My AP-ALOOZA Continues (WE RENEWED!!) ~ NEW TR link posted!

[Dugette]

Hmmm, tough call. I agree, $500 is a lot for that short amount of time - especially since I think you just did our last trip for not too much more than that.

I also don't know much about the Harry Potter stuff or Universal, so this is kind-of a blind answer. I guess my question would be if you think you'll be able to ride everything in October (not sure if they baby #2 attempts factor in)? If you might not be able to, but could now (and I don't know if that is possible, since you'd have Aria and I don't know what she could ride), then I'd consider it.

 

[Imagineer5]

Hmmm, tough call. I agree, $500 is a lot for that short amount of time - especially since I think you just did our last trip for not too much more than that.

I also don't know much about the Harry Potter stuff or Universal, so this is kind-of a blind answer. I guess my question would be if you think you'll be able to ride everything in October (not sure if they baby #2 attempts factor in)? If you might not be able to, but could now (and I don't know if that is possible, since you'd have Aria and I don't know what she could ride), then I'd consider it.

Well this wouldn't be a surprise, but I booked 8/22-24 (the 2 nights before my WDW trip) at the Royal Pacific with a pretty good deal. THen changed my Southwest flights, then was about to book a car when I realized OH CRAP no one will be home to watch the dogs! Andrew doesn't come home until the 24th. So then I started looking back at adding it on to the end, coming home 9/2 (I want to spend 2 nights at Universal to make the time worthwhile and not crazy hectic) - only to realize that the 2nd Fall release of Matilda Jane clothing is on 9/2!! GRR!! I can't win.

So, I just sent a message to Craig, andrew's friend who stays at our house sometimes, to ask if he could possibly stay 8/22-24. If so then I'll keep that the way it is, if not maybe I'll take that as a sign not to go (though I think I've seen plenty of signs not too, lol!).

As for rides I couldn't do - actually it's more the opposite. I want to go for a couple days to really enjoy the park, see the shops, have harry potter snacks, etc without having to worry about ride lines on top of it. For 1 day in October, we will be focusing on getting on 1) Gringotts, 2) Forbidden Journey, 3) Hogwarts Express, and Aria will just sort of be dragged around, whereas if I go in August we can spend the first couple hours in the Harry POtter areas then spend some more relaxed time in the Seuss parts or whatever. Ride E.T. and they have two roller coasters (36"+) that she will be able to ride, and both have the Express Pass option which I'll get for staying onsite...

So I think the perfect time would be to go 8/22-24 but of course that means having someone watch the dogs...so we will see!

Thank you for your input! (oh and Baby 2 seems to be a pipe dream or something so trying not to plan around it anymore. Still trying and have another RE appt tomorrow).

 

[TheMaxRebo]

with regards to your Universal/Harry Potter question - I am the furthest thing from an expert but I thought I heard on one of the podcasts that you need a 2-park pass to ride the Hogwarts express and to be able to ride it in both directions you need at least a 2-day 2-park ticket

Like I said, I don't know all the details but just wondering that if you only go for 1 day in October if that might limit what you can do related to the Hogwarts Express

Personally, 1 day just feels really short to take in a new area you have never been to before - but that is easy for me to say as it isn't my $500

 

[TheMaxRebo]

I'm also excited to try out their new system of texting the room # when it is ready and heading right to it vs having to check in. Pretty cool!

I'm honestly a little torn on this as I think there is something cool about walking into one of their great lobbies and checking in and getting your welcome material, etc.

I am glad to hear that a) this is just an option you don't have to do this a b) sounds like they will have people around to answer questions, deal with issues, etc.

 

[Imagineer5]

with regards to your Universal/Harry Potter question - I am the furthest thing from an expert but I thought I heard on one of the podcasts that you need a 2-park pass to ride the Hogwarts express and to be able to ride it in both directions you need at least a 2-day 2-park ticket

Like I said, I don't know all the details but just wondering that if you only go for 1 day in October if that might limit what you can do related to the Hogwarts Express

Personally, 1 day just feels really short to take in a new area you have never been to before - but that is easy for me to say as it isn't my $500

That is very true

I looked into the ticket question - from all that I've read I can only see that we would need a park-to-park ticket (1 day) not a 2 day? Do you know where you read that? If I get an AP that won't be an issue for me, but I plan to get Andrew a 1 day park to park ticket.

I'm honestly a little torn on this as I think there is something cool about walking into one of their great lobbies and checking in and getting your welcome material, etc.

I am glad to hear that a) this is just an option you don't have to do this a b) sounds like they will have people around to answer questions, deal with issues, etc.

The last time we checked in, we were greeted by a CM with an iPad and she took us right to the desk, handed us the materials and sent us on our way. I liked that, but the convenience of knowing my room is ready will be huge - esp if it is ready early like I generally always arrive. If however it isn't ready until closer to actual check in time then I won't use the system again! hehe. We will see!

 

[TheMaxRebo]

That is very true

I looked into the ticket question - from all that I've read I can only see that we would need a park-to-park ticket (1 day) not a 2 day? Do you know where you read that? If I get an AP that won't be an issue for me, but I plan to get Andrew a 1 day park to park ticket.

They mentioned it on one of the DISuplugged podcasts but they may have misspoken or maybe it was only for like right when it opens but they were saying that if you only had a 2-park one-day pass you could only ride the Hogwarts Express in 1 direction.

