Fsudisney
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Mar 19, 2005
- Messages
- 443
Officially Scared Of Disney
- Thread starter WDWfirstimer
- Start date
goofy4tink
No tags...not needed! Transportation moderator
- Joined
- May 2, 2002
- Messages
- 54,711
It will be surface of the sun hot...and more humid than you can imagine! But, it's doable. Here are my summertime hints..
1. drink more water than you think you need....a bottle every 90 mins at least.
2. potty breaks...you're drinking more, so once your body gets the water it needs, you'll be in the restrooms more often..but that's good. You can now rinse off your face and wipe down your neck, arms, etc. Great way to stay cool.
3. wear a hat...wide brimmed.
4. short sleeves vs tank tops. They keep the sun off your back and shoulders.
5. more water
6. breaks inside shops or at shows.
There are other things I recommend but you aren't staying on-site, so they wouldn't apply....extra shoes so you can change midday, head to the resort for a swim and rest midday, etc.
Yes, they do shut down the parks if they reach capacity. Resort guests are the last people to get denied entrance...you are off-site, so you could have an issue if you tried to get into MK after noon!
Do you have a good guide book? If not, I would buy one. Then sit with it and decide what the things are that you really want to do. Then, map out a strategy for each day. Yes, 12 hrs in the park, in July, is going to be tough. But, if you do it right, you should be fine. Have a plan...and go with it. You probably won't be able to do all that you want to do due to crowds. But as long as you realize that, you should be fine.
1. drink more water than you think you need....a bottle every 90 mins at least.
2. potty breaks...you're drinking more, so once your body gets the water it needs, you'll be in the restrooms more often..but that's good. You can now rinse off your face and wipe down your neck, arms, etc. Great way to stay cool.
3. wear a hat...wide brimmed.
4. short sleeves vs tank tops. They keep the sun off your back and shoulders.
5. more water
6. breaks inside shops or at shows.
There are other things I recommend but you aren't staying on-site, so they wouldn't apply....extra shoes so you can change midday, head to the resort for a swim and rest midday, etc.
Yes, they do shut down the parks if they reach capacity. Resort guests are the last people to get denied entrance...you are off-site, so you could have an issue if you tried to get into MK after noon!
Do you have a good guide book? If not, I would buy one. Then sit with it and decide what the things are that you really want to do. Then, map out a strategy for each day. Yes, 12 hrs in the park, in July, is going to be tough. But, if you do it right, you should be fine. Have a plan...and go with it. You probably won't be able to do all that you want to do due to crowds. But as long as you realize that, you should be fine.
Mome Rath
3 Decade Disney Traveler
- Joined
- Mar 13, 2014
- Messages
- 2,661
Don't Panic...
As others have said, it depends on what park you are talking about. Each park is more or less popular on the 4th. That being said, it is actually less stressful to get to the park you want to be in for the fireworks and know that you've gotten in, than it is to wait too long and stress about whether you'll make it in or not. There's a reason that is so crowded; people enjoy being there on that particular holiday, that means you are in good company!
You can indeed survive the heat, just make sure to note what other posters have told you. Taking your time is paramount, because you force yourself to find shade, go inside, drink plenty of water, hit the restrooms, browse shops that are inside, etc... Another tip is to obviously make sure you are healthy and have any meds you need with you (including Advil, aspirin, etc...) and get used to walking. A trip to Disney is a good motivator to get outside and get in shape; conditioning makes a big difference.
This is trickier because it is all based off of what you like to eat. Take EPCOT, for example. You have food from all over the world, and each country in World Showcase usually has a walk up counter service, and a table service option. Even if you have no ADR's, you aren't going to starve by any means. Also, first timers at Disney seem to plan too many ADR's and wind up so full of food that they are miserable. ADR's are most important when you know you want a break in the middle of the day and it is going to be crowded. People have provided you with a lot of info on dining, and since it is your first time, a little guesswork will come into play.
I discussed conditioning and exercise above, but the other thing you are worried about here "not getting in" is more easily taken care of. If you get to a park in the morning, you will be ok. It's not as if a flood hits at 8 am and they close the gate at 8:05am. At this time of year, you'll want to go to a park in the morning anyway because of the heat. At Christmas they tend to reach capacity around 10am in the MK (someone correct me if I'm wrong). Having said that, it is always a good idea if you want to be absolutely sure to get in, just get there in the morn when the park opens.
