Hi Suzanne!
Thanks for bringing your question to planDisney. It sounds like you've already planned the best day(s) ever with a stay at Disney's Art of Animation Resort (one of my favorites) and
Disney's Keys to the Kingdom Tour. I loved my experience on this tour a few years back and
gushed all about it to another guest last year. Based on your arrival date you should already be within your booking window so let's get you on your way to securing a spot.
I had a similar concern so I opted for the 9:30 a.m. tour spot on the date of my visit. Looking back, I probably could have made the 8:30 a.m. since I was up early with eager excitement. However, it was nice being able to enjoy a morning coffee from
Main Street Bakery and
Meet Mickey at Town Square Theatre before checking in for the tour. I also relied on
Walt Disney World Bus Service from my resort. If you are an early bird and can plan to be on one of the first buses out of Art of Animation you should have no issues.
Buses typically begin running 45 minutes before park opening (this includes
Early Theme Park Entry times before the "official" park opening). Magic Kingdom Park is currently scheduled to offer Early Entry for Resort Guests at 8:30 a.m. each day during the week of your visit, which should mean buses will run from 7:45 a.m. onward. I've seen them start even earlier on occasion, but this is never guaranteed.
Disney's Keys to the Kingdom Tour is currently offered at 8, 8:30, 9, and 9:30 a.m. most days. The 8 a.m. slot will likely be a very tight squeeze as you need to check in 15 minutes before your tour. but you will likely get to enjoy an empty Adventureland if your tour guide heads that way. The 8:30 a.m. tour will give you a little more time to get there without rushing. You might also consider utilizing
Disney Minnie Van Service from your resort. This is a paid option but you'll be picked up and dropped off right at the entrance gates of Magic Kingdom Park, without needing to pass through the Transportation and Ticket Center where other rideshare providers are required to bring guests.
This tour is very popular and spaces are limited. When I checked just now there were only spots for a party of 1 available on November 10 and November 11. Reservations open 60 days in advance (a friend noticed spots become available at midnight at the 60-day mark), so I recommend getting up bright and early to secure the tour for you and your mom. I don't believe reservations can be modified online, but you can cancel for a full refund as long as you do so 24 hours or more in advance. You may need to call a Cast Member to cancel if you only want to remove your mom from the reservation.
I hope this helps Suzanne! If can offer additional questions please come back and let us know. Wishing you a magical and memorable visit this November.
See ya real soon,
Amy