Like I said, definitely not an expert so that might just be flat out wrong

The last time we checked in, we were greeted by a CM with an iPad and she took us right to the desk, handed us the materials and sent us on our way. I liked that, but the convenience of knowing my room is ready will be huge - esp if it is ready early like I generally always arrive. If however it isn't ready until closer to actual check in time then I won't use the system again! hehe. We will see!

Definitely the idea of being able to go to your room right away and drop your stuff off (especially if ready early) is a positive - just hope this doesn't result in fewer CM's around and then if you have an issue it being harder to deal with. Plus, would be super frustrating to get to your room after being notified it was ready but for whatever reason your MB does work or something.

Like everything at Disney - when it works right it will probably be great ... but with so many people it won't work right for everyone and now might be more of an issue when there are problems

 

[Imagineer5]

Updated August Plans!!

Now that I've made my FP+ selections, added on two days and added in another TS ADR, I think it's high time to update you all with my plans!

Friday, August 22nd (YEP you read that right - leaving 2 days earlier than planned!!)

Our flight gets in at 9:30, go grab the car (haven't booked this yet, haven't seen anything less than 250), make a quick grocery stop for milk and water, and head to Universal. We are going to stay at Universal on-site (YAY) for the first time! We are staying at the Royal Pacific Resort in a standard king room. The unlimited express pass and 1 hour early entrance was the main reason. They have a new value/moderate resort on property, but it doesn't offer the unlimited express pass! After looking at Universal's height requirements, this is what I gather Aria and I will be able to do. A ** denotes that it takes the express pass!

IoA

Petranodon Flyers
Seuss Trolley Train Ride
Flight of the Hippogriph (like Barnstormer)**
One Fish Two Fish (like Dumbo)**
CaroSeussEl**
Cat in the hat**
Seuss Play Area
Popeye Ship Play Area
Storm Force Acceleration**
Hogwarts Express

Universal

Woody Woodpecker Roller Coaster (another like Barnstormer)**
E.T.**
Fievel's Play Area
Curious George Play Area
Hogwarts Express

There are also a couple of shows, such as Animal Actors Show and Sinbad, I'm sure there are more.

So between all of those and spending a good amount of time in each I think we'll have some pretty packed (and fun) days!

Saturday, August 23rd - full day at Universal, planning to eat at the Three Broomsticks and Leaky Cauldron for meals this day.

I need to look into other meals, but with staying onsite, apparently you just flash your room key and it acts like priority seating, in a sense. I don't really care to go back to Mythos, so I don't feel a need to plan meals as I would at Disney.

Sunday, August 24th - probably take advantage of the early entry at either IoA or Universal, then check out and head over to BLT!

Hopefully I'll get an early text with my room # and that it is ready? Otherwise we will head over to Fort Wilderness - our first plan is to grab lunch at Trail's End (new to us) and then get Aria on a little pony ride!

Then she will go down for a nap in the stroller while I hopefully get a chance to unpack a little, then walk over to the MK!

Our FP selections are:

LAUREN MB
3:15 Speedway
4:15 Buzz
5:15 Barnstormer
ANDREW MB
3:40 Meet Mickey
5:30 Pooh
6:45 Peter Pan

So my plan is to go straight to Tomorrowland to ride the Speedway, then Buzz, then head back up front for meeting Mickey, then dinner at Tony's, before heading back to FL for Barnstormer, Pooh, and Peter Pan. After that we will head out and try to get into the Top of the World Lounge. There is a not-so-nice discussion I started on the DVC Member Board about that, as it used to be also for renters, but apparently now it is DVC Members only - but the sticking point is that DVC Members are worried it will close because no one uses it, or spends $$ up there. Then they are giving me flack for wanting to use it, while on points but not a member. So anyway, going to attemtp to go up. We will see. I'd love to watch Wishes this night from there, but if not no biggie.

Monday August 25th
We have an 8:10 Crystal Palace ADR, so I plan to be entering the park around 7:50 so we have lots of time for pics (gotta grab my walking to the castle pic of course!), have a fun breakfast, then head out!

Today my FP's start a little later

LAUREN MB
10:30 Cinderella
11:30 Ench Tales
2:45 Parade
ANDREW MB
9:50 Jungle Cruise
3:00 Ariel
4:10 Meet Ariel



hoping to take advantage of lower early morning crowds and ride IaSW, Pooh, Pirates, Jungle Cruise (FP), then meet Cinderella & Rapunzel (FP), then Enchanted Tales with Belle (FP), then grab a quick bite (Sleepy Hollow) before Aria naps. During her nap time I'm going to try out the Pirate adventure that Dugette just mentioned! At the end of her nap time I need to head over to the Festival of Fantasy FP location (need to look at where this is, whoops) to grab a spot for the parade!

After the parade we have FP for the Ariel ride and meeting Ariel - then we will head out and go to dinner at California Grill (stopping by the room to freshen up!). Depending on timing, we will try to get to the pool before or after dinner (I can see skipping a couple things earlier to leave after the parade so we can swim!).

Tuesday August 26th

Hop in the car (now that we will have one) and head to EPCOT for EMH!

FP selections:

LAUREN MB
10:45 Ltwl
12:40 Character Spot
3:40 Maelstrom
ANDREW MB
11:10 Nemo
4:30 LwtL
6:15 Spaceship Earth

So my plan is to ride Spaceship Earth, then Nemo, then let Aria run around and play. Probably go to Innoventions. Get on LwtL with the FP, go ride nemo again, then we have lunch at Coral Reef - yum! A quick visit to the Character Spot after lunch then Aria will nap while I make my way into World Showcase. I might have a lighter lunch so I can go to Spice Road Table to try out 1 little dish...

