Are there any *must do* character meals we should book? I am VERY familiar with WDW in FL, but I'm totally lost when it comes to DL and the surrounding area. Please, give me some ideas!!!

 

[Chickysmom]

Can you tell us how many days you have to go to the parks?

 

[MickeyMomma]

Well, overall we'll be in CA five to seven days (depending on what all we decide to do while in CA). We were thinking about spending 2-3 days at DL. We want to be able to enjoy the parks. We're trying to figure out exactly what all we want to do while in the area, but we really don't know what all is out there, especially what would be more conducive to the kids' interests.

 

[Chickysmom]

Well my firs thought is that if you will be going to the Parks (DL & DCA) for three days that you go 1 day to DCA and 2 days to DL. There are more things to do for your kids at their ages at DL and lines for those rides can sometimes be longer.

Be sure to visit DCA's Disney Playhouse for the really cute show with Bear in the Big Blue House and others. Also the Bug's Land is really cute and the new Monsters Inc ride should be cute as well.

Be aware that DL has many kid rides but some can seems quite scary to little ones, dark/loud/etc.

 

[TSRE]

I would suggest reading through the Unofficial Guide, even if you don't end up following the plans. It will give you a good overview of both parks, and I find the ratings of a ride's "scariness" factor for kids to be pretty spot on. We ignored it about Snow White, and it freaked both of our kids out (who don't really scare easily).

Don't miss Flik's Fun Fair in DCA - it is perfect for 3 & 4 year olds (my kids are 3 & 6 and they love it). I would bring one change of clothes into the park one day so the kids can get wet there and not have to be wet the rest of the day.

What other things were you thinking of doing in California?