julesann
10-25-2010, 08:57 PM
Travel dates: October 21 -24, 2010
Travel method: Car from Northern CA (1-1/2 hours north of Sacramento)
Accommodations: Hilton Suites
Ages Represented in Group: 51, 13
Disney Resort Experience Represented in Group: I probably went 7 times as a child and young adult; once when my children were young and then 1 time a year for past 4 years with dh, ds and dd (now 17) who did not want to go this time (dh says he will go again when we have grandchildren!). I love DL!!
Cast of characters: Me (Mom); ds 13
Thursday, October 21
Ds and dd happy to leave school at lunch time and hit the highway. We arrived at the Hilton at 9 p.m. after dropping off dd in Santa Monica with her friend. The freeways to Anaheim were a dream thanks to MP’s great directions: 405S to 101N to 91E to 5S. Easy and friendly check-in. I tried to switch out of room due to LOUD freeway noise. It was a great corner suite with balcony, but felt like freeway was in room. They said they could accommodate us the next day.
Friday, October 22
Slept in until 8; woke up ds just after 9 as breakfast ended at 10. Had relaxing morning; yummy breakfast buffet (included in our Get Away Today package—great deal, 3rd night free too). It was my first stay at the Hilton Suites and I will stay again: friendly staff; well maintained hotel; looks just like Embassy Suites, but nicer décor in rooms and better lay-out of room—can access bathroom from both rooms and much calmer (even though they said they were filled to capacity) plus natural light in both rooms and VERY comfy bed. No crazy lines for elevators or breakfast either.
We drove to Target for a few supplies; we had room service for lunch (very fun); then changed to a quiet room. We spent time dressing up in our costumes. I was midnight (matronly) fairy; son was hipster style Goofy with a homemade hat and ears. We took ART to park for Mickey’s Halloween Party; waited over 40 minutes for bus. Shuttle from Hilton Suites seems to run only 2 times an hour and we had long waits several times. But, we never had a problem getting on and Hilton Suites are first drop off returning.
We arrived at park right at 4:00 p.m. and found short entrance lines. We got quickly through turnstile and had a quick treat bag pick up too. AHHH Halloween magic everywhere. I didn’t feel too silly in costume even though lots of people were not dressed up (thread on MP about this helped too): spray painted hair, face paints and glitter also aided in my comfort.
We walked slowly up Main Street loving every moment and noticing many Disney details. DS actually held my hand and kept saying this is so cool; thanks Mom. Headed to Space Mountain; FP gone and long wait. So we saw Captain EO and loved it—great effects. Went over and got FP for Indy and rode Pirates--almost got shivers. We shared a mocha in New Orleans. Then FP for BTRR and went to HMH. We found a long line—60 plus minutes; CM suggested we come back later as it was going to be a ‘small’ party that night. Rode Indy with FP and then had dinner at Rocketts; okay food. We sat at dinner next to a group of college age kids all dressed like the Mouseketeers—down to matching black Converse shoes and their names on their shirts. Perfect.
Then we headed out for the party and we started to see more great costumes. The SM line was still over an hour. We also found super long lines for Treat stations in Tomorrowland. The park seemed very crowded, but doable—such great sights. I had already talked with son about candy vs. experience and bought him a little candy at Target. I found the treat stations much, much shorter in back of park by Big Thunder Ranch and Princess Fantasy Faire area (thank you MP—I’d read this somewhere). Also found some surprise stations in New Orleans Square off exit to Pirates. We only went through stations if the line was short and we still ended up with more than enough candy. We both loved the atmosphere throughout the park: the fog; sounds, colors created a perfect ambiance—spooky but not scary. The shifting Castle colors and designs were absolutely magical. We saw only part of first parade—what we saw looked great. DS not really into parades right now so we skipped second one.
We got right on the Matterhorn. Then we went into Fantasyland. We found very short lines here; I think all the little ones were at the long treat station lines. Right on Mr. Toad’s ride; then did Snow White without a line. It really was scary; we loved the wicked queen and hag and rubbed the golden apple before we went on. I don’t think I’ve been on it since I was a kid. We then went on IJ, and back to BTRR; they wouldn’t take FP—this would have been good to know. We decided to wait in line—about 20 minute wait.
We then went over and lined up for fireworks about 15 minutes early. I forgot what I read about seeing left side of castle. We were on other side of Walt and Mickey so couldn’t see all of projections. The fireworks were fabulous anyway; we both loved every minute of them. We then walked around park taking in sights and sounds; being a Wizard of Oz fan I adored the the scarecrow near Walt’s statue. We then did Buzz Lightyear and Pirates again. SM never did get a short wait time as suggested by CM, but HMH did so we went on that ride and I liked it more than the last two years, although I don’t know why. We went into Club Skellington—fun and friendly atmosphere—with strobe lights and deejay and ds sort of danced one dance with me—I reminded him that no one he knew would see him. We headed out at 10:30 as we wanted to be back right at 8:00 for our only parkhopper day and I find that an early start keeps the fp’s flowing.