When Aria wakes up, we have a FP for Maelstrom then we are walking over to the Beach Club - excited for our dinner at Beaches & Cream! Definitely going to enjoy some fun ice cream there.

We'll then walk back through EPCOT, maybe hopping on Spaceship Earth with a FP and back to the resort.

Tonight we have plans to meet up with TheMaxRebo and family - hoping for TotWL but if not we'll figure something else out!

Wednesday August 27th

Early Chef Mickeys breakfast!! Excited for this one!!

Then on to MK.

I plan to spend the 1st hour just riding some FL rides without a wait, then FP's are:

LAUREN MB
10 7DMT
11 AnnaElsa
12 Peter Pan

TheMaxRebo and I were going to try to get A&E together, but I am not sure he was able to get that time (it's much easier for me since i'm just getting 1 FP). I do however hope to meet up with his family and possibly ride 7DMT this trip. It was a SUPER fun ride, but if that doesn't happen that is totally fine.

We originally had LTT ADR's but I'm cancelling those - going to try for BoG FP but otherwise will just wing lunch. After that we are heading out to EPCOT! I will prob just monorail over there so Aria can go right to sleep! I was able to use Andrews MB for FP's at EPCOT, so when she wakes up we will do LwtL, then Maelstrom, before dinner at Akershus!! YAY! We have a FP for Spaceship Earth for the way out, then we will probably go to the pool after dinner!

ANDREW MB
3:30 LwtL
4:45 Maelstrom
6:20 Spaceship Earth


I will also need to pack!


Thursday August 28th

Even though I have a car, I'll probably ask Bell Services to come up at take my luggage for the transfer over to AKL-Kidani! We are then heading over to Animal Kingdom for the morning! Our FP's are:

LAUREN MB
9:20 Safari
10:30 FotLK
11:30 Dug

There really wasn't much to choose from here, but my plan is to ride the Safari, head to Rafiki's (opens at 9:30), go to watch FotLK, meet Dug, then head out to Kidani where we are having lunch at Sanaa.

Aria will nap in the room or stroller, depending on when that is ready, and after that we will head to the pool before we have dinner at Jiko! Maybe pool afterwards too!

Friday August 29th

Early H&V breakfast (YAY!) then enjoying DHS! This is the day I spent some time on yesterday to figure out. After Khertz's reviews of Character Palooza I decided we couldn't skip over it again! So here are my plans:

LAUREN MB
9:15 TSMM
11 Dis Jr
11:45 VotLM
ANDREW MB
10:10 GMR
11:35 Muppet Vision
12:50 LMA Show

Riding TSMM, then GMR - hoping to fit in meeting Woody & Buzz, meet Minnie, and Sorcerer Mickey. then 11AM Disney Junior show, possibly Muppet Vision or VotLM, then lunch at 50's Prime Time Cafe. After lunch go see the LMA show, then put Aria down for a nap. No idea what I'll do during her nap time (original plan had me shopping at DTD).

Then Character Palooza is supposed to be at 5:10 so we'll be there for that, then head out to DTD where we have ADR's at T-Rex (another new to us!!). We originally had Raglan Road, but I couldn't find a later time. Might keep checking on it, but it would be nice to check out T-Rex anyway.

We will probably walk through World Of Disney and check out the Christmas shop, then head back to the resort.

Saturday August 30th

This morning we are starting out at AK (no FP's) so we will do the Safari, Triceratop Spin, Boneyard play area, etc. before lunch at Tusker House! Excited for this one as we had a lot of fun here in June.

After lunch we are heading back to the resort for nap time (and a dip in the pool) then over to MK for our last night! Our FP's are:

LAUREN MB
4:40 Mad Tea Party
7:40 Barnstormer
8:40 MSEP
ANDREW MB
4:30 Tink
7:05 Pooh
8:20 Speedway

So we plan to meet Tinkerbelle first since she is at the front of the park, go hop on Mad Tea Party, then we have dinner at Be Our Guest! After that, ride Pooh, Barnstormer, the Speedway, and then get in a spot for the MSEP! We'll watch Wishes from Main Street and then head out. I have to make a list of all the rides at MK that we want to ride and cross off those I have planned FP's for, so I can be sure to get in the other ones during early mornings!

Sunday August 31st

We have to pack, have breakfast at Boma, then enjoy some pool time! I believe check out is at 11 - which is the time we need to drive to the airport, so we have enough time to take a quick shower after the pool and then head out. Our flight gets home at 4:30 and Andrew will pick us up from the airport - and the next day is Labor Day so that'll be nice to have a buffer day before the dreaded return to work. Nice thing is I will only have 4 weeks until my next trip back for 9 days! LOL!


ALSO!! I have a question for you!! I have a goal to visit every WDW TS restraurant. There is some grey area though for what the "WDW TS restaurant" means. First I thought it would be helpful to look at the Tables in Wonderland website and maybe take their list as MY to-do list, but it includes Swan & Dolphin resort restaurants that 1) I have never been to because 2) I don't want to eat there. So do those really count? Can I say "EVERY TS RESTAURANT" As in the parks, resorts, and downtown disney while ignoring those two which aren't really WDW resorts?? Thoughts??

 

[Imagineer5]

This is what I get for writing up my August plans today. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT. I just added on a night on 8/31 at Kidani and changed my flight to the following day (thank you, Southwest). Luckily I still haven't booked my car. So, looks like I'll be spending 8/31 at DHS! EEK!

