First Disney trip

[e2_erin]

I am planning our very first trip to WDW this year. It will be me and my husband and our almost 2.5 yr old son. I am so overwhelmed with planning. It seems like there are so many parks, resorts, restaurants, shows, etc.

Im pretty sure we want to do MK because that seems to be the most kid friendly and has most of the characters. Are there certain characters that are only at certain parks? My son is particularly excited to meet Lightning McQueen from Cars, where might we find him?

We are probably only going to do Disney for 2-3 days because my husband isnt really into it all that much. We will do SeaWorld and some other random stuff while we are in FL but I only get a few days at Disney. How do I get the most fun for our time there?

Are there certain restaurants/shows that would be best for an almost 3 yr old (he might be 3 depending on when we go)? How do you get character meals?

We are most likely going to be staying at either Hilton or Double Tree in downtown Disney because we have hilton points to spend. Any reviews on these hotels? They are in Disney but not part of Disney resorts but they still say we get the extended hours for the parks and transportation to the parks, is that the same as an actual Disney resort or is it separate? You cant do the dining plan with a hotel that isnt part of Disney resorts right?

Also, if we go before my son's bday, he will be almost 3. Do we somehow have to prove that he is still 2? he is big for his age (wears size 4 clothing) and talks really well so people often mistake him for a 4 yr old. I dont want to cheat and get him in free if he is 3 already but if he is under 3 still I dont want them saying we have to pay just because he is big. Do they ask for a birth certificate or something?

If you are not buying a package including hotel from disney, where is the best place to get your disney tickets?

Thanks for all the help. Any other tips for traveling to WDW with an almost 3 yr old would be appreciated.

 

[Perditamarie]

Welcome to the Dis!!! You will get great information here!

I recommend reading a WDW guidebook to increase your depth of knowledge about the parks and help in your planning. Definately plan on going to Magic Kingdom!!!!

You can meet Mater and Lightning McQueen at Hollywood Studios, but they are not animated...they look great tho. There is also an excellent car stunt show there (Lights! Motors! Action!).

You need to stay at a Disney hotel to get the Dining plan, but you will be able to get the Extra Magic Hours at the Hilton. They probably have their own shuttle, but it will not be the equivalent of Disney transport in terms of convenience. Not sure when you are going, but it may be worth staying on Disney property if you are going when free dining is offered (Aug-oct 3).

There are great restaurants for character meals....Chef Mickey, Crystal Palace, O'Hana plus many more! You can call for ADRs 90 days before the day you plan on dining.

Bring a copy of your sons birth cert if you really think you will get questioned, and definately bring your own stroller.

Here are some good sites for info:

http://www.mousesavers.com/

http://allears.net/index.html

Happy planning!

 

[e2_erin]

Thanks!
I appreciate all the tips I can get

 

[Aliceacc]

Hi Erin, and welcome!

I think the best place to start would be with free dining!!!

If you go between mid August and early October, you can get the dining plan for free. That would include some NICE restaurants, some character meals-- it's a great deal that would save your family $90 per day. Any travel agent can book it for you (or you can book it yourself) here's the info: http://www.dreamsunlimitedtravel.com/packages/specials.htm

 

[verlee]

Just a comment about how your dh isn't into disney......
My dh was not at all excited about going in Jan. He was only going b/c of me. We initially were only going to go for 3 days but when the 4/3 deal came out it only made sence to extend the trip (dh likes a good deal). Anyway, after our trip dh just as excited as me about our trip next year. (well almost as excited). You never know your dh may be converted yet!


As for getting the most fun... I would suggest 2 days at mk and 1 day at DHS. Since your son is younger you will move slower and need more breaks. Mk is huge and there will be lots you all can see and do. (but don't try to do it all) Get there right away in the am then relax in the pm. You will get more done in the 2-3 hrs the park first opens then the whole rest of the day. Plus your little one will still be rested and ready to go.

For tickets... I have heard that if you are only buying 1-2 tickets that you can get them at WDW. If you are getting 3 or more you can go through brokers. Maple leaf, AAA, there are others listed on Mousesavers.com.

Have a fun trip.