Just don't underestimate the impact of thousands of people around you. lol It does take a bit of mental prepping. I've been at New Years and the sensory impression you are left with is that if you simply stand still and pick up your feet, the crowd would carry you along. It's an experience I'm glad I had a couple of times, but not one that I'd wish to repeat.
In short, I don't think you should panic at all, but do prepare to go with the flow, and take those steps to manage the heat.
MycatlovesEeyore
Two WDW fanatics are now a family of 4 with a litt
- Joined
- Apr 13, 2000
- Messages
- 328
Frogg Toggs are great, buy one and cut lengthwise and you will have 2! We discovered on our first trip that the bathrooms have a/c, we were so dehydrated we were never in there! Drink, drink, drink! All the water fountains have cool water, we use Mio to flavor it. You can get free water with ice at any counter service.
Doing your homework is half the battle. We have been at all times of the year and find that Holiday weeks Disney ramps up the service, hours, etc to accommodate. I have found Feb worse that July as there is less staff and they close early. Do late night EMH at MK if you can. Take breaks mid day if not used to the heat.
Most important, enjoy and understand you can't do it all even with 10 days.
Doing your homework is half the battle. We have been at all times of the year and find that Holiday weeks Disney ramps up the service, hours, etc to accommodate. I have found Feb worse that July as there is less staff and they close early. Do late night EMH at MK if you can. Take breaks mid day if not used to the heat.
Most important, enjoy and understand you can't do it all even with 10 days.
terri33inne
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jul 16, 2013
- Messages
- 877
What airline are you flying? Southwest is super easy (with no fees) to change flights... I also think JetBlue is only $75 or something like that. So you may want to double check.
If that is not a possibility you will still have a great trip. You're already aware of the potential crowd issues so you can plan accordingly. All the advice you've already gotten has been great. Since you're staying off property I would say to avoid the park with EMH.
Another great website is **************.net
If that is not a possibility you will still have a great trip. You're already aware of the potential crowd issues so you can plan accordingly. All the advice you've already gotten has been great. Since you're staying off property I would say to avoid the park with EMH.
Another great website is **************.net
Those misting spray fans another poster mentioned are really helpful. I bring one whenever I do touring at a hot / humid place (e.g. Orlando in the summer). It really helps me deal with the heat. I use these when I play tennis in St. Louis in the summer too, with lots of humidity and heat indexes above 100. Not so sure I'd make it without this.
The Carousel of Progress ride at the MK in particular is not very popular (short line), is a good place to go for an air conditioning break or a short nap. On my first and only summer trip, I went there when I was hot and tired and took a nap.
For high season for figuring out what to do in the parks with a limited amount of time (Disney and Universal), I usually subscribe to www.tourplans.com. Next December I have one day at IOA/Universal and one day at the MK, and used their plans to pick and choose attractions / optimize the order I do things and see how much I could reasonably get in, even though it's low season.
I'd suggest waterparks and beach that time of year, but realize you only have four days, so will want to do the theme parks, as that's what Orlando is known for.
Orlando is a good time any time, but it will be hot, it will be humid, and it will be crowded. But it will still be fun!
We stay offsite too (great value), and make sure not to go to a Disney park with morning extra magic hours, as we want the full advantage of rope drop (being the first people in). I would suggest rope drop on theme park days too (lowest crowds and nicest temperatures for you entire day).
The Carousel of Progress ride at the MK in particular is not very popular (short line), is a good place to go for an air conditioning break or a short nap. On my first and only summer trip, I went there when I was hot and tired and took a nap.
For high season for figuring out what to do in the parks with a limited amount of time (Disney and Universal), I usually subscribe to www.tourplans.com. Next December I have one day at IOA/Universal and one day at the MK, and used their plans to pick and choose attractions / optimize the order I do things and see how much I could reasonably get in, even though it's low season.
I'd suggest waterparks and beach that time of year, but realize you only have four days, so will want to do the theme parks, as that's what Orlando is known for.
Orlando is a good time any time, but it will be hot, it will be humid, and it will be crowded. But it will still be fun!
We stay offsite too (great value), and make sure not to go to a Disney park with morning extra magic hours, as we want the full advantage of rope drop (being the first people in). I would suggest rope drop on theme park days too (lowest crowds and nicest temperatures for you entire day).
