I'm overwhlemed.....

[sphmaz]

Going to Disney for the first time since 1998 at the end of September. This time, instead of just me and DH, we will also have DS (6) and DD (3) with us! We are keeping them completely in the dark about our trip until we've figured out a way to surprise them.

But as I read through some of these boards, I am completely overwhelmed with where to go, what to do, what character meals to go to...etc. We are staying at POP Century. Any advice for a newbie to the whole Disney way of things?!?!?!

TIA!
Sue

 

[Disney Crazy Debbie]

My first suggestion would be to go to the www.disney.com site and look at the EMH (Extra Magic Hours) on the calendar for the dates you will be at WDW. Read some of the sites here and suggestions, purchase Passporter or one of the books that can help you weigh your decisions on doint EMH, etc. Then decide what order or days you want to attend each park or activity. Once you have decided on that order I would look at the book for ideas about dining (budget, etc.) and if you go between 8/13-9/30 a free dining plan is available. If you want specifics about menus check out www.allearsnet.com for menus and prices at the restaurants at WDW (that includes MK, Epcot, MGM, DTD, AK and resorts. I would make my ADRs soon because if you plan on going to CRT (Cinderella's) in the MK they fill up fast especially with the free dining option.

 

[MARY-IN-OH]

Hi and welcome to the DIS!

I am bringing my kids back this year. Their first and only trip was in 1998 when they were about 7 and 9. Now they will be 15 and 17.

There is so much I have learned on every forum of the Dis boards (just in a couple of months!).

These boards have taught me that I will make a preliminary itinerary and then I will change it over and over again with tips from these forums, and when I get to Disney, I will be flexible with that itinerary for mine and my family's needs so everyone has a fun and relaxing vacation!

Let the planning be fun and then it is "fun stress!" you will all have a great time!

 

[lisabelll]

It is a lot! I did exactly what Debbie suggested. This is our first ever resort stay or character dinner! We are going the first part of September

 

[First-timer]

hello mary-in-oh..... im in ohio also..... we are in about 20 min. from cleveland.... where are you at in ne.ohio? we went in march for the first time and we had a blast!! of course we didnt get to do and see and ride everything so we are going back sometime soon..... vicki

 

[MARY-IN-OH]

hello mary-in-oh..... im in ohio also..... we are in about 20 min. from cleveland.... where are you at in ne.ohio? we went in march for the first time and we had a blast!! of course we didnt get to do and see and ride everything so we are going back sometime soon..... vicki

Hello First-timer! Nice to meet ya! Love your picture, I've seen it before.
We're in Parma. It's convenient to be so near the airport, I sure hope airfare goes down in a few months!

Thanks for saying hello!

 

[Texan]

Just remember the mantra "I cannot do everything in one trip, I cannot do everything in one trip". Take time to smell the roses, so to speak. Give plenty of time for everyone to take breaks and rest. Read, read and read trip reports, tips, etc on this site, they will be a huge help. Dreams Unlimited have been absolutely wonderful with my hotels and restaurants. Go to the library and check out all books you can find. Take notes as you go along, including notes of all items you will need, including such "small" things as pennies and quarters to do the pressed pennies (a great souvenier your kidddos will enjoy doing), autograph books (buy or make, or some people use T-shirts or pillowcases), Sharpie pens (the characters can hold these better), etc. Jot down all the major "to-do" rides and events. Get your parks, parade and fireworks times ahead of time on the official Walt Disney World website (but check it often and right before you go, the times of the parks can and do change). You will change your mind a million times, but that is part of the fun. Remember, just relax and have the most magical experience with your kiddos.

 

[sphmaz]

Thanks everyone. Breathing deeply now. I am soooo excited!! I just can not WAIT to go. My son is going to be INCREDIBLY surprised. This is kinda his birthday present. He turns 7 the weekend after we get home and we wont be doing anything major this year, just cake and icecream. I can't wait to see his reaction. My boss is bringing in two Disney books for me to look through, not sure what they are. I think my co-workers are getting tired of hearing me talk about it!

 

[Disney Crazy Debbie]

On your last day there be sure to an CM that your son's birthday in the next day, or whatever, and they will make it a special day for him. Especially if you are at the character breakfast, etc.

 

[byoung]

Good luck and have a great vacation.