I am not anti-Disney, I just need some direction...

[Eeyore1969]

I'm not sure what details will help most, but we will be at WDW for 5 days (two half days for travel and 3 full days) for a long, long weekend. We're going in May, during the Flower and Garden Festival. I am definately looking forward to that. We're staying at Pop Century and renting a car.

I talked to her about the Disney Wilderness Preserve and it seems we won't have time for any off campus activities.

We have determined when the extra magic hours are during our stay (I'm beginning to sound like I know what I'm talking about) and have planned the first three days so we can maximize the extra magic hours, see the parades she likes, and see the three nighttime shows.

Thanks again for all of your help, suggestions, and encouragement!

 

[hmp2z]

Hi! I have a suggestion, regarding your dislike of crowds. I, too, dislike crowds; I get very uncomfortable when people are crowding me, pushing on me, etc. So I always try to avoid the big spectator events in the parks, like the fireworks shows. I MUCH prefer to get a table at Narcoossee's to watch the MK fireworks. Even if you don't get a window seat, they have a private deck you can go out on to watch the show. It's infinitely less crowded, and you still get to hear the music & experience the magic. Alternately, California Grill also has a good fireworks view, but I prefer the closer view from Narcoossee's, and I've found that sometimes, even the California Grill deck can get too crowded for my taste.
About the Illuminations fireworks, we had a room at the Boardwalk Inn, so were able to watch them from the concierge balcony there. One night, we went into the parks to watch the show, and our concierge suggested getting a seat at the little outside Mexico food stand (counter service place). It worked pretty well, except this crowd of kids swarmed around our table, leaned on us, leaned on the table, shook it (while my DH was using it to balance his camera on for shots), etc. As I said, I don't like strangers leaning on me or pressing in on me, so I felt very uncomfortable, and vowed to watch it from a distance from now on! The other nice option is to get a fireworks cruise, so you can watch from your own boat. The view is lovely, and it's so peaceful compared to the parks.
Just some thoughts, from an oxymoronic huge WDW fan who doesn't like being touched by strangers!
Cheers!
Heather W

 

[magicmama]

There's a lot more to WDW than crowds & kids. In every park you can explore the history and architecture of the park/Disney. (and usually not very crowded) The imagineering that went into the development is impressive. At MGM, there is the Walt Disney exhibit (don't remember what it's called) and interesting stuff at the Animations show/drawing experience. Magic Kingdom has an area in the town hall with other interesting info and places to take great photos of you both. Epcot is a great place to do the Segway tour. Behind the scenes tours would be a great experience.
It was surprising to me how much of WDW appeals to mainly adults when I went solo without kids. I discovered so much more!
So take a chance, explore the little places besides the overall big stuff.
And post a report when you get back!!!
Have a magical time!

 

[tinkerdorabelle]

I think you'll really love Epcot as stated above, particulary the World section, Epcot is a very adult park. I think thats what we loved about Epcot is you do discover little areas in Epcot. Also you must do the Boardwalk. Stroll around the boardwalk, you see the Yacht Club, you can rent a surrey, take a hike into the Dolphin/Swan, Boardwalk resort, and many little small restaurants, bars and cafes. Its wonderful, my husband and I love it there and its very romantic. Let us know how you liked it when you return.

 

[k_hase]

I think the thing I like best is how insulated I feel. Disney provides the best service I've had anywhere while making you feel like you are the only person in the world, that your request is truly their pleasure. I love that you never see a delivery truck or have to drive yourself anywhere, or for that matter have to think at all!! For me it is a truly escapist and relaxing experience.

Notice the details. Hundreds of people will run to get to their favorite thing, you should instead stop and look. Every nook and corner of Disney is planned, designed to be in place, perfect for its location. Some of it humerous, some of it designed not to be noticed at all.

I continue to take other trips (Belize, Turkey, Italy...) but I also continue to return to Disney. I love them all equally.

Enjoy.