Gone for a while, what do we need to know

[qman6975]

We were semi-regular visitors to WDW with visits in 2003, 2008, 2008 & 2010. But now after a six year absence will be returning this May!

I've read up on FassPass+, so besides that what are the most important changes that I should be aware of?

 

[DisDadDVC]

Crowds. Much bigger.

 

[Hisgirl]

I would agree about the crowds. We were regulars then really picked up visiting in 2013-2015...going many times. The crowds just kept getting bigger. AND probably the worst place this manifests is in the evening for the parade, fireworks and celebrate the magic. Wall to wall people. Crushed together. And this is in off season visits. I hate having to curb sit for a solid hour for a parade seat. But now it's necessary.

On the positive, the large foreign chanting groups marching arm in arm and plowing down visitors seems to be less or hardly noticeable. Prior, we were seeing/hearing/experiencing very irritating events. Haven't seen this in a couple of years.

Another thing I have noticed. Remember when disney was doing all those fun little special things...a million dreams etc. where they would give away things? All that seems to also be less. Everything costs money, not a lot of pixie dust. I thought maybe quite possibly we would see something...anything...for my first time visitor 83 year old parents 63rd wedding anniversary, but it went unmentioned. I don't expect anything but the disney of several years ago, something most likely would have happened.

The touring plans, days to visit parks, etc are just about a necessary tool nowadays to maneuver the crowds. I think every minute you invest in high gear manic planning mode will be paid off in less stress relax mode once there.

(And while this doesn't have to do with touring but more an observation of the visitors....our nation has a growing problem with childhood obesity. WDW is a great chance to take a peek into cultural trends. We had UK friends with us in December for our trip and they were shocked. I hate to see where we are in 20 years. We are seeing more and more healthy food choices in the parks. Excellent for all of us! A good thing I've noticed is more seniors out for a stroll in the parks!)

 

[alliecat523]

It is definitely more crowded these days. Less pixie dust as well. I think some of the planning is necessary so you at least know what you're in for. I don't agree with excessive planning and touring plans but that's a personal preference. It's still a very enjoyable place especially if you have a positive attitude. Enjoy!

 

[RJstanis]

We make up the new every year travelers going 4 years in a row strong (you have to start somewhere). It is nothing like how I remember when I was a kid in the 80s but it still holds magic I think, especially for kids.

I agree with others in terms of planning ahead makes for a relaxing time there, especially if you want to get the most out of the experience. We have a plan that serves as a guide and adjust on how our day goes. No stressing, rushing, or any of that. We also RD, especially with younger kids. EasyWdw, KtP, Touring Plans all have great resources.

As for no pixie dust, true it is rarer to come by, but it still happens! Just last year my DS5 by chance wore his Incredible suit and stuffed it in the stroller as soon as we got inside MK bc of heat. That night at Incredible Dance Party he stopped mid dance, sprinted to stroller and put it on while trying to run back. A CM asked if he would like to come back with her to the back of stage. There he got to meet all 3 of them at same time and take pictures. The glow on his face was priceless. Soooooooo long story short, its still possible.

 

[qman6975]

Thanks for the input, we've been during the week of President's Day on our last two visits so understand the big crowd situation. The new FastPass system, while it takes away a lot of the spontaneity, does allow us to select the super-headliners ahead of time 60 days out so I think we'll be fine.