Last minute trip - July 12/13

[dr0970]

Hubby had a last minute business trip come up so we decided to join him and come in a few days early to spend some time in Florida. We have family here and could stay with them but I got super excited about an opportunity for our first family trip to Universal. That was until I looked at the crowd calendar!

We have been to Disney many times but in February. We are a family of four with two boys ages 8 and 9. We are not a big coaster family so would pass on a few of those big coaster rides.

I have already looked in to tickets and hotel. Cabana Bay would be the best hotel within our price range. We would get the 2 day park-to-park tickets.

I was thinking we'd visit family for one day then get up really early on Sunday, July 12, see about dropping our luggage/car off at the hotel and then getting to the parks by 7am for EE (from what I read you can do this as a guest, correct? even when you are technically not checked in?). Then do as much as we can and at some point get back to the hotel to check in and maybe swim and rest. Then back to the parks until 10pm.

I haven't figured out the logistics for Monday when we have to get checked out but then want to spend the day in the parks and would we be able to swim at some point if we don't have our room (are there showers to use near the pool?).

So, I am asking if I am crazy to plan this with the crowds and not having EP? I only have this week to come up with a plan so will start looking at maps/touring plan suggestions.

Our other options were the beach, Legoland, Seaworld or something like that. We are only in Orlando for 3 full days.

I appreciate any input or advice. Thanks!

 

[damo]

Once you check in at the hotel (even if the room isn't ready), you will get your room keys which serve as your EE admission (plus a park ticket of course!).

I'd do EE and then spend the mornings at the park until it got too warm and head back to the hotel for an afternoon of swimming. Then have an early dinner and head back to the parks for the evenings.

As long as you do the parks at the least busy times, i.e. mornings and evenings, it should be quite manageable and enjoyable. Spending the day in the sun in the afternoons while waiting in line is not enjoyable.

 

[christophfam]

I haven't figured out the logistics for Monday when we have to get checked out but then want to spend the day in the parks and would we be able to swim at some point if we don't have our room (are there showers to use near the pool?).

I appreciate any input or advice. Thanks!

There are showers off the fitness center at Cabana Bay. Nothing special (love RPR fitness/shower area), but you can get cleaned up there.

 

[ForMyBoys]

I think Damo's plan is a great plan.

 

[HM]

We'll be there this weekend, staying at CB. We are going with the plan to do EE each day, spend the afternoon at the pool, and return to the parks in the evening. This is our first trip in a long time without Express Passes, so it should be interesting.

 

[macraven]

We'll be there this weekend, staying at CB. We are going with the plan to do EE each day, spend the afternoon at the pool, and return to the parks in the evening. This is our first trip in a long time without Express Passes, so it should be interesting.

i do hope it works out for you and the family.

your plan sounds right on!

 

[HM]

This trip will just be me and my DD. She turns 20 the day after we return home, so this is her birthday present.

 

[macraven]

This trip will just be me and my DD. She turns 20 the day after we return home, so this is her birthday present.

what a delightful and wonderful birthday present for you to give her !!
you sound like the perfect mom

have loads of fun on your trip.