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  • On Feb 25, 2008
    Alissa from AR 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.

    We're taking our kids (3&5) on their 1st WDW trip in May '08. We'll be staying at a nearby non-Disney resort (FREE with hotel pts). But now, from all I read, I fear the kids won't be getting the full Disney experience as w/a Disney resort. Any tips?

    I'm a HUGE fan of the Disney resorts, but many people either can't, or don't want to, stay on WDW property. But just because you're not staying at the Disney hotels doesn't mean you can't partake in a little of their magic. During your stay, I would plan to book several meals at WDW resorts. That would give you and your kids a good taste of Disney resort living, but without actually staying there. I have a few suggestions that will showcase some of the most interesting Disney hotels:

    - 1900 Park Fare: This character meal is in the Grand Floridian which is, to me, one of the most beautiful hotels in the U.S. During the evenings, there are often live musicians playing big-band style music on the second floor (free entertainment). My girls always love stopping by there and taking a few dance twirls around the lobby with their dad. (Great photo op!) You can also take the monorail to or from the Grand Floridian and most kids get a big kick out of this.

    - Whispering Canyon Cafe: This is hootin' hollerin' good time place in the Wilderness Lodge. The food is fantastic. And there are always games for the kids during the meal; you can expect at least one hobby horse trot through the restaurant. Also, near the pool at the WL there is a geyser that erupts periodically. It's fun to stop and watch this.

    - Boma: In the Animal Kingdom Lodge, this buffet has classic kid-friendly choices as well as some African dishes that are new to most American adults. We love sampling new tastes here. Also the African art displayed at the AKL is very interesting. And outside there are areas where you can see Safari animals right on the hotel grounds.

    There are wonderful meals in many of the other resorts as well, but these are some of my favorites.

    Let us know if you need any more suggestions.
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Meet the Panelist: Erin, New York

I have three teenage daughters. We're DVC members obsessed with Disney travel. We've been to Walt Disney World countless times and have visited Disneyland & Disneyland Paris. We've taken several Adventures by Disney and Disney Cruise trips. Learn More About Erin

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