Advice/Tips for US 1st timer with DD(5)??? Please!!!

[daisylove]

June 15-19 I am taking my DD5 on a driving trip staying on Disney property and spending one of the days at US.

First time us taking a trip without DH or grandma or someone else and first time at US. I know it will be fun but unfamiliar and hot and crowded. I will buy the front of the line booklet but what other tips can you give me. Best place to eat with DD5 (simple and on the cheap side as she is picky and I hate paying alot for an uneaten meal),timing to get there, timing for Barney, Jimmy Newtrona nd Shrek best place to get out of the sun and crowds. How to get out with my wallet mostly intact. You know basic survival in an unknown park?

Thanks!!!!!!

 

[Daydreamer64]

Get to the parks before they open to get in the lines while they are still short. Buy the express tickets booklet. Get the FREE tickets from the universal express machines- that way you will have 2 rides from the UE lines .

You will love the freedom of just the 2 of you. I often split up my kids and take them one at a time to our local amusement park. While we loved Universal Studios we also enjoyed IOA- because of Dr. Suess and the play land there.

Eat breakfast in your room before going to the parks. Have an icecream instead of a full meal- check out the look of disbelief on her face when you say- "Hey, lets eat icecream for lunch!!" My boys called their father long distance and said - "Mom has gone crazy- she actually asked to have icecream for lunch instead of salad and vegis!"

Most importantly- get aware of the park layout before you go- don't depend on maps as they were out of them the first day we went to the parks.

The best piece of advice I can give you is - just go with the flo and have fun!

 

[TINK61]

Yeah like Daydreamer said. Get there early. At univeral - beeline for Shrek and/or Jimmy Neutron. Both of these have long lines all day and night. Get your express passes at the kiosks located throughout the park.

Mel's Diner is a pretty reasonable place to eat and sure to have something any child would enjoy. they have great milkshakes.

 

[Planogirl]

I agree that it's wise to hit the big attractions early. Shrek, Jimmy Neutron, ET and other rides that you think your child can handle. You can see Barney throughout the day and also attend any other shows that might interest you later on. You can also play in the water playground just don't forget the sunscreen!

If you want a break from the crowds, you might want to try Margaritaville or the Nascar Cafe in Citywalk for lunch. Both of them have kid-friendly foods and didn't get crowded at lunchtime while we were there.