Disney World vs Disneyland: the biggest differences

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A trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World is unforgettable. Whether it’s related to longing to visit as a child or to create new memories as an adult, the resorts hold a special place in the hearts of many.

Loyal fans can fiercely debate and list the merits of each, such as who has the best rides, fireworks, and food.

While both resorts are safe bets for any Disney enthusiast, there are some objective differences travelers should consider when deciding on a destination. Here are some of the biggest distinctions between Disneyland and Disney World, along with a little history about the two resorts.

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Location, location, location

For starters, Disneyland Resort is located in Anaheim, California, less than 30 miles from Los Angeles.

Walt Disney World Resort straddles Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista, Florida, near Orlando.

Fun fact: Both resorts are located in their state’s Orange County.

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Size matters

Another major difference between Disneyland and Disney World is the size.

According to Parksavers.com, Disneyland spans roughly 500 acres, while Disney World covers over 43 square miles of land, making Disney World much bigger.

Different parks

California is home to Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and the Downtown Disney District.

In Florida, Disney World is home to Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Disney World also includes Disney Springs, the ESPN Wild World of Sports complex, several golf courses, two miniature golf courses, and two water parks – Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach.

Accommodations

Disneyland has three resort hotels: Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Disneyland Hotel, and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel.

Disney World has over two dozen resort hotels, including Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, which also offers campgrounds.

Disney castles

The castle presented is different in each complex.

Sleeping Beauty Castle is the centerpiece of Disneyland Park. He is approximately 77 feet tall.

At Disney World, Cinderella’s Castle is iconic of both Magic Kingdom and the larger resort. The castle is approximately 189 feet high.

Unique attractions

While guests at both resorts can enjoy Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion, Pirated of the Caribbean, and “It’s a Small World,” the versions are slightly different.

Plus, Disneyland is the only place for rides like the Matterhorn Bobsleds, Storybook Land Canal Boats, and Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. The Magic Kingdom version of Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride is closed.

Disney World-specific rides include Spaceship Earth, Avatar Flight of Passage, Rock n ‘Roller Coaster, and Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress. The Carousel of Progress debuted at the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair and lived in Disneyland before moving to Disney World in 1975, according to the attraction’s webpage.

Notable nicknames

Disneyland is known as “the happiest place on Earth”.

Disney World is called “the most magical place on Earth”. This magic can be found in other titles, such as the 50th anniversary celebrations of Disney World, which has been dubbed the “World’s Most Magical Celebration”.

Which one came first?

Disneyland opened July 17, 1955. It was designed and built under the supervision of Walt Disney.

Walt Disney World opened on October 1, 1971. Roy Disney helped design and open Disney World after the death of his brother Walt in 1966. His design was based on a plan called “The Florida Project,” created by Walt Disney.

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