Disneyland Hotel: Review

The Disneyland Hotel has been around in existence for over 50 years. It opened it's doors to the public on October 5, 1955; less than 3 months after Disneyland Parks grand opening. This hotel was actually privately owned until 1988 when the Walt Disney Company bought it. Disneyland Hotel is rated as a Three Diamond Deluxe and Moderate (Disney's own category). The hotel is located at 1150 Magic Way in Anaheim.

The hotel consists of three buildings and 990 rooms. Yes, that is correct, the hotel has 990 rooms. The standard room includes one King or two Queen sized beds, high speed internet access, room service, phones with voice-mail, irons, ironing boards, refrigerators, hairdryers, and safes. Cribs and roll-aways are available upon request. When reserving a room you will have a choice of two views. The "city/standard" view faces away from the central area of the resort. The "premium" view faces the central and pool areas. Concierge Service is available in the Sierra tower. Concierge amenities include priority check-in, an exclusive lounge offering continental breakfast, snacks and drinks throughout the day (including bottled water), and an evening wine and cheese reception. It also includes nightly turn down service and free DVD players with complimentary movies. If you have the need to be pampered, concierge is the way to go.

Two different pool areas are available for your enjoyment. The Cove pool has a sandy beach area, volleyball courts, two calmer pools, and a wading pool for the smaller kids Neverland Pool is the main pool. It has a large swim area, large water-slide, and a recreational Captain Hook's Ship. Disneyland Hotel guests also have the opportunity to use the pools at both the Paradise Pier Hotel and The Grand Californian.

Other amenities offered by this hotel include Valet parking for the price of $12 a day. If you choose to self park it is free. Disneyland Hotel does charge a daily resort fee. Free Wi-Fi in available in the hotel common areas. Laundry is available as self service with coin operated machines or in-room laundry service available for a small charge. If you have the need to work out while on vacation you will probably want to check out Team Mickey's workout room. It has a wide range of standard exercise equipment.

If it is entertainment you are looking for while staying at this resort hotel you might want to check out one of the following. Goofy's Theater is adjacent to Goofy's kitchen and offers free Disney movies throughout the day. Safari Adventure Remote Control Jungle Cruise is located south of the Neverland pool. You can steer miniature jungle cruise boats thru various obstacles. Make sure to walk thru the grounds and check out the Koi Pond. Try to be there during one of the scheduled feeding times and you might get to help feed them. Fantasy Waters is also a must-do. And of course, a standard arcade is also available.

Shopping is also available while staying at this magnificent hotel. Stop by Fantasia Shop if you are wanting to pick up some Disney fashions. Tinker Bell's Treasures will be your children's favorite store. It offers all kinds of Disney toys and clothes. Finally, the Marina Lobby Shop offers standard hotel sundries and necessities.

If you are looking for a place to eat there is no need to venture off-site. Disney has eight different eating options. Croc's Bits 'n Bites offers hot grill type food and quick snacks. The Wine Cellar is a romantic spot that specializes in various wines. The Lost Bar offers what else, drinks. Hook's Pointe serves American food with hints of Caribbean and overlooks the Neverland pool. Steakhouse 55 is a fine dining establishment offering steaks of course. Goofy's Kitchen is my favorite. This is a character meal offered at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You and your family get to enjoy a buffet dinner with Goofy and many of his friends. Captain's Galley is located poolside at Neverland pool. And finally, the Coffeehouse is located near the hotel lobby and offers coffee and pastries.

Now that you know about what's in the hotel, your next question is, how far away is Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure. You can get to the parks a couple of different ways. First, you can enter Downtown Disney and walk to the Monorail station. The Monorail will take you to Tomorrowland. Second, you can walk thru Downtown Disney to the Disneyland/DCA Esplanade. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. However, if the shopping, movies, or restaurants side track you it could be hours until you find your way to the Parks.

If you are planning a trip to the Disneyland Resort and you want the full Disney experience I highly recommend staying at this hotel. To make reservations just call 714-956-6425. If you have specific hotel questions call 714-778-6600.