Mother, Son, Giraffe, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Animal Kingdom, Savannah
  • On Apr 25, 2012
    Joyce 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.

    HELP! So frustrated with this vaca 9/21-9/27! Fam of 6 (4boys-8,6,5,2).1st WDW vaca. DDP. 6 day MYW. Want to go to beach 1 day. Advice on itinerary? No AK. Must do Dinning experiences? DS 8 celebrating 9th bday on 24th. PLEASE HELP!

    Hi Joyce,



    First trips are extra magical in my opinion.  However, planning the perfect trip can be overwhelming, so understand your frustration.  You have come to the right place.  Feel free to keep writing with questions and for tips.  As for a beach day, I recommend Vero Beach, which is about an hour and fifteen minutes from the parks.  Disney actually has a resort here if you were interested in spending the night.  If you aren't planning on staying over, you can drive to Clearwater Beach on the West Coast of Florida (about an hour and forty-five minutes) or Cocoa Beach on the East Coast.  Both are wonderful.  You are travelling to Disney at a great time, when the summer crowds have evacuated, but before the International Food and Wine Festival at Epcot, which tends to bring in many visitors.  Therefore, you itinerary can truly reflect what your family most wants to see and do. I would recommend allocating 2 days at Magic Kingdom, 2 days at Epcot and 1 day at Hollywood Studios.  This will allow one day for the beach and a day to return to whichever park your kids and family most enjoyed.  As for your 9 year-olds special day, I'd recommend considering making advanced dining reservations at Chef Mickeys or another character dining venue.  You can order a special birthday cake when you make your reservations at 407-WDW-DINE if you are interested.  I'd also suggest picking up a free "birthday button" at guest relations at whichever park you visit first, and have him wear it proudly on his special day.



    Again, feel free to write back with more questions as you start to plan.

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Meet the Panelist: Tanya, New Jersey

I am Tanya from FL, full-time mom to two fun-loving boys. I have an array of planning tips and believe I offer a unique perspective on how to make Disney an amazing adventure for individuals with a variety of needs and abilities. Learn More About Tanya

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