There are two "cons" to parking at Downtown Disney and riding the buses from there. One is that it's not criminal, but it's not permitted. The DTD buses are for guests at Disney's onsite resorts, not for people trying to avoid the parking fees. Not trying to be a moral compass here -- just preparing you for some of the unkind remarks you might get from Disney guests or bus drivers. It's a strategy that is not universally appreciated. The big "Con," as others have mentioned is that it's a logistical nightmare that will waste a huge amount of time each day. You will have to bus to a Disney resort and then either take another bus or monorail from there to whichever park you are visiting. On the return trip, you have the same problem -- there are no buses direct from any park to DTD, so you have to get to a resort and bus from there. If you will, imagine that trip after the fireworks with one or both kids melting down and having to wait a long time for a bus because of the crush of people. Bad idea. Additionally, little kids in strollers usually don't commando well all day. They benefit greatly from a return to your resort for a little nap/pool time. Angel in the morning, nappie or play time at the pool, angel at night. Or meltdown looking for a place to happen -- your choice. (There is a reason why I know this...and we did not make that mistake a second time.) That mid-day pit stop by bus will turn your park commute from 2 hours a day minimum to more than four hours a day. You'll be wondering why you came to WDW in the first place. Pay the parking and drive. You'll be glad you did.
fwiw.. we were unsure of the whole tipping thing, my hubby felt more comfortable tipping at both drop off and pick up, since it was never the same person.. and yes it was $20 ..
