Need Some Help

[dahrjo]

We have a trip planned for Feb.19-27. I have the park tickets. We are flying Southwest and staying at POR. We will have a rental car.
That's all I have planned!!!
Does anyone have a basic list of can't miss things while we are there?

The information here is very overwhelming.
It is our first trip to Disney with our 3 kids ages 10, 8 and 5.
I have very basic plans of checking for the EMH and eating wherever we are.
I'm not sure which parks the kids will like best to return to and I know they want to do some swimming at the hotel.

I am worried about getting the Boarding passes at Southwest. I wish I already could have that done!

Everyone is very excited to go, I am just concerned we will miss something we shouldn't have or be in the longest lines!

Thanks.

 

[MAKHayes-DisneyDiva]

I know it can be overwhelming! I checked the Frommer's Guide to Walt Disney World out at my local library and it is great. They actually explain each ride and tell which ages will like it. I think this would be helpful because you have kids ranging in age from 5-10. There are lots of tips and reviews for places to eat as well.
Last year was our first trip, and we are going back in March!! Last year I had each family member pick the ride or attraction that was their #1 choice for each park. I knew we wouldn't have time to hit everything, and that way we each got to ride/see at least one favorite each day.
One other tip - advanced dining reservations! We found this very helpful.
Have fun!

 

[f7prez]

I too would suggest a guide book. My favorite is the Unofficial Guide To Walt Disney World.
Take your time and enjoy what you are able to see on this trip. Most likely you will be back. The place has that effect on people.

To answer your question of what not to miss on your first trip,

MK: All 3 mountains (Splash, Space and Big Thunder), Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, Mickey's PhilharMagic, Small World, Country Bears, Peter Pans Flight

EPCOT: Test Track, Mission Space, Spaceship Earth, Honey I shrunk the Audience, Body Wars, Splendid China

MGM: Tower of Terror, Rockin Rollercoaster, Muppet 3D, Backlot Tour, Terminator

AK: Kali River Rapids, Everest, Killimanjaro Safari, It's tough to be a bug, Maharaja Jungle Trek, Pangani Exploration Trail, Festival of the Lion King.

The water parks are also a fun way to spend a relaxing day.

Remember, take your time.

 

[moniot]

One of the first things I did was get each of my kids a map for each of the parks. They each got to check everything out a get familar with the layouts. I also check online ahead of time (allears) for EMH so I could plan which parks we were going to. Late night at MK then a late start into Epcot the next day and stay for the fireworks.

I also went as far as printing out some menus of places we wanted to eat so the kids could plan ahead.

Now I end up with a calander listing which park on which day.....where we have our res. at and I have menus attached to the back. I include parade and show times also. Every AM the kids just ask whats the plan and we enjoy the day.