Attending MNSSHP the day we arrive

[DiannaVM]

I have a question. My sister and I had briefly considered this, but quickly ditched the idea but now that tickets have been released we are re-thinking our strategy.

Originally, we had planned to attend MNSSHP on the 28th of Oct., which is the day after we arrive. That is a Friday, and we were already planning on being at MK that day anyway. However, because tickets for the Thursday party are cheaper (albeit not a whole lot), we are now thinking of hitting the party the day we arrive, and I want the opinions of more seasoned WDW if this is something feasible and worth it, or should we stick to our original plans.

We fly in from the Bahamas, due to arrive at MCO T 12:15 P.M. Since we have to collect our own luggage it will probably closer to 1:30 p.m. by the time we board DME (based on what happened when we went last October, although this time we arrive on a weekday. I dont know if there is a big difference on the volume of people on a weekday vs weekend). Last year we were lucky in that by the time we arrived at POP there wasn't a whole lot of people checking in, but it still took us until almost 4 before we got to DS, and we didn't even spend a whole lot of time in the room. Just dropped the bags and went.

We are travelling with other people who are not going to be going to the party, but one of them will be driving down to Orlando so they will be free to go somewhere else if they please. My only worry is that the rooms wont be ready before my sister, DH and I leave, which will send my parents and grandparents in a mini-panic (especially my grandfather. I get my worrying from him lol), since the reservations are in my name and my sister's. But since their names are linked to the account, this shouldn't be an issue once we are checked in right? I know they will hold your luggage for you in the event the rooms arent ready, but how long do they take to be taken to your room? Or would they be able to pick up the luggage from the Lobby when they get back from wherever they go since we won't get back from the party until after 12?

Our goal is to be to the party as close to 4 as possible, to take most advantage of it. This is all provided no unforseen issues arise, such as the flight being delayed, which in this case is the biggest fear. I already know that I have to allot sufficient time for Disney transportation. Do you guys think its doable and worth it, or should we just bite the bullet and go Friday?

 

[CAS239]

Do early check in and put you'll be arriving early. Room will be ready, you'll bypass the long check in line, and can get to the park quickly.

I'd go to the party on the Thursday you arrive. More than likely less ppl, and save money.

Enter at 4pm and don't forget to make your FastPasses for the 4-7pm window

 

[redsbe]

Do early check in and put you'll be arriving early. Room will be ready, you'll bypass the long check in line, and can get to the park quickly.

I'd go to the party on the Thursday you arrive. More than likely less ppl, and save money.

Enter at 4pm and don't forget to make your FastPasses for the 4-7pm window

This is approach we did in December 2014 with a Friday mid day arrival at MCO, and managed to enjoy the party and a few rides, knowing that with 5 other full park days we were getting back to MK twice more. Sort of treated the party of a bonus (although yes we paid for it), but besides the holiday atmosphere we treated 3 FP+ between 4 and 7p and and other rides that night as a nice start to WDW and head start to our other park days.

 

[DiannaVM]

So you guys definitely think its doable? The more I think of it the better it sounds to me...

 

[BrianL]

I go on arrival day all the time. I usually get in around 11 AM and I have LOTS of time to go to Disney Springs and grab a bite to eat then make my way to MK for the 4PM entry. It works very well.