July 24, 2014 Dream

[tnx97]

Have been lurking here for awhile and figured it was time to introduce myself. Myself, wife and 3 kids (Daughter 6 and twin boys 3) will be 1st time Disney cruisers next July. A little excited and nervous all at the same time. We are driving from Illinois which should be fun.....not really. So, with that being said I only have a few questions....for now:
1. What's a good place to stay near the port ?
2. Parking, do we park at the port or just leave it at the hotel we stay at the night before?

Thanks!