Hi Pam,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! I salute you for taking on the daunting task of planning a Walt Disney World vacation for your entire family! This kind of planning is just as fun as it is intense.
First, select a
Resort Hotel. With a larger group, it will take you longer to get from place to place. Resorts that have access to the
Monorail also have
Water Taxi and
Bus service. Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Contemporary Resort are on the monorail line. From Disney's Contemporary Resort, guests can walk to Magic Kingdom.
Second, I suggest that you call to book your reservation. A cast member in guest services can link your resort reservations and make a note to request adjoining rooms. Although requests are not guaranteed, they will try to get your rooms as close as possible. When we traveled with my parents on one visit, we actually booked a two-bedroom suite at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. We loved having the full kitchen and washer/dryer in the suite.
Third, once you have everyone's resort hotel room booked, be sure to connect everyone to your
My Disney Experience Account through My Family & Friends. Once connected, you can manage plans for everyone. Currently, the dining system will allow guests to book online for parties up to 49 people. Remember that if you book a dining reservation for a party of six or more, you will be automatically charged a gratuity.
Happy Planning!
-Donyell