Saturday, October 23
I got up at 6:00. DS was exhausted last night so I got us ready and packed up for day (I like to bring in small snacks to save money as ds is hungry every 5 minutes). I had quiet breakfast by myself; staff very accommodating and helped me put together take out tray for ds. He had fun eating breakfast in room; we got out the door at 7:30. Day was overcast and drizzly so ran back to room for jackets and umbrella and made it by gate opening. We went directly to SM; got FP and rode ride. We thought Ghost Galaxy was very fun, perfectly haunting and a great Halloween treat. Then we went on Indy and Pirates and got Indy FP for later. We squeezed in a Splash Mountain FP also.
At 9:50 we headed over to CA for opening. Gates were already open so lines were short. We got FP for Soarin’ and passed long lines for WOC FP on our walk to TSMM which already had a 50 minute wait, but figured it might not get any better so we joined the cue. (The line was shorter when we got out—early morning rush I guess). I almost got same score as son; much better than last year. We then got our free Disney Visa Photos with Chip and Dale and walked onto Monster’s Inc. Son indulged me here, but wouldn’t do Muppets. We also went to our favorite It’s Tough to be a Bug. We picked up our WOC picnics right went they opened at 11:30. My salmon picnic was surprisingly yummy and low carb and my son was happy with his chicken lunch especially as I took his water and he got my Coke—a treat for him. We got tickets for yellow section, first show at 9:00.
We then went on Soarin’, got our picture taken with Goofy and headed over to GRR. I wasn’t too thrilled as the sun wasn’t out, but ds especially wanted to do ride as his papa is actually rafting the Grand Canyon right now. No line and we walked on. Our jeans got soaked, but rain coats kept top half dry and the sun magically came out. Thanks to MP I used the lockers to keep camera and other stuff dry—I never knew they existed before this visit.
We then headed over to DL to do Splash as we were already wet. LONG lines about 2:00; we got right on with FP. We stopped to see the Laughing Stock show and ds got a a great looking hot fudge sundae from The Golden Horseshoe—comes with 2 chocolate chip cookies. We then headed back to hotel to rest around 3:00, but shuttle took 40 minutes to arrive.
Ds took nap; I relaxed. A mid-day break is always a big help for us even with the kids being older. He then went in hot tub with big grin on face. We headed back around 6:00 relaxed and ready for a big night. Dinner at Pilot’s—really yummy burgers. We got another Soarin’ FP; then headed over to ToT. He was wearing his ‘I Survived’ shirt, but still wasn’t too sure about the ride—the beginning creeps him out, but he loves the elevator. The vicinity seemed crowded, but less than a 10 minute wait around 7:30 p.m. We had a great ride, and then we went to the Electronica Dance Party. What a scene: great effects, music and color. We spent some time walking around checking it out. Ds thought it was very cool; I felt like I had gone into a time warp. I thought Flynn’s was rather dull and a way to lose precious time, but ds got a free token with the Soarin’ FP so this worked out well for one quick game. We then went on Soarin’ and then it was time for WOC. I wasn’t quite sure where to go but CM’s directed us. I found it a little confusing to find a spot, but we got what seemed like second tier in the middle. We arrived at 8:30 which seemed just right.
WOC was everything we could have imagined; loved it all—very enchanting. DS was entranced too. It was crazy crowded to get out of park, but lots of CM’s directing traffic. But, eventually we made it out and back into DL where the Fireworks were just finishing up. We went on IJ and realized we were tired. Gave away our FPs—ds loves to do this. We did a little shopping on Main Street—wanted to get Cruella Shirt for dh, but couldn’t find one. I got a Goofy pin to remind me of our great trip. We caught Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln and it was as good as I remembered from my childhood. DS liked it all including the history at the beginning. We waited for shuttle AGAIN for over 30 minutes and boarded right at 11:59.
Sunday, October 24, Monday, October 25
We headed home yesterday after another delicious breakfast: fresh fruit, omelets cooked to order, lots of selection, great service plus easy check-out at 9 a.m. It has been a truly amazing and magical trip with my ds. I am filled with many great memories, yet I also felt sad when leaving as I didn’t have any plans to return. Today is my birthday and one of my best friends just sent me an email wishing me a happy birthday, asking me about my trip and saying those magic words; ‘hey, want to go to DL with me next year?!’ Yeah!!