ArwenMarie
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Apr 10, 2013
- Messages
- 9,555
I second (third?) the suggestion about Frogg Toggs. I am really sensitive to heat and we go every year in August and I am fine as long as I have a Frogg Togg around my neck (and sunscreen and a light hat of course). I buy one and cut it down the middle diagonally and make two out of it. Then you wet it well and put it around your neck and down your tee shirt like a scarf.
Here is the Amazon link
http://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Toggs-Chilly-Cooling-Towel/dp/B0049RPBWW
Get one for everyone!
Here is the Amazon link
http://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Toggs-Chilly-Cooling-Towel/dp/B0049RPBWW
Get one for everyone!
Momof2Singers
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Mar 28, 2014
- Messages
- 759
Another vote for Chilly Pads, you can get some of these at Walmart for $7, water and ice in parks is free, so every couple of hours get a cup and re-wet your pad, it is wonderful and will keep you nice and cool.
DON'T go to the hamburger QS unless you love hamburger's, the meals are huge, you could actually share one of these with the abundance of fries that comes with it and eat more later.
Refill your water bottle, we made the mistake our first trip and continued to buy bottles YIKES, $30 for water, never again.
I agree with character meals, choose one, the cheapest is BREAKFAST at Crystal Palace. If you can get one closer to the end of Breakfast, you may be able to enjoy breakfast and lunch and still be charged for the breakfast meal which is under $30 each. It has all four POOH characters, and you wold have a good meal.
ADDED: 50's Prime Time for lunch is excellent for lunch in HS and lots of fun
Good Luck let us know how it goes
preemiemama
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jun 13, 2009
- Messages
- 2,022
Hi, there! If you look at my countdown ticker you will see that we will be there at the same time! 
We are June/July vets, and have not gone at any other time over the past 20 years. Dont panic! It is perfectly do-able, even with the crowds!
First, a few years ago we were there for July 4th in Hollywood Studios (HS) for the fireworks. They are beautiful there, and FAR less crowded than Magic Kingdom (MK). I believe the only park that closed to capacity was MK- you should not have trouble in HS. It will be crowded, but not wall to wall people!
Also, can I ask where you have reservations in MK on July 3rd? Last I knew, they had the same fireworks in MK on both the 3rd and the 4th, so you may be able to see them then! We actually at in the sunroom at Tonys and were able to see the fireworks from dinner. There are plenty of places around the park to see them, so dont worry!
The advice you are getting about rope drop and hydration are correct- get there early and stay late. Eat somewhere at lunch where it is cool and you can relax. The list of cool places to rest are all good as well for breaks from the heat. It is going to be hot and humid- no getting around it! We usually stay on site, so we go back to the hotel to swim and then return to the parks. You just need to find places to take breaks in the park instead.
There are places nearby the parks for dinner. For example, from HS, I would recommend taking the boat to Boardwalk and going to Kouzzina for dinner. From MK, you could take the monorail to any of the resorts (Grand Floridian, Poly, Contemporary) to eat lunch or dinner. They all have both counter and table service restaurants, and this is another good way to cool off!
Either way, since it is just adults, you could plan meals for off peak times. Often, you can find an ADR for even some of the popular table service places at a different time of day (4 pm or 8 pm dinner, for example, or 2 pm lunch). The same is true for counter service. (Be Our Guest, for example, is FAR less crowded at 1:30 pm for lunch- and that does not need a reservation!)
Also, while Animal Kingdom is nice, I would say your current plan is fine. AK is a 1/2 day park, in my opinion, and also seems to feel hotter to me in the summer. We have park hoppers, so we usually go one morning and clear out by lunchtime before it gets unbearable.
Easywdw and Allears are really good resources- menus, prices, tips, touring plans- these are all VERY helpful, particularly for first timers and particularly for Fastpass.
Finally, for the Anna and Elsa meet and greet, I read yesterday on Easywdw that they are going to open up times for them to meet beyond 5 pm. Going near the end of the day should work- like during the parade or after the fireworks. They are supposed to be there until 30 minutes before the park closes, so given the current hours would mean 10:30 pm at least.
We are June/July vets, and have not gone at any other time over the past 20 years. Dont panic! It is perfectly do-able, even with the crowds!First, a few years ago we were there for July 4th in Hollywood Studios (HS) for the fireworks. They are beautiful there, and FAR less crowded than Magic Kingdom (MK). I believe the only park that closed to capacity was MK- you should not have trouble in HS. It will be crowded, but not wall to wall people!
