Several Questions - never explored the US parks

[fam4jc]

Hi. We are Disney Fans but want to try the US parks for our next trip. The trouble is that I have just started my research and have loads of questions! First, we are 2 adults and 2 children. We like to stay on-site. This next trip will be pretty much spur of the moment b/c my FIL is in hospice and we had to cancel all travel plans... so we will play it all by ear for the next year. Here are my questions.

1. How do I get the best rates for the on-site hotels?
2. What site do I go to for the Entertainment book I keep reading about?
3. Will Fun in the Sun tickets be re-issued for next year? (I noticed they expire the first of April 2005)
4. When are the crowds highest, lowest? Does it follow the Disney parks crowds/seasons?
5. We are AAA members and my husband is a gov't employee (cop). Are there discounts available for us? Tix and room rates

Thanks so much for your help. The more I read about these parks, the more I think my girls will love them. (5 & 7)

 

[Motherfletcher]

Let me start by giving you the seasonal info which is pretty close to WDW.
Value Season: Jan 4 - Feb 11, Aug 15 - Sept 30, Nov 28 - Dec 22
Regular Season: Apr 15 - June 16, Oct 1 - Nov 27
Peak Season: Feb 12 - Mar 31, June 17 - Aug 14
Holiday Season: Dec 23 - Jan 1
The best discounts are with an Annual pass. AAA works but Government don't.

 

[gschmerl]

Discounts include AAA, annual pass, FAN Club, and Entertainment rate. I think there might also be a Florida resident's rate. Call Loew's and ask if any of these discounts are available for the dates you are going. If you can get the Entertainment rate, you can order the book at www.entertainment.com They are also sold by schools and charitable organizations.Get the one for your local area and you can use the cards and coupons all year for dining and entertainment discounts. You can get five days for the price of two (about $89) at the Universal website. There is no expiration date on the tickets, but they are only good for FIVE days from the date of activation.