Hi Jon!
Thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question. It's always good to hear from a fellow Alabamian!
I'm so happy to hear you've already got a Walt Disney World Resort vacation on the horizon. October is one of my very favorite times to visit. The weather is usually great in October, and
Magic Kingdom Park hosts my favorite event of the year,
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party!
I'm also happy to hear you'll be participating in the
Disney Dining Plan on your vacation. The dining plan makes our vacations so much easier, knowing that our meals are taken care of ahead of time. My husband loves not having to pull out his wallet after every meal. Also, we're not constantly watching our pennies, worried about ordering pricier entrees at our favorite Walt Disney World restaurants. It's a win-win!
Upgrading your tickets to Walt Disney World Annual Passes is an awesome idea! I love being a WDW Passholder - the benefits are great, and it gives me the ability to visit more often without the worry or cost of purchasing theme park tickets with every visit. (After all, Alabama is just a short flight or drive away!) You're more than welcome to upgrade your tickets once you arrive for your vacation. Simply visit Guest Relations at any theme park (or
Disney Springs), and a Cast Member will be happy to assist you. Upgrading your tickets will not affect your current dining plan that was purchased as part of your October vacation package.
I hope this helps with your planning. Have a magical day! - Diane W.