July 4th Strategy?

[Greg K.]

We've been to WDW several times in July, so we know what to expect -- pant, pant, sweat, sweat -- but this year, for the first time, we'll be there over the July4th holiday. We're planning to see the fireworks at the MK (along with about a third of the earth's population) and I'm wondering if anyone has some good strategies for enjoying the park (ha!), dealing with the throngs and securing a decent viewing spot. How early should we nail one down?

And: we're staying on property (at the Contemporary, a convenient stroll home afterward!) but does that still mean they won't let us in if the park is at capacity?

Thanks for any advice...

 

[mhingher]

My family and I were at WDW for 7/4/04. If at all possible-- I suggest you avoid MK all together and maybe watch the fireworks from another location. We were sitting in our spot on the end of Main Street, right in front of Tomorrowland a few hours in advance. And then it took pretty much an hour to get OUT of the park. I guess that fact that I hurt my foot and was being pushed in a WC- and this was our last day in the parks didn't make the situation any better. But I guess it might not be too bad since you're staying at the Contemporary-- we were staying in a cabin at Ft. Wilderness. I doubt I'll ever go back this time of year-- but if I do, I will either avoid the parks completely on 7/4 and relax at the resort, shop at DD, or maybe resort hopping- or just go in early in the AM. Good luck!

 

[ep4244]

I totally agree with mhinger - avoid the MK, it's so packed it's not even funny. We were at the Contemporary last year and had a tower room facing MK, and watched the fireworks from our balcony, it was a fabulous show, and my dd's and I all thought the view was better from the Contemporary than inside the park and we were nice and comfy not sardined in.

Also check to see if they are going to do the 4th of July fireworks on the 3rd and 4th at MK, that's what they did in 2005.

Have fun and drink lots and lots and lots of water.

 

[TheresaNY]

We were there 4th of July for the past 2 years. MK is great - as long as you can handle crowds. If you don't mind the crowds, get there early (at opening) and stay there all day. I wouldn't leave. Get your spot for fireworks as soon as it is available, at least 1-2 hours in advance if you are picky. After the fireworks head for the back of the park ! Don't even try to leave. It was fun ! Very crowded but very fun !! Don't be talked out of it if you want to give it a shot !! There must be some reason that all those people are there.................

 

[Greg K.]

We were there 4th of July for the past 2 years. MK is great - as long as you can handle crowds. If you don't mind the crowds, get there early (at opening) and stay there all day. I wouldn't leave. Get your spot for fireworks as soon as it is available, at least 1-2 hours in advance if you are picky. After the fireworks head for the back of the park ! Don't even try to leave. It was fun ! Very crowded but very fun !! Don't be talked out of it if you want to give it a shot !! There must be some reason that all those people are there.................

Thanks! I'm really eager to experience the all-around-you fireworks ... and I'm wondering if it loses something if you're not smack-dab in the middle of the action. Thoughts?

 

[TheresaNY]

Last year we saw the 4th of July fireworks on the 3rd from a GG Fireworks Voyage cruise. There were perimeter fireworks also but for me it was harder to tell where exactly they were coming from. The next night in MK it was awesome. It is all around you and the same fireworks. It is more the total surround sound effect that is so cool. We just stood on Main Street and spun like little kids !! I prefer being inside the park for the total effect...but the boat had the best visual effect only. So, inmy opinion, Yes, it loses something if you are not "in the middle of it". Do it !!!