Walt Disney World is huge

[Tink]

Even if you have just been to Epcot, or MGM, or Animal Kingdom, or even just one of the water parks, like Blizzard Beach let us know. There are many people who peruse our site looking for information, just like you do. So, help us out please. Share. lol

Tink/Leanne

[blkhwk4444]

I have been to Disneyland numerous times in my life but have never been to Disneyworld. Is Disneyworld that much better than Disneyland???? Dont know that much about it but was hoping to get some insight from someone who has been to both.

[Tink]

Todd, I am gonna leave this one to mrtoad and tigger. Both know both parks.
Leanne

[mrtoad]

Walt Disney World is huge. I am pretty sure the largest park (actually Animal Kingdom might be the largest park, but so much of it is wildlife), Epcot is bigger than both Disneyland and California Adventure combined. I am one who actually prefers Disneyland above DisneyWorld--- while there might be more to see at DisneyWorld, I really don't feel very tired at the end of the day when I leave Disneyland. A couple observations I have made while waiting for the bus at the parks in Orlando is the fact that everyone is tired. Kids seem like they are a little grumpy. The parks seem to take a lot out of you.
As for attractions, my favorite park in Orlando is Epcot. While it doesn't have much to offer in terms of rides and such (although I like Test Track and Mission Space), I find the idea of a permanent world's fair in the countries pretty neat. Being a world traveler with my job, I think Disney does a descent job recreating the atmosphere of these countries. I like shopping in Epcot too, as you can buy things from each country (such as roots athletic wear from Canada, Helly Hansen jackets from Norway, and Wimbledon T-shirts in England).
As far as attractions, DW and DL are similar. DW doesn't have a Matterhorn, or my favorite attraction Mr. Toad's Wild Ride (they replaced it with Pooh a couple years ago). The castle at DW is much larger (along with a longer main street). I love the convenience of being able to zip from land to land to land in Disneyland, whereas Disneyworld will be quite a bit of walking.
As far as resort area, DW is huge. Downtown Disney is basically a whole attraction in itself, and several house can be spent there. I would give myself at least a week at DisneyWorld (one, since I don't like to be rushed and feel tired at the end of my vacation, and two the main parks MK and Epcot will need 2 days each). MGM can be done in one day, and AK can be done in one day (until the expansion is done at least).
I would be happy to answer specific questions about other differences if interested.

Mr. Toad (aka Kevin)

[blkhwk4444]

Thanks for the info. I grew up in SO. California so Disneyland was an easy trip almost every summer. I have always wanted to visit DW and probably will in the future. I just got back from DL ans was wondering if DW was worth the expense, etc... Thanks again for the info. and I will probably hit you up with more questions if and when the planning starts.

Todd

[Tink]

Todd, meet Kevin, Kevin, meet Todd. lol sorry guys had too.
Todd if you EVER have a WDW question, Kevin is the person to ask. I have known him now for many years and his knowledge base of the parks is awesome. He is the only person I know that knows as much about Disney as I do. lol

Kevin, thanks for the absolutely wonderful post! I am so sorry you won't be able to join us next week.

Leanne

[Sue]

WDW is huge, but I must say that part of the fun is doing different things all week with a 7 day hopper. It is fun to eat dinner at AK, and then head over to Epcot to watch the fireworks display.
It will be much different with my upcoming visit, given that we will have a toddler with us...but I cannot WAIT to see Disney through a child's eye...that will be SO cool!
Sue <img src='images/emotions/smile.gif' height='20' width='20' border='0' title='Smile' align='absmiddle'>

[Tink]

Sue, the first time with a child will hold memories you will have forever! I had been to Disneyland MANY times before Alex was born. In fact, you could even say I was totally set in my ways where Disneyland was concerned.
Now my trips are about him, and seeing the wonder in his eyes. It is the most amazing thing. It is also awesome to see how he changes each year and how his likes and dislikes change.
Leanne

[Sue]

Leanne,
I have read all of your posts about your trips with Alex...sounds like planning is the way to go! I really want to map out my time at WDW (of course we may deviate some) but then we can plan down times (doubt he will nap...he will probably be too excited).
I know I will just love the first time he sees the castle and the train and all...what fun! I am not sure who is more excited...the adults or the kid! hehe
Sue

[Sue]

We're BACCKKKKK! :)
Trip report to follow in the next day or so.....need to find my floor with all our stuff! hahaha
Sue :)

[Tink]

lol Welcome back, we have missed you!

[Sue]

After Trey goes to bed tonight, I will do my best to write up my review.
Sue :)

[95 formula]

I HAVE BEEN TO DISNEY WORLD FOUR TIMES, ABOUT25 DAYS!!! FIRST YOU NEED BUS OR SOME KIND OF TRANSPORTATION TO GET AROUND.DOWNTOWN DISNEY IS A COUPLE MILES AWAY FROM THE MAGIC KINGDOM .it is verry nice to stay on disney property because of the extra hours , use them!!!!!!!!!!!