Am I too optimistic?

[Donnaly66]

I made a Fantasmic Dinner package reservation at Hollywood & Vine @ 5:20 p.m. Thursday evening (June 15) of the day we arrive (that was the latest reservation I could get).

My family (with DS 3 & DD 4) arrives at the airport at 10:30 a.m., then off on the ME and hopefully to our resort (Old Key West) by 11:30 a.m. - check-in is NOT until 4pm but hopefully we can check in early. If so, - we will get settled in. If not, we'll have the desk hold our bags, go get some lunch and do DTD or swim.

My mom, dad, sister, & BIL are set to arrive at the airport at 1:30 p.m. They are renting a car and should be at the resort by 2:30 p.m.

I suspect we should be on the bus to MGM no later than 4:30, right? (How long does it take to get from OKW to MGM on the bus, or should we drive?).
And, in the mean time, my dad has to stop at Shades of Green to purchase all of our park hopper tickets.

Am I crazy trying to fit this in on our first night? I'm really praying for early check in!

TIA for any advice!
Donna

 

[Biscuitsmom31]

You're plan doesn't leave any time for flight delays etc. Things usually take longer than you anticipate. Don't stress too much over it, just hope for the best!

 

[Sleeping Jedi Beauty]

Sounds like you'll have enough time with no delays, but I would be in line for the bus no later than 4:00. That gives you extra time if you need it. Better to have minutes to kill in the park instead of fretting about getting to the park in time for your ADR.

 

[powellrj]

Keep calling every couple of weeks until you leave. They will usually open up later times as your date nears. I know last year we were able to get a later date about 2 weeks before we left.

 

[babar41]

I think it is doable, but here are some things to think about.

1. Dad should stop on his way to the resort from the airport to get the park hopper tickets. Don't wait till you are in a rush to get to MGM.

2. I agree with get to the bus stop by 4, but if I were you I'd drive. It makes it soooooo much easier, no stress of waiting for the bus or how many stops the bus might take. Remember for a 5:20 ADR you are supposed to check in 10 to 15 minutes early, and it can take some time from where you park, grabbing the tram, going through bag check and walking to Hollywood and Vine. If I were you I'd plan on pulling into the parking lot at 4:30.

3. Realize you might not get your room until 4. Don't worry if that happens. Just go ahead to your Fantasmic Package and afterwards pick up your luggage.

4. DON'T STRESS!!!!

5. Good idea to either swim or go to DTD in the afternoon while waiting for your room. Just make sure if you do DTD you make it a restful visit. Sit back and watch the people, eat ice cream, relax.

6. And the most important part.... have a magical time!