Should I Go To Disneyland or Disney World?
Truly the most magical of decisions.
While many people assume "going to Disney" means Disney World (simply because it's bigger), you actually have a choice!
How to make that choice? I'll walk you through it. Here are the questions I pose to my clients to pick the right destination for them:
Do you want your trip to be centered around Disney? or simply include Disney?
Of course, you can choose to do this at either coast, but if you think more broadly about your vacation, you'll probably realize that one location is preferable to you.
If you want to center Disney and be immersed in it the entire time, Disney World in Orlando might be the better choice for you. You can enter the sprawling property and stay there! Take Disney transportation between resorts, parks, shopping and more--without having to engage with the outside world.
If you prefer having a variety of experiences that don't all include Disney, Disneyland might be your ideal destination. Because the parks are plopped in the middle of Anaheim, you will have other activities and dining options available more readily. It's also easy to include Anaheim as a stop within a broader California vacation that includes beaches or national and state parks.
How many days do you want to spend on this trip?
The reason Disneyland works well as a part of a broader trip is because you can see it all in less time.
If you want to see all 4 of the Disney World theme parks and have time to explore other areas of the resort, you'll want at least 5 or 6 days. Alternatively, you can experience Disneyland Park and California Adventure with just 1 or 2 days.
This ties to our next big consideration...
Are you traveling with little kids?
Theme park days require so much energy. It's a lot for parents to navigate, and even if the kids are having an absolute blast, it's draining for them too. Doing 4 or 5 park days in one week is possible with little kids, but maybe not ideal for everyone. Disneyland can feel less daunting because it's smaller and more walkable, making it simpler to take a midday nap break with littles.
What are your transportation priorities?
When you live on the east or west coast, it makes sense to pick your closest Disney park! The option to drive or do a cheap direct flight might be all the justification you need.
But if you live in the Midwest (like me), there is no "closer" option! Often times flights are about the same duration and cost regardless of which park I pick, but a unique flight discount can tip the scales for me. If you're in the same position, I recommend setting up Google flight alerts for Orlando and the greater Anaheim area. If a screaming deal pops up to one location, perhaps it's a sign!
Here's a little summary for the Disney World or Disneyland debate:
Choose Disneyland in California if you...
only want to dedicate a day or two to theme parks
have little kids who might be overwhelmed after a couple days
have a tighter budget (fewer days = less money)
live in or close to California
want to test the Disney waters before visiting Disney World in the future
Choose Walt Disney World in Florida if you...
want to immerse yourself in the "Disney bubble"
have 5+ days to dedicate to theme parks
have a more flexible budget
live in or close to Florida
only see yourself doing one Disney trip ever
Did this help you decide?
If so, great! Let's get your trip rolling. Fill out the contact form below to get my free expert Disney planning services.
Still not sure on your destination? I get it. I'd be happy to talk through your options. Fill out the contact form below to get my free Disney advice.
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