Mom With Kids After RunDisney; Mickey Fantasia Hat; Donald Duck Hat; Goofy Hat
  • On May 12, 2013
    Gwen 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.

    Hi, me and my family of 5 will b visiting disney for the first time in october, there is sooo much information and sooo many options 2 choose any suggestions on how 2 get started? We have a 14, 10, and 8 year old

    Hi Gwen,

    A first Disney vacation is exciting, but it can be overwhelming. It helps break your planning into phases:
    • Where to stay and what kind of tickets to buy.
    • What parks and attractions to see
    • Where to eat
    • What kind of special activities to enjoy

    The free Walt Disney World vacation planning DVD is a helpful starting point. You will find the order form on the website under the My Disney Experience tab.

    With five people in your family, you may want to consider a family suite at Art of Animation or All-Star Music. I also recommend the park hopper option for tickets so that you can move among the parks as crowds and your family's mood dictate.

    The DVD provides a great overview. I suggest having your kids each make a list of their Top 5 must-sees. Then you can make a tentative itinerary. Some unofficial websites, such as touringplans.com, have programs that can help, too. One caution: be careful not to over-schedule so that you have time to relax and to go with the flow if something unexpected presents itself.

    Planning meals is a huge part of my family's ritual. We love so many Disney restaurants that we have a hard time choosing. Again, you may want to involve your family to decide what meets your tastes and whether dining is important. This also will help you decide if a Disney dining plan is right for you.

    If you want to go to character meals or special dinner shows, advanced reservations are imperative.

    Finally, October is such a fun time at Disney with the Epcot Food & Wine Festival and Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. You may want to add those to your plans..

    I know that still sounds like a lot, but if you do it a little at a time, it will be manageable and exciting. I'm limited on space, but please write back if I can offer specifics on any area of your planning. Enjoy!

    Wilma

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Meet the Panelist: Wilma, Florida

We live 90 miles from Walt Disney World and have visited frequently for 20 years. Disney is the place our family can relax together, try new things (especially interesting food) and have conversations, no matter what park we visit or where we stay.
Learn More About Wilma

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