| Go for it!
Hi Toni,
Your decision about staying on property or off at DL is a tough one. We have stayed at all three Disney hotels and they all have their charm. While the sticker price is shocking let me weigh in with some thoughts. First off, remember that when Disneyland was built it was out in the middle of nowhere. Since then seedy hotels and restaurant chains have sprung up around. In the past it was a real shock to leave the property. However in the past couple of years the City of Anaheim has gone gangbusters with trying to spruce the place up and they have done an outstanding job. They have worked to get the old, dated hotels to either leave or re-model and at least within the area directly surrounding DL they have been successful. There are some really nice hotels nearby and within walking distance as well as some really great restaurants. We always take a trip to Bubba Gumps which is nearby and really fun.
As far as the hotels on property go of course they are all wonderful because they are Disney. But if you are going to splurge, go big! The Grand Californian is stunning. And the access to the parks is unrivaled. You have you own entry in to DCA and Disneyland is just a short walk away. It is exceptionally easy to return to your room to rest, change or relax while staying there. You are also really close to all the fun of Downtown Disney...shopping, eating, movies, and all that fun stuff.
The Disneyland hotel is nice as well and has recently been re-modeled. It has a great pool and the grounds make nice areas to stroll.
Disney's Paradise Pier is nice, although in my opinion lacks the "magic" that the other two hotels have. Disney has done a nice job of incorporating the "Disney theme" into the rooms and surrounding areas.
All in all, I would say you can't go wrong either way. If you do choose to stay off property make sure you stay somewhere that has Disney deals to take advantage of early opening and the like.
Good luck! |