Hi there Michael, and welcome to planDisney! I’m so glad you reached out. It’s so exciting that you’re heading back to
Walt Disney World after 25 years and how special that it’s just the two of you. Starting your trip at Kidani Village is such a great choice. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and a perfect place to unwind together. A lot has changed since your last visit, but I’m here to help you feel right at home as you jump back into the magic.
First I would suggest deciding how many days you’d like to visit the theme parks. There are four main theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Since you’re staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge, it’s convenient to visit that park, and it tends to have a more relaxed pace. Many adults especially enjoy EPCOT for its dining, cultural pavilions, and festivals throughout the year. Magic Kingdom is a nostalgic favorite, and Hollywood Studios brings more thrill rides and immersive lands like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land.
You’ll next want to purchase your
park tickets. You no longer need park reservations, and you can choose between base tickets (one park per day) or park hopper tickets, which allow you to visit multiple parks in a single day.
Disney has replaced the old FastPass system with
Lightning Lane Passes which lets you reserve certain rides in advance. Since you're staying at a Disney resort, you'll be able to make these ride reservations seven days before each park day.
Dining is a big part of the Disney experience.
Advance dining reservations open 60 days before your trip. You’ll definitely want to book a few special meals, especially since this is an adults only trip. Jiko at your resort is an excellent fine dining option. Sanaa, also at Kidani, is more casual but offers amazing bread service and views of the savanna while you eat. Outside the resort, EPCOT has fantastic options in the World Showcase like Le Cellier and Chefs de France. California Grill, located at the Contemporary Resort, is a beautiful choice for a romantic evening and a view of the fireworks.
Consider adding something special to the trip, like a fireworks dessert party, a stroll through Disney Springs in the evening, or an afternoon of resort hopping along the monorail. You might also enjoy just sitting in the rocking chairs at Kidani and watching the giraffes go by, something you can’t experience anywhere else.
Before you go, be sure to download the
My Disney Experience app. It’s your main tool during the trip. You’ll use it to check wait times, mobile order food, book Lightning Lanes, find directions, and manage your daily plans.
Michael, I hope this helps you get everything set up for your magical adventure at Walt Disney World Resort! Thank you for visiting planDisney, and have a pixie dusted day!
Kay