Formerly SK
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 27, 2011 14:23:13 GMT -5
Posts: 3,255
|
Post by Formerly SK on Jul 11, 2011 16:50:48 GMT -5
We're taking the kids (5&6yo) to Disneyland this August. We'll stay with relatives so we only need park tickets. Any advice on the best way to see Disneyland? I admit I'm a bit overwhelmed with all the types of passes, etc.
|
|
Abby Normal
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 22, 2010 12:31:49 GMT -5
Posts: 3,501
|
Post by Abby Normal on Jul 11, 2011 16:55:12 GMT -5
Depends on what you want to do. We purchased the city pass which gave us 3 days at disneyland, plus universal, seaworld etc because we wanted to go to more down there than just disneyland. Our friends, who went down as well, only bought the disneyland passes.
Neither of used the park hopper feature over to California Adventure. It seemed like they had more of the "extreme" rides for older kids. Ours were overwhelmed with just what there was at Disneyland.
|
|
Formerly SK
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 27, 2011 14:23:13 GMT -5
Posts: 3,255
|
Post by Formerly SK on Jul 11, 2011 17:02:27 GMT -5
Thanks. I wasn't sure what California Adventure was. I think we'll avoid it. I thought about driving down to San Diego for Sea World. It would be a one day thing (get up early, drive, do the park, and then drive back to LA). Do people do that? I'm not sure what the traffic is like for that area.
|
|
Abby Normal
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 22, 2010 12:31:49 GMT -5
Posts: 3,501
|
Post by Abby Normal on Jul 11, 2011 17:13:48 GMT -5
Yes, people do that. I think there are also shuttles you can take. We ended up flying into San Diego and renting a car there. We went to Sea World then drove to Anaheim. We drove back to San Diego and hit the Zoo before we flew out on our last night. Since we were going to have to rent a car anyway, it ended up being cheaper than flying into LA. Our kids enjoyed the Zoo and Sea world more than disneyland. Go figure.
But like I said - it just depends on what you want to do while your there.
|
|
Abby Normal
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 22, 2010 12:31:49 GMT -5
Posts: 3,501
|
Post by Abby Normal on Jul 11, 2011 17:14:58 GMT -5
I should say that there are a few things in California adventure that I've heard are very good. Our kids were just too wiped out to bother with it.
|
|
sil
Established Member
Joined: Jan 7, 2011 18:56:29 GMT -5
Posts: 396
|
Post by sil on Jul 11, 2011 17:17:02 GMT -5
I live in So Cal. Not exactly a Disney junkie but Ive been a few times. Others who are more into Disney may have more insight, but here are my thoughts: You can probably see all of Disneyland in a day, assuming you dont want to hit every attraction. So if you are spending just 2 days at the parks, I'd suggest just going to one park each day, rather than spending more $ on a park hopper ticket. Disneyland is not nearly as spread out as Disney World, so its easier to cover ground fast. With a 5 and 6 year old, I suggest arriving right when the gates open. Most of the characters are available for photo ops near the castle at the very beginning of the day. Later on, you have to go throughout the park and stand in some really long lines to meet Mickey and Minnie. If your kids are still in the Fantasyland stage, don't linger by the castle for too long - you'll want to go directly to the Dumbo, teacups, or perhaps the Nemo line before those lines get insane later in the day. Outside of Fantasyland, figure out which rides are your top priorities, and get Fast Passes for these. Mid-day in August will be HOT, so if your friends live close by, you might want a 2-3 hour break in the early afternoon. If not, spare yourself from long lines during this time of day or wait in an indoor line for space mountain, pirates or haunted mansion. If you can hang in there all day, I havent seen, but Ive heard that the light show at night is really amazing. California adventure does have some bigger rides, but this is also the location of most of the Pixar-themed rides and characters, so its absolutely worth a visit with a 5 and 6 yr old. It also has a great wine area, in case you have someone willing to watch the 5 and 6 yr old in the evening
|
|
sil
Established Member
Joined: Jan 7, 2011 18:56:29 GMT -5
Posts: 396
|
Post by sil on Jul 11, 2011 17:23:39 GMT -5
I love Seaworld too. If you are going mid-week, yes traffic will be bad. And rush "hour" is at least 3 hours long in the morning, and again in the evening. If you leave Anaheim around 10, you can probably get there by noon. Then just dont plan on leaving the park until 8pm. For your consideration, here's another place that's a couple of hours south. It's really hot here in Summer, but this place is just amazing: www.sdzsafaripark.org/
|
|
Formerly SK
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 27, 2011 14:23:13 GMT -5
Posts: 3,255
|
Post by Formerly SK on Jul 11, 2011 17:27:25 GMT -5
We will be staying in Newport Beach - I'm not sure how far that is (with traffic) so I'm not sure about leaving/returning but I will definitely look into it! Plus it would be nice to see the night show and I know the kids will be too wiped to stay up for it if we don't get a breather. Heck, *I'll* be too wiped to stay for it without a breather. Thanks for the idea of the shuttle to Sea World! I'll check into that too. There are nine of us - it may be cheaper to do a shuttle than drive two rental cars down to San Diego. We are actually doing two weeks there (one in Newport Beach, one in Palm Springs). I'm not sure of geography but maybe it would be worth it to get the three-park pass. Although (YIKES!) it is expensive!
