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.
  • Disney World is about 60 times larger than Disneyland!

  • 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.
  • 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).
  • Water Parks (Disney World Only)

  • Typhoon Lagoon: Water slides and pools (temporarily closed).
  • Blizzard Beach: Winter-themed water rides and toboggan racing.

  • Hotels

  • Disneyland: 3 on-site hotels (e.g., Disneyland Hotel, Grand Californian).
  • Disney World: Over 30 resorts, ranging from budget to luxury (e.g., safari-themed lodges and overwater bungalows).

  • Accessibility

  • Disneyland: Smaller and walkable, with hotels and parks within close proximity.
  • Disney World: Requires transportation between parks and resorts (buses, monorails, ferries).

  • Key Perks

  • Both locations offer shopping and entertainment districts:
    • Disneyland: Downtown Disney.
    • Disney World: Disney Springs.
  • Disneyland is easier to navigate for shorter trips, while Disney World offers more variety for extended stays.

  • 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.

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