The snow glows white on Walt Disney World this summer, when “Frozen Summer Fun: Live at Disney’s Hollywood Studios” kicks off on July 5. Through September 1, regular theme park admission will include a ride range of all-new Frozen-themed experiences that guests are sure to love.

Take a look at the highlights:

Olaf on Summer Vacation – Olaf the snowman is having the time of his life on his very first summer vacation! He chimes in throughout the day to keep everyone updated on all his adventures. Plus, you can pick up your very own Take-Along Olaf from locations in the park, so he can join you on your summer vacation. And when you share your photos with Olaf on social media, be sure to tag them with #OlafSummerVacation. They may just get selected to appear in that day’s grand finale!
Anna and Elsa’s Royal Welcome – At 11:00 a.m. each day, Elsa and Anna arrive in Hollywood as part of their goodwill tour of neighboring kingdoms, making their way down Hollywood Boulevard in a horse-drawn sleigh. Kristoff is along for the fun, too, joined by a flurry of skaters, skiiers, ice cutters and more! The entire procession culminates in a special moment at the Sorcerer’s Hat Icon Stage to officially welcome the visiting royalty to this kingdom of Hollywoodland.
For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration – Cool down inside the Premiere Theater, where Anna and Elsa join the Royal Historians of Arendelle for a fun and comedic retelling of the unique history of their Kingdom, filled with delightful, sing-along moments from “Frozen.”
Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post & Frozen Funland – Inside Soundstage One, Oaken and his cousins have created a Frozen Funland filled with cold weather activities, unique photo opportunities, and more! There’s a frozen pond with ice skating demonstrations, wintertime fun for kids in the “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” play area, a “big summer blowout” with plenty of “Frozen” merchandise, and special “Frozen”-inspired food and beverage offerings.
“Coolest Summer Ever” Dance Party – Starting at 5:30 p.m. each day, a dance party takes over the area around the Sorcerer’s Hat Icon Stage, with a DJ, live band, and more! The band plays a variety of classic and contemporary summer rock & roll hits, as well as a cool, rocking medley of “Frozen” favorites. It’s going to be hot!
“Frozen” Fireworks Spectacular – Everything wraps up at 9:45 p.m. when Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, and Olaf come together at the Sorcerer’s Hat Icon Stage for a grand finale to the day’s festivities, kicking off an awe-inspiring fireworks display set to the glorious music of “Frozen!”
Frozen fans, sound off in the comments about which activity you’ll be checking out first when you arrive at Disney’s Hollywood Studios this summer, from July 5-September 1!

 

[Dugette]

Plans are looking good. Gotta love your ever-expanding trip! Doesn't that Frozen thing sound awesome?! Glad you are going to be able to take advantage of it! You are also really making good use of those Magic Bands! Very cool that you are able to park-hop with FP+ in both the one day. Andrew is playing his part in making the mother-daughter trip a success, I guess.

Regarding the table service list, I think you are safe to say all TS restaurants in Disney Parks and Disney Resorts. I mean, the Swolphin doesn't have all the Disney resort perks (I don't think there's Magical Express, you don't book through Disney, no Free Dining, etc.), so I don't think it has to count. However, I think I have heard good things about one of the restaurants there, but I sure don't remember what it was.

So, yeah, the DVC thread. I swear that the Trip Report board of the DIS is full of nice, supportive, helpful people and much of the rest of the DIS is full of nit-picky rule enforcers who assume the worst of others and enjoy putting internet strangers in their place. That's why I seldom comment on anything outside of the TR boards...you never know what someone will tear into you for. I also noticed that the person who really stepped in and defended you (and shared what the rule had previously been) was a TR person...I think I read one of her reports once, actually. Anyway, hope you can get into the lounge. On a related note, one of the Aulani threads I follow (a tips one) mentioned that there are free laundry tokens available and I asked if those were just for DVC members or for renters too. Strangely enough, nobody accused me of cheating and the answer was basically the same - they only ask to see KTTW (which I think they still use at Aulani?) and it will say member and it's fine. Not sure we'll even need to do laundry, but good to know!

Anyway, have fun Frozen-a-fying your plans!

 

[Imagineer5]

Plans are looking good. Gotta love your ever-expanding trip! Doesn't that Frozen thing sound awesome?! Glad you are going to be able to take advantage of it! You are also really making good use of those Magic Bands! Very cool that you are able to park-hop with FP+ in both the one day. Andrew is playing his part in making the mother-daughter trip a success, I guess.

Regarding the table service list, I think you are safe to say all TS restaurants in Disney Parks and Disney Resorts. I mean, the Swolphin doesn't have all the Disney resort perks (I don't think there's Magical Express, you don't book through Disney, no Free Dining, etc.), so I don't think it has to count. However, I think I have heard good things about one of the restaurants there, but I sure don't remember what it was.

So, yeah, the DVC thread. I swear that the Trip Report board of the DIS is full of nice, supportive, helpful people and much of the rest of the DIS is full of nit-picky rule enforcers who assume the worst of others and enjoy putting internet strangers in their place. That's why I seldom comment on anything outside of the TR boards...you never know what someone will tear into you for. I also noticed that the person who really stepped in and defended you (and shared what the rule had previously been) was a TR person...I think I read one of her reports once, actually. Anyway, hope you can get into the lounge. On a related note, one of the Aulani threads I follow (a tips one) mentioned that there are free laundry tokens available and I asked if those were just for DVC members or for renters too. Strangely enough, nobody accused me of cheating and the answer was basically the same - they only ask to see KTTW (which I think they still use at Aulani?) and it will say member and it's fine. Not sure we'll even need to do laundry, but good to know!

