Hi, Melodie!
Great questions!
Hit the most popular attractions early in the day, every day. Take a look at all of them on
Walt Disney World's website so that you can prioritize your itinerary (I'm listing my pics in order of popularity). At Magic Kingdom, I'd visit the MK "Mountain Range" of Space Mountain, Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (in that order). Don't miss these: Pirates of the Caribbean; it's a small world; Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin; Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor; Stitch's Great Escape!; Peter Pan's Flight and Mickey's PhilharMagic.
At Epcot, head to these favorites: Soarin'; Test Track; Mission: Space. Allow yourselves some time to really enjoy World Showcase (set aside lots of dining time there, too! Yum!)
At Disney's Hollywood Studios, don't miss Toy Story Mania, Rock-n-Roller Coaster and The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
At Disney's Animal Kingdom, head to Expedition Everest, then go on
Kilimanjaro Safaris. If it's a warm day, follow up with Kali River
Rapids and don't miss Dinosaur! Visit Finding Nemo-The Musical, too.
At each of the first three parks listed above, be sure to see the nighttime entertainment that is that park's specialty. Each one is a must-see; some you might want to see twice, they are so wonderful!
Water park-wise? I would wait to see what the forecast will be when it's closer. While it may be warm enough to enjoy a water park, you won't know the actual temperature for that week until you're closer to it. You can always purchase a water park ticket if it seems as if the weather will cooperate and you have the time to visit one, too.
Value Resorts? All are just fine, but you might want the extra bathroom, living area and mini-kitchen at Disney's Art of Animation Resort.
Send me another question, Melodie, and I'll give you more information, too! I love to help!