Can I do IOA in one day?

[vettechick99]

Hi all!

I am planning a trip to WDW Oct 3-8 (Sun-Thurs). We wanted to come in a day early and visit IOA since we've never done it before. So here's my question:

Is it worth the $150+ to stay that Saturday evening on property and do Sunday at IOA so we can get FOTL? Or if we get into the parks early enough that day, will we even need the FOTL? Its just my fiance and myself, no kids and we want to do the major coasters, etc.

I've just never been there so I don't know touring strategies.
TIA!!!

 

[h20jag]

Yep, it's worth it.
A night at Hard Rock or Royal Pacific will do wonders for a young (us old ones too) couple. The conveniences of on-site (with CityWalk 'tween you & home too) really go beyond just FOTL and what can be explained here.
Have fun there!
Jim

 

[SpideyHulk24]

Even though you are going one day, you would have two days of FOTL if you stay on site. It is good for the day you check in and the day you check out. Definitely worth it!!!!

 

[vettechick99]

I wish I could do two days, but we are driving from Atlanta on Saturday, so we won't get there til late afternoon/evening. I think we'll just take it easy that night with dinner and whatever. That's where I'm just wondering if I can do all the main rides on that Sunday without needing FOTL, especially since they have their own fast pass. ??

I guess I will start checking availability for that Sat night. I've never stayed on Univ. property, so it will be a nice experience.

I'm just worried that my thrill-seeking fiance will want to stay there and not go over to WDW!!!

Thanks for your responses!!

 

[SpideyHulk24]

Oh, I see. The only problem with the free express pass is that they sell out. So you may not be able to fully use them since you are arriving later. No matter what you decide, I hope you have a fantastic time!

 

[phamton]

There's a touring guide for IoA here:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=492906

 

[SpideyHulk24]

Great link!

 

[phamton]

I like the touring guide alot but think it needs a little tweaking for families. It was written for roller coaster enthusiasts and so it leaves off Suess landing.

 

[Prince Eric1]

I would definately say if at all possible stay onsite for the one night and get the FOTL. It is definately worth it as you pass the long lines of people with disgusted stares at you as you go to the front. If you have FOTL, I think you can do all or most in one day, but you have to remember that IOA will be closing at 5:00 for HHN in October, so the shorter hours may make that FOTL even more indispensible. You may also want to get an entertainment book to get a discount on the hotel. I got the RPR in October last year on a weekend for $110/night and I got it in August this year for $119/night. It makes the $25 for the book well worth it.