Anyway, have fun Frozen-a-fying your plans!

Yep I just HAD to plan a whole day so we can see and do everything. I'm really interested in that Soundstage One area - is that where the pirate thing was? I need to look into that more. I've been changing up some plans, making FP selections etc so very excited for the new plan. 10 nights for the trip is a lot but so excited!! I'll have to plan it out well regarding packing since we are in 3 different hotels (thankfully I was able to stay in the same room at Kidani though for that last night).

That is what I was thinking for the TS restaurants! Thanks! I have heard great things about BlueZoo, but they just don't excite me as much as the disney restaurants. It was fun visiting the hotels over the holidays last year, but we were VERY glad to get back over to the Y&B clubs - there was definitely something not-disney about them. However, if I ever see an amazing rate at the Swolphin I'd def give it a try, considering its excellet location.

I'm going to write down my list of restaurants then and go through and see the ones I have not yet visited.

That is nice about your thread not being hounded on, you are right though that anywhere else you post you'd get yelled at for just about anything. I thought about not mentioning the whole AP-MB thing here, but there's only like 3 readers anyway so I decided i don't care.

Yes - when there were KTTW cards having that "DVC Member" written on them meant there was never an issue being asked for another ID card. But now without them is where the problem arises. Glad it should work out for you in Aulani!

 

[Imagineer5]

Here is my WDW TS Dining List! I have a goal to visit every WDW TS restaurant location, so the first order of business is to write down a full list of every restaurant I consider to be a "WDW TS Restaurant" - ha! Sounds easier than it is I think. I cut out Swolphin restaurants bc I do not believe they are WDW restaurants. So this is my list. Next to the restaurants, I will put a Year last visited, and if there is a 2014 in GREEN then it means I have plans to visit it - either in August or October! If it is RED then I have not visited it, nor do I have plans to!

Magic Kingdom

Be Our Guest (2013, 2014)
Cinderella’s Royal Table (2013)
Crystal Palace (2014, 2014)
Liberty Tree Tavern (2012, 2014)
The Plaza (2007)
Tony’s Town Square (2004, 2014)

EPCOT

Biergarten (2013, 2014)
Chefs de France (2013)
La Hacienda (2013, 2014)
Le Cellier (2012)
Monsieur Paul
Nine Dragons (2007)
Akershus (2012, 2014)
Marrakesh (2013)
Rose & Crown (2012, 2014)
San Angel Inn (2012)
Spice Road Table (2014)
Teppan Edo (2010)
Tokyo Dining
Tutto Gusto (2013)
Tutto Italia (2013)
Via Napoli (2013)
Coral Reef (2013, 2014)
Garden Grill (2014)

Hollywood Studios

50’s Prime Time (2012, 2014)
Hollywood & Vine (2012, 2014)
Brown Derby (2013)
Mama Melrose (2013)
Sci-Fi (2013)

Animal Kingdom

Tusker House (2014, 2014)
Rainforest Café (2013)
Yak & Yeti (2013)

RESORTS

Boma (2013, 2014)
Jiko (2013, 2014)
Sanaa (2013, 2014)
Cape May (2014, 2014)
Big River Grille (2000)
ESPN Club (2000)
Flying Fish (2013)
Kouzzina (2012)
Shutters (2010)
California Grill (2013, 2014)
Chef Mickeys (2013, 2014)
The Wave (2013, 2014)
Maya Grill (2013)
Hoop De Doo (2013)
Mickeys Backyard BBQ
Trail’s End (2014)
1900 Park Fare (2014)
Citricos (2007, 2014)
Garden View Tea Room (2014)
Grand Floridian Café (2013)
Narcoossees (2010)
Victoria & Alberts (2014)
Olivia’s (2013)
Kona (2013)
Ohana (2014)
Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show (2014)
Boatwright’s (2013)
Turf Club
Artist Point (2013)
Whispering Canyon Café (2013)
Beaches & Cream (2013, 2014)
Captains Grille (2004, 2014)
Yachtsman (2007, 2014)

DOWNTOWN DISNEY

Bongo’s (2000)
House of Blues (2004)
Fulton’s Crab House
Paradiso 37 (2007)
Planet Hollywood (2000)
Portobello
Raglan Road (2013)
Rainforest Café (2000)
T-Rex (2014)
Wolfgang Puck (2010)


And so until my August trip - my list of places I have not eaten at are:

Monsieur Paul
Spice Road
Tokyo Dining
Trail's End
Mickeys Backyard BBQ
Victoria & Alberts
Spirit of Aloha Dinner show
Garden View Tea Room
Turf Club
Fulton's Crab House
Portobello
T-Rex

After August trip it should be down to:

Monsieur Paul
Tokyo Dining
Mickeys Backyard BBQ
Victoria & Alberts
Spirit of Aloha Dinner show
Garden View Tea Room
Turf Club
Fulton's Crab House
Portobello

And after October it'll be down to:

Monsieur Paul
Tokyo Dining
Mickeys Backyard BBQ
Turf Club
Fulton's Crab House
Portobello


I haven't heard great things about the Turf Club, and Monsieur Paul/Tokyo Dining have nothing on the menu that excites me. Ugh! Oh well, I'll be visiting them next year i'm sure! Hopefully some new places will open too (Kouzzina is closing; new DTD restaurants are coming I believe).

