Hello Heather! Let's talk Disney! I love traveling to the Walt Disney World Resort with a big group! On our most recent family visit we were 19 strong! Planning for a large group might seem daunting, but with a little planning help (and pixie dust) from your planDisney friends, we'll have you and your group off to Neverland (or Orlando) in no time!
Start with a discussion about the
Disney Resort Hotels! Do you all want to stay at the same resort or do you want to book separate resorts? Disney Resort Hotels are offered for different budgets from value, to moderate, to deluxe! Staying together definitely makes planning easier. It is also very fun to be on the same property! With several rooms split among the 11 you also have your private spaces to visit when you need a break or rest.
Now, let's get this group together for some good times! Of course, that starts with food! There are many Disney Dining locations that will please the tastes of a large group. I recommend that your group book a few dining experiences together. Topping that list is a dinner at
'Ohana! The food selection here is amazing! The atmosphere is perfect for a large gathering. While 'Ohana remains closed, be sure to check back when you begin your planning. Another recommendation for a great meal would be to enjoy breakfast at
Topolino's Terrace! Your group will love seeing Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy as they make their way through the dining room! My final recommendation for a meal together is dinner at
Be Our Guest Restaurant! Here you will dine as a Guest of the Beast himself! I truly feel like I am living in that film when I dine at that restaurant!
As a group, we always plan together on which parks we will visit each day and which days we will just stay at the resort to relax by the pool! Plan which rides and attractions that you "must do together." We have family favorites such as Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, Splash Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean,
Avatar Flight of Passage, and anything
Star Wars-related. Remember to plan time for members of your group to split up to visit areas of special interest.
Heather, planning the trip is almost as much fun as being on the trip! Host a planning party for your group to talk about some of the ideas that I shared above. Make it a Disney-themed party! The
Disney Parks Blog has some great do-it-yourself food ideas to give your planning party a true Disney feel!
Hakuna Matata! Jonathan G.