Hiya, Mike!
It's nice to have you here at planDisney –– thanks for stopping by with your question. As someone who loves visiting Walt Disney World Resort when the whole family gets to come along, I'm excited to hear that you're planning a Walt Disney World Resort next year with a big group. With more people to share laughs, make memories, and experience the magic together, I have a feeling you're in for an incredible time! Since you'll have little ones traveling with your crew, let me share a few details about what you can expect in and around Walt Disney World theme parks to help as you plan your visit.
When children under the age of three visit Walt Disney World Resort, you can think of them as Guests of the "Big Cheese", himself –– Mickey Mouse, that is! That's because children ages two and younger can enter Walt Disney World theme parks without purchasing a ticket. In addition to some great savings, this also means that children under the age of three won't need to purchase the
Genie+ service or make
Lightning Lane selections during their visit –– they'll be able to accompany an adult on any ride where they meet the minimum height requirement. Since two members of your party won't be included in the selection process, you should have no problem reserving your Lighting Lane spots as one, big group.
If you're planning to dine together during your visit, I always recommend that big groups choose at least one buffet-style restaurant to enjoy when they visit Walt Disney World Resort. Not only are many of these restaurants great for accommodating large parties, but with so many options to choose from on the buffet, everyone is sure to find something they like. And with little ones, buffet-style restaurants offer an added bonus –– just like at the theme parks, children under the age of three will be welcome to enjoy food from the buffet without paying for an additional meal. Some of my family's favorite buffets include
Boma - Flavors of Africa at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge,
Cape May Cafe at Disney's Beach Club Resort, and of course,
Chef Mickey's at Disney's Contemporary Resort. If you're in the mood for a big helping of food and fun, you can't go wrong with any of these fantastic dining spots during your upcoming stay!
Thanks so much for visiting planDisney, Mike. If you think of more questions as you plan your upcoming visit to Walt Disney World Resort, I hope you'll stop by again –– we're always happy to help!
Happy Planning,
Amy