Welcome to Ask The Duchess – Vol. 82, a monthly Q&A post covering a variety of resort-related topics. Ask The Duchess answers questions submitted by readers. If you have a question you’d like answered, send me a message here.
1. Are character dining options worth it? (submitted by Mike)
It honestly depends on your priorities. If time is more of a concern than budget (as character buffets are an expensive meal), then I’d say yes. If budget is more of a concern than time (as you’ll have to wait in separate lines for each character in the park), then I’d say no.
2. Is it true that I can shop on Main Street after park close? (submitted by Neina)
Mostly yes. The shops on Main Street technically stay open for 30 minutes after park close so guests can buy things on their way out. But a lot of the time, shops will start closing their doors and registers when the park does, so I wouldn’t rely on that as your primary shopping time.
3. What’s a lighter quick service spot for lunch in Disneyland that’s more than a snack? (submitted by Jonathan)
A lot of quick service restaurants have lighter options like salads, but in terms of an overall spot that’s not super heavy, I’m a big fan of the Bengal Barbecue.
4. Can I see the fireworks from California Adventure? (submitted by Noah)
Partially. You’ll be able to see the bigger fireworks that they shoot off from Toontown, but you won’t be able to see the smaller ones launched directly at the castle.
5. What’s a popular piece of Disney advice you see a lot that you don’t agree with? (submitted by Eileen)
“Wait until your kids are old enough to remember it.” My whole extended family went on a trip to Disney World in Florida together when the cousins ranged from ages 2-6. Our collective memories of it vary from hazy to non-existent. Even so, all of the adults still say it was one of the best trips they’ve been on. Your kids may not remember it, but you will. You’ll remember them losing their minds over characters or little experiences, and those memories will be so special to you. And your kids can look back on the photos when they’re older and hear the funny stories from the trip!
I love your answer to question 5. Who amongst us knows when/if the opportunity will come again to all enjoy the Disney parks together? To miss an opportunity because of age (especially when you see the great range of ages in the parks) to me is crazy. Families fracture, people die or just move away… so many things can determine that the day you decide everyone is of a suitable age may never come.
Such a good perspective. Make the time you have the “right time” 🙂