 

[Dugette]

Quite the list! I'm totally going to go through your list here and see where I've been - I'm curious now. I'm not even going to attempt years, though - impressive! The only thing I can add is that we went to Portobello back in 2010 (post here: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=40200915#post40200915) They had some good drinks. We just went to the "meatball bar", which would probably not be your thing (or Aria's, given the bar), but it was good. The place was fairly empty, but seemed nice.

Magic Kingdom

Be Our Guest (2013, 2014) YES
Cinderella’s Royal Table (2013) NO
Crystal Palace (2014, 2014) YES
Liberty Tree Tavern (2012, 2014) NO
The Plaza (2007) NO
Tony’s Town Square (2004, 2014) NO

EPCOT

Biergarten (2013, 2014) YES
Chefs de France (2013) YES
La Hacienda (2013, 2014) YES
Le Cellier (2012) YES
Monsieur Paul NO
Nine Dragons (2007) NO
Akershus (2012, 2014) NO
Marrakesh (2013) NO
Rose & Crown (2012, 2014) NO
San Angel Inn (2012) YES
Spice Road Table (2014) NO
Teppan Edo (2010) YES
Tokyo Dining NO
Tutto Gusto (2013) NO
Tutto Italia (2013) YES
Via Napoli (2013) YES
Coral Reef (2013, 2014) NO
Garden Grill (2014) YES

Hollywood Studios

50’s Prime Time (2012, 2014) NO
Hollywood & Vine (2012, 2014) NO
Brown Derby (2013) YES
Mama Melrose (2013) NO
Sci-Fi (2013) YES

Animal Kingdom

Tusker House (2014, 2014) YES
Rainforest Café (2013) NO
Yak & Yeti (2013) YES

RESORTS

Boma (2013, 2014) YES
Jiko (2013, 2014) YES
Sanaa (2013, 2014) YES
Cape May (2014, 2014) YES
Big River Grille (2000) NO
ESPN Club (2000) NO
Flying Fish (2013) NO
Kouzzina (2012) YES
Shutters (2010) NO
California Grill (2013, 2014) YES
Chef Mickeys (2013, 2014) NO
The Wave (2013, 2014) NO
Maya Grill (2013) NO
Hoop De Doo (2013) NO
Mickeys Backyard BBQ NO
Trail’s End (2014) YES
1900 Park Fare (2014) YES
Citricos (2007, 2014) NO
Garden View Tea Room (2014) NO
Grand Floridian Café (2013) NO
Narcoossees (2010) NO
Victoria & Alberts (2014) NO
Olivia’s (2013) NO
Kona (2013) YES
Ohana (2014) YES
Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show (2014) NO
Boatwright’s (2013) NO
Turf Club NO
Artist Point (2013) YES
Whispering Canyon Café (2013) NO
Beaches & Cream (2013, 2014) YES
Captains Grille (2004, 2014) NO
Yachtsman (2007, 2014) NO

DOWNTOWN DISNEY

Bongo’s (2000) NO
House of Blues (2004) NO
Fulton’s Crab House NO
Paradiso 37 (2007) NO
Planet Hollywood (2000) NO
Portobello YES
Raglan Road (2013) YES
Rainforest Café (2000) NO
T-Rex (2014) NO
Wolfgang Puck (2010) NO (only the CS, not the TS)

Wow, yeah, you're way ahead of me.

 

[Imagineer5]

Quite the list! I'm totally going to go through your list here and see where I've been - I'm curious now. I'm not even going to attempt years, though - impressive! The only thing I can add is that we went to Portobello back in 2010 (post here: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=40200915#post40200915) They had some good drinks. We just went to the "meatball bar", which would probably not be your thing (or Aria's, given the bar), but it was good. The place was fairly empty, but seemed nice.



Wow, yeah, you're way ahead of me.

I was hoping some would give input on where they haven't been yet!! With Izzy now I'm sure you'll get to more of the character ones (esp the Princess ones!). No Chef Mickeys?! Blasphemy! Hoop De Doo was also super fun! Flying Fish is FANTASTIC even for non fish eaters.

Aria would enjoy the meatballs, while I enjoy the drinks? Does that count??

That blanket was soooo cute.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

Sounds like quite the plans and that is cool you will be able to utilize Andrew's MB too - gotta remember to keep that straight and not try to use the wrong one at the attractions.

I agree with the Summer-of-Frozen changed things a bit. DHS is our arrival day park and I am trying to push Judi to get us to arrive a bit earlier so we can make the 11am parade (but we shall see). What I am most excited about it the fireworks as I have never seen fireworks at DHS and ever comment I have read from people who have say they are amazing there

As far as your restaurants go - it is your list so I think you are cool making up whatever rules you want You've definitely been to way more than us but we are getting there. Are you going to count things like the new Spice Road? Also, what about lounges that serve food? (hey - trying to give you more things to shoot for and thus more motivation to plan more trips ... or to just extend your August trip further so that it actually just gets combined in with your October trip )

 

[Imagineer5]

Sounds like quite the plans and that is cool you will be able to utilize Andrew's MB too - gotta remember to keep that straight and not try to use the wrong one at the attractions.

I agree with the Summer-of-Frozen changed things a bit. DHS is our arrival day park and I am trying to push Judi to get us to arrive a bit earlier so we can make the 11am parade (but we shall see). What I am most excited about it the fireworks as I have never seen fireworks at DHS and ever comment I have read from people who have say they are amazing there

As far as your restaurants go - it is your list so I think you are cool making up whatever rules you want You've definitely been to way more than us but we are getting there. Are you going to count things like the new Spice Road? Also, what about lounges that serve food? (hey - trying to give you more things to shoot for and thus more motivation to plan more trips ... or to just extend your August trip further so that it actually just gets combined in with your October trip )

You should have seen the pile of MB's we had in June. I had them hooked around the stroller handle or purse to keep them straight. This is the only trip I'll be able to do this (IF it still works in August) since Andrew will be there in October and he won't have an AP next year if I decide to renew (just for Aria and me).

