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Mom and daughter on Expedition Everest; Animal Kingdom
  • On Jul 15, 2008
    Dawn from DE Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Arrive on Sun, Sept. 14th (flight arrives 1:30). Suggestions: Parks vs Downtown Disney? Have plenty of time the rest of the week to see all parks. Is DT Disney a bad idea to start the vaca. for the kids (12,8,5) who've never been? (1st impressions: MK?)

    There are different lines of thought on this very topic.  Some people think that you should visit the Magic Kingdom first thing because it best embodies the magic of Disney.  Others believe that if you visit the Magic Kingdom first, you really set the bar high and kids might be disappointed when they visit the other parks.

    I'm biased, of course, but I don't think the other parks are the least bit disappointing.  Each park has it's own character and charm and while it's true that the Magic Kingdom is magical indeed, there is plenty to be discovered at each of the theme parks as well as in other locations around the Walt Disney World resort.

    All that said, we have never started our vacation at the Magic Kingdom, but only because it just didn't best fit into our touring plans.  Based on what you said in your question, I think that starting your trip off at Downtown Disney is a great plan.  I think it would be really neat to stop by Disney's Pin Traders shop while you're there.  Let the kids each pick out a pin starter set with lanyard on their very first day.  This will give them plenty of time during the rest of the trip to get into pin trading (which my children adore by the way) and give them something very exciting to kick off their trip.  I can also recommend the Wolfgang Puck Express as a great place to grab a bite to eat.  If you're looking for something more adventurous, perhaps dinner at the Rainforest Cafe would be in order.  Top the evening off with a sundae at Ghirardelli and you're good to go!  Be sure to get plenty of rest for the first full day of park touring.  Have fun!
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Meet the Panelist: Darcie, Alabama

Given your inclination to plan a magical trip, I can already tell we have a lot in common. I'm Darcie, and my friends would be the first to tell you that Disney trip planning (especially dining!) is my love language. Of course, the vacations my family enjoys today look much different than they did when our kids were little, but while some of our favorite activities have evolved, Disney destinations still top our travel wish lists. Let's work together to plan a downright dreamy vacation for your family! Learn More About Darcie

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