If you want to know anymore info, here is a link to my pre-trip report: http://forums.wdwmagic.com/threads/...sneyland-pre-trip-report.885847/#post-6170533
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Disneyland 1st Timer! If we go to Disneyland or Not go to Disneyland, that is the question!
- Thread starter RMichael21
- Start date
Figments Friend
Well-Known Member
Thanks, that helps a lot! Here's a list of musts. Indiana Jones, BTMRR, Splash, Space, Pirates, HM, all of the fantasyland dark rides, astro Blasters, Star Tours, Autopia, RSR, TOT, Mike and Sully to the Rescue, Maters Junkyard Jamboree, Flying tires, TSMM, screamin' and grizzly river run. I know that's a long list, but those are the things I have to get in.
Unfortunately, my family refuses to go to the second showing of Fantasmic so do you have any tips for the first show or something really convincing that will make them want to go to the second showing? My family is taking this very laid back and I don't think they realize we are going in one of the busiest times of year. They still think that DLR is so tiny that we can just stroll through the parks at a leisurely pace which is not true at all. Anyway, thanks for your help.
Many locals show up for the showings of 'Fantasmic' and claim their spot several hours before the Show begins....even before Cast start roping off the viewing areas.
You can spot the areas being 'saved' by the beach towels and blankets laid out in in front of the Rivers of America.
Most people respect those towels and blankets...so if you show up and bring one with you to spread out, you can 'claim' a spot close to the water.
Leaving your towel/blanket there means you can wander off and continue to enjoy Attractions. Be sure to return to you spot about an hour before the show.
A lot of folks grab a meal and bring it back to their spot for a makeshift 'picnic'.
Many locals bring lunchboxes and other snacks in with them to have while seated...at least from what i have seen to date.
They have it down to a science.
If you are not comfortable with that, you can still get some great viewing areas about 30 minutes before the Show begins.
I personally have found the area directly across from the entrance to PoTC to be decent.
Stand directly behind the rope set up behind the seated towel/blanket sitters and you will have a awesome view of the full show and it's effects, and most importantly, Maleficent in her dragon form!
NOT TO BE MISSED moment!
The folks in front of you will likely stay seated, so it's almost like having a 'front row' viewing area.
After a few rows of people fill in behind you, a CM will come by and rope you all in.
This is a nice spot to grab at the 30 minute mark as many assume the area behind the seated folks is off limits.
They do not realize it is simply awaiting more bodies...much like the 'Haunted Mansion'...ha ha!
During the time of year you are visiting, it WILL be quite crowded...so the earlier you show up to 'claim your spot' the better.
I have seen folks lay their towels down as early as 4pm for the first showing.
As i said earlier, many locals and Annual Passholders show up just to see 'Fantasmic' so you will definitely feel the 'crunch' before and after the Show.
If at all possible try to convince your family to stay later...and see the second showing.
It will be a lesser crowd and more enjoyable.
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Figments Friend
Well-Known Member
As GiveMeTheMusic already noted, it is okay but nothing overly noteworthy.
For a unique dining experience i recommend at DL Park the 'Blue Bayou'. It is pricey, but it is worth doing once.
It is one of the few places where you will have to make a reservation, but most other dining locations in the Parks do not require it.
I personally like Cafe Orleans and the Hungry Bear Restaurant.
Cafe Orleans is a reasonable table service location in New Orleans Square with some unique offerings themed to the surroundings.
Try the salad, Pomme Frittes ( french fries with garlic and herbs with great dipping sauces ) or the famous Monte Cristo sandwich.
Hungry Bear is a counter service located over in Critter Country and serves sandwiches a step up from typical fast food fair.
Try the Fried Green Tomato sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries.
For DCA 'Carthway Circle' is the top spot. A nice spot for Dinner. Somewhat upscale, and the prices reflect that.
Another one of the few spots that would require a reservation ahead of time.
The best upscale restaurant at the DLR is no doubt 'Napa Rose', located a short walk from the Parks in the 'Grand Californian Hotel'.
Expensive, but exquisite food and wine.
Thanks!
Californian Elitist
Well-Known Member
There are plenty of quick service spots that offer good, quality food and not cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, pizza and hot dogs. You can survive without eating at any table service restaurants.
WishIwasThere
Active Member
That was going to be my first recommendation. We were there in April for 3 days and the TouringPlan was essential for us to get as much done as we did. My only recommendation that the TP did not have was to skip the standby line for RSR if you do not get FP's. Do the single rider line. The times we did it, my DW and I would be in one car and either one or two of the kids (14 and 11) would be in the other that we were racing against. That certainly made it more fun. I also recommend the swinging cars for the Death Wheel, look for the thread, lots of fun reading there. We were at the Residence Inn Maingate, so not sure where the Marriott is, but if you are more than a 10 min walk, I reccommend the ART shuttle.
Also make sure you are there for rope drop...get lots of things done prior to the crowds building.
It's about a 5-10 minute drive from the parks. I'll definitely consider doing the single rider line for RSR, just not the first time. I'm the only one who knows what the ride does, so I want to see their reaction.
Cosmic Commando
Well-Known Member
Two tips:
#1) Don't miss the Aladdin show unless you absolutely and unequivocally hate all stage shows. The Genie and the effects make it entertaining for everyone. (Oh, and the songs are pretty good! Except one... you'll know which!
)
#2) The Animation Bldg in DCA is one of the few Epcot pavilion-esque indoor areas where you can grab some AC. Since it's July, this may be useful.
#1) Don't miss the Aladdin show unless you absolutely and unequivocally hate all stage shows. The Genie and the effects make it entertaining for everyone. (Oh, and the songs are pretty good! Except one... you'll know which!
)#2) The Animation Bldg in DCA is one of the few Epcot pavilion-esque indoor areas where you can grab some AC. Since it's July, this may be useful.
#1) We actually aren't planning on seeing the Aladdin show for one main reason! We're going to see it on Broadway this weekend. At first, that was the only thing planned, but then they decided to surprise me with Disneyland as well!Two tips:
#1) Don't miss the Aladdin show unless you absolutely and unequivocally hate all stage shows. The Genie and the effects make it entertaining for everyone. (Oh, and the songs are pretty good! Except one... you'll know which!
#2) The Animation Bldg in DCA is one of the few Epcot pavilion-esque indoor areas where you can grab some AC. Since it's July, this may be useful.
#2) I'll be sure to check it out!
Check out the pre-trip report here for more info: http://forums.wdwmagic.com/threads/...ly-awesome-disneyland-pre-trip-report.885847/
GiveMeTheMusic
Well-Known Member
Good call. It won't compare favorably to the Broadway show. Jealous!
Mickey_777
Well-Known Member
No comprendo
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Which question were you answering?
Mickey_777
Well-Known Member
No, I am going to Disneyland. At first I wasn't sure if they were going to surprise me with a trip. That's what the title means. I don't want to come across as rude, but maybe you should read the thread first to know what it's about.the title of the thread
Californian Elitist
Well-Known Member
No, I am going to Disneyland. At first I wasn't sure if they were going to surprise me with a trip. That's what the title means. I don't want to come across as rude, but maybe you should read the thread first to know what it's about.
Your title is misleading. A little rewording would fix the confusion, but oh well.
Yeah!
I would change it, but seeing that we are only a week out, I'll just leave it be.
JillC LI
Well-Known Member
Actually, when I saw it last month, I thought it was exactly like a Broadway show in quality, just a bit shorter. And that is from a life-long New York who has been to hundreds of Broadway shows.