Hi, Diana!
That’s a great question. As a
Disneyland Resort regular who has also visited the Walt Disney World Resort on multiple occasions, I can tell you that the biggest difference you’ll notice between the two resorts is size. Walt Disney World is quite a bit larger and spread out over much more land than is available in urban Southern California. So, while the
Downtown Disney District in Anaheim is significantly smaller than the Downtown Disney area in Orlando, there is still so much to enjoy during your visit, and everything is easier to access because of the more concentrated layout.
The Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort is conveniently located within easy walking distance from all three Disneyland Resort Hotels, the theme parks, and the Good Neighbor Hotels. Some rooms at the Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa even have views of this whimsical area, which is especially scenic when lit up at night! There are over 15 restaurants and eateries to choose from—including the popular Rainforest Cafe, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, and ESPN Zone—over 20 shops, a movie theater, and several kiosks offering food, merchandise and custom art. There is often live entertainment offered by local musicians, which adds to the area’s dynamic, upbeat ambiance.
I hope this helps, Diana. Please feel free to ask me any other questions you may have as you continue to plan your pixie-dusted vacation!
Wishing you magic,
Courtney