I thought about your arrival day being DHS - so nice that it worked out so well. The fireworks are going to be SO neat to see, and hope you can make the 11AM A&E entrance.

I did count Spice Road & Tutto Gusto, but not lounges. I was thinking TS = able to make ADR's or somewhere you can eat a full meal. I don't think lounges count, though I suppose Spice Road and Tutto Gusto are more lounges than restaurants. Hmm. But then again, I'm not going to do a tour of bars with Aria in tow (and there won't be an adults-only trip anytime in the near future).

I don't think I need any more encouragement to extend trips or plan future ones. LOL! Esp if I get this Universal annual pass...

Surprisingly enough, I do actually have to work a little bit to fund all this... (unfortunate, but true! )

 

[TheMaxRebo]

Surprisingly enough, I do actually have to work a little bit to fund all this... (unfortunate, but true! )

stupid work always getting in the way

 

[Dugette]

I was hoping some would give input on where they haven't been yet!! With Izzy now I'm sure you'll get to more of the character ones (esp the Princess ones!). No Chef Mickeys?! Blasphemy! Hoop De Doo was also super fun! Flying Fish is FANTASTIC even for non fish eaters.

I am sure we will do more character meals. We actually did have a Chef Mickey's breakfast ADR for our Dec. 2010 trip, but had to cancel it when we changed the trip around (we had originally had a night at BLT, but our whole trip got adjusted last minute due to Dug's Nana's funeral). If I could count ADRs I'd cancelled, I could check a bunch more off the list, I think! I'd like to do Hoop De Doo sometime for sure! I've seen a lot of good reports on Flying Fish. I bet I could find something good to eat and Dug would love it.

Aria would enjoy the meatballs, while I enjoy the drinks? Does that count??

Totally counts!

That blanket was soooo cute.

I love that blanket! It's actually in Izzy's room - I used it all the time to snuggle up when she was little and nursing for long times. Now it just kinda sits there, but still love it!

 

[disneygirl2785]

OMG! I have missed so much!!! Your August plans look AWESOME!!! We used to alternate between Universal and Disney (...kinda...we've been to Universal alot...but been to Disney more! Especially in recent years we've chose Disney over Universal. I probably haven't been to Universal since high school! I'll be 29 in September Also, I'm just not a Harry Potter person; I haven't read the books and have only seen a couple of the first movies, so HP Land just doesn't do anything for me!) At any rate, I would take a stay at their resort and a couple days there! ET might be my favorite ride EVER!)

As a DVC member and owner at BLT, I have absolutely NO issues with you or anyone else who stays at BLT to utilize TOTWL I haven't even been up there, but my parents have. I hope you are able to go through with your plans for your DIS meet there! ...Speaking of DVC, why don't you buy in? You could have already paid for it with as much as you go!

As for your TS list: I definitely think you get to make up your own list! I remember thinking the Swalphin was a Disney hotel when I was little, but that's before I knew better! lol! I would love to try IlMulino, as I hear it might be the best Italian restaurant on property. But that's what I consider those restaurants, on property, not necessarily "Disney Restaurants." I definitely try to go to new restaurants every trip. My challenge comes with my hubby. He finds something he likes and he wants to keep going there. And I'm like "There are a TON of restaurants at Disney and for the most part they are all awesome, lets try something new!!!" Which actually is why he would do the Deluxe Dining Plan in a heart beat, so that we can do our favorites AND try lots of new ones, but I just can't justify all that money just for food! And Yes, we do usually end up ordering the most expensive thing on the menu!

So, about the boat...its yours?

 

[disneygirl2785]

Here is my list! (2015)= we are planning on going there in January!

Magic Kingdom

Be Our Guest (2013, 2014) YES (2015)
Cinderella’s Royal Table (2013) NO
Crystal Palace (2014, 2014) YES
Liberty Tree Tavern (2012, 2014) NO
The Plaza (2007)NO
Tony’s Town Square (2004, 2014) NO

EPCOT

Biergarten (2013, 2014) NO
Chefs de France (2013) NO
La Hacienda (2013, 2014) NO
Le Cellier (2012) NO
Monsieur Paul NO
Nine Dragons (2007) YES...loved it
Akershus (2012, 2014) NO (maybe 2015, depends on how we do with characters!)
Marrakesh (2013) NO
Rose & Crown (2012, 2014) NO
San Angel Inn (2012) NO
Spice Road Table (2014) NO
Teppan Edo (2010) YES
Tokyo Dining NO
Tutto Gusto (2013) NO
Tutto Italia (2013) NO
Via Napoli (2013) NO
Coral Reef (2013, 2014) NO
Garden Grill (2014) NO

Hollywood Studios

50’s Prime Time (2012, 2014) YES (maybe 2015, I'm worried it will go away with Stars Wars Land? )
Hollywood & Vine (2012, 2014) NO
Brown Derby (2013) NO
Mama Melrose (2013) YES
Sci-Fi (2013) YES

Animal Kingdom

Tusker House (2014, 2014) NO (2015)
Rainforest Café (2013) YES
Yak & Yeti (2013) NO

