AA Mom And Kids Mickey Ice Cream Bar; DinoLand U.S.A.; animal kingdom
  • On Nov 14, 2009
    Irina 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.

    WDW with hubby, 6 and 8 yr old 12-31. ADR at Garden Grill, Akerhus, Hollywood & Vine, Rainforest Cafe, Chef Mickey and Spirit of Aloha. Is Spirit worth it or should I switch to Ohana and choose a restaurant on dining plan at Animal Kingdom, maybe Saan

    Irina:

    Like you, I asked myself the same question before our family's trip last month: Is Spirit of Aloha worth the price?  And for you, is it worth spending two dining credits?

    I can definitely say it was worth it, but maybe not for the reasons you were expecting....

    • The food was filling.  Yes, the salad and bread was the same as Ohana's, and I could have eaten the ribs for days.  Your meal lineup includes plenty of buffets.  On our family's last trip, we were stuffed by the third day of our vacation.  You won't miss that extra meal!
    • For budgeting, you may not be aware, but all gratuity and tax are included for the Dinner Shows on the dining plan!  This can save you upwards of 20% off the dinner bill at Aloha versus what you'd pay for two more dinners on the plan where you'd have to pick up the gratuity.
    • The two times we've eaten at Ohana, we didn't really experience the Polynesian resort.  For some reason, we felt more inclined to walk the grounds the night we went to the Aloha Dinner Show, enjoying Magic Kingdom's fireworks from the beach.  The walk out to the ampitheatre allows you to mentally transport yourself to the islands.
    • Your children are a good age to enjoy the show.  My 4-year-old loved it, but fell asleep by the third act. 

    Your other options of Ohana and Sanaa are good choices, but looking at the total picture, I wouldn't regret going to the Aloha Dinner Show--especially as a final night celebration for your family.  One piece of advice: if you are going in the fall or winter or to the last show, bring a jacket.  We were caught off-guard by chillier temperatures.

    Wishing y'all a magical vacation!
    Whitney

thumbnail image for Whitney

Meet the Panelist: Whitney, Mississippi

My family of 6 appreciates Disney's value! Although Ft. Wilderness is our second home, we've enjoyed the resorts for business, reunions and romantic getaways. For me, Disney also means dining: last count, I'd eaten at 55 restaurants around the World! Learn More About Whitney

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