1st Time to Disney..looking for help

[nugov2]

Thank you all for your replies! We are planning on Thurs- Tues so technically 5 days at the parks, Tuesday we would be leaving to come home.

I wasn't thinking of a stroller, my sons are 4 and 7. Do you think we should get one? They haven't been in a stroller in quite sometime, but I can now understand that if walking gets tiring. Are they too big for a stroller?

As for dining... my boys do not eat a lot. My 4 year old has an egg allergy, so we have to be very careful of what he eats when we're on the run. When does Disney offer free dining plan and which plan do they offer? I was thinking the 3 meals per day, but I'm reading that 2 is definitely enough. My boys are early risers and I know that we would be up early every day, so breakfast is definitely a must. I definitely want to do the character meals, I'm just not sure when we're going yet. I was thinking Memorial Day weekend because we're off that Monday, but I don't want to go at a crowded time. I don't mind pulling my 1st grader from school, that's not a big deal. We're not Star Wars fans so that convention or whatever it is will not appeal to us. I would think it would attract more people, so maybe we should steer clear of that week.

As for the resort...thanks for your take on the Value resorts. My husband is not the type to want to walk around all day, so that is why I kind of have a feeling that we will be spending more time at the hotel pool and such. I want to stay at a resort where the kids will enjoy the pool, maybe with a slide.

Thanks for the barber shop tip, I'll add that to my list of things we must do.

I just don't even know where to start, there's so much info out there...book now for this meal, do this, do that...I don't mind the planning, but there's wayyyyyy too much info, I don't know where to begin! Thanks so much for all of your input.

I would cross off the values, they will not meet your needs. The like a PP said lack a lot of amenities. I would pick a mod or a deluxe(but the deluxe may push you budget up).

Would you consider off site? I know it isn't for everyone, but we had a large home with a private pool/hot tub, game room and then the resort had a huge pool with water slide, movie room, playground etc. It was about a 10 minute drive to the park, but still faster than WDW transportation(especially at night when waits can be 20+ minutes for a bus). We enjoyed our own time while the kids slept in their own room and there was no tip toeing around. We stayed in home that was decorated from top to bottom in WDW and we dined pretty much exclusively on site(though it was nice to have a big kitchen if we wanted it) still and did a lot of resort activities, so we never felt like we were missing out on anything(except cramped quarters) It is something to look into especially if you plan to leave the parks. Our midday breaks were a breeze and while my youngest was napping, everyone else could be swimming or playing games and nobody was forced to quietly sit in a dark room. You can get deluxe accommodations for pretty reasonable off site, but you have to factor in car and parking(but for us off site is not for savings, but for more space so we are ok paying for extras).

 

[Gumbo4x4]

Think of it this way, the work you do on the front end will allow you to relax some when you get there

Now, that said, I do not believe it necessary to plan every minute of every day. If you want nice sit-down meals, you will need to reserve those ahead of time with or without the dining plan (which personally, I do not find to be a god value). And you will want to pick out specific "must do" attractions ahead of time if you want to make sure they get done.

But, you'll still find yourselves just strolling through the parks saying, "Oh hey, that ride has a short line. Let's try it. Hey, that turkey leg smells nice. Lets get one. Oh, let's duck in this shop for a peek". Etc. And "personally", I think the fewer sit down meals you plan, the less stressful the day. I doubt I will ever make another lunch reservation. Breakfast? Sure. Supper? Maybe. But, being locked into a lunch reservation just kills any chance of "going with the flow" for a good 3 hours right in the middle of the day.

 

[Delbs75]

Thank you all for your input...I think we have decided on Caribbean Beach Resort. That has been the one I keep going back to and my husband seems to like it online, so that is probably where we're going to stay.

So now my questions are: Which part of the resort should we stay? My boys at 4 and 7. I would love the Pirate rooms, but we're trying to stick to a budget and I think those will probably be out of our price range. We're looking at 4/27-5/2...do prices go up as you get closer?

As for the parks... my boys LOVE Toy Story & Cars...any recommendations? We have no clue about any of the parks, or how many rides there are or which ones have long lines. We're going into this blind, so....... any help is appreciated!