Also, can I ask where you have reservations in MK on July 3rd? Last I knew, they had the same fireworks in MK on both the 3rd and the 4th, so you may be able to see them then! We actually at in the sunroom at Tonys and were able to see the fireworks from dinner. There are plenty of places around the park to see them, so dont worry!
The advice you are getting about rope drop and hydration are correct- get there early and stay late. Eat somewhere at lunch where it is cool and you can relax. The list of cool places to rest are all good as well for breaks from the heat. It is going to be hot and humid- no getting around it! We usually stay on site, so we go back to the hotel to swim and then return to the parks. You just need to find places to take breaks in the park instead.
There are places nearby the parks for dinner. For example, from HS, I would recommend taking the boat to Boardwalk and going to Kouzzina for dinner. From MK, you could take the monorail to any of the resorts (Grand Floridian, Poly, Contemporary) to eat lunch or dinner. They all have both counter and table service restaurants, and this is another good way to cool off!
Either way, since it is just adults, you could plan meals for off peak times. Often, you can find an ADR for even some of the popular table service places at a different time of day (4 pm or 8 pm dinner, for example, or 2 pm lunch). The same is true for counter service. (Be Our Guest, for example, is FAR less crowded at 1:30 pm for lunch- and that does not need a reservation!)
Also, while Animal Kingdom is nice, I would say your current plan is fine. AK is a 1/2 day park, in my opinion, and also seems to feel hotter to me in the summer. We have park hoppers, so we usually go one morning and clear out by lunchtime before it gets unbearable.
Easywdw and Allears are really good resources- menus, prices, tips, touring plans- these are all VERY helpful, particularly for first timers and particularly for Fastpass.
Finally, for the Anna and Elsa meet and greet, I read yesterday on Easywdw that they are going to open up times for them to meet beyond 5 pm. Going near the end of the day should work- like during the parade or after the fireworks. They are supposed to be there until 30 minutes before the park closes, so given the current hours would mean 10:30 pm at least.
dsneprincess
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Feb 3, 2009
- Messages
- 1,176
I wouldn't be too stressed out: A bad day at Disney is better than the best day at home!
We have been in June, July & August. We are not from a hot, humid locality & we have done it with small toddlers!! Frogg Toggs are lifesavers as ae well timed long inside AC'd attractions. I saw a good list up thread.
We also don't do dining reservations because I don't like to "have to be" somewhere on time on vacation. There are lots of good options. Be Our Guest is walk up for lunch, we have not eaten there as we typically do MK later in the day as our 2nd park with park hoppers. My favorite at MK is Columbia Harbor House, Sunshine Season's at Epcot, and I like Pizza Planet at HS, although I know others on the DIS disagree. I will say we are not adventurous or sophisticated eaters which probably makes a big difference. I like to spend my Disney time doing Disney things, not eating. I can go to restaurants at home. YMMV....
I also bring the refillable water bottles and carry snacks, lots of them; ponchos for each of us, extra sunscreen, hats, chill pads, cameras, & Tylenol and/or Advil.(had to buy it once, way expensive, will never forget at again!)
We have been in June, July & August. We are not from a hot, humid locality & we have done it with small toddlers!! Frogg Toggs are lifesavers as ae well timed long inside AC'd attractions. I saw a good list up thread.
We also don't do dining reservations because I don't like to "have to be" somewhere on time on vacation. There are lots of good options. Be Our Guest is walk up for lunch, we have not eaten there as we typically do MK later in the day as our 2nd park with park hoppers. My favorite at MK is Columbia Harbor House, Sunshine Season's at Epcot, and I like Pizza Planet at HS, although I know others on the DIS disagree. I will say we are not adventurous or sophisticated eaters which probably makes a big difference. I like to spend my Disney time doing Disney things, not eating. I can go to restaurants at home. YMMV....
I also bring the refillable water bottles and carry snacks, lots of them; ponchos for each of us, extra sunscreen, hats, chill pads, cameras, & Tylenol and/or Advil.(had to buy it once, way expensive, will never forget at again!)
