Disneyland.....April or summer and airport?

Question

Hi,

We want to take the kids to Disneyland after we took them to Disney world last summer. Our spring break is the first week of April (so after the ticket deals are done) but was wondering how the weather and crowds might be for spring break compared to coming in the summer when school is out (fingers crossed for ticket deals if so)? Also, which airport. LAX is probably cheapest with direct flights (from MN), but then would need a transfer company for sure (don't want to drive that...lol) and John Wayne is an option (more expensive for flights but maybe more drivable to Disney if we rented a vehicle)...or Palm Springs (are there some pretty spots along the way maybe)? Any thoughts would be great. Thanks

Answer

Visiting Disneyland in California requires balancing crowds, weather, and convenience, especially when traveling with kids. Here's a detailed breakdown to help you decide between April and summer, as well as airport options.

Timing: April vs Summer

April (first week after spring break): The weather is generally mild, with daytime highs in the mid-70s °F (around 24 °C) and cooler evenings. Spring flowers are in bloom, and the parks are visually beautiful. Crowds are lower than peak summer, especially if your visit falls after the main spring break week. Lines for rides are usually shorter than in summer, making it easier to enjoy the attractions.
Summer (June–August): Temperatures can be hot, often reaching the mid-80s–90s °F (29–35 °C). Crowds are at their highest due to school vacations, resulting in longer wait times for rides and attractions. If ticket deals are available, you may save some money, but expect a more hectic experience and plan for early arrivals and midday breaks.

Airport considerations:

LAX (Los Angeles International Airport): Often has cheaper and more direct flights from Minnesota. However, Disneyland is about 35–40 miles away, and LA traffic can be unpredictable. You would likely need a shuttle service, rideshare, or private transfer, as renting a car is not ideal if you want to avoid driving in LA traffic. Transfer services can be pre-booked and typically cost around $100–$120 each way for a family of four.
John Wayne Airport (SNA): Located in Orange County, roughly 15 minutes from Disneyland without traffic. Flights may be slightly more expensive than LAX, but the airport is smaller, less crowded, and more convenient for a direct drive to Disneyland if you rent a car. The drive is simple, and you can also access nearby beaches or Irvine if you want a scenic stop.
Palm Springs Airport (PSP): Less commonly used for Disneyland visits. Flights are limited and may not be convenient. The drive to Anaheim is roughly 1.5–2 hours. If you have time and want to see the desert or mountain scenery, this could be a scenic option, but it adds travel time and complexity.

Recommendation:

If your priority is minimizing crowds and enjoying mild weather, April is better than summer. For convenience, John Wayne Airport is ideal if you are okay with renting a car; otherwise, LAX works with a shuttle or rideshare but requires more planning due to traffic. Palm Springs is scenic but only recommended if you are adding a road-trip element to the visit.

Disneyland.....April or summer and airport?

More Anaheim Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions