Critique my Planning

[Vanryan]

I have 3 kids:3, 7 and 9. We have some neighbors we are close with who have 2 kids 7 and 9, and each of which were born within weeks of my kids. Well, that family is going to Florida at the same time we are going to Disney. The dad made arrangements to drive up to Disney for a couple of days, but is not telling his kids until he wakes them up early to go. My kids also don't know. The neighbor dad wants me to plan what they do when they get there, and to come up with some pretend chance meeting for the kids to "bump into" each other. Isn't that priceless??? They are planning on 2 non-hopping park days. (Although I am trying to get him to do 3 hopping days.)
Anyway, sorry that was so long, but here's what I am thinking:

They arrive on Tuesday April 19th between 10-11. I am thinking this is not a park day, but maybe a character meal for the chance meeting?

Wednesday: Animal Kingdom first thing in AM, (It is an emh for MK and they are staying off-site) spend as long as kids are having fun, go to pool. Dinner at downtown disney???

Thursday: MK early. Dinner at Crystal Palace at 4:15. Go back to resort for a break after that, and then come back for fireworks.

Critique please?

 

[kimwim8]

What an awesome idea to go "with" your neighbors. The kids are gonna have a great time. And I wish I could see their faces at your surprise meeting.

I don't know how long your family will be staying, or at what point in your vacation the neighbors join in, but if you only have 2 days in the parks with them...I'd stay in the parks as long as possible. Animal Kingdom - I can see that day ending late afternoon if you get there at opening. But I don't know if the kids will need a break on the MK day. Why not stay & enjoy as much as possible? Plan on bringing a stroller for the 3 year old, and then the rest of them should be able to hang in there all day. Especially after a sit-down dinner...I'd think they'd be raring to go.

Just my opinion....have a great time!

 

[funhouse8]

I agree with Kim. If I only had two days in the parks I would not want to leave.
You can still do DTD on the AK day after the parks close or maybe meet them there the first night for dinner after they enjoy the pool during the day.
I would take them over to the boardwalk area after AK. The kids would love Beaches and cream and maybe renting bikes. Gina

 

[Amy&Dan]

That does sound like fun. I would make those priority seatings as fast as possible, that is still spring break time for many schools and it could be crowded. I agree about possibly not taking a break on your MK day. If they are staying offsite that could be more hassle then it is worth. You may find that you are very energized after your nice meal at CP. If you decide to park hop one thing we like to do is this: on our Animal Kingdom day, make a ps at the Rainforest Cafe at AK for that afternoon (usually right after the parade). Have a leisurely, early dinner then head over to MGM and see Fantasmic, or Epcot to see Illuminations. Since AK doesn't have any nighttime shows that makes us feel like we have had a true Disney day. Have a great time!

 

[Vanryan]

Thanks! You're right about skipping the break, my 3 year old can sleep anywhere and we will get a double Disney stroller for him and our stuff. The Boardwalk is a great idea, I forgot about the bikes. Beaches and cream will be great, we are staying right there.

 

[Vanryan]

Sorry, kids came in and I panicked and sent this off!!

We are staying 10 days. We have PS for Chef Mickey's before they arrive for DH's birthday. We will do Crystal Palace on the MK day. What do you suggest for another Character meal for their first day. Maybe 1900 Park Faire??

 

[goofy4wdw2]

We liked Ohana's for breakfast--we had great character interaction, and the Poly is neat!

 

[Gymbomom]

JMO.....
But, if your neighbors only 2 parks....I wouldn't pick the AK as one of them!
I would let them do MGM or Epcot instead.