Out of curiosity, i checked out the crowd levels on touring plan for days around July 4th. After the day of the 4th itself, crowd levels drop quite a bit. For example, Monday, 7/7, Epcot has a projected crowd level of a 3. That ain't bad!
I'm beginning to suspect I picked the wrong week to visit Disney this year.
I'm beginning to suspect I picked the wrong week to visit Disney this year.
First of all, welcome and congrats on your 1st trip
We have almost always gone in July and will be going this year in July again. We actually love going at that time year....the parks have later hours than during non-peak times and since it is more of a busy time there are generally not as many refurbs as there are during off seasons.
There is a lot of information out there about planning a WDW trip...it is easy to freak out over planning (especially a 1st trip). However with basic knowledge you should be fine
The heat:
Yes, July is very hot and humid....there is no denying that. However there are things you can do to help make yourself more comfortable when touring the parks.
1) Sunscreen is of course important
2) Wear light and breathable clothing
3) Hydrate!! VERY important. We keep water with us at all times. We normally buy bottled water from a kiosk and refill them throughout the park at water fountains.
4) Try to stagger the attractions/eatting/shopping. Some attractions will be air conditioned as well as shops and eateries. Do a few things that will be in the heat and then go do something in the air conditioning to give your body a break.
5) If I find myself overheating in a park this helps me. I sometimes go into a bathroom, wet a paper towel and wipe down my face, neck and arms. Seems to help stabilize my body temperature.
6) Do not eat a lot of salty foods. I find that the combination of heat and very salty foods make my hands swell a bit and probably my feet too....tends to kind of tighten the muscles and makes you uncomfortable. I am mindfull of this and try not to eat a lot of salty foods in one day or wait until after the heat of mid-day it doesn't seem to bother me.
The crowds and closures:
July is busy and crowd levels are higher than at other times of year. We normally go in mid-July so we have never experienced 4th crowds. But from reading things and seeing on sites it can get rather busy and yes there will most likely be closures on the 4th. I would suggest going in July in general but probably would not of suggested a busy holiday as a 1st time trip. However if you know about the heavy crowds ahead of time and know how to go about things you should be ok.
There are different levels of closures....it goes through phases...some people are still being let in during lower phases but it depends of the type of guest as to who is let in. It isn't until it reaches a higher phase that no other guests are allowed in. You can read about the phases here:
http://touringplans.com/walt-disney-world/capacity-closures
My suggestion is on the 4th pick the park you want to see fireworks at (I believe you said DHS)...plan on going early (maybe not rope drop but still probably by noon)....and plan on staying there all day. If you wait until later to go there you run the risk of not getting in and if you were there but leave and try to go back you run the risk of not getting back in.
The crowds and be able to do the attractions you want:
Ourselves we tend to get to the parks late morning/early afternoon....park hop throughout the day and close down a park. We love the evening EMH (I believe you said you are staying offsite so EMH will not be open for you per sey...morning ones you couldn't enter...evening ones you do not have to leave if you wanted you could stay, shop and eat but would not be able to go on any attractions).
As I am sure you have noticed there is a lot to do and see. Just realize that you will not be able to do everything. I would choose must do attractions, use the FP+ system to help ease wait times and enjoy.
Dining:
The rule of thumb is to make reservations a head of time to table services. Some places are really hard to impossible to get tables at the day of due to their popularity. Some table services will have tables available the day of...you could check this either at the place itself, your MDE app or guest services at the parks will normally have information for you.
Do not think that you have to have reservations or you will not eat as there are tons of other options besides table services. There are quick services and kiosks throught the parks that are strickly walk up based.
If you would like to know more about dining options I would suggest checking out: http://allears.net/dining/menu
On there you can look at menus of table services, quick services, and most kiosks around the parks and resort hotels. It says when it was last updated so you know how current it is and also shows prices. It is good for planning budgets and figuring out where you might want to eat.
We have almost always gone in July and will be going this year in July again. We actually love going at that time year....the parks have later hours than during non-peak times and since it is more of a busy time there are generally not as many refurbs as there are during off seasons.
There is a lot of information out there about planning a WDW trip...it is easy to freak out over planning (especially a 1st trip). However with basic knowledge you should be fine
The heat:
Yes, July is very hot and humid....there is no denying that. However there are things you can do to help make yourself more comfortable when touring the parks.
1) Sunscreen is of course important
2) Wear light and breathable clothing
3) Hydrate!! VERY important. We keep water with us at all times. We normally buy bottled water from a kiosk and refill them throughout the park at water fountains.
