Large group suggestions and opinions

[Miaka]

Good Morning!
I need some opinions, suggestions and experiences from the mass group of people here on the DIS who have never steered me wrong. first, the set up. My family is going to Disney World for my mother's 70th birthday later this year. If everyone can make it, there is a potential for 35 people in our group as it is just my immediate family going. We're looking at all staying at POP with us that have 5 or 6 in the family staying at AOA. My husband and I, as well as 1 brother and his wife are the Disney Experts in the family so we're taking on the planning for everyone. So, my mom wants a 'catalog' of things she can do down there. Also, none of us have stayed at POP, my brother who goes almost yearly is a All Star fan, so he's stayed value and loves it just fine. So, what intricacies do I need to know about POP.

So, here's my thing, I know that it's pretty much Impossible for us do to things together all the time (we're our own freaking tour group) what are things you would suggest for us to try to do as a larger group. As i know they are discontinueing the "Grand Gatherings" program later this month, how can I get it so all the reservations at POP are together or at least near by. My mom is older and has a hip that bothers her, does POP have elevators, or do I need to put a request for ground floor. If i can convince my 93 year old grandmother to come, is it considered a 'medical necessity' to be on the ground floor for her.
Anything you could suggest to make this birthday awesome for my mom would also be wonderful I want her to really enjoy this trip.

Anything you think I have missed, please add as well

thanks everyone!

 

[tinka-belle]

They are discontinuing the Grand Gathering Experiences, those extra meals and events a GG group could book at an additional cost. Grand Gathering for cross referencing rooms and requests still exists.

Make just one or two room requests, with the most important one first. The master GG number will alert Disney that the room assignments be close together.
The POP does have elevators, but I think just one per building so your rooms could be a long walk. Someone who has stayed there recently please chime in!

For activities ideas, maybe schedule a pool day, a mini-golf playoff with the group, a group photo or two with the photopass photographers in the parks.
You could all meet at one or two shows in the parks as a group (rides might not work for the seniors) then break up for the rest of the day, and of course reserve a few meals together. Buffets with lots of food variety would work for a larger group, but normal table service meals would mean less getting up & down for food if the menu appeals to everyone.

 

[Miaka]

Good to know that POP has elevators. She is fine with walking, stairs just bother her. I know eating is going to be touchy for us as we have several special dining requirements, but I have heard Disney does very good with special diets. (we have a no dairy, a celiac, and a no fat, amongst others). So buffets, though fun and easy for most, might have some issues for those three.

Good to know about the Grand gathering for room clumping and such is still in effect. My mom mentioned to me today after I posted that for her room as long as its quiet and has an elevator, she doesn't mind. My brother is paying for her trip, so he'll handle her reservations.

Thanks for the input, I'm always wanting to hear more.