Need a Disney Family Vacation from the snow, but not sure which one to pick?
Lots of people ask me what the difference is between Disneyland and Disney World. Besides location, there are quite a few differences. Disneyland is in California and is a smaller resort with two specific parks: California Adventure and Disneyland. California Adventure is a California Pixar-themed park that includes Cars Land and Marvel’s Avengers Campus, and California-themed rides. It is a very short walk across an esplanade from Disneyland. Disneyland has traditional Disney-themed rides as well as the new Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Land. What I like best about Disneyland/California Adventure as a resort is how close everything is. The rides are closer together and more are condensed in the park, which means you get more rides in during the day. As well, hotels are within walking distance, rather than having to take alternative transportation.
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Disney World is in Florida and is a much larger resort consisting of 4 parks. Disney World is great if you want a longer immersive holiday with a lot more walking. The parks are Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Magic Kingdom. Each park has rides, but fewer than Disneyland as they are spread out between 4 parks rather than 2 parks. Epcot has international pavilions and has recently added Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind which is a mind-blowing multi-sense roller coaster. Hollywood Studios has Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Land as well as Toy Story Land. Animal Kingdom is a nature-themed park with wonderful safaris. Magic Kingdom is filled with traditional Disney-themed rides and the new Tron Light Cycle ride. Disney World resorts require transportation such as bus, monorail or ferry to get around. They are also much larger, with some having internal bussing.
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If you want to be absolutely spoiled, Disney Cruises are a blast for families and have destinations that include Mexico, Alaska, the Caribbean, South Pacific and more! Disney Cruise ships are the creme de la creme for family cruise experiences. The kids' clubs on board the ships are amazing, featuring activity rooms based on Star Wars, Marvel, the Princesses and Imagineering. You can safely check your children in to take part in magical activities while you visit the spa, visit a lounge or relax on the deck and watch the ocean. The entertainment is divine: Broadway-style musicals, trivia contests, and visits to Disney’s two private islands, there is just so much to see and do. The food is top-notch, imagine themed restaurants with amazing cuisine, all included as part of your cruise. Of course, there are lots of Disney characters to visit onboard.
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Lastly, if theme park rides aren’t for you, Disney has an amazing resort on the island of Oahu called Aulani. It is beautifully Polynesian, with a touch of Disney magic. Our kids loved the iPad scavenger hunt where magical things happen when they reach each destination. The lazy river is the most wonderful place to float and enjoy the tropical surroundings. There is a volcano-themed water park area with slides and lots of activities for children. The children’s club, Auntie’s Beach House is full of immersive Disney-themed activities. Occasionally you will see tropical Disney characters. Evening activities include movies under the stars, fireside stories and Luau. Oh, and the Laniwai spa is breathtaking!
Editor's Note: Jen is a dear friend of mine, and she truly lives and breathes EVERYTHING Disney. I wouldn't trust anyone else with my Disney adventure, or Disney travel advice in general.
 Jen and her friend, Goofy | Jen Mills, Dream Maker (780) 232-5816 |
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Macaroni KID Chestermere is a free local calendar, weekly e-newsletter and website focused on fun family events and information in the Chestermere, Langdon, Indus and surrounding rural areas. We gather all kinds of local family events and activities each week and add useful information about classes, family-focused local businesses, deals, product reviews, recipes, crafts, school and camp guides and more. | ||
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