Before I start, I want to say that this post may make some people mad, and I may get some haters, but that's o.k. because this is just my experience, and my personal opinion-so take it for what it is.
My husband and I were excited to visit the "Happiest place on earth", where it all started, where Walt Disney built his dream park. I understand that this park is located in the middle of a city-like right on city streets(we knew this) but were not prepared for what we would come upon.
The city of Anaheim is somewhat dirty; there are homeless people right on the street outside the park gates; and strangers asking for change or trying to sell you something on the street. If you did not choose to spend $500.00 plus a day to stay on Disney property you will have to stay off property, like we did, which could mean a four or five block walk to the park from your hotel. The pavement on such streets have unleveled areas, trash, dog poop, and can make you feel unsafe walking in the evening after leaving the park. Mayor Ashleigh Aitken please do something to clean up the radius around the park! There is no "Disney bubble" like there is at Walt Disney World in Orlando.
On the first day we went to Disney's California Adventure park and I must admit that Carsland was impressive with Radiator Springs Racers being our favorite attraction. Not much more to say here.
We spent the next two days in Disneyland Park. Main Street is quite nostalgic in appearance and gave me a good feeling. I wanted to experience all the dark rides in Fantasyland and feel like a kid again.
The Alice in Wonderland was my favorite ride. But, I have to admit some of these older dark rides are not only dark, but scary and disturbing also. Maybe not a good choice for young children. The older rides show wear and tear, could use some refurb, and can I talk about the que lines a minute- they are so tiny and narrow! You cannot get an ECV through one of those lines, or stand side by side with someone. Now I understand that this is a locals park, and we want to keep things the way Walt built it, but some things are so out dated, and possibly unsafe. Just a fresh coat of paint please?
We did eat at a couple of sit down restaurants and quick service eateries. I was looking forward to west coast food, since on a previous trip, I've had the most fabulous food! Now of course this is theme park food- but nothing was overwhelming. And the service at sit down restaurants was really slow. One good thing we had was the churros!
We both enjoyed Downtown Disney. It's similar to Florida's Disney Springs with lots of the same stores.
Overeall, we both felt a little let down by this experience at Disneyland. We had such high expectations. We were excited. Then kind of disappointed. Even the parks themselves seemed a little dirty. Will we go back? I don't think so. I think it's a one and done thing.
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