RESORTS

Boma (2013, 2014) NO
Jiko (2013, 2014) NO
Sanaa (2013, 2014) NO (2015)
Cape May (2014, 2014) NO
Big River Grille (2000) NO
ESPN Club (2000) NO
Flying Fish (2013)NO
Kouzzina (2012)NO
Shutters (2010)NO
California Grill (2013, 2014) NO (2015)
Chef Mickeys (2013, 2014) NO
The Wave (2013, 2014) NO
Maya Grill (2013) NO
Hoop De Doo (2013) NO
Mickeys Backyard BBQ NO
Trail’s End (2014) NO
1900 Park Fare (2014) NO
Citricos (2007, 2014) NO
Garden View Tea Room (2014) NO
Grand Floridian Café (2013)YES
Narcoossees (2010)NO
Victoria & Alberts (2014)NO
Olivia’s (2013) NO
Kona (2013) NO
Ohana (2014) YES (2015)
Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show (2014) NO
Boatwright’s (2013) NO
Turf Club NO
Artist Point (2013) NO
Whispering Canyon Café (2013) NO
Beaches & Cream (2013, 2014) YES
Captains Grille (2004, 2014) NO
Yachtsman (2007, 2014) NO

DOWNTOWN DISNEY

Bongo’s (2000) NO
House of Blues (2004) YES
Fulton’s Crab House YES
Paradiso 37 (2007) NO
Planet Hollywood (2000) YES
Portobello NO
Raglan Road (2013) NO (2015)
Rainforest Café (2000) YES
T-Rex (2014) NO
Wolfgang Puck (2010) NO

 

[Imagineer5]

I am sure we will do more character meals. We actually did have a Chef Mickey's breakfast ADR for our Dec. 2010 trip, but had to cancel it when we changed the trip around (we had originally had a night at BLT, but our whole trip got adjusted last minute due to Dug's Nana's funeral). If I could count ADRs I'd cancelled, I could check a bunch more off the list, I think! I'd like to do Hoop De Doo sometime for sure! I've seen a lot of good reports on Flying Fish. I bet I could find something good to eat and Dug would love it.


Totally counts!


I love that blanket! It's actually in Izzy's room - I used it all the time to snuggle up when she was little and nursing for long times. Now it just kinda sits there, but still love it!

Yeah with the CC guarantee it makes it harder to over-plan meals i guess. It is so pretty. I want to see another gift-with-purchase that's a blanket - I have a few and love them all.

OMG! I have missed so much!!! Your August plans look AWESOME!!! We used to alternate between Universal and Disney (...kinda...we've been to Universal alot...but been to Disney more! Especially in recent years we've chose Disney over Universal. I probably haven't been to Universal since high school! I'll be 29 in September Also, I'm just not a Harry Potter person; I haven't read the books and have only seen a couple of the first movies, so HP Land just doesn't do anything for me!) At any rate, I would take a stay at their resort and a couple days there! ET might be my favorite ride EVER!)

As a DVC member and owner at BLT, I have absolutely NO issues with you or anyone else who stays at BLT to utilize TOTWL I haven't even been up there, but my parents have. I hope you are able to go through with your plans for your DIS meet there! ...Speaking of DVC, why don't you buy in? You could have already paid for it with as much as you go!

As for your TS list: I definitely think you get to make up your own list! I remember thinking the Swalphin was a Disney hotel when I was little, but that's before I knew better! lol! I would love to try IlMulino, as I hear it might be the best Italian restaurant on property. But that's what I consider those restaurants, on property, not necessarily "Disney Restaurants." I definitely try to go to new restaurants every trip. My challenge comes with my hubby. He finds something he likes and he wants to keep going there. And I'm like "There are a TON of restaurants at Disney and for the most part they are all awesome, lets try something new!!!" Which actually is why he would do the Deluxe Dining Plan in a heart beat, so that we can do our favorites AND try lots of new ones, but I just can't justify all that money just for food! And Yes, we do usually end up ordering the most expensive thing on the menu!

So, about the boat...its yours?

I love ET! Definitely was a favorite - i grew up going to Universal studios hollywood and it was there. That and jurassic park (hollywood's is MUCH better than orlando). The HP area is AWESOME! Even if you aren't a fan you would enjoy the rides and theming. I'm so excited to stay onsite and glad I made it for 2 nights. I started looking into restaurants and am excited for the different choices.

I keep looking at buying into DVC. My problem is that with the maintenance fees, I look at how I *could* just stay at 1/2 bedroom condos via my government website for only $350 per week. Much less than just the maintenance fees. Of course, I do enjoy staying onsite and mostly do that anyway, but for instance next year I don't have a WDW trip or AP's built into my trip budget at all - which means if we do go it'll be for cheap, since we are doing two expensive things (cruise & France)...so we'd do the off site condo or possibly shades of green or something. Also, I want to have the cash for the purchase which I don't have. IF we got an inheritance or something that would cover it, YES it is going to be our next big purchase - DH got his $$ boat, so I would love do buy in to the DVC!

I'm also waiting to see pics of the Poly bungalows and see points charts for those.

Thank you for your thoughts on my TS list. Yeah I have heard pretty good things about a couple of their restaurants, b ut there is just soemthing "off" feeling about stepping into the hotels? IDK? They just seem non Disney. So, I'm glad i can kick them off my list!

Here is my list! (2015)= we are planning on going there in January!

Yay!! When does your 180 day open up?!?!? Good luck with ADRs! Glad you are going to Sanaa, I am SO excited to revisit it sooN! It's SO SO yummy.