First Trip with the Kids!

[CrazyPhillyDisneyFamily]

Hi all,
We are planning our kids first trip Sept 2017. DS will be turning 5 on the trip and DD will be just over 3. We have gone a bunch of times (6) before, but never with kids. My sister's family, my mom/stepdad, and my in-laws will also be joining us so we chose POR rather than our usual resort of Pop Century.

We've never stayed here before, but have stayed at POFQ once. I'd love some tips and tricks.

We are hoping to get free dining though I know that's iffy with POR. What back-up resort would you recommend for free dining? My issue is I think the Value resorts won't be "nice" enough for my in-laws and mom/stepdad, otherwise we would have stuck with Pop.

Thanks for your help.

 

[jtopp]

Most Disney value resorts are nicer then some of the more luxurious suites of other hotel chains. I'm sure they are more looking forward to spending time with the children then they are with the perks of the resort. Not sure how all this will line up with free dining. Generally, free dining is offered on a limited basis to boost occupancy during a less crowded time of year. Each resort (and each property class) has limited packages to offer: I hope you can partake in the program.

 

[ChasingLeslie]

CBR and CSR are the other two mods and they are included in discounts (if there is availability). CBR has a wonderful splash area for your little ones, and CSR also has a great pool and some of the best bus service.

My advice is to make a plan, but be flexible and prepared to make changes as you go. My kids are early risers, so I planned a lot of PPO breakfast and all our FPs in the morning. I thought they'd tire out in the afternoon and want to swim or rest...not so! Every day we stayed in the parks a little later and adjusted some of our ADRs.

 

[adisneyaunt]

I love POR, it's our home away from home. But I'd actually suggest POFQ. It's so much smaller, 1 bus stop to make things easy n central, ( if ur doing standard room your walk to a bus stop or to main area can be very long at POR )
POFQ has a great kids pool and u will still have the boat to Disney springs at ur fingertips ( u can also use POR pool if u wanted too).
It's difficult enough walking/lugging/tired kiddos and adults , after a day in the park to then be in some back building somewhere.. Just too far to even Want to go to food court/restaurant etc. who needs all that Xtra walking?
Just my thoughts for a (young ) family visit.
Have a magical visit.

 

[ChasingLeslie]

@adisneyaunt - the OP is hoping for a FD promo and POFQ is always excluded.

 

[adisneyaunt]

Oh, shame. Thx for clarifying tho.