My first trip to Disney World EVER! any suggestions?

[trappednabox]

OHMYGOD! I'm so excited! We're going to take our first trip to disney and are staying at the poly (concierge level). But we don't know what to do 1st.....any suggestions?

 

[rcraw45425]

First, congratulations! next, go out and buy a copy of The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World at your local bookstore or Target/Walmart. Get the 2005 edition, it will have the mot semi up to date info. Next, study it religiously (I'm just kidding, sorta ) Then, post any questions you have here, no matter how silly they seem to you. We'll try to answer them. Feel free to email me, I'll try to help.

 

[trappednabox]

Thanks! I will buy it!!

 

[sunkissed212]

How many days are you staying?

Just don't try to get everything done all at once. There's tons to do and see at WDW so you need to pace yourself. This year was my bf's first real trip. He'd been to WDW on a day trip once before but never stayed onsite and never for an extended period of time. We were there for 4 days and still didn't get to do "everything"...that's why we're planning our next trip for next September.

The guide will definitly start you off on the right foot...just take your time so you can really enjoy everything!

 

[ciera321]

I totally agree. If you're going to spend the money to go, then go prepared. I am a real planner!! We've been to DW 11 times now and I was planning our next trip before we left on our December trip. I have gained SO much knowledge from the DIS and know you will too. Have a great time, you're really doing it right the first time around - Poly Concierge!!

 

[trappednabox]

we're staying for 5 nights, in July. I can't wait!

 

[rcraw45425]

July, boy will you be glad that you're at the Poly! The Poly would be a great location for you during that time,you can return from the MK either by boat or monorail when it getsextra hot and steamy in the park. That is the time that you'll think location, location, location! We took full advantage of that boat option when we stayed there during Mickey's Not so Scary Halloween Party. It was wonderful to just hop on the boat and go home at night when you have tired cranky kids (and adults). After you get the book, read up on the restaurants so yo ucan start thinking about your Priority Seatings(PS's)for sit down restaurants. During the peak times they are a must if you want something other than a burger and fries from a counter service place. Don't get me wrong, there are some great counter service places like Pecos Bill's and Cosmic Ray's in MK and Backlot Express in MGM. Great burgers there! Like I said, ask plenty of questions and someone will try to answer them!

 

[pearljim]

Plan but don't overplan - be flexible depending on weather, crowds, individual/group energy, etc. Most importantly, remember you are on vacation - relax and have a wonderful time!!

 

[cvemom]

Congratulations. My only suggestion is see it all and make this the first trip of many!

 

[f7prez]

You never fotget your first time. Most people return many times after their first, which is why the one piece of advice I like to give is to TAKE YOUR TIME and enjoy what you are able to see and do.
After two days of park hopping, we like to spend a day relaxing at one of the water parks (Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon). Find a spot in the shade, take in some water slide fun, sip a cool drink back at your chair and relax. I find the water parks to be just as much fun as the rest of Disney. In July it can be just what the doctor ordered.
Remember, July is VERY hot and humid so take your time, read the Unofficial Guide to see what attractions may interest you most and don't think you will see it all. Save the rest for your next trip.

The link below is a fun website that will give you the best insight to your stay at the Polynesian.
http://www.tikiman2001.homestead.com/

HAVE FUN
Mike

 

[TJA]

I suggest you take some time and look over the menus at all the parks and resorts in Disney -- here is the link:

http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menus.htm

This will help you at least have some ideas on what restaurants you want to try. I have never been to Disney in July, so I'm not sure about the crowds and if you should make PS's (priority seating, i.e., reservations...). O'Hana's at the Poly is a great choice for dinner.

Utilize the monorail at the Poly. You can walk to the TTC (ticket & transportation center) from the Poly, and the TTC has a direct monorail to both Epcot and MK.

I'm not sure what type of tickets you have or how many adults and children are going with you, but the 2 water parks are very fun for all ages (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon), especially in July!

You can take a bus to Downtown Disney, which has shopping and restaurants. Pleasure Island is there for the folks over 21.

Because of the heat in July, I suggest getting to the parks in the early morning and perhaps planning lunch or some pool time back at the Poly in the afternoon when the temperature is at its peak.

The shows in the evenings are wonderful -- Wishes at MK, Epcot fireworks, etc.

Read threads on these boards to get ideas and suggestions. The DIS is a wealth of knowledge.

Have Fun!

 

[trappednabox]

THANKS! to everyone...all this has been helpful!! i can't wait!