Planning 1st trip-need help!

[sixkids]

My wife and I will be in Ft. Myers for a couple of weeks in June/July of 05, and would like to take the kids to Orlando. We have 6, but only the youngest 4 will be coming along, daughter age 7, sons 9,10 & 16. We would drive up, and wonder if it is worth it to stay in hotels at the park, or not. We would likely be park jumpers, and plan on spending 3-4 days. (or until the $ runs out!) I have avoided this trip for years, but have been told in a recent family meeting, it will be done in '05. Any ideas would be appreciated! Thank you!

 

[bobcat]

With six people you would have to get two on site rooms. There are condos off site that would be a better deal for your size family. Depends on if you want to be surrounded by disney 24/7.

Check out www.mousesavers.com for great hotel and ticket deals.

 

[sgtpet]

Another alternative is to stay at Disney's version of a timeshare, DVC. Disney offers a select amount to the general public. In fact you can rent points from owners on the disboards. Good luck. Enjoy Ft. Myers, my old hometown.

 

[RJS]

We stayed both on site and off during our visit last summer. I recommend an offsite condo. You can get a great place with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths for less than $100 per night, with a full kitchen and laundry. The place we stayed was like brand new. I don't think the (limited) benefits of staying onsite outweigh the value of offsite in your case. We will be staying offsite for our full visit next time.
Good luck with your planning!