1st Family Trip

[Brew]

Hi everyone,
Even though this is my 1st post, I've been stalking the boards since we decided to start planning our first family Disney trip Me(36), DW(34), DD(4), DD(2), DM, DF, DMIL, DFIL, DSisIL, DBroIL, DNephew(5). We are going in late October and will be attending MNSSHP (can't wait). Since I haven't been to WDW since I was 12, I'm a looking for some pointers of how to prioritize The World (We're visiting all 4 parks during the week). Our immediate family is focusing on princesses and fairies (since that is now my life ). What are some "definately don't miss", and some "stay away from" attractions and shows? We're looking forward to a memorable trip for us and our girls. So far we have booked:
Grand Floridian
Chef Mickeys
Fantasmic
MNSSHP
Akershus Breakfast
BBB
Ohana Breakfast
Tusker House
We're getting ready to book our Fast Pass's, so any pointers on that would help too. Thanks for all of the info I've gotten already, and any tips you can offer.

 

[dragitoff]

Hi everyone,
Even though this is my 1st post, I've been stalking the boards since we decided to start planning our first family Disney trip Me(36), DW(34), DD(4), DD(2), DM, DD, DMIL, DFIL, DSIL, DBIL, DNephew(5). We are going in late October and will be attending MNSSHP (can't wait). Since I haven't been to WDW since I was 12, I'm a looking for some pointers of how to prioritize The World (We're visiting all 4 parks during the week). Our immediate family is focusing on princesses and fairies (since that is now my life ). What are some "definately don't miss", and some "stay away from" attractions and shows? We're looking forward to a memorable trip for us and our girls. So far we have booked:
Grand Floridian
Chef Mickeys
Fantasmic
MNSSHP
Akershus Breakfast
BBB
Ohana Breakfast
Tusker House
We're getting ready to book our Fast Pass's, so any pointers on that would help too. Thanks for all of the info I've gotten already, and any tips you can offer.

I haven't been able to pre-book in FP+ reservations yet since the only time we went when it was in use, we stayed at the Dolphin and they weren't using it for them yet so we had to use the kiosks after arriving in the parks.

As for the other questions/comments, I'll say this. With it being a first-time trip for you, you'll want to spend more time in the MK than anywhere else. There's just so much to do. Good thing is you'll be attending MNSSHP which gives you access to MK with what is usually lower crowds. You'll also get to see what is in my opinion, the best Disney parade and fireworks shows!

Because of the size of the group and possible diversity within what everyone wants to do, I'd recommend having a planning party of some kind and get a feel from everyone what their "must do's" are. Based on that, plan your trip accordingly and fill in the blanks with the other things. Don't expect to do it all this first trip. Even with light crowds and plenty of time, there will always be things that get overlooked or missed.

Most importantly, don't stress out about it. Just enjoy your first trip! Enjoy time with the family! Enjoy sharing that experience together!

 

[Polishnavy]

I love the PP planning party idea. Good to talk about things beforehand.

We've been with in-laws before and we stayed together all day. It wasn't as fun for anyone. My father in law was tired and hot because DH and I move fast. Maybe try meeting up for certain shows/ meals and having times to do your own thing.

 

[absolutmey]

Hi! I'm planning our first family trip too and we'll be there the same week.

The one thing I can add, without seeing your full itinerary, is make sure you've built in enough time to get from place to place for all those ADRs. I'm usually a stalker too, but from what I've read on the Dis this is very important to remember.

I completely agree with PP - spend the most time in MK. We have 2 full days (and a MNSSHP) out of our 6 scheduled there and I'm always looking over my plans wondering if it is enough.

I hope you guys have a wonderful time!

 

[Brew]

We've been with in-laws before and we stayed together all day. It wasn't as fun for anyone. My father in law was tired and hot because DH and I move fast. Maybe try meeting up for certain shows/ meals and having times to do your own thing.

Great advice. DW and I have told everyone else going that we're going to do what our girls want to do, and if they want to do something else, they should. I think we'll absolutely be splitting up at numerous times during the trip.