New to DVC

[zendisney]

Hello folks... we are new to DVC . Saratoga Springs is our home and we are taking our first trip in 25 days. We are not new to Disney World. Definately familiar with stuff but being new to DVC and bringing toddler for the first time. We are also going to get the annual pass.
We will have our 3 year old daughter with us. I guess I am seeking tips on what we should do as far as....
1. Should we get the dining plan? which one?
2. What do you sugest are the "Don't let her miss that...
3. Suggestions for visits with characters especially princesses.
Thanks in advance Mouse Lovers!
Peace!

 

[Dodie]

You're probably here because you listen to the podcast, but have you found the DVC-specific boards here too? I know that your questions aren't DVC-specific, but those folks are experts on everything related to DVC and Disney World.

http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=&f=7

Welcome to the DIS and WELCOME HOME!

 

[Commando2319]

For 1.

Whether or not you want to use the dining plan really depends on what is your goal with food. Are you looking to simply save money or are you looking to have some wonderful dining experiences without going broke.

If you simply want to save money, it is cheaper to cook as much as you can in the room, bring as much snacks into the Parks as possible, and only eat quick service and then split meals.

If you instead want to go to a character meal or dine at a fine restaurant without having to go broke, the dining plan is excellent. It covers all of the food you would need to eat in the park at a reasonable cost. And it covers one fancy meal each day.

Myself, I always get the lowest dining plan. 1 dinner, 1 quick service, and 1 snack. I find this is all the food I need for my trip. Plus I usually get several snacks to take home. Plus it allows me to go to one character meal each day. And never have to think about money for eating. Other than tips. (I liked it when tips were included)

 

[Commando2319]

For 2

I highly recommend the Family Magic Tour. It is in the Magic Kingdom every day from 10:00am to 12:30pm. You race around the Park on mission for Mickey trying to save the Park from Captain Hook.

It is a great way to get your kids familiar with the Park. It is a lot of fun and you get some great one on one time with Peter Pan. I took my 3 and 4 year old daughters and they loved it. Their favorite thing they did the whole trip.

On it is a very reasonable price. About 25 per person.

 

[Commando2319]

For 3

The best advice I have for finding characters is to talk to the Cast members who manage the characters. They wear the Mickey hand on their jackets or shirts. Ask them where and what times you can she characters.

They all won't know everything, but will each be able to give you insight on the characters in their area. Like where and when to meet Alice and the Mad Hatter, or when the Cinderella's Step mother and step-sisters are around.

For Princesses, you need to go to the judges tent in toon town. Long line, but good quality time with 3 princesses (they rotate). Other than that, you will need character dining in the Cinderella's Castle. Epcot has quite a few princesses walking around the World Showcase. And in the Princess dining there.

Good luck and enjoy your trip!

 

[oakmanner]

Welcome to the Dis and welcome to DVC!

 

[cj9200]

1. Before you commit to the dining plan you need to make sure you have ADR's for table service restaurants or it is not worth it. Going in 25 days if you have not made them by now many may be hard to find. I don't like the plan because it is too meal focused. As an AP holder you also can get the Tables in Wonderland (hate the new name) which gives you 20% off most sit down places. It costs, I think $60 for a year but if you eat at enough places or go more than once a year, it pays for itself.

2. She is going to love wherever you take her. My suggestion is for you guys to not miss seeing her enjoy it. My daughter is now 15. She has gone from her first hug from a character (Minnie) and riding Dumbo to Rock and Roller Coaster. Time flies so soak it in.

3. You may want to think about taking her to the new fairies meet and greet. Haven't done that and heard it takes time but from other people's reports it is a good experience.

Have a great time.