Mom With Kids After RunDisney; Mickey Fantasia Hat; Donald Duck Hat; Goofy Hat
  • On Jan 30, 2009
    Lara from WI 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.

    My family will be vacationing at Disney World for the first time this Summer and my husband and I have no idea where to begin. Our kids range in age from 13 yrs to 5 months and all want to do/see different things. I would appreciate any suggestions. Thanks

    Hi Lara -

    The first trip to Walt Disney World is so exciting, but it can be a little overwhelming.  There are so many things to see and do, it's tempting to try to fit in everything.  Speaking from experience, you won't be able to do it all, and if you try, you'll be exhausted and need a vacation from your vacation.  So, where to begin...

    I don't know if you've chosen a resort, but that should be your first priority.  If you can swing it, I would recommend staying in a deluxe resort that has either monorail access or is located on the Boardwalk.  With a 5 month old this comes in really handy for hopping back to your resort for nap times.  Don't panic if it's not in your budget, buses are available to take you back to the resort continuously throughout the day.

    Next, begin looking through the dining options and find a few restaurants that you think your family would enjoy.  You can begin booking reservations 90 days before your vacation by calling (407)939-3463.  This always helps me plan an itinerary.  For example, if you plan on eating at Crystal Palace in the Magic Kingdom, then it makes sense to plan that day around activities in that park.

    Now, I also have children who have a wide variety of ages and interests.  I let each child choose their top 3 "must see" attractions and 3 "really want to do" attractions.  We then plan our days accordingly.  When my older boys know that their two year old sister really loves Winnie the Pooh, they are much more likely to get excited about riding The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh just to see her reaction. 

    Good luck getting started, and feel free to ask more questions as you plan. 
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Meet the Panelist: Diane, Georgia

After spending 25 years in RI, my husband and I relocated to GA with our youngest, who is now in high school. I took my first trip to Walt Disney World when I was 11 and I have traveled many times since then with all different party sizes. From creating our first itinerary as a honeymooner to later creating magical experiences for our multigenerational family gatherings, every aspect of planning a vacation has been pure joy to me.  Learn More About Diane

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