There are many things I consider when planning a Disneyland Resort vacation- when to go, how long to go for, my budget, who I will be traveling with, and most importantly where I want to stay. While there are literally hundreds of options in and around Anaheim, I prefer to stay at one of the three Disneyland Resort Hotels: Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Disneyland Hotel, or Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel (commonly referred to as “on-property” hotels). Staying at any of the three is a truly magical experience filled with Disney themed rooms, pools, and lobbies, character interactions, amazing customer service, and perks not offered by many of the Good Neighbor Hotels (commonly referred to as “off-property” hotels).
The Grand Californian is the priciest of the Disneyland Resort Hotels. Rooms are usually $300 or more a night depending on the time of year and availability, but when my budget allows, it’s my first choice.
Here are my Top 5 Reasons to book your next overnight stay at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa:
1. Location, Location, Location
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| Entrance to the Grand Californian from Downtown Disney |
By far my favorite thing about the Grand Californian is its location. It is the closest hotel to the main entrance plaza (ticket booths and both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure), which is extremely convenient when traveling with children. The close proximity makes it easy to go back and fourth between the Parks and your room quickly and easily. The Grand Californian also has a special entrance into Disney’s California Adventure, which is exclusive to hotel guests. This entrance comes in very handy, especially on Magic Morning days. Being so close to the Parks means that many of the rooms have awesome views of either Downtown Disney or Disney’s California Adventure.
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| View of Disney’s California Adventure from Our Room |
2. Dining
There are several different dining options to choose from at the Grand Californian. While I’ve never personally eaten at the Napa Rose (a major bucket list item for one of my future trips), I’ve heard rave reviews about both the food and the atmosphere. We have enjoyed many a meal at Storyteller’s Cafe. My kiddos love Chip n’ Dale’s Critter Breakfast
and on several occasions we’ve also enjoyed the dinner buffet. For quick service menu items such as breakfast burritos and waffles for breakfast, and burgers at lunch- look no further than White Water Snacks, located near the pool. The Hearthstone Lounge, located in the lobby, serves up continental breakfast in the morning and offers a full bar during the evening.
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| Evan and Chip at Storyteller’s Cafe |
3. Decor/ Theming
While not overtly “Disney” in its decor The Grand Californian is a beautiful California Craftsman style hotel. The lobby is more than a place to check in, it’s a place to hang out. One of my favorite ways to relax after a long day at the park is in a rocking chair, by the fire, listening to a classical pianist play Disney songs. The rooms are luxuriously appointed with beautiful dark wood furniture, beautiful upholstery, and art from Disney’s woodland themed movies like Snow White and Bambi. The rooms are spacious, with enough room for four adults and one child in many cases. The beds are the most comfortable of all of the Disneyland Resort hotels, in my humble opinion. The bedding and carpet feature hidden Mickeys, which are fun to point out and go in search of when hanging out in the room.
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| Bambi Shower Curtain In The Bathroom |
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| Hidden Mickey on the Carpet |
4. Magic Mornings/ Early Entry
While Magic Mornings are a perk associated with staying at any of the Disneyland Resort hotels I’d be remiss not to mention it here. The opportunity to enter the Park an hour before the general public is by far my favorite perk associated with staying on-property. Having a special entrance to Disney’s California Adventure is extremely helpful on Magic Morning days, especially when we’re trying to get to Cars Land before the majority of the crowds.
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| Evan Excited for Magic Morning |
5. Perks
The Grand Californian boasts many perks not found at the other Disneyland Resort hotels. My favorite way to indulge and splurge while on vacation is to book a pedicure at Mandara Spa. The pool and jacuzzi area is a favorite for my family complete with three pools, two water slides, comfortable lounge chairs, and beautiful surroundings. For an additional fee you can check your children into Pinocchio’s Workshop, a licensed childcare center open in the evenings for guests ages 5-12. While there kids will be served dinner, participate in arts and crafts, and Disney movies while you enjoy an evening out or a spa treatment. It’s well known among my family and friends that collecting hotel toiletries is one of my favorite pastimes; honestly it borders on obsession. The H2O brand shampoo, conditioner, and lotion and soap available at The Grand Californian do not disappoint.
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| Emma and Evan Ready for the Pool |
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| Evan enjoys the water slide. |
Pro tip: If you want to splurge, consider renting a cabana for the half or full day. Rates vary by season and reservations and price inquiries can be made by contacting the hotel directly. It is incredibly luxurious and the ultimate splurge on a hot summer day.
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| My Favorite H2O Spa Products |
Staying at any of the Disneyland Resort hotels is truly a treat and a wonderful experience. I highly recommend booking your next trip at The Grand Californian Resort & Spa!
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You really can’t beat the Grand Californian for location and ambience. I often visit if only to sit in the lobby and enjoy a glass of wine by the fireplace.
I agree about the location! It’s top-notch! So convenient – especially for families with small children.
The only hard thing about the Grand Californian is the size of the rooms. 😉 Wish there were more suite-style rooms available. Those are the best for traveling with little ones.
stephanie@metropolitanmama.net