Hiya Lindsy, and thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel!
First off, congratulations on booking your theme-park tickets and flights… you’re well on your way to planning your September getaway to the
Happiest Place on Earth! Now, for hotel planning. You can choose between staying at one of the three
Disneyland Resort Hotels, or one of the
Good Neighbor Hotels, which are Disney-approved hotels located near the Disneyland Resort. I’ve had the opportunity to stay at all three Disneyland Resort Hotels, and have enjoyed each one for different reasons. Since this is a big trip for your family on so many levels, from birthdays to first-time visits, I’d recommend going all out at
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which offers an exclusive entrance into
Disney California Adventure Park. The great thing about this Hotel is the proximity to both parks. Not only are you steps away from Disney California Adventure Park, but
Disneyland Park is also nearby. Especially since you’re traveling with grandparents and young children, this could be a helpful option. My children love taking a park break midday to enjoy the beautiful pools here, too! This Hotel is definitely the most elegant option, with a lobby and grand fireplace you can’t help but fall in love with.
My next recommendation is the
Disneyland Hotel, which is probably my children’s favorite, thanks to the thrilling monorail waterslides… I think my Mouseketeers could ride them all day! The rooms are also a bit larger than those at the Grand Californian, which is great for a large family, too. In these rooms, we’ve been able to have two queen beds, a pull-out twin bed, and a roll-away bed with ample room for walking in-between. I love the classic Disney nostalgia at this Hotel, in addition to the tropical vibe at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar and Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar & Grill. The Disneyland Hotel is located at the end of Downtown Disney District, which is a short walk to both theme parks, and super close to the Downtown Disney District Monorail Station.
Last but not least, I recently had a chance to stay at
Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, and I was amazed by the spectacular view of Disney California Adventure Park from my room! The walk to the parks was a tad farther, but definitely doable. The rooftop pools and waterslides are also a hit at this beachy Hotel!
If you're hoping to find a suite-style experience for your large group, I recommend checking out some of the reasonably-priced Good Neighbor Hotels, including the Staybridge Suites Anaheim Resort Area or Best Western Plus Raffles Inn & Suites, since both offer two-bedroom suites for up to eight people.
I hope this information helps in your decision, Lindsy! Don’t forget to stop by
Guest Relations to pick up complimentary “1st Visit!” and “I’m Celebrating” buttons for your crew!
Please stop by with any additional planning questions… I’m all EARs!
Kristin