Advice for a newbie with a toddler?

[MinaFemme]

Hi everyone!

We are going to WDW in October for the week of Halloween 2012 with our baby boy who will turn two the day we check-in. I haven't been to Disney since 1996, and stayed with relatives at that time, so I am a newbie at all of this. Do you have any recommendations on fun restaurants that we should make reservations for that are toddler friendly? We want to do something a little special for his birthday dinner, any ideas? Tips for a character breakfast?

Also, how far in advance can I make reservations?

Thank you for any advice, it's very much appreciated!

 

[coltsfanatic]

Hi everyone!

We are going to WDW in October for the week of Halloween 2012 with our baby boy who will turn two the day we check-in. I haven't been to Disney since 1996, and stayed with relatives at that time, so I am a newbie at all of this. Do you have any recommendations on fun restaurants that we should make reservations for that are toddler friendly? We want to do something a little special for his birthday dinner, any ideas? Tips for a character breakfast?

Also, how far in advance can I make reservations?

Thank you for any advice, it's very much appreciated!

Welcome! I definitely think some of the best restaurants in Disney are the ones that are themed the best. I really like Crystal Palace for lunch or dinner and most will agree Chef Mickey's is a kid and newbie's dream. Also, you might want to try Coral Reef (for the atmosphere) or Sanaa. There really are so many restaurants to fit anyone's budget, palette, etc. sometimes the best way is to look at the pics and videos online.

You can make ressies 180 days out.

 

[lions1995]

I would have to vote for Chef Mickey's (Mickey and friends) with a close followup by Crystal Palace (Winnie the Pooh and friends)

Buffets are nice with kids under 3. They can eat for free. At other restaurants, they would have to eat off your plate. Make sure you get him a Happy Birthday and First Visit Button. My son was two the first time he went. The pictures of him on that trip are priceless. Be prepared to give some down time especially if you expect to stay late.

 

[mickeyplanner]

Who are some of your son's favorite characters?

When we had our DS there at 14 months, his favorite meals were at Chef Mickey's, Hollywood and Vine Breakfast and Ohana Character Breakfast. Something special would be maybe having his hair cut at the Harmony Barber Shop. Basically any character meal with Pluto is huge hit, I think Pluto is the best for little ones because he will crawl around with them on the floor/get on their level. Don't forget to get him a birthday button and first visit button. And make sure you bring a stroller from home, pretzel rods and lollipops make for great distractions for waiting.

 

[tofubeast]

We are taking DD for the first time this coming December and she will be just 26 months. I cannot wait!! While we are still in the early stages of planning, the planner in me is already in HIGH THINKING mode!

I definitely plan to do Chef Mickeys and Akershus. May even think of doing Crystal Palace again, but we have done it twice and might aim for something different.

I would suggest maybe Hollywood and VIne at DHS as they have Little Einsteins there.

When it comes to doing stuff at the parks, I probably will now be doing lots of things I never did before such as Little Mermaid at DHS or daytime parades etc. I have gone on many adult trips, so now it is time to see the beauty of the parks through DD's eyes. I can't wait!

 

[JennyDrake]

Keep in mind that your child may be so overstimulated that they WON'T eat--make sure you are OK with this before booking an expensive buffet.