I am often asked, “Why do you go to Disneyland when you could just as easily go to Walt Disney World?” While it is true that all Disney Parks are worth the visit every time, and Walt Disney World is much larger than its west coast counterpart, size isn’t everything. There are a lot of things that are unique to only to Disneyland, and if given the choice I often choose Anaheim over Orlando. I grew up in California and Disneyland feels like coming home.
Here are my top 3 reasons why you should head for the West Coast:
1. Cars Land. Never have I felt more like I have walked onto the set of an animated film then I do at Cars Land, located in California Adventure Park. With rides like Radiator Springs Racers and dining options like Flo’s V8 Café and the Cozy Cone Motel, the theming here is second to none. For a special treat, make sure you’re there at sunset. Just like in the movie, the town of Radiator Springs lights up the night. The neon signs and other area lighting turn on by one, accompanied by “Sh-Boom” over the speakers. It’s an extra special moment of magic.
2. The Walk-ability. If you don’t mind a short walk, you won’t have to wait for a bus the entire time you are at the Disneyland Resort. No standing in the bus line, and no stopping at other resorts, means more time in the parks. I can get from my hotel room door and into the parks, or even Downtown Disney, in a matter of minutes. One of my family’s favorite short cuts is through the Grand Californian. We love to grab a drink and relax in the rocking chairs by the fireplace before retiring for the night. All three Disneyland Resort hotels are recommended, but you can enjoy the easy walk from many of the Good Neighbor Hotels as well.
3. The spirit of Walt Disney himself. When it comes to Disney, nothing compares to the original. Much of what Walt Disney had a direct hand in creating remains in Disneyland today. In our big-business world, I love being able to show my children Walt Disney as the man who thought it was fun to do the impossible. I always point out the lamp in his Town Square apartment window and when they are older I will take them on the Walk in Walt’s Footsteps Tour to see it.
There are many more things that make Disneyland special, and it’s certainly worth a visit if you haven’t been. In fact, I’ve met many Walt Disney World fans who visit Disneyland, almost reluctantly, and fall in love with it too. I’d be more than happy to help you plan and book a trip there, or to any other magical destination.
What is your favorite thing about the Disneyland Resort?
Shannon Phillips says
Great article!! Now I want to go to Disneyland. Hook me up Jen!!
Christen Francis says
I really want to go to Disneyland while my girls are small! But it’s really hard to think about missing out on WDW! We have talked about going within the next year or so… we shall see!
JEN BAUER says
Christen,
It’s really about going with the expectation that it will be completely different than WDW but just as magical! We were just there for four days with our 3 and 5 year old and still had a list of things we never got too! I’m happy to help you plan anytime;).