Kilimanjaro Safaris; Animal Kingdom; AA
  • On May 22, 2011
    Jennifer from NJ 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 husband and I are planning our first trip to Disney with our 2 girls, ages 5 and 3. Would appreciate any suggestions and tips. Where to stay, best time of year, places to see the princesses, meal plan or not, etc. Plan to stay for 5-7 days, best parks?

    Hi Jennifer!

    Several panelists recently answered a question concerning the best times to visit Walt Disney World and you can see the answers by clicking here.

    With regards to where to stay, if your budget allows, there's nothing better than staying in a Disney Deluxe Resort.  With small children, I recommend staying in a Magic Kingdom monorail resort.  That will allow you easy access to your hotel room from the Magic Kingdom for a nap, swim in the pool, etc.  My favorite monorail resort is the Polynesian, which also has easy access to the Epcot monorail line via a short walk to the Transportation and Ticket Center.  Another resort that is a favorite of young children is the Animal Kingdom Lodge.

    Unfortunately, I can't tell you if makes sense to be on a Disney Dining Plan or not, because I don't know how your family typically dines.  You can get more information on the various plans here.  I recommend going to the independent website AllEars.com and looking at the various menus for the different restaurants at Walt Disney World.  Then you can decide what you would normally order and whether being on the Dining Plan would save money for your family.

    Since it is your first time visiting the Walt Disney World, I really recommend picking up a copy of the book "The Complete Walt Disney World" by Julie and Mike Neal.  It is a beautiful book, full of photographs, and perfect for a first timer!  It has just the right amount of information without being overwhelming!  Also, be sure to order up your free Walt Disney World planning DVD.
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Meet the Panelist: Bernie, Maryland

I am an engineer with NASA with prior Air Force service. My wife and I have two boys, ages 13 and 8. At home, I'm known as the "Disney Guy" and I've enjoyed helping guests plan their Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, and Disneyland vacations. Learn More About Bernie

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