First trip --nervous!

[shutterbug3070]

We just found out weeks ago that dh still has his job...were worried so couldn't make definite plans till then. We will be leaving April 16 to drive 6.5 hours and returning on April 20 the 6.5 hour return. We will have 3 full days... neither of us have ever been to DW so I don't even kknow where to begin... I know we will do MK on Day 1, ? on Day 2, and AK on Day 3 (because that is my ds's 3rd bday and we are eating with MMouse for bfast that day). Since we don't know DW and since we have toddler who still takes naps after lunch, I didn't want to plan too much and feel like we are always running, BUT know I need more planning.

I have downloaded advice, packing lists, menus, etc. However, I am overwhelmed and while I can still go and enjoy, I have a very TIGHT $ dh who will not want to take us back if we spend WAY TOO MUCH or we have TOO HARD TIME trying to figure out things when we are there.

ANY ADVICE you can give other than Enjoy and relax would be greatly appreciated. I can do that, but dh cannot.

 

[jenharring]

not sure if you know about these but tourplans.com is a great web site
a good book is the unoffcial guide to wdw is a great one
are you planning on eating out? make sure you take snacks in the park and frozen juice boxes are great for your little one.

 

[shutterbug3070]

tried your tourplans.com...but doesn't show FL Disney World....??

 

[Byron13]

To cut down on cost take your food and drink in a small cooler bag. We always do this. (Coolers on wheels not allowed). They do search your bags when you enter the parks but they do not stop you taking in food or drink. No glass bottles or alcohol. We keep our bags under the stroller.

Enjoy yourself. You will have a great time.

 

[shutterbug3070]

we are staying offsite because that is where dh had business trip and he got good deal, but also bc we got good deal due to we have to view 90 min presentation....bummer, but it convinced dh to go!


I want to get groceries on first night there when we arrive and try to eat in with those if possible...we will do some eating out though

 

[jenharring]

tried your tourplans.com...but doesn't show FL Disney World....??

opps im so sorry its touringplans.com i forgot the ing so sorry. it is late, trying to stay up so I can sleep good tom as I work nights.

 

[shutterbug3070]

thanks

 

[mommymeg]

You might want to consider doing the Magic Kingdom on the second day as well. If you have 3 day tickets and are trying to decide which park to go to that is. This way you can take your time on day 1, maybe even take a nap mid day... I think that MK can easily keep you busy for 2 full days and also think that MK is at the heart of the Disney experience. It is probably the place that will keep your little one's attention the most, and definitally is the most Magical place on earth. Whatever you chose to do, don't worry too much and try to soak in every minute of it...pay close attention to your baby's face as it lights up at the sight of Mickey Mouse, and remember the feeling you get when you step onto Main St with Cinderella's Castle in the distance.. Have a wonderful time!

 

[Silver Queen]

I understand mommymeg's reason for suggesting two days at MK, but you also might want to consider a day at Epcot or DHS if you'd like to hook your husband into Disney. The attractions at Future World may be more interesting for him and there will certainly be enough color, music, and novelty to interest your little one. Perhaps after that it won't be so hard to convince him to return.
I think it's great that you're consulting a variety of resources. You can save some money by limiting the souvenirs that you purchase, perhaps one special thing for your son. Most posters also agree that eating some meals off Disney property will also save you money. Just out of curiosity, how were you thinking of planning your son's naps? Will you go back to the hotel and then return later?
I hope that you have a wonderful time. Disney is truly a magical place to visit.

 

[JamesF408]

MK is the one park you must go for the Disney experience and I would agree that AK is a great place too! My wife and I are part of the DVC and own part of AKL.

I would also suggest visiting either Epcot or Disney Hollywood Studios for the Husband. Epcot has a lot of things to explore DHS has a lot of rides and shows.

For food, would recommend buying groceries. Although the WDW restaurants are worth while, they can be a little expensive. Another thing to consider is the CIRQUE DU SOLEIL show at DTD. If you like those kind of shows it is well worth the ticket price.

But as others have said, relax, take it all in, and have fun!

 

[carlbarry]

we are staying offsite because that is where dh had business trip and he got good deal, but also bc we got good deal due to we have to view 90 min presentation....bummer, but it convinced dh to go!


I want to get groceries on first night there when we arrive and try to eat in with those if possible...we will do some eating out though

That "90 minute presentation" . . . don't count on it. I assume this is a timeshare presentation. Be prepared to be kept there for 3 hours. And one vital point: do NOT buy a timeshare from the developer! Check out prices on ebay before you leave. Non DVC timeshares cost 10% or less of the original cost on ebay!

 

[Sweety_tweety]

My first time to WDW was in 2005. A co-worker gave me great advice--Do a little research and make a list of what your family would like to see/do at the parks and highlight those that you REALLY want to see/do. Everything else is just a plus. Some families let each member pick 1-2 things to do at each park--this makes everyone happy. The crowds can have a huge impact on how much you get to see and do. Good luck!

 

[MusicMouse]

Since we don't know DW and since we have toddler who still takes naps after lunch, I didn't want to plan too much and feel like we are always running, BUT know I need more planning.

ANY ADVICE you can give other than Enjoy and relax would be greatly appreciated. I can do that, but dh cannot.

Don't panic! I have a toddler who naps too, and MK is very doable with him. Be sure to be at the MK when it opens and take full advantage of the morning hours. There are a lot of rides (Small world, Winnie the Pooh, Dumbo, Peter Pan, Cinderella's Carousel, etc.) that you and your todder can enjoy. Try to keep your toddler on his/her regular nap schedule - there is NOTHING worse than a crabby toddler on vacation. You can always go back to the park in the evening. Don't miss Spectromagic (the evening parade), your toddler will love it!