Do we need a touring plan for November?

[Michelle in MO]

We leave Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, for WDW. We're staying a week so we're thinking the crowds will be the greatest for that weekend and during the week it should be ok. Does this sound right?

 

[kathyseb]

We also leave the Friday after Thanksgiving. But for that trip, we take three days to drive down. The first year we went the week after Thanksgiving, the traffic on the road was really heavy. So then we started taking three days to drive down. That way, we hit the major cities when they aren't too busy. Made a world of difference.

We will be staying at OKW. How about you?

You will love the park at that time of the year. It will be decorated for the holdiays. Candlelight Procession, Santas around the world, MVMCP.

Make sure you take the time to visit the resorts to see their decorations. Like from EPCOT you can walk out of the back entrance and it is about a 10 minute walk to the Dolphin, Swan, BW, BYC. Well worth the walk. I heard WL is something to see, but we have not made it over there yet. Take the Monorail to GF.

We found it was still crowded Sunday afternoon when we arrived at the park, but by Monday-Tuesday it was little or no waiting.

 

[Michelle in MO]

Hi Kathy - we'll be flying. With 2 young boys we thought it our best option at this point. lol

We're actually staying offsite. I know, it's not the norm. However we were offered a week of free stay from someone my husband does business with at a Gold Crown Resort and we couldn't pass it up (the place normally rents for $2900/week!) Would we still be able to see the decorated resorts? I'm assuming not since it's probably for onsite guests only?

I've looked at the Touring Plans and Tour Guide Mike websites I've seen mentioned here. I'm thinking touring plans might work for us since during the week should be a down time.

 

[bigbabyblues]

We went at a slow time last year, and didn't have a touring plan, just a list of must-do's for each park, a dining ressie for each day (sit-down), and an idea of what park when. It was fine for us, and we'll do about the same this year. We'll be there the same time as you are, 11/27-12/3.

 

[Stacy's a freak]

Would we still be able to see the decorated resorts? I'm assuming not since it's probably for onsite guests only?

No, you can tour around the resorts even if you aren't staying there. Using WDW transportation (busses) might not be allowed (although I've never really been asked for a room key to ride the busses), but if you have a car for the week, you can drive to and from the resorts not on the monorail line or within walking distance from the park you are in.
I haven't been able to see the resorts during the holidays yet, but I hear that this is a do-not-miss holiday thing.

 

[chipscinderelly]

The parks might be pretty busy Fri/Sat/Sun following Thanksgiving however after that point the attendance should drop off quite a bit! Be prepared for either warm or cold weather - I've worn shorts one trip and everything I owned another trip. It's a great week to go!

Are you going to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party? It's awesome and I really recommend it!

Also, definately tour the resorts - the holiday decorations are fabulous! Some of my favorites are Grand Floridian and Boardwalk.