I know I already did a little Disneyland post, but I just wanted to make sure I covered all my bases. And I know this was my first visit, but I definitely learned a few dos and donts for our next magical vacation.
Entrance of the Grand Californian...this picture doesn't do it justice.
Our view from the balcony.
Our view from the balcony.
The boys resting before we headed out for the evening.
1. I WILL ALWAYS STAY INSIDE THE DISNEYLAND PARK. I know this sounds like a spoiled brat, but our stay at the Disneyland Grand Caliornian Hotel was perfect. It is a bit pricey with nothing extraordinary about the rooms, but the lobby was AWESOME and there is a private entrance to both parks. This means we brought the kids back for naps and rested our feet without wasting the day walking and catching the shuttle. We also enjoyed the "turn down" service with chocolates on the pillow along with the pool and waterslides. Next time we venture down that way, I'm also going to try out their spa :) The valet parked the truck, the bell boys loaded our luggage and delivered it to our room, and some guy played the grand piano (Disney theme songs) throughout the evening. (4 MAGICAL STARS)
My boys at Minnie's Kitchen.
Jase LOVES Tigger.
Jaxon wasn't afraid of Captain Hook. He gave him high fives and the infamous mean face.
2. I WILL ONLY SUPPORT ONE DISNEY CHARACTER BREAKFAST--MINNIE'S KITCHEN. And for good reason. We tried Chip & Dale's breakfast which was located at our hotel. It wasn't that great, and the only characters entertaining that day was Chip, Dale, Turk, and some Raccoon from Pocahantas. (2 STARS, minus the magic). The next day we walked to Goofy's Kitchen located in the Disneyland Hotel. This is quite a distance from the park and our hotel. We show up to find a sign that reads the kitchen is closed for the day. What a waste of our time...but this led us to Minnie's Kitchen located in Disneyland at The Plaza. The breakfast was delish and the characters were abundant....Minnie, Tigger, Pooh, Eeyore, Captain Hook, the Fairy Godmother, Chip & Dale (again). We also got buttons, balloons, and lots of attention. (4 MAGICAL STARS SPRINKLED W/ PIXIE DUST) The next day we tried Goofy's Kitchen again. The service was poor, food wasn't great, Goofy wasn't goofy, and Chip and Dale were there again. Now correct me if I'm wrong, but when I think of Disneyland, Chip and Dale don't really register???? They also had the Mad Hatter and Alice. (1 STAR and not worth the walk).
Jase was having fun until he realized he was wet.
Jaxon with Brother Bear.
Jaxon, our wild man, running through the fountains.
Jaxon, our wild man, running through the fountains.
3. I WILL LET MY KIDS HAVE FUN. This is a hard one for me. Sometimes I'm all about getting my money's worth. I think it stems from my Dad and his motto about buffets. Anyway, we let the kids decide. For those of you with younger kids, we LOVED the Bug's Life area, Soarin' over California, anything with water, and all the shows (Disney Playhouse, Brother Bear, Fantasmic). It was nice not running around trying to hit every ride.
Okay, I'm finished. Take my advice with a grain of salt, and don't forget lots and lots and lots of snacks. Unless you're not worried about spending $5 for an ice cream bar ;)