 

[ChitownFamily]

Thank you all for your input...I think we have decided on Caribbean Beach Resort. That has been the one I keep going back to and my husband seems to like it online, so that is probably where we're going to stay.

So now my questions are: Which part of the resort should we stay? My boys at 4 and 7. I would love the Pirate rooms, but we're trying to stick to a budget and I think those will probably be out of our price range. We're looking at 4/27-5/2...do prices go up as you get closer?

As for the parks... my boys LOVE Toy Story & Cars...any recommendations? We have no clue about any of the parks, or how many rides there are or which ones have long lines. We're going into this blind, so....... any help is appreciated!

you don't have to plan, you can just show up. Your experience will be different but not bad. If you want to have a "game plan" you really need to start reading the links & info other posters have shared. There is also a great search button at the top of the forum. This is a REALLY useful tool! Regarding the parks. Here's a great link to learn more about each park & attractions: http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/themeparks.htm
The height restriction tool is very handy: http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/height.htm

 

[Gumbo4x4]

There's a regular on the Theme Parks and Planning board that has a list of which rides really need a fast pass. I believe it's mesaboy, but not positive. Some rides are just busy all the time, others slow all the time. And of course, many fall somewhere in the middle.

I would order the free Disney planning DVD and show it to the family to see what sparks everyone's interest

 

[NC Disney Fan]

Thank you all for your input...I think we have decided on Caribbean Beach Resort. That has been the one I keep going back to and my husband seems to like it online, so that is probably where we're going to stay.

So now my questions are: Which part of the resort should we stay? My boys at 4 and 7. I would love the Pirate rooms, but we're trying to stick to a budget and I think those will probably be out of our price range. We're looking at 4/27-5/2...do prices go up as you get closer?

As for the parks... my boys LOVE Toy Story & Cars...any recommendations? We have no clue about any of the parks, or how many rides there are or which ones have long lines. We're going into this blind, so....... any help is appreciated!

I will tell you Toy Story in Hollywood Studio used to run out of fast passes by the time we sauntered in the park at 10:30. Therefore, i would strongly recommend FP+ on that. I have not used the system but I know you can reserve 3 rides a day. at Hollywood Studios that is a must. Even in Septmeber one of the slow months, it is a 70 minute wait. It is such a fun ride though--as moving shooting gallery. VERY COOL. the boys will love it. I think HS also has some Cars stuff but no rides that I know of. There is a rumor that they will be having a cars area but I don't know.

In Magic Kingdom the toy story ride there is also a shooting gallery of sorts. However, it si normally a very manageable line so I wouldn't waste my FP on that. I think the most I saw was a 20 minute wait. It's continuously moving so it goes quickly.

I will tell you, as much as I don't understand why, Peter Pan is always one of the longest waits in MK. I just don't get it. But I would have to say that if you want to ride that, FP+ it or else you are looking at some big time waits. Why, I will never know!

Again, if you go on a May week where there is not much going on, you may luck out and not need much FPing at all but to be safe, do the three you think you want just so you have them. Esepcially with a 4 year old, waiting in line that long is tough.

I know people say you don't have to plan everything and they are right but you will thank the Lord when you have thought through some logistics with eating and the main rides you want per day and then, like other said, you can meander around and do what you want as it comes to you.
Oh, in Epcot, you Soarin is the long wait ride. I would FP that one. And I think, even if your 4 year old ends up being a bit nervous, he will enjoy this ride!''

You may also want to check on height requirements of rides just so you know which your younger son may not be able to ride but Disney is so kid friendly, I bet it will be mostly only the few roller coasters!

 

[noahdove]

It will be very busy at this time of the year, southern schools out for the summer and it's a long weekend to top it all off...Counter service dining plan may be just the way to go for your children. Maybe 1 table service like Chef Mickey's or Crystal Palace. I would choose AOA finding Nemo for the rooms and the pools, splash fountains, great theming, we loved it there...

