Domestic U.S. Vacations
Disney Theme Parks
Clean, friendly, theme park gold-standard
Disney is the amusement park that started it all over 50 years ago. Tap some of the extra magic with friends and family to bring out the child inside of everyone.
Some maintain that Disney parks have gotten more expensive and crowded. However, it remains the gold standard for theme parks for groups of all shapes and sizes. It's also the cleanest, friendliest, most nostalgic and happiest one of them all. And, with a little research, there are even some bargains to be found.
When to Go
Disney parks are always the most crowded during spring break and school holidays, especially Christmas and Thanksgiving weekends. The crowds lighten right after Labor Day until October and then again in January until early March. This is when you can find the best prices on accommodations in both the California and Florida locations. For those averse to waiting in long lines, be sure to get a Fastpass (see link below for more info). A Fastpass allows you to enjoy other attractions and then return to the front of the ride line.
Where to Go
Disneyland (California) is a lot smaller than Disney World (Florida), however it has all the rides (and then some) and retains a small town feeling that Walt was surely going for. Disneyland attractions and rides include the Matterhorn Mountain and New Orleans Square, Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, and Mr. Toad's Wild Ride. Set aside two to four days to experience Disneyland.
Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom is a sprawling destination resort complex, spread out over nearly 30,000 acres containing four different theme parks, three water parks, golf, loads of hotel rooms, and a sprawling shopping, dining, and nighttime entertainment complex. You could spend a week or more at Disney World and not see all the features.
If you've got some time and are truly devoted to Mouse Mecca, gather you group, make the plans, and see 'em both!
Related Link
- How Disney's Fastpass works (About.com)