Hi Samantha, and welcome to planDisney!
I'm so glad to hear that you will be returning to Disneyland Resort this year. There are so many new, exciting adventures to be had since your last visit, including three new themed lands:
Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge in Disneyland Park and both
Avengers Campus and
Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure Park.
Your question is definitely challenging because both hotels are incredible, but I have some advice that may help you finalize your decision.
The
Disneyland Hotel is perfect for those who love to feel nostalgia and enjoy bringing their inner child out to play. The theming of this resort hotel is centered on Walt Disney's original theme park, Disneyland Park. Even the pools have that special Walt-inspired touch with the
Monorail Water Slide! I recommend staying at the Disneyland Hotel when you want extra pixie dust, as the rooms are heavy with Disney-theming. Did I mention the headboards yet? No??? Well, the headboards light up and look like fireworks. How magical! The Disneyland Hotel is an excellent location if you're visiting with kids, especially for dining options. The nearby
Goofy's Kitchen has character dining options, and
Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar has these super colorful kid-friendly drinks that are sure to impress.
On the other hand,
Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is perfect for those who want to relax. The Disney-theming is there but very subtle. Instead, when you walk into the resort hotel, you feel as if you were just transported to an upscale wilderness lodge in the middle of a woodsy paradise. If your party is primarily adults, I find the Grand Californian Hotel ideal. It is just a wonderful place to chill after walking around the parks for multiple hours--not to mention, the food and wine at the
Napa Rose are impeccable.
But honestly, whichever you choose, you will fall in love! It's truly a win-win scenario.
Happy planning,
Lola