First visit planning. Any must do items?

[JannasMamma]

Hi all!

We just booked our first trip to WDW for DDs 7th birthday in February. We'll be staying at the AKL and have decided on the Deluxe Dining Plan.

I booked an appointment for her at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for the day before her birthday.

Can you give me tips or advice for making this trip extra special? It's probably our last big family trip due to DHs health issues.

Many thanks!

 

[sbrost13]

Since you're doing the Deluxe Dining Plan, you could do a meal at Cinderella's Royal Table (it's 2 table service credits). Along the same lines, I'd recommend doing a few other signature table service restaurants. This will help maximize your dining plan. We also like to get to each park for rope drop. Typically we're at the front of the line to get in. At Magic Kingdom they have a cute welcome show before the park opens (it's only a few minutes long but my kids loved it). We also like to chat with the CMs that are working, they can give some really great touring tips.

Hope this helps!

 

[JannasMamma]

Cinderella's table is all booked up for the duration of our trip

So I'm guessing this isn't a lazy, sleep-in kind of vacation if getting to the parks early is recommended.

 

[mouseguy77]

My biggest piece of advice is to get to the parks before rope drop. You will get more done in the first 2-3 hours if you get there early than you will the rest of the day.

If it indeed going to be the last big trip, I would also recommend prioritizing DH's favorite things to the top of the list and really taking time to enjoy things and make some lasting memories.

Have a great time!

 

[sbrost13]

We usually hit the parks hard for the first few hours, and we're able to get most of what we want done. We also take advantage of the Extra Magic Hours in the morning (not sure if you're staying on site). Then we head back to the hotel to swim and chill for a couple of hours, then go back out to the parks for another few hours.

If CRT is all booked up, definitely try for a reservation at Akershus in Norway at EPCOT. My kids liked it better than Cinderella's castle. Ariel even gave my son a kiss on the check. We still tease him about that one.

If you think this will be your only family trip to DW, then getting to the parks early is key for getting a lot done (in my opinion).

 

[Hootch]

for much of February park hours are 9-10 for the MK, 9-9 for Epcot and 9-7 or 8 for DHS. That provides quite a bit of time for a break in the afternoon. The MK was open usually 9-11 on our trip this summer and we had time for midday breaks.

Getting there at rope drop can mean significantly shorter lines compared to around 10:30 AM. Also, DHS often opens their gates 15-20 minutes before posted time. Epcot can also do the same thing. DAK will let guests through the gates but hold them right before discovery island.

I would look into a character meal or two if your daughter is into characters. It will save a great deal of time for some of the mainstays. We always did CRT because of the proximity to BBB, but Askerhus, if available, will have four princesses at the meal. During our summer trip the visit with Mickey and friends was not hard to get but the princess one was. The meal at character DAK is also very good.

 

[njpyro]

Keep checking for CRT. Many people make reservations they can't keep, then have to cancel the day before so the don't get charged the cancellation fee for not showing up.

 

[LionKingDramaQueen]

We love the Akershus breakfast in Norway (EPCOT)! Lots of princesses! Plus, if your daughter is a big Frozen fan (like myself ), Anna and Elsa are right outside and you can be one of the first in line after your breakfast (they start greeting at 11)!

Also, maybe look into the Perfectly Princess Tea Party at the Grand Floridian? It may be too late to book, but as someone mentioned above, people often cancel last minute, so keep checking in!

Have a magical trip!

 

[liloca]

Agree with most people Arrive Early before rope drop. You can do soooo much is those first two hours before the park gets busy. Go ahead and hit the major rides first thing in the morning since there will be no lines at all.
We always come back more tired physically from a Disney vacation than when we arrived but psychologically we were in heaven. We say that we trully feel that we are in a different world and staying in a Disney resort like you makes it all the difference in my opinion.
Also try to make it to Wishes and/or Fantasmic. I know that is harder with a younger kid but maybe take a nap on that day so you can enjoy the fireworks. Nothing compares to it!
I hope you have a wonderful trip.

 

[ashleypierce]

We loved eating the Ohana breakfast at the Polynesian and at Animal Kingdom's Tusker House. My little one also enjoyed lunch with Winnie The Pooh and Friends at the Crystal Palace.

Maybe try to check out the campfire stories at AKL one night. I've also seen an AKL scavenger hunt. These things may be fun to do on an off day??

Have so much fun!!

 

[CanadianPaco]

Keep checking for CRT. Many people make reservations they can't keep, then have to cancel the day before so the don't get charged the cancellation fee for not showing up.

I agree! Never give up! and I also agree, rope drop is the way to go!

 

[Kpskyman]

How long are you going to be visiting ??? There is so much to do on a first visit that it can be very overwhelming. I agree with making sure you are at MK and HS at rope drop. Even better, try to get a breakfast in one of those parks before rope drop. You can get some awesome photos with your family with no crowds around. Make sure to visit guest relations at the first park you go to and get your first visit and birthday pins, they are free and many CM will be sure to comment on them, making your trip more magical. Not having any teens in your group, I would say you can sleep in a bit for AK and EPCOT. Not too late though. LolSince you are on the Deluxe plan, food should be easy. There are too many restaurants to worry about getting what everyone has opinions on, just do a little homework on what you want, Character meals, fine dining, excitement, etc, and what your family likes to eat, I am sure you will find many options that fit what you want. Since it is your first time though, the only recommendation I have is to do a dinner show, either the Luhau or the HDDR. Both are great and have good food. I would also recommend using the photo pass system, even getting the CD of pictures. That way instead of hiding behind a lens all day, let Disney take your pictures, and you can enjoy watching your children loving the magic that this place makes.

 

[Combos]

When visiting Magic Kingdom, after you make walk up Main Street, go left. Most of the people entering the park will start by going "right", thus making themselves experience longer "wait" times early in their time.

If you go to Hollywood Studios, definitely try to book a FP for "Toy Story"; it is extremely popular. Magic Kingdom has a similar ride called "Buzz Lightyear".

 

[JannasMamma]

Thanks everyone!
Our flight lands on Monday around 9:30 and we don't leave until VERY early Saturday morning. It is shaping up to be a whirlwind week.
Trolling every forum and website I can find. I'll take all the advice I can get

 

[Dzappit123]

The dessert party

 

[dprincessmom]

If the budget allows and a reservation can be made, the Pirates and Pals fireworks cruise is great and my daughter said she actually like it better than the wishes fireworks dessert party.

If you are visiting Hollywood Studios, try and visit the Animation Academy and sit in for a class or 2. It's great, free and fun.

Take the time to have a wonderful trip, don't forget the birthday button for your child and enjoy the moments.

 

[flipflops]

I would definitely do a character meal. I would also do Pick a Pearl at Epcot in Japan. We do it every time now...lots of fun. My niece is collecting her pearls for a necklace and my daugter has created a charm bracelet with hers. If you are doing autographs, make sure you have something ready for the first day...either bring something for them to sign or buy the autograph book first thing! Have a magical time!!!!

dawn





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