The Disney Destination Toolbox

Should we go to Disneyland or Walt Disney World?

Disneyland is comprised of two theme parks, Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure. The theme parks are close enough to walk between within two or three minutes, located just across the Esplanade from one another. Also connecting to the Esplanade is the Downtown Disney District, which leads to Disney's three on-property hotels, the Grand Californian, the Disneyland Hotel, and Pixar Place. The Downtown Disney District features shops and dining, as well as live events on most days.

Disney World is the size of a small city, featuring four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom), two water parks, two miniature golf courses, any number of standard golf courses, the ESPN Sports Complex, and a plethora of resorts from budget to Deluxe for guests to choose from. Disney provides transportation across the entire Walt Disney World Resort via bus, monorail, and Skyliner. In addition, Disney World boasts two shopping districts, Disney Springs and Disney's Boardwalk.

How many days do you need at Disneyland vs Walt Disney World?

Disneyland has two parks, so two full days covers both, and three days ensures a less pressured visit. Walt Disney World has four main theme parks, and most families add at least one for travel, rest, or returning to a favorite park or park hopping. A week at Walt Disney World will satisfy the main attractions, but always leaves guests wanting more.

Depending on travel preferences and the pace a family prefers will determine how many days are truly necessary. A family that likes a slow morning needs a different number than one that is ready to go for Rope Drop.

Which resort is easier with young children?

Disneyland is usually easier logistically. The parks are walkable from most nearby hotels, so an afternoon break in the room costs minutes rather than an hour on a bus.

Walt Disney World has more designed specifically for young children, but every return to the hotel is a journey. Families who do well there tend to plan around the transportation.

Is Disneyland cheaper than Walt Disney World?

Ticket prices between the two are closer than most people expect. The cost difference in a real trip comes from length and travel: a shorter Disneyland trip with fewer hotel nights usually totals less than a longer Walt Disney World trip, even when the daily costs are similar.

Which is cheaper for your family depends on where you're flying from, the dates, and how many nights you book.

Which resort has a steeper learning curve?

Walt Disney World has more systems running at once: four parks, a transportation network, and more booking windows that open earlier and matter more. Disneyland has fewer moving parts, and more of the trip can be decided on the day. Disneyland is often seen as being more of a "locals park".