Hi there and Happy NY!
After numerous trips to “the world” we have decided to finally visit “the land” and seeking advice on our entire trip. We’re planning 4-5 days some time this year; 2 adults/ 3 children over 5. Interested in anything and everything you have to offer. I graciously appreciate any help. TIA!
Have a blessed day
!
I always recommend starting here:
https://www.disboards.com/threads/a-dlr-guide-for-wdw-vets.1162599/
This is the thread by
@HydroGuy that is a big help for those coming from a WDW perspective.
Also, I reposted this earlier today, but it seems relevant. It's a guide to how rides that are the same may actually differ some at DLR compared to WDW.
Disneyland:
The Enchanted Tiki Room: longer show at DL, people seem more into it
Jungle Cruise: no temple tunnel at DL, shorter ride but other than that the same
Indiana Jones: Silimar ride to DINOSAUR at AK, better theming
Tarzan's Treehouse: pretty similar to Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse but with more Tarzan stuff
Pirates of the Caribbean: DL has two drops and more show scenes - much better than WDW version
Haunted Mansion: different exterior, ride is actually slightly shorter, has the Hatbox Ghost who is awesome but still give the edge to WDW one, but not by a lot
Splash Mountain: single-file seating at DL, shorter, water tends to overtop the boats guaranteeing you will get soaked to your shoes!
Winnie the Pooh: pretty similar, different ride vehicles that look like beehives
Big Thunder Mountain: DL has outdoor loading and new special effects in the final scene, smoother since refurb but otherwise very similar
Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run: identical as far as I know
Peter Pan's Flight: DL version is a little shorter and stops to load so it loads even slower if you can believe that, WDW is slightly more refined
Dumbo: only one spinner, basically the same
Mad T Party: no canopy at DL but otherwise the same
It's a Small World: much nicer exterior, loads outside, large gaps between water track and show scenes, some Disney characters sprinkled in
Autopia: much longer than Tomorrowland Speedway and nicer scenery
Space Mountain: a very different ride here, smaller footprint, seating is side-by-side, smoother, cool lift-hill effects - WDW Space is very similar to The Matterhorn - they use the same ride system
Buzz Lightyear Astro-Blasters: guns can be held in your hand at DL making for easier aiming
Star Tours: identical except for having only four simulators instead of six so the line can move slower
Astro Orbiter: situated on the ground at DL so the views aren't as good
California Adventure:
Soarin: identical but only two theaters, may still be running the old California version so if you like that better could be good
Grizzly River Run: longer than the comparable Kali River at AK - you will get soaked on either!
Little Mermaid: different exterior but ride is exactly the same
Toy Story Mania!: the ride is exactly the same, only two tracks instead of the expanded three at HS, queue is outdoors but covered
Radiator Springs Ravers: comparable to Test Track as it is the same ride system, much longer, more themed elements, side-by-side race but not as fast - beautiful scenery!
Mater's Junkyard Jamboree: standard whip ride that is very similar to Alien Swirling Saucers at Toy Story Land
Guardians of the Galaxy: converted form Tower of Terror, DL tower was always different in that there is no forward movement of the car, all scenes on video, random song choice, very nice pre-show
Disney Jr. Dance Party: I believe this is basically the same as the HS one
Have fun!