4) Try to stagger the attractions/eatting/shopping. Some attractions will be air conditioned as well as shops and eateries. Do a few things that will be in the heat and then go do something in the air conditioning to give your body a break.
5) If I find myself overheating in a park this helps me. I sometimes go into a bathroom, wet a paper towel and wipe down my face, neck and arms. Seems to help stabilize my body temperature.
6) Do not eat a lot of salty foods. I find that the combination of heat and very salty foods make my hands swell a bit and probably my feet too....tends to kind of tighten the muscles and makes you uncomfortable. I am mindfull of this and try not to eat a lot of salty foods in one day or wait until after the heat of mid-day it doesn't seem to bother me.
The crowds and closures:
July is busy and crowd levels are higher than at other times of year. We normally go in mid-July so we have never experienced 4th crowds. But from reading things and seeing on sites it can get rather busy and yes there will most likely be closures on the 4th. I would suggest going in July in general but probably would not of suggested a busy holiday as a 1st time trip. However if you know about the heavy crowds ahead of time and know how to go about things you should be ok.
There are different levels of closures....it goes through phases...some people are still being let in during lower phases but it depends of the type of guest as to who is let in. It isn't until it reaches a higher phase that no other guests are allowed in. You can read about the phases here:
http://touringplans.com/walt-disney-world/capacity-closures
My suggestion is on the 4th pick the park you want to see fireworks at (I believe you said DHS)...plan on going early (maybe not rope drop but still probably by noon)....and plan on staying there all day. If you wait until later to go there you run the risk of not getting in and if you were there but leave and try to go back you run the risk of not getting back in.
The crowds and be able to do the attractions you want:
Ourselves we tend to get to the parks late morning/early afternoon....park hop throughout the day and close down a park. We love the evening EMH (I believe you said you are staying offsite so EMH will not be open for you per sey...morning ones you couldn't enter...evening ones you do not have to leave if you wanted you could stay, shop and eat but would not be able to go on any attractions).
As I am sure you have noticed there is a lot to do and see. Just realize that you will not be able to do everything. I would choose must do attractions, use the FP+ system to help ease wait times and enjoy.
Dining:
The rule of thumb is to make reservations a head of time to table services. Some places are really hard to impossible to get tables at the day of due to their popularity. Some table services will have tables available the day of...you could check this either at the place itself, your MDE app or guest services at the parks will normally have information for you.
Do not think that you have to have reservations or you will not eat as there are tons of other options besides table services. There are quick services and kiosks throught the parks that are strickly walk up based.
If you would like to know more about dining options I would suggest checking out: http://allears.net/dining/menu
On there you can look at menus of table services, quick services, and most kiosks around the parks and resort hotels. It says when it was last updated so you know how current it is and also shows prices. It is good for planning budgets and figuring out where you might want to eat.
turkey1031
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Aug 21, 2013
- Messages
- 371
I've been going in June and July for my last few trips. Last years trip was 7/7-7/15 I think. It was hot. Not to the point were I thought it was a desert but it was pretty hot. We usually go into a store when we feel hot to cool off or find an indoors ride like carousel of progress or hall of presidents to sit and relax in ac with some entertainment. It rained a few of the days we were there so I'm glad we brought ponchos. There will be a lot of people there but it is summertime so you just have to expect crowds and generally long lines for many rides. We usually plan for two table serve restaurants and the rest are all counter serve meals. I suggest you check out the disney world site for the restaurants. Most show their menus and prices. I'd also suggest you check out the app for the wait times for rides before you go so that you can be mentally prepared for what you might see for waits. I always avoid the parks with the emh. This next trip I'll try to remember to bring a power strip so I can charge multiple devices at once. You will have a good time you will just need to be mentally prepared to wait in lines and walk at least 5 miles a day.
dimndgal1
One little spark...
- Joined
- Aug 10, 2010
- Messages
- 1,619
DH, DD, and I went with 4 of my ILs who were DIsney newbies from June 24-July 1 a few years ago and had a great time. We def noticed the crowds increasing for the Fourth but we still had a blast!
It is hot - but the mornings and evenings are much more bearable. We did rope drop, left around lunchtime, came back around dinner and closed the parks. Never waited in anything more than 15-20 min and took advantage of cooler attractions when things were too crazy (Tiki Room at MK, Innovations at Epcot, Nemo at AK...)
