Disney Tips

bulie

I was wondering if anyone had any disney tips to share? We are going in a couple of weeks and are so excited!

maykat

We went last Saturday and had a great time.  We got through so many rides/attractions.

Best advice is to get to the Magic Kingdom right when it opens and do Fantasyland.  We then moved onto Adventureland and did Pirates of the Carribean and other rides there.  You will want to hit all your favorite attractions by 11 because after that the lines get very long.  Also, you can get your picture with Mickey and Minnie in Toon Land in the Fair Judging Tent.  Do this early because the line is usually always long.

Look into Fast Pass--we have not done this because we got onto all the rides we wanted to, but this is a great option.

We brought in our stroller and I had 2 lightweight backpacks that we could each grab taking on the rides.  I left everything else in the stroller.

We brought our 14 month old and almost 3 year old on every ride they were allowed to be on (height wise) and we had no issues.

Have fun!!

to-be-lam

The best place I have found for advice is on disboards.com.  There are lots of threads there about everything Disney - it's awesome.  We are going in a few weeks and I can't wait!

If you'll be there for a few days, I would recommend skipping a day between parks.  Also, go early when the parks open (get there before rope drop), and take a break midday. 

Magic Kingdom - As far as rides, my DD loved the Buzz Lightyear one, Small World, Aladdin's carpets, and  Pirates of the Caribbean. I've heard Snow White can be scary.  If you and DH want to ride an adult ride, you can switch riders (one of you rides, then the other) - the disboards have lots of info about this. Tom Sawyer Island is supposed to be fun (we haven't been, but it's on our list).  DD loved Country Bear Jamboree last year.  Cosmic Ray's is a good place for counter service.

Definitely do Fast Passes, and learn about how they work before you get to the parks. 

Last time, I was a bit disappointed with Hollywood Studios b/c we went there in the afternoon and found that a lot of the rides/shows are on a schedule and shut down earlier than I expected.  Get a Fast Pass for Toy Story Mania ASAP.  If you can get your hands on schedules as soon as you get to your hotel you can plan better.  (Like for the Playhouse show and Beauty and the Beast).  My DD thought the Mermaid show was scary.  There's a good playground there (Honey I Shrunk the Audience).  Food options in Hollywood Studios aren't great.

EPCOT - DD had the most fun on Planet Earth (I think that was it?) - the one in the big ball.  Nemo was good too, but slightly scary for her.  She had the most fun looking at the street performers in Italy and some of the other countries.  

I actually have a document with tips I copied from the disboards.  I just haven't really organized it very well yet.  If you want it though, let me know your e-mail and I will send it to you.  (Warning - it REALLY isn't organized).  

to-be-lam

You inspired me to organize my tips document. I forgot Animal Kingdom.

For kids, try the Dinoland boneyard and the Lion King show (supposedly this is the best one).  DD was scared by the Bug's Life show.  We ate at the Pizzafari place once and it was good counter service (big portions and decent food).  If you go on the rapids ride, wear a cheapo rain parka from Wal Mart. 

slwprincess

These girls covered a lot of it.  I always take my own stroller, but I know plenty of people prefer to rent one of theirs.  For us, it's just easier to have our own b/c Gavin is not a good hand holder going from the bus to the park entrance, etc.  Also, I like to have the snack tray and cup holders and the big basket underneath and it reclines so he can nap if he needs to.  Also check out mousesavers.com for ways to save money in the parks and allears.net for lots of great restaurant reviews and other info.  My advice for first timers is to just go with an open mind and don't try to get it all done- it's impossible.  If you just stay flexible you are bound to have a great time.  Have fun!