Need updating haven't gone since 2008

[PrinceOfPeace]

So we are hoping to go this year and we've increased our family by 2 more. It's been a while since we've gone so if anyone can help with the following questions...that would be great:

1. What is new since 2008?
2. What is closed since then?
3. What is a must for a family to maximize visit?

More info: kids ages 4,5,8

Thank you!!!!

 

[DisneyRegulars]

So we are hoping to go this year and we've increased our family by 2 more. It's been a while since we've gone so if anyone can help with the following questions...that would be great:

1. What is new since 2008?
2. What is closed since then?
3. What is a must for a family to maximize visit?

More info: kids ages 4,5,8

Thank you!!!!

Well to start with you will want to brush up on the new fast pass system! You can now book your fast passes sixty days in advance if you are staying onsite.

There's a whole new section of fantasy land in the magic kingdom. Hollywood studios is undergoing major renovations, and lots of attractions will be closed as they make way for toy story and Star Wars themed areas.

Animal Kingdom is getting a new night time show, and a new Avatar land to open in the future.

They redid test track at Epcot.

Lots has changed and is currently changing!

 

[monorailsilver]

I would suggest looking thru All Ears. Look at every park, dining, resorts, etc.... So much changes weekly..OK not that often. But there is the new Fantasyland, toon town is gone (we went in 2008 and I swear it was still there because I took my youngest who was 2 then into Minnies house while my dh was with my other 2. Plus what DisneyREgulars said above.

As to maximize your visit, rest. I have 3 kids as well (current ages 14, 12 & 9 for 2 more days). The last time we went was in 2013 and like previous trips I make sure we take a mid day break to nap. We go in the summer so getting out of that sun is vital to our moods. We fly so we don't do a park on arrival or departure day mainly because we are tired-no one sleeps the night before, we are up early, sitting on a plane for 3 hours is just tiring in itself. I now have a plan and we do a max of 2 park days and then take a day off. If we do any more then it won't be pretty but not everyone can schedule like that. The last time we went for 10 days so we did 5 park days and 5 pool days (2 were travel days but we pretty much had the whole day).