For meals, highly recommend hitting places off the 'beaten path' if you don't have ADRs. We LOVE Marrakesh but have never made an ADR... usually you can walk in, esp if you go during non-peak dining hours.
Finally, there is so much to do at Disney that isn't in the parks... you may not get to ride EVERYTHING but spend your break times wandering some of the resorts. Take advantage of the hotel pool. Grab a game of mini-golf. Watch WISHES from a location outside MK. So many things to do to avoid the crowds! Most of all, have a fun time!!!
It is hot - but the mornings and evenings are much more bearable. We did rope drop, left around lunchtime, came back around dinner and closed the parks. Never waited in anything more than 15-20 min and took advantage of cooler attractions when things were too crazy (Tiki Room at MK, Innovations at Epcot, Nemo at AK...)
For meals, highly recommend hitting places off the 'beaten path' if you don't have ADRs. We LOVE Marrakesh but have never made an ADR... usually you can walk in, esp if you go during non-peak dining hours.
Finally, there is so much to do at Disney that isn't in the parks... you may not get to ride EVERYTHING but spend your break times wandering some of the resorts. Take advantage of the hotel pool. Grab a game of mini-golf. Watch WISHES from a location outside MK. So many things to do to avoid the crowds! Most of all, have a fun time!!!
C-CMom
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Mar 30, 2005
- Messages
- 421
It can be made to be a big deal if you try to do more than is comfortable for you, but it does NOT have to be if you set some realistic priorities. I think what I get out of planning is to define the scope of what is important to me/us, realize we don't have to do it all (maybe ever, or at least in one trip), and create a couple of back-up strategies if some things don't work out. Besides, when I accept that I won't see everything, I can be pleasantly surprised if I do better than I thought. Our first trip we decided was primarily to scope it out so we could plan for something more in depth in the future. That approach was good for us.
We've been several times and prefer primarily Quick Service. It is convenient without the need for advance reservations. There really are many more options than burgers and fries. Check some menus in advance so you'll have some idea what locations may suit your tastes best but you don't have to plan every bite a month in advance.
Lots of attractions are indoors - great places to cool off. Seems like there are lots of fans and maybe misty spots scattered around.We get lots of cups of the free ice water at Quick Service locations - great for cooling down. Just sitting in a cool place can be nearly as refreshing as going back to a hotel without the trouble of catching the bus. There are even some scattered more quiet places if you just need a break in the middle of the day.
While I feel good about saying relax & don't panic, personally I feel better when I have done at least enough research to know the basics of what options I'll have when at a new place.
Good luck!
WDWfirstimer
Earning My Ears
- Joined
- May 30, 2014
- Messages
- 13
Preemiemama
Do you think it would be possible to leave the parks around 1pm each day and come back around 5-6pm? I am planning to get there at 8am each day (thats rope drop right because the parks open at 9am?) Our lunch reservations are at 12:15 so my plan was to do fun stuff all morning and utilize fast pass + have lunch and then leave to take a break. Come back for our dinner reservations (one in epcot coral reef at 750, and in MK at plaza restaurant at 635) and experience fireworks/fun? I know the 4th MK reaches capacity but is this still doable at Hollywood studios? Epcot 7/2, MK 7/3 and HS 7/4.
Do you think it would be possible to leave the parks around 1pm each day and come back around 5-6pm? I am planning to get there at 8am each day (thats rope drop right because the parks open at 9am?) Our lunch reservations are at 12:15 so my plan was to do fun stuff all morning and utilize fast pass + have lunch and then leave to take a break. Come back for our dinner reservations (one in epcot coral reef at 750, and in MK at plaza restaurant at 635) and experience fireworks/fun? I know the 4th MK reaches capacity but is this still doable at Hollywood studios? Epcot 7/2, MK 7/3 and HS 7/4.
StitchandPooh'sMom
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Feb 27, 2006
- Messages
- 7,139
OP, you are already ahead of the game since you are planning! It will be hot and crowded, but it is doable.
Josh at Easy WDW recommends MK on 7/2 unless you want to the fireworks at MK; then he recommends 7/3. Here is his info on crowds for your dates:
http://www.easywdw.com/calendar/july-2014-walt-disney-world-crowd-calendar/#more-12641
Typically, taking an afternoon break and coming back for dinner is the right advice. MK will likely close due to capacity on July 4th - I don't know if it will on the July 3rd. I wouldn't try to come back too close to your reservation time just in case.
