Mom And Son Running through park; RunDisney; incredibles shirt
  • On Feb 10, 2013
    Thandi 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,we are trying to plan a disney vacation for around the first week of august for 3 or 4 days with 3 adults a 2 year old and 12 year old. Either of us never been to disney before and is also on budget but still want to experience all we can?

    Thandi, let me just start by welcoming you to the Moms Panel in your quest for answers and advice on planning your first Disney vacation.  I would start by suggesting that you get some sort of guide book such as Birnbaum Guide: Walt Disney World or the Complete Idiot's Guide to Walt Disney World (written by our very own Moms Panelist, Doug Ingersoll).

    Once your budget and dates are set, find a resort that fits within your budget. My personal faves for each price category are Wilderness Lodge for a deluxe resort, Port Orleans Riverside for moderate, and Art of Animation for the value level. Art of Animation does offer family suites to accommodate up to 6 people and are a great value for the amount of space and amenities offered for a value level resort.

    Your next step would be to make any dining reservations you really want because many of the popular table service restaurants book up 180 days in advance, so that is right around the corner for an August vacation. Disney Dining plans are an excellent money saver for many families on a budget, too.  

    My biggest tip of all is to come up with 2-3 must do activities, dining or attractions for each day so that you can plan your day around those. This is where those guide books can come in handy. My kids love hearing about the different rides and letting us know the ones they want to do most of all. That way, we start off checking those off the list and then if you get to more, great, but at least you aren't stressing that you won't see all of the things you really want to see most of all! 

    I really hope this helps you get started, but PLEASE don't hesitate to come back and ask me more detailed questions!

    ~Allison L 
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Meet the Panelist: Allison, Texas

I am a mother of three that loves all things Disney...the never grow up mentality, the fairy tale endings and the ever changing Disney Parks. With so much to explore, I would love to help you discover all the magic and wonder your heart desires. Learn More About Allison

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