Travel method: Car from Northern CA (1-1/2 hours north of Sacramento)
Accommodations: Hilton Suites
Ages Represented in Group: 51, 13
Disney Resort Experience Represented in Group: I probably went 7 times as a child and young adult; once when my children were young and then 1 time a year for past 4 years with dh, ds and dd (now 17) who did not want to go this time (dh says he will go again when we have grandchildren!). I love DL!!
Cast of characters: Me (Mom); ds 13
Thursday, October 21
Ds and dd happy to leave school at lunch time and hit the highway. We arrived at the Hilton at 9 p.m. after dropping off dd in Santa Monica with her friend. The freeways to Anaheim were a dream thanks to MP’s great directions: 405S to 101N to 91E to 5S. Easy and friendly check-in. I tried to switch out of room due to LOUD freeway noise. It was a great corner suite with balcony, but felt like freeway was in room. They said they could accommodate us the next day.
Friday, October 22
Slept in until 8; woke up ds just after 9 as breakfast ended at 10. Had relaxing morning; yummy breakfast buffet (included in our Get Away Today package—great deal, 3rd night free too). It was my first stay at the Hilton Suites and I will stay again: friendly staff; well maintained hotel; looks just like Embassy Suites, but nicer décor in rooms and better lay-out of room—can access bathroom from both rooms and much calmer (even though they said they were filled to capacity) plus natural light in both rooms and VERY comfy bed. No crazy lines for elevators or breakfast either.
We drove to Target for a few supplies; we had room service for lunch (very fun); then changed to a quiet room. We spent time dressing up in our costumes. I was midnight (matronly) fairy; son was hipster style Goofy with a homemade hat and ears. We took ART to park for Mickey’s Halloween Party; waited over 40 minutes for bus. Shuttle from Hilton Suites seems to run only 2 times an hour and we had long waits several times. But, we never had a problem getting on and Hilton Suites are first drop off returning.
We arrived at park right at 4:00 p.m. and found short entrance lines. We got quickly through turnstile and had a quick treat bag pick up too. AHHH Halloween magic everywhere. I didn’t feel too silly in costume even though lots of people were not dressed up (thread on MP about this helped too): spray painted hair, face paints and glitter also aided in my comfort.
We walked slowly up Main Street loving every moment and noticing many Disney details. DS actually held my hand and kept saying this is so cool; thanks Mom. Headed to Space Mountain; FP gone and long wait. So we saw Captain EO and loved it—great effects. Went over and got FP for Indy and rode Pirates--almost got shivers. We shared a mocha in New Orleans. Then FP for BTRR and went to HMH. We found a long line—60 plus minutes; CM suggested we come back later as it was going to be a ‘small’ party that night. Rode Indy with FP and then had dinner at Rocketts; okay food. We sat at dinner next to a group of college age kids all dressed like the Mouseketeers—down to matching black Converse shoes and their names on their shirts. Perfect.
Then we headed out for the party and we started to see more great costumes. The SM line was still over an hour. We also found super long lines for Treat stations in Tomorrowland. The park seemed very crowded, but doable—such great sights. I had already talked with son about candy vs. experience and bought him a little candy at Target. I found the treat stations much, much shorter in back of park by Big Thunder Ranch and Princess Fantasy Faire area (thank you MP—I’d read this somewhere). Also found some surprise stations in New Orleans Square off exit to Pirates. We only went through stations if the line was short and we still ended up with more than enough candy. We both loved the atmosphere throughout the park: the fog; sounds, colors created a perfect ambiance—spooky but not scary. The shifting Castle colors and designs were absolutely magical. We saw only part of first parade—what we saw looked great. DS not really into parades right now so we skipped second one.
We got right on the Matterhorn. Then we went into Fantasyland. We found very short lines here; I think all the little ones were at the long treat station lines. Right on Mr. Toad’s ride; then did Snow White without a line. It really was scary; we loved the wicked queen and hag and rubbed the golden apple before we went on. I don’t think I’ve been on it since I was a kid. We then went on IJ, and back to BTRR; they wouldn’t take FP—this would have been good to know. We decided to wait in line—about 20 minute wait.
We then went over and lined up for fireworks about 15 minutes early. I forgot what I read about seeing left side of castle. We were on other side of Walt and Mickey so couldn’t see all of projections. The fireworks were fabulous anyway; we both loved every minute of them. We then walked around park taking in sights and sounds; being a Wizard of Oz fan I adored the the scarecrow near Walt’s statue. We then did Buzz Lightyear and Pirates again. SM never did get a short wait time as suggested by CM, but HMH did so we went on that ride and I liked it more than the last two years, although I don’t know why. We went into Club Skellington—fun and friendly atmosphere—with strobe lights and deejay and ds sort of danced one dance with me—I reminded him that no one he knew would see him. We headed out at 10:30 as we wanted to be back right at 8:00 for our only parkhopper day and I find that an early start keeps the fp’s flowing.
