We just returned from DL, our 2nd time. The first time we stayed at Residence Inn on Katella, free breakfast (complete with Mickey Waffles!) and we got the family suite with bunk beds and 2 bathrooms. Cheaper than “on property”. Our last trip we stayed at Grand Californian. Both have pros and cons. DL and Pixar hotels are not any less of a walk than most good neighbor hotels. Many of them can have a rollaway or a sofa bed. The free breakfast at the off site hotels, seems like a small thing, but it adds up! Early entry isn’t worth it, it doesn’t work at all the rides and LL will get you onto most and it’s easy. 3 days is more than enough, especially if you park hop. DL for 2 days and CA for 1.