What are some fun "add ons" to consider?

[LisaZoe]

I'm helping gather information for a family trip in May (8 nights total). We're going to be there in two "waves" with the first group of 6 going down on Saturday to be joined by another 6 people on Wednesday (all 12 will be there the final 4 nights). We've finally nailed down the travel and motel plans. Now I want to start thinking about the smaller stuff we can add on to the trip to increase the fun (or help remember it). Some ideas I have are character meals, PhotoPass and a day at Sea World (we don't want to take too much time away from Disney but thought one day would be OK). I'd love suggestions on other fun things to consider. Some of the group has a tighter budget than others but I think it will be nice to let the group know of our options.

Thanks!

 

[mlggator]

Just an FYI, that Sea World is about 1-1/2 to 2 hour drive from DLR, depending on traffic.

Also, can you tell us the ages of the group? Are there a lot of young children or older children or adults? That might help with some suggestions of what to do.

Michele

 

[dragonflymom]

Pin Trading!

 

[LisaZoe]

Just an FYI, that Sea World is about 1-1/2 to 2 hour drive from DLR, depending on traffic.

We'll probably take a bus there and back. We've only been once and my DD (6) really wants to go again. I think this will be something we do when it's just the first group of 6.

Also, can you tell us the ages of the group? Are there a lot of young children or older children or adults? That might help with some suggestions of what to do.

Sorry, I should have added that information since I know it that can be a big factor! In the first group, there will be 4 adults and 2 kids, 6 & 7. The second group of 6 will add 5 adults and one kid, 3. Those of use staying the full 8 nights will probably be more interested in "add ons" without feeling we didn't get enough DLR time.

Pin Trading!

I was thinking about trying that for my DD and nephew, 7. I already have a bunch of pins I got a few years ago before I realized pin trading isn't for me. I think the kids might have fun with it, though.

 

[Dopey's MIL]

I have a family of 10 and we are going to break up into groups of 2 for a 4 hour scanvenger hunt. I've been working on it for weeks for now...sorry can't share my ideas cuz one of them is here all the time! She'd cheat....LOL

 

[mlggator]

For the girls, they may have fun doing club libby lu and having their hair done.
If the 3 year old is a girl, she would probably enjoy the storytelling time at the princess shop next to the castle (do they still do this?). If they do, just go in and ask what time the different princesses will be there. The princess is there and tells her story and afterwards, they can get their autographs.
Collecting pictures and autographs can be fun for all ages. So you may want to pick up autograph books for the kids.
Look into some of the tours that Disneyland offers. I think there are some that do underground tours, that show you all the behind the scenes workings of the parks. I think there are others too. This would be fun for all ages.

I will try to think of some more.

Michele

 

[Judy from Boise]

The adults could book some spa treatments at GC
Build a Bear
Dinner at Garden walk
Not sure, but the water park over by Knotts might open by late May
Other "extras" could be pay viewing for Fantasmic or the electric parade.

 

[Judy from Boise]

also with some work you could make a hidden mickey challenge game, and award prizes.

 

[bumbershoot]

If the 3 year old is a girl, she would probably enjoy the storytelling time at the princess shop next to the castle (do they still do this?). If they do, just go in and ask what time the different princesses will be there. The princess is there and tells her story and afterwards, they can get their autographs.

As dangermouse would say, the hold the princesses captive over at the Princess Fantasy Faire now. No more storytelling at the shop. But they do have storytelling at the PFF, and it's really cute. DS even got to dance with Sleeping Beauty (he was chosen by a lady in waiting before it started, asked if he wanted to "dance with a princess").

I really enjoy seaworld. I don't like the ride down there (my brother lives in SD), but I like the place.

 

[mom23boyz]

Collect pressed pennies....somewhere there is a link to where they are all located. Bring rolls of pennies and quarters with you (not in your carryon, though...they show up as cylindrical metal objects at security and you'll get pulled aside!) You can buy a souvenir book to keep them in...my boys loved doing that at WDW.

 

[Husker Mickey]

We have gone on day trips when we have been at the parks for 5 days. We went to Universal one time, San Diego Zoo another time, and a tour of LA another time. We booked through our hotel site - getawaytoday.com. Everything went smoothly. Just a thought.

 

[jencav5]

For all 12, the character breakfast in the park, at the Plaza Inn, is nice. If you sit outside you have great views in the park. You can socialize, see characters that come to your table, and enjoy the buffet. It is pricey, though.

 

[jencav5]

Also, the "Discover the Magic" tour (I think that's the name of it), is really fun for kids and adults. You have a tour guide that takes you around the park with a book that you are looking for "clues". You meet characters for your group only, which is really nice. You also get lunch. I don't want to say too much, as to ruin any surprises, so I hope it's not too vague! We really enjoyed it, though.

Don't miss the Aladdin show over at DCA-it's fabulous, and great for a large group to go to!

We love to catch a movie at DTD. The theaters are nice and its great after walking all day!