Meet the Creator
Lincoln
Our Arrival & First Impressions
Somewhere I visited many times as a child. It's not the most themed hotel however, it still felt really Christmassy and the boys loved that it was based on Cars!! Just a short walk from both the park and the studios. Great for those on a smaller budget.
Activities Breakdown
We paid extra for a character dining experience at the Plaza Gardens. I would definitely recommend as this was such a unique experience. The characters come to your table giving you lots of photo opportunities and a chance to get an autograph.
There are a number of shows on that we were able to book using the app. We went to see the Frozen, Lion King & a Pixar Musical adventure show.
We got the Photopass, which meant we got official photos at meet and greets and were also able to book (virtually) for characters that would be unavailable otherwise.
After a few years away, there are a number of new rides. The Spiderman Web Slinger ride is an interactive ride where you use your body to shoot targets on the screens.
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Fireworks Show
Disneyland Fireworks show is known for how incredible it is. The music, the atmosphere, the lights all make it a great experience, not just for children but for adults too. We tried to get there each night!
Food & Drink
Character dining - This was an added extra. It was a great experience having the characters walking around and meeting everyone. It was a lot calmer than queuing up or rushing to see one of them. (approx. £100 extra, but discounted with the food plan).
Snacks - There are snack vans everywhere, with lots of different snacks to choose. Loved the Mickey Brownie!
Food plan - We went for the full meal plan that comes with staying at Santa Fe. There are other plans depending on which hotel you stay at.
Simple Pleasures - Sometimes the simplest foods are the best. Our boys love a hot dog!
Money-Saving Tip
Get a meal plan! Organise the meals well - take away for lunch and sit down meal for tea/dinner, and to rest after all the walking. Budget for all the snacks you will want, but also take a few of your own to keep the energy up.
Pros & Cons Summary
What We Loved
Magical experience for kids.- Christmas memories fulfilled.
Could Be Better
Long journey (prepare and have a break).- The weather - Its November/December, so prepare for cold wet weather.
Overall Verdict & Ratings
Hotel was very clean, and no rubbish around the park.
Disney is about the rides and entertainment - everything a kid could wish for.
Some of the food in the restaurants isn't great for kids. Plan ahead!
Magic hour is useful for hotel guests (use it for the long waits such as Peter Pan). Queues for most other rides weren't too long. Get to the fireworks early - if not be prepared to look at the back of someone's head.
Its Disney!!! Booking again for 2027.
Its Disney - prices will be higher because of this. Priceless for the memories.
The Final Verdict:
We love Disney, and loved taking our boys for the first time. We will be back again ... and again!
""A dream is a wish your heart makes"."Laura Thompson
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