We just took our boys (now aged 7 & 4) to Florida last year and did Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Animal Kingdom. Going to LA in April. Staying in LA and only taking a day trip to Anaheim. Trying to decide between Disneyland and DCA. Disneyland seems more "magical" while DCA seems more like a regular amusement park with a lot less attractions than Disneyland. We've been on some of the rides they have at each (while at MK and Epcot/AK), but there are new rides at both parks.
Which would you recommend?
Thanks!
Disneyland or California Adventure?
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Since they've recently been to Disney World I'd probably take the boys to California Adventure. There is a lot more to CA than there used to be.
In a perfect world you'd have time for both (DisneyLand is my personal favorite) but CA is much different and a lot of fun.
If it's not in your plans, Legoland is really a great choice for that age group. They'll love Disneyland up through the teen years but Legoland should be done before 8 or 9.
Disneyland, no question, there are quite a few rides there that are either not at Disneyworld, or are different.
Whichever one you choose, go early and DON'T go on a weekend.
It can be a total zoo on the weekends. The DCA will have lines that are not worth waiting in.
I've done WDW and both parks in California. With kids I would say Disneyland over California Adventure.
with such young kids, I'd do Disneyland. Many of The DCA rides are more scary or not for little kids.
If your 4-year old is at least 40 inches I might go with Cal Adventure because of Cars Land. Especially since they are boys.
The top 5 things that my kids liked about our visit to the 2 parks were all at CA.
In no particular order...
World of Color
Aladdin
Soaring over California
Bugs Life
Toy Story
Grizzly River Run
(Make that top 6)
Do both or just CA adventure. My kids had tecently been to Disney World in Orlando and much preferred Anaheim, Disneyland and CA Adventure. Easier to do.
My guess is some who are recommending DL may have visited before CarsLand and the other new attractions opened at CA.
Both parks are now 'musts' for young children IMO.
Buy the park hopper pass and do both. Unlike WDW the parks are right next to each other (no tram needed).
Pamela posted this on Feb. 28 and hasn't been back...