Saturday, October 23
I got up at 6:00. DS was exhausted last night so I got us ready and packed up for day (I like to bring in small snacks to save money as ds is hungry every 5 minutes). I had quiet breakfast by myself; staff very accommodating and helped me put together take out tray for ds. He had fun eating breakfast in room; we got out the door at 7:30. Day was overcast and drizzly so ran back to room for jackets and umbrella and made it by gate opening. We went directly to SM; got FP and rode ride. We thought Ghost Galaxy was very fun, perfectly haunting and a great Halloween treat. Then we went on Indy and Pirates and got Indy FP for later. We squeezed in a Splash Mountain FP also.
At 9:50 we headed over to CA for opening. Gates were already open so lines were short. We got FP for Soarin’ and passed long lines for WOC FP on our walk to TSMM which already had a 50 minute wait, but figured it might not get any better so we joined the cue. (The line was shorter when we got out—early morning rush I guess). I almost got same score as son; much better than last year. We then got our free Disney Visa Photos with Chip and Dale and walked onto Monster’s Inc. Son indulged me here, but wouldn’t do Muppets. We also went to our favorite It’s Tough to be a Bug. We picked up our WOC picnics right went they opened at 11:30. My salmon picnic was surprisingly yummy and low carb and my son was happy with his chicken lunch especially as I took his water and he got my Coke—a treat for him. We got tickets for yellow section, first show at 9:00.
We then went on Soarin’, got our picture taken with Goofy and headed over to GRR. I wasn’t too thrilled as the sun wasn’t out, but ds especially wanted to do ride as his papa is actually rafting the Grand Canyon right now. No line and we walked on. Our jeans got soaked, but rain coats kept top half dry and the sun magically came out. Thanks to MP I used the lockers to keep camera and other stuff dry—I never knew they existed before this visit.
We then headed over to DL to do Splash as we were already wet. LONG lines about 2:00; we got right on with FP. We stopped to see the Laughing Stock show and ds got a a great looking hot fudge sundae from The Golden Horseshoe—comes with 2 chocolate chip cookies. We then headed back to hotel to rest around 3:00, but shuttle took 40 minutes to arrive.
Ds took nap; I relaxed. A mid-day break is always a big help for us even with the kids being older. He then went in hot tub with big grin on face. We headed back around 6:00 relaxed and ready for a big night. Dinner at Pilot’s—really yummy burgers. We got another Soarin’ FP; then headed over to ToT. He was wearing his ‘I Survived’ shirt, but still wasn’t too sure about the ride—the beginning creeps him out, but he loves the elevator. The vicinity seemed crowded, but less than a 10 minute wait around 7:30 p.m. We had a great ride, and then we went to the Electronica Dance Party. What a scene: great effects, music and color. We spent some time walking around checking it out. Ds thought it was very cool; I felt like I had gone into a time warp. I thought Flynn’s was rather dull and a way to lose precious time, but ds got a free token with the Soarin’ FP so this worked out well for one quick game. We then went on Soarin’ and then it was time for WOC. I wasn’t quite sure where to go but CM’s directed us. I found it a little confusing to find a spot, but we got what seemed like second tier in the middle. We arrived at 8:30 which seemed just right.
WOC was everything we could have imagined; loved it all—very enchanting. DS was entranced too. It was crazy crowded to get out of park, but lots of CM’s directing traffic. But, eventually we made it out and back into DL where the Fireworks were just finishing up. We went on IJ and realized we were tired. Gave away our FPs—ds loves to do this. We did a little shopping on Main Street—wanted to get Cruella Shirt for dh, but couldn’t find one. I got a Goofy pin to remind me of our great trip. We caught Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln and it was as good as I remembered from my childhood. DS liked it all including the history at the beginning. We waited for shuttle AGAIN for over 30 minutes and boarded right at 11:59.
Sunday, October 24, Monday, October 25
We headed home yesterday after another delicious breakfast: fresh fruit, omelets cooked to order, lots of selection, great service plus easy check-out at 9 a.m. It has been a truly amazing and magical trip with my ds. I am filled with many great memories, yet I also felt sad when leaving as I didn’t have any plans to return. Today is my birthday and one of my best friends just sent me an email wishing me a happy birthday, asking me about my trip and saying those magic words; ‘hey, want to go to DL with me next year?!’ Yeah!!