Last Minute Suggestions on FP+ Plan?

[FantasmicMike]

The FP+ window for my family (myself, DW, DD6, DS10, and their Grandmother) opens tonight/tomorrow. I thought I'd run through my plans for that here, and see if there's any feedback or suggestions.

Let me first say that all of the conversations and tips here have been of immense use as I've been planning the trip (which will be a surprise for DD and DS). I've been lurking for awhile, and listening to the Dis Unplugged podcast, and it has all made a massive difference in the work that it takes to coordinate everything.

Generally, we're not concerned with seeing everything (because we know you can't, nor should try). We are planning to take afternoon breaks when necessary as well. We'll, in total, have 3 days at MK, one at HS, an afternoon/evening at Epcot, and one day outside of WDW for US/IOA (primarily for Harry Potter). We're staying on-site at POP. EDIT: We're going in the first week of January, so generally lighter crowds, maybe growing a bit towards Marathon Weekend.

Ok, here's my very rough schedule for the first two days at MK, and the day at HS, which is where I could use the most advice (the rest of the days are essentially bonus - we'll get in what we haven't already done) - feel free to make any suggestions or warnings.

Monday:
Arrive at rope drop, head for:
BTM
HM
Small World
Peter Pan (FP+)
JC (FP+)
Lunch: Totuga Tavern or Columbia Harbor
Afternoon:
Pirates (FP+)
Festival of Fantasy Parade
Set 4th FP+ for evening, afternoon break
Evening: Electric Light Parade, etc.

Tuesday:
8:15 Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (reservation for DD6)
Journey of the LM
Winnie the Pooh
Anna/Elsa (FP+) - if, of course, we can get it!
Enchanted Tales w/Belle (FP+)
Lunch: Hopefully a FP for BOG
Dumbo/Barnstormer/MHTP
7DMT (FP+)
Set 4th FP+ for evening
Evening:
Space Mountain/Buzz (if FP+ avail)

Wednesday: HS
At Rope Drop, Sign up for Jedi Training
Star Tours
GMR
Show (B&tB, Indiana Jones)
Early Light Lunch
Frozen Sing-Along (FP+) - girls
ToT (FP+) - boys
TSMM (FP+)
Dinner at H&V - 4:20
Fantasmic (7)

Ideally, I'm looking for a plan with some flexibility, and a reasonable use of FP+ - these, of course, might change based on availability, and no one event/attraction is make or break for us.

Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated as I put this plan into action with FP+! Thanks!

 

[figment_jii]

For your Monday, I would consider getting a FP+ for the afternoon parade or MSEP rather than Pirates. (At least until you are certain you are not interested in FP+s for either parade.) During my trip I found that you could get day of FP+ for things like Pirates, HM, etc., but not for any of the entertainment (Wishes, FoF, MSEP, etc.). So, if there is even the remote chance that you might want to get FP+ for the parades/fireworks, I would get those as soon as possible. You can always cancel them later and have a good chance at getting Pirates (sorry, I didn't really look at Jungle Cruise).

 

[FantasmicMike]

That's a great idea - thanks! Originally, I only had the parade on there as a possibility if we had time. But if it is the more "prized" and thus less available option, that makes a lot of sense, particularly if Pirates FP+ can be added more easily.

Do people find with kids that having the FP+ reservations improves the experience of them (i.e. is that "prime" position worth it?).

 

[figment_jii]

Do people find with kids that having the FP+ reservations improves the experience of them (i.e. is that "prime" position worth it?).

I don't have children, so I can't necessarily answer to that specific aspect of the "prime" position question. The FP+ viewing area for the parades isn't necessarily any better than any other spot along the parade route. The area was less crowded in my experience, but you still couldn't arrive at the last minute and get a curb side spot. We arrived at the start of our FP+ window (about 30 minutes before the parade started) and got one of the last curb spots remaining. So in that way, it doesn't necessarily save you time, but I did find it less crowded before the parade started and it had a good view. The only drawback is that there is absolutely no cover in the area, so you're completely open to the elements (rain, sun, etc.).

Alternatively, I did find that the fireworks FP+ was well worth getting. You end up seated in the grassy area between the rose garden and the castle. The fireworks appear to the right of the castle, but it was wonderful being able to sit down and see the show.

 

[FantasmicMike]

Alternatively, I did find that the fireworks FP+ was well worth getting. You end up seated in the grassy area between the rose garden and the castle. The fireworks appear to the right of the castle, but it was wonderful being able to sit down and see the show.

Thanks again! I'll definitely consider that as I see what's available at midnight.

My primary goal will be to first find an Anna/Elsa M&G FP+ for sometime during the trip (it may end up being the Friday at the end of our trip), and then 7DMT and other harder to get reservations. That's probably what's causing me the most concern. But this will definitely help me shape the rest of those selections.