 

[Aliceacc]

Thank you all for your input...I think we have decided on Caribbean Beach Resort. That has been the one I keep going back to and my husband seems to like it online, so that is probably where we're going to stay.

So now my questions are: Which part of the resort should we stay? My boys at 4 and 7. I would love the Pirate rooms, but we're trying to stick to a budget and I think those will probably be out of our price range. We're looking at 4/27-5/2...do prices go up as you get closer?

As for the parks... my boys LOVE Toy Story & Cars...any recommendations? We have no clue about any of the parks, or how many rides there are or which ones have long lines. We're going into this blind, so....... any help is appreciated!

I sent you a PM this morning... go up to the top right hand corner of the screen, under your user name, and click on "Private Messages."

 

[monique5]

The one thing I agree with on this post is plan for the vacation your family will enjoy. Also, everyone has different opinions about which places to eat and why. My thoughts, try it yourself based on the atmosphere/ theming, characters if applicable, and food selections. Next, you stated you prefer all-inclusive & travel by air. So off-site & car rental not option, adds to your cost. Make sure your airline is a partner of DME, Disney free transportation to & from.
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/planning-guides/in-depth-advice/airport-service/

You will need a dining plan for that all-inclusive feel. Meals PAID for in advance. There are several options to fit your family eating habits.
http://www.wdwinfo.com/disney-dining-plan.htm
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/planning-guides/in-depth-advice/disney-dining-plan/

My 2 cents, we went with the Deluxe Dining Plan. We selected 3 meals that were 2 credits. Yes, a lot of food & didn't always eat everything, but we tried a lot of food we wouldn't normally try. But we ate more than we thought after walking all day. DH prefers for all costs to be paid in advance, so dining plan was a must. But 3 to choose from. Also, you lose 1-2 hours traveling to hotel by buses & we didn't want to waste time on transportation. TS meals (sit down) allowed us time to sit down/relax in air conditioning. Also, with disabled mom & 5 Year old didn't have to worry about carrying trays, getting drinks, etc. Most importantly, we did mostly character meals, so had photo opportunity with must see characters without standing in line for character meet and greet.

Stroller, daughter hadn't used stroller for 2 years. DH saved stroller for this trip. Strollers do not count on planes/ carry for free. If your husband will leave & go to resort, leaving you with 2 boys. Take your stroller, no stroller, RENT. The extra steps to park stroller is worth it. Just mark stroller with Stroller Tag, ribbon, etc.

Do not go blind, some planning is essential to enjoying vacation. Don't have time for all these threads... Read this, very quick..
http://www.amazon.com/Birnbaums-Dis...4&sr=1-2-fkmr0&keywords=disney+travel+braumin

This is a must because you will have 3 FP+ selections per day for attractions. Make the most of your selections.

Resorts: moderate or deluxe. For budgeting, moderate. Pirate room may be doable with discounts. This site is great for current promotion. FYI, FD not during your travel dates... http://www.mousesavers.com/

If you are set on your dates, know you will eat at TS restaurants, then check online for availability, dates & time. You can start making reservations @ 180D + 10 for on-site guests. Most people make reservations @ the 180D mark based on arrival day. So some TS restaurants may be full in May, especially since holiday & Star Wars weekend at HS. It's still possible to find availability, but maybe not for your days & time. You could change your park days or keep checking up until the day before.
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/

Also, check for rehabs & closures. Don't read something & think I want to do that & when you get there it's not open. For instance, Festival of the Lion King is closed for now. Celebrate A Dream Come True Parade has ended, but new Parade Festival of Fantasy debuts on March 9th.
http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/rehab.htm

I'm sure there is something I forgot. Feel free to ask me any other questions. As previously stated, everyone has posted wonderful advise, but some are just that opinions. Plan your vacation based on YOUR family needs, wants & vacation expectations!

 

[Delbs75]

Hi all, again, thanks so much for all of the information! We have decided on a better date that suits us all...May 4-9 Sunday- Friday. I see from one of the park crowd calendars that someone has provided from Undercovertourist that that week seems to be pretty good. My husband is hoping that we don't go when it's really crowded, but it seems that this week will be okay. We've decided on Caribbean Beach Resort. Now, my question to you all is...who would you recommend as the cheapest travel agent to go through? Of course, I'm looking for the best deals!!! I've priced out Vacations To Go and they look to be the cheapest. THanks!!!!

