Disney World vs. Disneyland
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Traveler buyers guide
- Size
- Disneyland (Anaheim, CA): 500 acres, including Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
- Disney World (Orlando, FL): 30,080 acres (47 square miles) with 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and more.
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Disney World is about 60 times larger than Disneyland!
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Theme Parks
- Disneyland Resort:
- Disneyland Park: 9 themed lands, including Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Fantasyland.
- Disney California Adventure: Features Pixar Pier and attractions inspired by California.
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Disney World:
- Magic Kingdom: Similar to Disneyland’s classic park.
- Epcot: Celebrates innovation and global cultures.
- Hollywood Studios: Home to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land.
- Animal Kingdom: Features wildlife attractions and is the world’s largest theme park (580 acres).
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Water Parks (Disney World Only)
- Typhoon Lagoon: Water slides and pools (temporarily closed).
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Blizzard Beach: Winter-themed water rides and toboggan racing.
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Hotels
- Disneyland: 3 on-site hotels (e.g., Disneyland Hotel, Grand Californian).
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Disney World: Over 30 resorts, ranging from budget to luxury (e.g., safari-themed lodges and overwater bungalows).
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Accessibility
- Disneyland: Smaller and walkable, with hotels and parks within close proximity.
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Disney World: Requires transportation between parks and resorts (buses, monorails, ferries).
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Key Perks
- Both locations offer shopping and entertainment districts:
- Disneyland: Downtown Disney.
- Disney World: Disney Springs.
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Disneyland is easier to navigate for shorter trips, while Disney World offers more variety for extended stays.
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How to Save on Disney Trips
- Use travel rewards like Capital One Miles to book hotels.
- Consider staying off-property for cheaper lodging.
- Disney’s Swan and Dolphin hotels (part of Marriott Bonvoy) allow point bookings.
Final Takeaway
- Choose Disneyland for a compact, classic Disney experience.
- Opt for Disney World for a sprawling, immersive adventure with a wide variety of attractions.
