Disneyland vs. Disney World

So one of the biggest conversations in Disney parks is the comparison of Disneyland to Disney World. So many people have opinions and now that I’ve visited Disney World I can finally see the difference between the two parks. I will say I LOVE both parks for different reasons. So I won’t be saying one is better than the other, but pointing out the pros and cons in both. Also, Disnyland is my home park so I do spend a lot more time there. But other than that, I feel like I got the gist of WDW. So let’s begin!

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Size

Does bigger really mean better? I don’t think so. One of Disney World’s selling points can also be one of the least promising. Let’s be honest, Disney World is too big for its own good. It’s impossible to get everything done in one trip. I feel like everyone looks down at Disneyland for being so small, but I think that has its perks. It has a more homey feel and you can get the whole park done in a day. I do like that Disney World has a bit more offerings (Disney Springs is the best), but the size isn’t everything.

Cast members

I briefly mentioned this in my trip recap, but throughout my trip I saw a big difference between cast members from Disney World to Disneyland. I don’t think CMs at WDW were rude, they just seemed really indifferent. Like, you’re at Disney, enjoy the magic! I saw CMs at Animal Kingdom texting in front of guests and many in stores just sitting looking bored. We also encountered a certain performer who broke character integrity AT THE PARK. I give Disneyland CMs the point here because I feel like they add a personal magical touch and always seem to be upbeat. I know there’s always bad apples, but I thought it was a crazy contrast.

Quality

I’ve heard people say that Disneyland has better food but I actually think they’re the same. Although Disneyland has more food options, in my opinion. I had food at the Mexico pavilion at Epcot and actually thought it was way better than Rancho De Zocalo. But overall, from merch to rides, I really didn’t think there was a difference in quality in between the two.

Options

For being bigger, I actually didn’t think WDW had that many options. Also, I’m an entertainment girl so I wish Magic Kingdom had something like Magical Map. But at the same time, Disneyland is pretty limited. I feel like they both have what the other needs, if that makes sense. I think Magic Kingdom is wide and has space but it really didn’t have more or less than Disneyland.

Rides

Hands down, Disneyland’s Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean are way better. Disney World’s Splash Mountain is definitely crazier and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train was the funnest. Also, Expedition Everest is probably my favorite ride ever. Other than that, I didn’t ride other rides that are in both parks. Big Thunder Mountain was down for refurb at WDW and I didn’t ride Jungle Cruise. So I can’t compare those to Disneyland. But I say both have good rides in their own way so it’s enough. We have California Screamin’, WDW still has the PeopleMover. 

People

There’s definitely a lot more tourists at Disney World than at Disneyland. Disneyland has way more locals and passholders. But what’s interesting is that guests at Disney World are much more respectful and courteous. At Disneyland everything feels like a race. I’ve seen so many run and push just to be in front for World of Color or be next in line for a ride. I went to Extra Magic Hour at Magic Kingdom and people actually walked to Mine Train. No one at WDW pushed and got angry when they tried to get a last-minute spot for the parade. It was such a difference!

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Keep in mind my a lot were my impressions of WDW over the 4 days I was there. I am going back so maybe things change! But overall, I don’t think one park is better than the other. I feel like they’re both great in their own way and are fun to experience. What do you think? Do you agree on some points or disagree?