 

[monique5]

Hi all, again, thanks so much for all of the information! We have decided on a better date that suits us all...May 4-9 Sunday- Friday. I see from one of the park crowd calendars that someone has provided from Undercovertourist that that week seems to be pretty good. My husband is hoping that we don't go when it's really crowded, but it seems that this week will be okay. We've decided on Caribbean Beach Resort. Now, my question to you all is...who would you recommend as the cheapest travel agent to go through? Of course, I'm looking for the best deals!!! I've priced out Vacations To Go and they look to be the cheapest. THanks!!!!

AAA has good deals. The Mouse For Less from what I see on the board. With that being said, no one can offer lower prices, just free stuff. Also, all changes have to be through TA. So if never used one before/ built trust with... book direct with Disney, you can make own changes if applicable, or call them direct.

 

[Delbs75]

Disney seems to be more expensive then some other booking agents though...which is why I was wondering why.

 

[mrsp1030]

Disney ticket prices are a little higher than many others but also make sure your pricing on other sites includes taxes. Sometimes it looks like a great deal and then the taxes are added.

 

[Delbs75]

Hi everyone! I booked our trip!!!!! Cant' wait!!!! Caribbean Beach Resort!!! Now, I have to start scheduling the meals and attractions. So...we have 2 boys, ages 4 and 7...my little guy loves Mickey and my older loves Pluto...any particular places we should do the character meals at? So from what I understand, each park you get 2 fast passes and we should use those at the attractions that have long lines. So which ones have long lines? lol

 

[lisski76]

Hi everyone! I booked our trip!!!!! Cant' wait!!!! Caribbean Beach Resort!!! Now, I have to start scheduling the meals and attractions. So...we have 2 boys, ages 4 and 7...my little guy loves Mickey and my older loves Pluto...any particular places we should do the character meals at? So from what I understand, each park you get 2 fast passes and we should use those at the attractions that have long lines. So which ones have long lines? lol

You get 3 fast passes at each park...Chef Mickeys will be a great character meal for them!

 

[monique5]

Hi everyone! I booked our trip!!!!! Cant' wait!!!! Caribbean Beach Resort!!! Now, I have to start scheduling the meals and attractions. So...we have 2 boys, ages 4 and 7...my little guy loves Mickey and my older loves Pluto...any particular places we should do the character meals at? So from what I understand, each park you get 2 fast passes and we should use those at the attractions that have long lines. So which ones have long lines? lol

3 FP+ selections per day @ 1 park.
Character Meals.. Chef Mickey's (CR) - Breakfast or Dinner, Tusker House (AK) - Breakfast, 'Ohana (Poly)- Breakfast... I would also recommend Hollywood & Vine (HS)- Breakfast, features Jake (Jake & the Neverland Pirates), Special Agent Oso, Doc McStuffins & Sofia the First.
http://www.allears.net/din/cb.htm/cbchar.htm

I haven't been since only FastPass+ implemented.
http://allears.net/tp/fastpass-plus.htm

 

[NC Disney Fan]

Hey, if you go back to page 2 on my last post, I gave you my input on this stuff regarding rides and restaurants before you even asked!!

Rides: Like I said, Peter Pan (who knows why it is long lines)
Toy Story in Hollywood studios is a must
Soarin in Epcot
Test Track in Epcot
Splash Mountain in MK

These are the rides that always have the longest wait times--even in slow times.

Again, my dining suggestions are on my last post. I had forgot to mention Chef Mickey's. While the food is nothing to write home about, both your boys will LOVE it. And, it is in the Contemporary so they get to see the monorail go right through the hotel! I prefer the breakfast buffet here, not the dinner. I think you r boys will too with the Mickey Waffles. You will eat so much, you can get a counter service later in the day and be done with dining. Anyways, check out my last post. Also, make those dining reservations.