|
|
Abby Normal
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 22, 2010 12:31:49 GMT -5
Posts: 3,501
|
Post by Abby Normal on Jul 11, 2011 17:32:29 GMT -5
www.citypass.com/southern-californiaThis is the one we purchased. But we bought it through Costco. AAA has a discount on it as well. You might look into those if you think your going to go that route.
|
|
Mad Dawg Wiccan
Administrator
Rest in Peace
Only Bites Whiners
Joined: Jan 12, 2011 20:40:24 GMT -5
Posts: 9,693
|
Post by Mad Dawg Wiccan on Jul 12, 2011 12:32:57 GMT -5
I'm a Disney junkie, I've been to DL and CA many times. With small kids in tow, I don't think I'd do CA, it's more geared to adults. Also with small kids I don't think you can really do DL in one day as they are going to get tired. If you've never been before and have any questions about certain attractions or the park in general, shoot me a PM.
|
|
oreo
Familiar Member
Joined: Jan 4, 2011 19:42:49 GMT -5
Posts: 577
|
Post by oreo on Jul 12, 2011 12:49:45 GMT -5
There are many things at California Adventure for children. My son is 2 1/2 and he loves many of the rides there (as he does Disneyland). They have bugs land which is for children, he loves Monsters Inc, Midway Madness, MuppetVision, and a new ride based on the Little Mermaid. They have a large rock play area which used to be called Brother Bear Trail (I think it is called Redwood Creek or something now) which is fun for kids. They can climb and there are slides (large and small) and a rock wall to climb on. If your kids are a little taller they can probably go on almost everything. My son is only 36" and can still ride quite a bit. If you only have 1 day though, I'd probably stick with Disneyland. It really comes down to what your kids like. I think the park hopper pass is too expensive for 1 day. If you are going for 2 days, I agree that 1 park per day would be reasonable.
We live in San Diego and drive up to Disneyland for the day every month. It is a long day (about 1 1/2 hour drive each way) but definitely do-able (you would be going the opposite direction to Sea World). As for traffic, it depends on what day and time you choose. I'd say that the traffic in the morning in LA will be worse than anything in San Diego. You'd probably get home late so probably no traffic issues there.
|
|
showtime
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 6, 2011 12:28:29 GMT -5
Posts: 125
|
Post by showtime on Jul 12, 2011 19:31:08 GMT -5
I happen to be a big Disneyland fan... Just some small tips...but let me repost your facts so I make sure everything is correct. #1) You're coming to Southern California for two weeks staying at least 1 week with relatives in Newport Beach. Disneyland park (California Adventure included) is not as convenient as it sounds to go back and forth to Newport Beach. Why? Because Newport beach is still a bit of a drive...especially since it's summer and EVERYONE heads to the beach in the summertime. Add the traffic time + the time it takes for you to enter/leave the park - take the tram - and head to the parking garage and you will realize that making multiple trips in the same day to Disneyland is not as simple as it sounds. (I should know, I live in Irvine, which is a few minutes from Newport Beach) #2) Go to the park early or late? If I were you, I would strategize your trip. First off, you have young kids...so you know how long they can go until they become cranky and need a nap. Unlike others, I don't agree with going to the park early. Sure, you might be able to hit a few of the popular rides before the crowds come...but then you're stuck as the weather gets hotter and your kids get crankier. My advice, go on weekdays, and go in the afternoon. Weather gets cooler, and the nighttime festivities are things you shouldn't miss. They have Fantasmic and a choreagraphed Fireworks show at Disneyland Park. They have World of Color at California Adventure. Things you and your kids would love to watch...probably more than once. But these events only happen at night. In the daytime, enjoy the beach, enjoy the pool, let your kids take a nap...and then head to the park. The con of going at night is that you might miss out on fast passes and will have to wait to ride rides. #3) What can I do to save the most? First off, have your relatives buy your tickets. A 3 day park hopper pass to Disneyland cost $154 to a Southern California Resident - Otherwise, you'll be spending over $200 per person. During the summer, hours are slightly longer on weekends, but all the shows start at the same time (sometimes on the weekends, they may add 1 additional Fantasmic or World of Color showing) Tuesday night, Disneyland park closes at midnight...On the weekends, it's open till 1 or 2 am. (but remember, it's a lot busier too) Food is a lot more expensive at the park than outside. I advise you eat first. I believe bottle water may be brought in, but not other outside food or drink items .They do check bags/purses and strollers, so if you're thinking of sneaking stuff in...don't use your purse/bag. I have a jacket/windbreaker with lots of pockets that have Zippers!! I don't wear the jacket...I just carry it in...so far...no problems. There are a lot more tips and advice (what to see and where/when to go to get the best seating) but I feel I might be writing too much. Message me if you'd like to know more -Ben
|
|
Mad Dawg Wiccan
Administrator
Rest in Peace
Only Bites Whiners
Joined: Jan 12, 2011 20:40:24 GMT -5
Posts: 9,693
|
Post by Mad Dawg Wiccan on Jul 12, 2011 19:39:57 GMT -5
If you want the trip into the park a one day event and you are staying with relatives, I can suggest this:
There is a Motel 6 located about a mile from DL. Rent the room for a day, arrive early at the park, and use the room as a crash pad if the kids (or you) get tired as you spend the entire day/night in the park.
