Brand new to US/IOA - Where to start

[kbkids]

We've been to Disney more times than I can begin to count - 6 times last year alone - but we've never ventured beyond those gates. So, I'm planning a trip in September, and we're going to get brave and venture into the unknown. However - where to start?

It will be me, DH, DD8 and DS4. DD will be just a little over 48", so I know the big rides are out. DS will hopefully be 42" - but possibly a little shy of it, so he'll probably be sitting out some. However, he is not the least bit afraid of anything, so if he's tall enough, he's going on it.

We are going to stay onsite (Royal Pacific - I also need to know where to find the great rates!! ), so we'll have FOTL. And, we're only going to have one day - yes, I know - two would be best, but we only have one. I'm hoping 1) it's September - low crowds and 2) FOTL access will help make it possible. So, I've got the list of all the attractions, height requirements, etc., but out of them, which ones just aren't worth the time? Which ones do we absolutely have to do?

Any other tips I need to know?

And thanks a bunch in advance for your replies. All of my friends come to me since I'm the "Disney expert," but I've learned it all on these boards, so I know there's some great advice out there!!


P.S. - On second thought, we may not stay on-site if the FOTL pass is not needed during that time frame. I'm noticing people are saying they aren't getting as discounted of rates this year, so would we be better off purchasing the Express Passes or just go with the freebie ones (I know I'm using the wrong terminology - just not up on my Universal language yet. )

 

[lenny l]

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[msr709]

I, on the other hand, recommend USO. There is more for the 4yo at USO. IOA is a great park and it does have Seusslanding but USO has a little more for the small ones and it has shows that the whole family can enjoy. IOA has the more thrilling rides but they are better for the older kids and adults. But I do agree on staying onsite, if you can wing the $ its well worth it and you actually have 2 days of FOTL, the day of check in and the day of check out until midnight, your room keys are still good for FOTL until then. September is a slower month and the parks do close earlier so you can enjoy the hotel after the parks are closed. With kids the ages of your children, you would be hard pressed to expect them to move that quickly and do the 2 parks in one day. I'm considering the Express pass this time around but only because I'm going in July and not staying onsite. Either way have fun, they are both great parks. HTH.

 

[cbdmhgp]

i agree that u should also go to Universal. it will have more things for the kids to do because they will start getting grumpy if they have to go to IOA and sit out a lot of fun looking rides- believe me, i know. at universal, you will definitely be able to a lot more with the kids ESPECIALLY if you stay onsite, which i would highly recommend. my kids couldnt stand waiting in line and they got into bad moods so with the FOTL card, you can speed through the rides and WALK back to the hotel. hope that helps, have fun!!!

 

[Motherfletcher]

Sept. is USO Hotel's value season. FOTL is so cool that you have to try it. I was alot like you with WDW but when Universal started the FOTL I was hooked. My kids have always liked Universal but they would admit that it is a little scarier. My kids now at 11 and 16 feel that they have outgrown Disney and we haven't been there for a year and a half (a record!).