Newbie here..planning our first Disney trip

[minderella]

Hi all! I've been lurking for a few months, and figured since I'm about to officially book our vacation, I figured I should jump on in. In 2 months I've gone from knowing virtually nothing about Disney to being overwhelmed with information. I'm sorting through now, and trying to figure out how my H and our 3 kids (4, 2, and 1) will get the most out of our trip.

 

[Starclassic]

 

[jesswindsor]

Welcome!!!

 

[magicaldisney]

 

[Metro West]

Welcome!

 

[moobar25]

Welcome!
First thing- if you are planning on staying on property then the packages that are supposed to come out on 7/11 will be helpful. You will know if free dining is offered and any other deals.
Next, helpful for planning your stay are the Extra Magic Hours - once again if you are staying on property. During EMH, if you didn't know, the parks are open earlier or later than normal for the guests staying on property. They help get the most out of your time and the parks are less crowded. EMH can be found on the main Disney site under Parks & are posted about 6 months ahead.
That said, a couple suggestions for the park planning.
AK- go there early, am EMH if possible, and do the safari -the animals are most active in the am. The kids will love it. My 3mo daughter loved the bumpy ride - if nothing else LOL
MK- take advantage of the pm EMH which a lot of times is 8pm - 12am. This will let you go to MK in am, less crowded, take a break mid-day at resort pool or nap, and then go back for the afternoon/evening with rested kids.
Enjoy your planning.

 

[TheDisneyGang6]

Hi!

 

[disneychic2]

 

[cessnamommy]

Hello and happy planning!

 

[jwmoss]

Mickey's Magic Vacations is a great travel company that focuses on Disney trips. If you book with them, they will help you sort through the confusion and plan the perfect vacation for your family. You can find them on Facebook or online.