General idea on January crowds?

[holcomb-mania]

We're doing a Disney cruise in January '06 and I'd like to surprise the kids with "well I guess we're heading home now" but then pulling up to UO/IoA.

I want to stay on-site only because of the FOTL access. Sounds awesome. However, I'd like to stay in the Nick Family Suites Hotel (and the kids have seen ads about it and really want to go). In fact, I KNOW the kids would rather stay there than HRH/PB/RP.

But Daddy HATES waiting in line. Will crowds be manageable on a Thurs-Sat in January? Are the single-day Express passes still available (and are they worth it)? Or should we stay on-site, SOLELY for the FOTL?

Many thanks for your input.

 

[phamton]

January is normally a quiet time at the parks. Just get the free express passes from the machines if you need any.

 

[keishashadow]

Although you didn't indicate how old your kids are, I seriously doubt that they would rather sleep in a Nick-themed hotel room as a trade off for the FOTL perc. You cannot really appreciate it until you've walked past hundreds of people waiting in line for the same ride you're getting ready to walz onto. Additionally, in January you are not limited to 1 FOTL per ride during peak hours. If your kids want to ride the Jimmy Neutron ride over and over, you can, with little wait. Additionally, there are Nick characters wandering throughout the park, great photo ops.

There is also something to be said for being able to wake up and WALK to the gate of the amusement park in less than 10 minutes (staying @ the HRH).

I've learned to not let my kids have too much of a say in calling the shots, especially on vacation. It usually leads to disappointment and arguments. I ask for their input, but until they're paying for the trip, Mom & Dad have ROFR (just like the DVC).

Whatever you decide, enjoy your trip. Hope the weather's great for your cruise, we have one booked for the beginning of December this year.

 

[Slacking]

January is my favorite time of the year at Universal because the crowds seem to be the lgihtest around that time.

 

[the Dark Marauder]

The first week of January is still moderately busy. After that, there is rarely more than a 10 minute wait for most attractions.

 

[thedisneymom]

the Dark Maruader
Will you still be at the Mummy ride June 29-July 2nd. We are dying to spot you(quietly of course)

 

[holcomb-mania]

Thanks for the input.

We're going about 3 weeks into January. It sounds like FOTL won't be such a big advantage then. Ten minute waits aren't that big of a deal.

I've tried to get package quotes on the main site but it won't give me anything for on-site hotels in January. Does this sound right?

 

[keishashadow]

For this past February, Lowes didn't post their rates until late July/early August last year.