Going 12/7 to 12/13 need ideas!

[NeverBeen2DW]

Greetings! I just joined and I am a 40 year old Disney Virgin! Never been 2 Disney World or maybe it should be I actually got in an argument with my mother today about why she deprived my childhood of this!

I have a couple of questions has anyone gone at this time of year? Is it slower? I did a search and have seen alot of questions about Thanksgiving time but it is not really relevant to when I am going as I am going about 2 almost 3 weeks after TG. Also what is the weather like? Is it still short weather and can we swim? I am from Chicago where it will be really cold at that time. I am they type of person who is cold unless it is 84 so I probably should bring pants right? Also the first day we will be arriving at the airport at 11am. We are taking the disney transportation to the airport and staying at AKL. How long does it take to get to the hotel. and last question what is a good thing to do the first day? I figure by 12:30 we will be at the hotel and unable to check in until 3 what should we do? I already made ADR at Epcot for a character meal for my son who is 4. It is just he and I traveling. I am also a single parent. Any ideas what to do until dinner at Garen Grill at 5:40pm. I figure that night we will hang around Epcot and see Illuminations. That is if they do not scare my child to death. I hear it is pretty loud!

TIA!
Jacquelyn

 

[missymagic]

Well I must say welcome!!! and congratulations on your first trip!!! Just don't let yourself become overwhelmed.

I have been going to DW this month and week the 7-11th for years. I am also a single mom of 2 girls now 6 and 9.

It is a little slower this time of your compared to the peak season months. Generally we wait 20 min max for a ride unless it is something new and everyone wants to ride. The you take advantage of the fast pass. The parks are beautiful with all the Holiday decorations.

Weather can be iff this time of year. You said you are generally a chilly person. It is usually 70 during the day and drops at night to 60. I have been there when it was colder and when it was alot warmer. You will have to watch the 10 day forcast for Orlando before leaving and packing. I personally think it is too cold to swim but there are many people in the pools everyday!!!

The ride from airport once leaving usually I am to the resort in 45 minutes or so. Depends on how many stops are made. You are right sometimes rooms are ready at check in that early sometimes they are not. They will hold your luggage so go enjoy yourselves. You didnt mention what kind of passes you have whether it is a day pass per park or hopper passes.

There is plenty to do when you go to Epcot before dinner. Maybe go to living Seas Nemo is open I am sure your son will love it. Takes a little time to see the entire acquarium but by this time it might be time to go next store to Garden Grill for dinner. After dinner follow your map and see something else. YOu will have some time till Illuminations starts at 9. Start looking for a spot to sit maybe a half hour before start time get a snack and relax. He might be getting a little tired at this point long day of travel and excitement.

Have a wonderful trip and I am sure you will have many more questions just ask!!!

 

[tbstein]

Hello!

Just happened to glance at this thread today looking for ideas myself!

Jacquelyn, My family and I have been several times during the same time. It is my favorite time to go. Crowds are gone, the rains are gone, and the decor at the parks are amazing.

We have stayed at AKL 2 trips ago. Wonderful hotel. You could spend hours just looking around and watching the animals.

Epcot has so much to do to keep you and your son busy. I agree with the last post about the Seas. Also Imagination! has a spot to play around with things, like email photos and mini videos back home. The fountains near the exit are fun to play at as well. There is an entire section in Innoventions focused on pre-schoolers that will certainly keep any child busy!

I also agree about finding a spot 30 minutes prior to the fireworks. There is a bench near Germany and the friendship boat dock that you can sit at and just turn around to watch the fireworks, and you won't have to stand or try sitting on the cold ground while enjoying the spectacular event. (That was always an issue with my children). I have gone with just my youngest daughter when she was 5. She was such a trooper! I dragged her everywhere and she had a blast! Make sure to see all the parades! They often choose children to participate in the afternoon one at the Magic Kingdom. She is 10 now, and still mentions about our solo trip to Disney!

Have a great time! Hope I helped with some ideas! Oh--on a second note, my mom can't understand my Disney affliction either!

Wendy