Wahoooo! Melissa you are
planning a Walt Disney World Resort vacation. Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel where we combine Disney adventure with real-life experience.
Mary Poppins says, "In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun and - SNAP - the job's a game." This is exactly how I approach planning my trips. Fortunately, Disney no longer sends out the limited information planning DVDs and brochures because of all the information is available 24/7 from any computer on the planet. Unofficial guide books are great and I recommend investing in one but going the
online Disney vacation planning route is "practically perfect in every way."
Let me get you started on the process.
The first stop is the Walt Disney World Resort website to create a
My Disney Experience account. This is where all your plans, confirmations numbers, reservations, prices for food, merchandise and lodging, FastPass+ selection, and more will be organized. You also have access to this on your smartphone through the
My Disney Experience mobile device.
Second, decide your dates and whether you will stay at a
Walt Disney World Resort hotel. There are many benefits from staying on property including transportation between your hotel and the Orlando International Airport on
Disney's Magical Express. There are also enchanted deals through
Special Offers.
Third, will be to book
reservations at desired dining experiences. This is third on my list because dining reservations open 180 in advance and hot spots and prime times are booked quickly.
Character Dining Experiences is a fantastic buy for breakfast if booked prior to the theme park opening times because you can be in the theme park before it officially opens to regular Guests. We love breakfast at Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom Park where we join our friends from the Hundred Acre Wood who serves up delicious morning munchies. Thinking about it gives me a rumbly in my tumbly.
Fourth, determine which
world-class attractions are best for your group. Using My Disney Experience and the Walt Disney World Resort website you can filter the attractions by the theme park, thrill level, interests, age interest, height, and accessibility & advisories. Once you have decide, if applicable, book
FastPass+ selections. These bits of pixie dust reduce your time waiting in lines. As a perk to Disney Resort hotel Guests, Guests may book up to three selections as early as 60 days in advance for their entire trip while other Guests may schedule one day at a time beginning 30 days in advance.
Fifth, keep asking questions to the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
Disney Dad Tip: Mickey also will
deliver tips to your inbox. Talk about "magic" email.
Melissa, enjoy making many Magical Memories.
~Jason