|
|
sheilaincali
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 19, 2010 17:55:24 GMT -5
Posts: 4,131
|
Post by sheilaincali on Jul 13, 2011 8:40:09 GMT -5
I used to live in So Cal and have been to Disneyland more times than I care to admit. Go on a week day as it will be slightly less crowded. Try to get their right as the park is opening. If you can avoid the freeways on Friday afternoons. In my opinion it was always the worst time of the week to be traveling on the roads.
Newport to San Diego isn't a bad drive but it's still a couple hours. Bring things for the kids to do in the car because it's not the most thrilling drive and traffic jams are common. Legoland is down in that area. I went years ago and wasn't super impressed- fee to get in and then a fee for every single ride or activity. But I guess they changed owners since then so it may be better.
For the money I preferred the Wild Animal Park in Escondido to the zoo in San Diego. The Wild Animal Park is part of the San Diego Zoo but it was usually less crowded and had lots of big habitats.
|
|
saveinla
Junior Associate
Joined: Dec 19, 2010 2:00:29 GMT -5
Posts: 5,232
|
Post by saveinla on Jul 13, 2011 8:50:48 GMT -5
If you can , take the kids early in the morning one day (close to opening time), so you can go to all the rides like Nemo and Dumbo first thing since the lines are huge for them later in the day and once again later in the afternoon. Even though DL can be done in one day I think with kids, it's better to divide it into 2 days, so that you can see it at their leisure.
Like sheila above said, please avoid the freeways on Friday if possible. Traffic going in to San Diego on Fridays is horrible.
Legoland is better now and you just have to pay an entry fee. If your kids are into Lego and love smaller rides, then please check into that.
I like the San Diego zoo and Wild Animal park too. Check out the websites and see if you can get an annual membership for the same price as a one day ticket. They will offer free tickets for the bus etc. if you do that. It's been years since we went to the Wild Animal park, so I am not sure on the details.
|
|
Formerly SK
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 27, 2011 14:23:13 GMT -5
Posts: 3,255
|
Post by Formerly SK on Jul 13, 2011 9:24:00 GMT -5
Thanks everyone for their input!
OK...so my summary plans are this:
One day at Disneyland where we get there right at opening (most likely Tues/Wed). One day at Sea World (either a Tues/Wed/Thurs). Possibly a second day at Disney were we get there in late afternoon and stay through the fireworks etc.
I like the idea of getting a motel for a few hours (in order to avoid buying a 2nd day at DL). I'll run it by the gang and see what they think.
Regarding food: DS has autism and severe sensory issues when it comes to food. I will *have* to bring his food with us. I'm assuming DL will be accommodating given the circumstances. Unfortunately it has to be refrigerated so I'm either going to be wearing a backpack with lots of ice packs or does anyone know if they have storage lockers to rent (that are hopefully out of the sun)?
|
|
Formerly SK
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 27, 2011 14:23:13 GMT -5
Posts: 3,255
|
Post by Formerly SK on Jul 13, 2011 9:26:09 GMT -5
The wild animal park looks very cool, but between DL and Sea World I'm going to be pooped. We want some days to just lounge on the beach too, so I'll file away the San Diego tips for another trip. Thanks though!
|
|
HoneyBBQ
Junior Associate
Joined: Dec 27, 2010 10:36:09 GMT -5
Posts: 5,395
Mini-Profile Background: {"image":"","color":"3b444e"}
|
Post by HoneyBBQ on Jul 13, 2011 9:30:03 GMT -5
My suggestion is to get the Unofficial Guide to Disneyland. It explains EVERYTHING you need to know and has a "day planner" for small children of how to cram in everything.
Basically, you have to show up before the gates open and be one of the first people in line. You go off, ride Dumbo, get fast passes, and work against the crowd flow according to the book. We went the busiest time of the year (between Xmas and NY) and almost never stood in line because we used their method. It was amazing!
My suggestion would be what other said - rent a room close by and when the kids crash after lunch some time- fill your fists with fast passes and then go have a nap for a few hours. Get up in the early evening and use your fast passes and watch the fireworks/parades or whatever floats your boat.
They do have lockers, I don't believe they have any method to cool the food. If you get the local hotel you could keep the food in the min-fridge, that would help.
|
|