Hiya, Lee, and welcome to planDisney!
As the mom of a 6-year-old son and a 9-year-old daughter, I'm thrilled to help you plan a wonderful trip for your kids (and for YOU, too!). I started taking my kids to Walt Disney World when they were tiny little things, and it was so special to watch them experience all the magic!
But as they've grown into the young Mouseketeers they are now, I've LOVED doing more "big kid" things with them at Disney World. At 6 and 9, they stay up a little later, walk a little farther, and meet the height requirements for most of the rides (woo hoo!).
Lee, The Most Magical Place on Earth is always an "ultimate experience," so you don't need a bunch of bells and whistles to make it extra special. But as a diehard Disney fangirl, I totally understand what you mean! So enough about me - let's get into your question!
First of all, I am a huge fan of Disney Resorts Collection hotels. I love staying in the "Disney bubble" because it keeps me in the magic 24/7! In case you missed it, Disney World resorts fall into three different tiers: deluxe, moderate, and value.
While my kids loved our recent stay at
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, you don't need to break the bank to get in on the Disney magic.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort (value) is always a hit with kids thanks to its larger-than-life Disney decor. Meanwhile,
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort (moderate) features a pirate-themed pool that kids of all ages love! And no matter which Disney resort you choose, you'll get all the
perks and benefits of staying at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel!
Now, let's talk about the parks, because I know this is the BIG ONE. Lee, I always recommend making time for all four theme parks, because they're all truly so unique. Without knowing more about your kids and their interests, it's hard to say which attractions will impress them most. But here are a few things I consider must-dos for pretty much anyone:
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Character dining (find one that features their favorite characters!)
-Nighttime spectaculars, like
Happily Ever After -Classic, family-friendly attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean
Since you'll be visiting in September, I also highly recommend
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! This frightfully fun, slightly spooky soiree will have your whole family singing "Boo to you!"
I hope this helps, Lee. There's so much more to know about planning a Disney vacation, so feel free to
write me directly if (and when!) you have more questions. I'm always happy to help!
Magic awaits,
Allison