What's realistic itinerary and time frame for parks with 5 y.o. daughter?

[KIS]

I'm glad that I'm not the only one getting help from this thread. That was the idea to help myself AND others here.

From what we've both read on this thread, it seems like Epcot is well worth a shot with a younger child. Between those kidcot stations with the masks, passports, etc there is sure to be plenty of arts and crafts. Your 4 y.o. might actually enjoy seeing the costumes and sights from around the world.

Sherry, is the west wing your recommendation because of the view? I figured, like you, about MGM. Since it's closer to the Dolphin, there's room to have a couple of brief visits. Our stroller is one of those metal frame, fold up types. It's not a cheapy. From what I read, strollers are reasonably safe to bring... I forgot about strolling the broadwalk! Thanks for reminding me. Are there things for children on the Broadwalk?

KIS

 

[NotUrsula]

Our rolling chest is an Igloo Wheelie Cool; it cost us about $16 at Wal-Mart. It's not enormous; 38 qt. We normally stock it with a half-gallon of milk, several pint bottles of OJ and soft drinks. I also use a thick pad to put a few pieces of fruit on top of the ice; they stay fresh, but don't get mushy from being too cold.

On our way down, I put a plastic bag of bulky things in it; water shoes, beach towels, a life-jacket, etc. (We go to the beach, too.)
When we arrive, I pull the bag out at the grocery store and return the chest to its proper use. On the way home, same deal.
I put a large luggage strap around it lengthwise for the flight, to keep the lid shut and the pull handle secured down. We normally have 3-5 people in our room; the 2 of us with our one child, and we sometimes bring a relative's children, too.

We tend to prefer the Swan b/c the beds are wider; DH likes his space. Dolphin has more convenient services and restaurants that are better suited to children, for the most part. Really, though, they are both lovely hotels; I'm happy with either one, especially since we can use points for the stay.

 

[KIS]

THanks for the tip. I spoke to my husband who is in favor of paying for a refridgerator. Do you think requesting a refridgerator in the room limits your room selection at the s/d or can these refrigerators move? KIS

 

[NotUrsula]

You can get a fridge in any room. It won't be there when you check in, housekeeping will have to bring it up for you. S/D rooms do have minibars, so beware of that and make sure your little one knows to leave it alone. You can also pay them to empty the minibar (about $12, last I checked) and put your things in it instead, rather than paying the daily rate for the fridge. Minibars do not get very cold, but they are just cold enough to keep milk from spoiling.

We just don't care to pay that kind of money just to keep drinks chilled, and since we always want the ice chest for the beach anyway, it makes more sense to bring it and put it to work as luggage. The first time we decided that the fridge charge was too high, we just bought a styrofoam chest at the grocery store where we picked up supplies. That was about 3 dollars, and worked just fine. Disney hotels are VERY used to seeing coolers come in with guests; probably every 3rd room is using one.