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Mom and daughter on Expedition Everest; Animal Kingdom
  • On Dec 30, 2011
    Shawna from OK 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 will be taking our kids to DW this summer. They are 6 & 9 years old. I have NO IDEA where to start planning. Any suggestions on must see & do and what to avoid? We need to keep budget in mind- funds are limited.

    Hi Shawna!

    It sounds like you're starting to plan a trip that your family will remember forever! Memories are made at Walt Disney World!

    Personally, whenever I'm trying to be budget conscious, I opt for Magic Your Way tickets without any Park Hoppers or other options. Since it sounds like its your first trip, I would recommend spending a full day in each park - without park hopping. You'll have plenty to keep you busy, so no need to worry about the extra option and expense!

    Second, I would try to review park maps (found online for free or in many guidebooks which may be available from your local library) and have each family member pick out their "must-do" attraction in each park. For our family, Soarin at Epcot, Festival of the Lion King at Animal Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain at Magic Kingdom and Star Tours at Hollywood Studios are our highest priority rides. We head to these as soon as we get to the park (before park opening if possible!) and make sure to enjoy them first. This way, we can enjoy the rest of our day without any park touring pressure!

    If possible, I highly recommend staying on-site at a Disney Resort. The Value resorts are the most budget friendly and offer great rooms at great prices. Personally, we like All Star Sports and Pop Century - but they are all great! By staying at a Disney resort you'll get free transportation to and from Orlando International Airport and extra time in the parks - and these are just two of the great benefits!

    Last, but not least, I suggest making one reservation for a Character meal - dining with the Characters is such a unique and fun experience that I always recommend it. Breakfast is the lowest-cost meal AND its a great way to start your day off too!

    Hope this helps! 
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Meet the Panelist: Kathie, South Carolina

Our family of four is an adventurous and nerdy bunch! Vacations match our lifestyle with tons of action, rides, park-hopping and over-the-top experiences. Dining is tops too! From scrumptious snacks to vegetarian meals, we enjoy it all! Learn More About Kathie

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Panelists have received/will receive a Walt Disney World® Resort, Disneyland® Resort or Disney Cruise Line® vacation for panelist and up to three family members and/or park tickets for their planDisney participation. The views expressed on plandisneypanel.com are those of the panelists, who are independent contractors. These views are not intended to reflect the opinions of Disney Destinations, its affiliates, its management, its agents or its employees and have not been reviewed or approved by Disney Destinations prior to posting.

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