going back to disney

[Heath Normand]

i have not been to Disney since 1982. what should i expect different?

 

[KimBean]

Everything.

When are you going? Have you booked yet?

 

[Pawpsicle]

I think the biggest difference will be in planning. You'll get the most out of your visit if you have a good strategy and get your dining reservations and fastpasses booked as soon as possible.

 

[ErinsMommy]

Rides, FP+, crowds, and cost.

 

[North of Mouse]

Yep, I agree with the pp's. Everything is sooo different, FP's , crowds, and of course extra $$'s!!

The fun is still there though, just lots more to see, do, and plan around when it's all new.

 

[sharonabe]

i have not been to Disney since 1982. what should i expect different?

Pretend you've never been and know absolutely nothing. EVERYTHING is different since 1982.

 

[Hopefully]

I agree. Approach your research (and DO research) like a first timer. NOTHING is the same.

 

[Klayfish]

It would be easier to say what hasn't changed in the past 35 years. So let's see, what is still the same? Well, Magic Kingdom is still in the same physical spot it used to be. That's all I got....

Yes, pretty much everything is different. Do lots of reading...you can read here, you can go on WDW website and poke around.

 

[Mike_Mac]

The Disney magic is still there. I was a doubting Thomas until I took my two year old son there several years ago. But the magic all comes back really fast.

Planning is super important. There are lots of blogs out there full of good advice. Find a friend who's been several times recently to pick their brain, and for heavens sake, don't stress out about "free-dining."

 

[NeuroCindy]

There's two additional parks since the last time you were there... that's something.

 

[gap2368]

I think space might be similer, to the old one, but yes a lot of things are different. Have fun.

 

[dbavis]

electricity? sorry, had to...

i think the advice from others to go at it as if you've never been is best. things have evolved so much in the 13 or so years that we've been going that it is a totally different experience now. just make sure you get up to speed on the 'requirements' for planning so that you have the best chance of having the experience that you want.

 

[finedice]

My thoughts are that you can have two completely different vacations: one of frustration and being overwhelmed by the enormous amounts of people (not researching and planning), or one of magic and joy (study this forum and others, and plan, plan and re-plan). I was at WDW as a child in '74, a teen in '83 and '86, as a high 20 something in '99. Since then, as a parent, we have had trips every 2 years since 2007. The strategy and methods of planning have changed significantly for every trip since '99. Fastpass, crowd levels, sheer size of the resort, number of attractions, dining choices and the must for reservations, etc. WILL be overwhelming if you don't research. The amount of times you are waiting in incredibly long lines and being turned away from restaurants will dampen your spirit and morale. 2-3 hour lines are not uncommon on certain attractions, and full restaurants when you are worn out and famished will only add to your level of dissatisfaction.

On the flip-side, with the right research, you will have a WONDERFUL experience. You can do Disney at a wonderful pace, see most of everything in a 5 or 6 day trip, eat where and when you want, and learn how to never wait more than 20-25 minutes MAX for any attraction in the park - all while having time to relax, swim, change clothes, get ready for dinner ressies, etc. at your hotel in the early and mid-afternoon. Knowledge and planning are the key! You will not regret "being in the know" when you see the look on the faces of those in the park around you that did not pre-plan. As a "Disneyholic", I can tell you that you are in the right place - you have taken the first step toward an enjoyable vacation.

Much to learn, you have!

 

[GameDevLovesDisney]

Depending on when in 1982 they visited, they may in fact have 3 new theme parks and 2 water parks to look forward to.

Just pretend you've never been and plan accordingly...you've come to the right place to get caught up on what you've been missing!

 

[rwdavis2]

Go buy the "Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World". It's the most comprehensive book on everything there.

 

[unrequited23]

A smart phone (with the MDE app) makes the trip 10x's easier than trying to do it without one.