Park Strategy for Short Trips

[maggnanimouse]

I'm hoping for some advice/tips on maximizing a short trip to WDW! In all of my previous trips, I've had the time for at least one park per day.

This September, I've got a Friday night Boo Bash ticket, and then a 2 day park hopper ticket to use on Saturday and Sunday. I'm already trying to brainstorm a plan of attack, but I'm afraid that in my effort to accomplish as much as possible, I'll be running around like a chicken with its head cut off, and will end up losing time. Add in the possibility of the return of "the line-jumping system that shall not be named" plus my first visit to the Food and Wine Festival, and I'm at a total loss.

How do you guys approach shorter trips to WDW? What kinds of things do you find you're willing to sacrifice, and what are total non-negotiables?

Any advice is appreciated! Thank you!

 

[auntlynne]

I hit My highlights. Things I enjoy, not trying to maximize the cost-per-hour. I do 2-4 parks per day; sometimes just going in for one ride and a snack. And I make sure I don’t wipe myself out so the next day is wasted.

After a late night at Boo Bash, I would do less on Saturday.

The approach is based on the expectation that I’ve been there before and probably will be going back.

If every ride is your favorite, you’re going to have a harder time.

Read the menus for F&W, so you know whats available.

 

[Gehrig1B]

I would establish my priorities and enjoy the weekend. “Maximizing” time in the parks would get in the way of the enjoyment for me.

Boo Bash should allow for a great visit to MK… I would reserve DHS and AK for the weekend, hit the favorite rides there and hop to EPCOT and or MK.

I doubt FP+, in whatever form, will be back by September but I would hope it was to lock in my favorite rides in advance.

 

[Bahamontes]

I feel like two days was plenty with FP, full (or extra) hours, and a willingness to spend time on MDE.
Now? Tougher.
The key is to accept that sleep is for the weak, and has no place in Disney World. That’s why they make coffee, and Red Bull, and amphetamine
I do a ~two day run as follows:

Check in to hotel and settle for an hour
Dinner in Winter Park and get to bed. Savor real food at reasonable prices!


Day 1:
Rope drop your favorite park.
Hop to in afternoon; stay until close/Boo Bash ending.

Day 2:
Rope drop your 2nd favorite park.
Hop to Epcot; it’s the best recovery park. Make sure to scope those F&W menus ahead of time.

Most importantly, as both other posters said, prioritize what you want to do. A flexible plan is great, but only if you know your backup options.