Welcome to the board, Christine!!
I can't answer your questions about the dining plan with the exception that my DBro got it with one of his stays & he said he would never do it again because Disney became "all about the eating". He & his family did not and could not use all the meals that came with it. I've heard other people say that, as well. And... it really isn't "free". Disney has this way of making you feel that you're getting a bargain, but, Disney is not in the habit of losing money!
If you're thinking about bringing your MH and staying at FtW in September 08, you will be staying during the value rate time period & will pay $47/nite for full hook-up or $56/nite for preferred. There are state & resort taxes on top of that price. If you have
AAA, you might want to see if you can get additional discounts.
As far as camping in Central Florida - close to all the attractions including the Space Center- you might as well stay at FtW. There are not too many campgrounds in the area, and the ones that are there are very poor quality or not kid friendly. They are also about the same price as FtW - or higher priced. As you know, your kids will
not be bored at FtW!!
I'll leave the ticketing question to others more familiar with that. I am a Fla. Resident and get AP's - so I don't pay attention to the other pricing options.
I would get ressies made for FtW ASAP, as it is becoming more and more difficult to get a ressie. Remember - you can always cancel if something better comes up.
Hope this helps-
Debbie