It will be hot and crowded, but it is doable.Josh at Easy WDW recommends MK on 7/2 unless you want to the fireworks at MK; then he recommends 7/3. Here is his info on crowds for your dates:
http://www.easywdw.com/calendar/july-2014-walt-disney-world-crowd-calendar/#more-12641
Typically, taking an afternoon break and coming back for dinner is the right advice. MK will likely close due to capacity on July 4th - I don't know if it will on the July 3rd. I wouldn't try to come back too close to your reservation time just in case.
HEAT is a very subjective thing based on where you live. I live in Texas and both of my summer trips to WDW, have been about 10-15 degrees cooler at WDW than at home so for me it was great. If you live where the weather in summer is in the 70's you are really going to notice the heat and humidity and need to find ways to cool off. The only place that is uncomfortable to me is AK, as with all the vegetation it is more humid and you are less able to find a breeze to cool you off.
RllngRckBrw
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Feb 13, 2006
- Messages
- 1,701
Ok, it is going to be difficult compared to some of the cooler and slower times, bit that being said your trip is more than manageable.
Crowds will be excessive, especially on the fourth, but get there at rope drop to ride a few headliners and use FP+ and the parks are manageable. I recommend pushing hard to ride the "musts" for your family early in the morning for several reasons. The lines will be excessive later in the day, and it will also give you the ability to slow down, and find some AC later in the afternoon when necessary.
The parks will close (and usually only the MK) for brief periods if at all in the middle of the day but getting there early will give you nothing to worry about.
As far as addressing the heat, we definitely take wash rags for wiping sweat, and take frequent breaks in AC attractions through the day. Take a slow pace and you should be fine.
Crowds will be excessive, especially on the fourth, but get there at rope drop to ride a few headliners and use FP+ and the parks are manageable. I recommend pushing hard to ride the "musts" for your family early in the morning for several reasons. The lines will be excessive later in the day, and it will also give you the ability to slow down, and find some AC later in the afternoon when necessary.
The parks will close (and usually only the MK) for brief periods if at all in the middle of the day but getting there early will give you nothing to worry about.
As far as addressing the heat, we definitely take wash rags for wiping sweat, and take frequent breaks in AC attractions through the day. Take a slow pace and you should be fine.
preemiemama
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jun 13, 2009
- Messages
- 2,022
I know that one of the levels of closure still allows for re-entry to the parks for dinner reservations. I would think that you would be OK from what I experienced in HS on the 4th- it was not nearing closure. You could always make an ADR for a restaurant there to make sure you were covered. I am not crazy about the restaurants there, personally, but have eaten at and enjoyed Brown Derby. This is a signature, though...that means it is more expensive! I have heard that people have enjoyed Mama Melrose- might be worth a try?
I think you will be fine otherwise. The 3rd should not be an issue with closing, and you do have an ADR for the Plaza in case you needed it. If you want to see the fireworks in MK, I would stake out a place near Plaza once you have finished eating. (We usually watch from the rides, not sitting on Main Street, so I would look for others' advice here!)
As for Epcot, with a 750 ADR at Coral Reef, that will probably end your day. The rides close at 9, which is when Illuminations starts. I doubt you will be out in time to see it. Rose and Crown restaurant has patio seating on the water, and a designated place to watch Illuminations in case you are seated inside and want to see the show. You can just go out and watch from the patio. If you are interested, you might be able to see if you can get a reservation for 7:45-8:15 there? If it does not matter if you see the show or not, Coral Reef is a very cool place to dine. (Check any of the menus at Allears.net if you need to!)
Finally, if the park opens at 9, yes you can line up as early as 8. You will not technically get inside until about 8:45. I would get there (myself) at 8:30, go in with everyone, and head towards Frontierland (Splash and Thunder Mt) or Tomorrowland (Space Mt). Then fast pass the mine train (if you can) or ride it later in the day- after the fireworks. Lines early have been crazy for it! Heading to anywhere but Fantasyland will keep you out of the craziness early on and let you get in a few more rides while everyone is occupied.
Hope that helps? Mostly, try to relax and enjoy. It IS Disney after all.
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