Which hotel?

[LI Annie]

My husband and I have been to WDW many times. We are planning a trip to California in 2005 and we want to see Disneyland while we are there. We were thinking of the Disneyland Hotel but it's a little over our budget and there are so many other hotels in the area to choose from. We are looking for a nice hotel within walking distance of the park and it would be wonderful if it had a great view, possibly of the parks area. I've looked at all the maps and aerial photos but some first hand experience would be a big help. I'm sure there is someone out there who can give me a little insight.
Thanks!!
Joann

 

[kimkatmom]

Joanne:

The last time we went to DL -- three weeks ago -- we stayed at the Anaheim Sheraton. If you get into the SPG web site, you can usually come up with some great deals. We paid $75 a night! The rooms are nice [not deluxe] and believe it or not, it is within walking distance. Takes you about 15 minutes to get there walking. But their bus system is very good. And on he nights there are fireworks, if you aren't in the part, you can see them "from the back side."

Having said that, however, if the price is right to stay at the DL hotel, that is much more convenient and would be preferable. This last get away was just that -- just a get away.

If you book at the Sheraton, be mindful of the cancellation policy. Then shop for the DL hotel. If you get a good deal at DL hotel, cancel the Sheraton.

Have a wonderful time.

 

[Goofydiane]

Everyone here has their own preferences. My personal preference is the Anaheim Hilton. Disneyview Rooms, larger rooms and walking distance to the parks (about 10 minutes to the parking lot tram and 15 minutes to the parks). They are part of the Good Neighbor Hotel system, so they offer stay 3 nights, get 4th night free often as part of a Disney package.

The one downside of the Hilton is it is attached to the convention center, and depending on what group is using the center, it can have more unruly teenagers than you want to have at your hotel.

I'd read hotel reviews and the links here that give hotel information and will assist in your decision. I personally do not like to stay in hotels that do not have interior hallways or a controlled entrance system, if that is important to you, make sure you check with the hotel before you book a room.

Enjoy your trip!

diane

 

[disney-super-mom]

My family and I have been to Disneyland several times and stayed at a different place each time. These are my recommendations for you.

For a great, actually an awsome view of the parks and the fireworks, I agree with Diane, the Hilton Anaheim is great. Of course, you must request a room with a view of the parks, because not all their rooms have views, but it's usually not a problem. However, it is a bit of a walk to the front gate of the parks, about a 10 to 15 minute walk. I would cut across the California Adventure parking area and jump on one of the Disney trams which will take you to the front gates. The Hilton also has it's own restaurants and room service and a very nice pool and spa area. When we stayed here, we were on the 11th floor and our room, view and stay was terrific. However, if you have a car be aware that they charge $11 per day to park in their parking garage.

Another suggestion is the Howard Johnson in Anaheim, which is a little less expensive. They do have some rooms with views of Disneyland, but the view is obstructed a little by trees, and it's just not as nice a view as the Hilton - (of course the Hilton has approx. 14-15 floors whereas the Howard Johnson has only 3 floors. The Howard Johnson does not have it's own restaurant, but it has a nice shop with snacks, cereal, milk, pop, beer, etc..., the rooms are nice and clean, a pretty decent pool and hottub area, and it's a fairly easy walk to Disney's front gates - 7 to 10 minutes tops.

A great suggestion for you is to go to www.getawaytoday.com and look at the vacation packages for Disneyland. They have great discounted packages, and I highly recommend them. I have booked two vacations through them, and because of the great packages they offer, you may be able to even stay at the Disneyland Hotel depending on your budget. When I say vacation package, I mean room and theme park tickets. They don't book flights and rental cars. Anyway, check them out. It certainly can't hurt. I do know that you will definately get great rates, way better than expedia, travelocity, disney.com, etc... And no, I don't work for them or know anyone who does, I just think they do a terrific job and offer great packages. I wish more people knew about them.

I hope this helps and if you need more suggestions or advice, I'll be happy to answer. And of course, the most important thing to remember at the Happiest Place on Earth is to relax and just Have Fun!