Can anyone tell me about tips for shows, what rides to go to first, how early to get to the parks, or anything logistical?
For shows at DL Park, i recommend 'Mickey & The Magical Map' and the later evening showing of 'Fantasmic'.
If there are two showings of 'Fantasmic' the night you are visiting, go to the second, later showing. It helps cut down some of the crowds around the Rivers of America.
If you are a morning person, arriving at the front gate an hour before opening will put you into the Park ahead of many IF there is no 'Magic Morning' event that day.
I personally don't find it necessary to be there when the Park opens...but since you are visiting during peak Summer season it might be of benefit to you.
As to what Attractions/rides to go to first to avoid long lines, i would choose 'Indiana Jones Adventure'.
Since this is your first visit, i HIGHLY recommend you enter the attraction through the Standby, regular queue line.
The incredible themed queue that takes you from outside into the Temple of the Forbidden Eye is a MUST experience.
DO NOT use 'FastPass' and do not use the 'Single Rider' line for your first ride!! Resist! Use FP or SR later..to ride AGAIN...later in the day.
You WILL want to...trust me!
Once you experience IJA, the choice of what to do next is up to you.
This depends on what your personal preferences are to Attractions/rides.
What are some of the Attractions you are most interested in experiencing while at DLR...?
Attractions that are usually good to 'do' before the masses descend later in the day are 'Peter Pan's Flight', 'Roger Rabbit's Car-Toon Spin', Matterhorn Bobsleds ( unless you are a Single Rider ),'Space Mountain', 'Splash Mountain' ( especially if it is a HOT day..) and 'Big Thunder Mountain Railroad'.
For 'Radiator Springs Racers' over in CarsLand at DCA, some prefer to try to get a FastPass early in the morning when the Park first opens.
I find if you cannot get a FP, wait until later in the evening to ride when the crowds thin out, especially near closing time.
If you are alone, or with a friend, you can also utilize the 'Single Rider' line at RSR at any time during the day. Note that you will not be riding with your friend...you will be split between two ride vehicles. I would not recommend the SR line if you are with more then three people.
For Parade viewing at DL Park, most folks crowd Main Street.
I find a great spot for viewing the parade, and taking photos is in the viewing area located in front of the restrooms next to the 'Alice in Wonderland' dark ride in Fantasyland. Once the parade passes, you can easily jump on the Matterhorn or head over to Fantasyland, Toontown, or Tomorrowland right from that spot.
It also helps keep you away from the crowded chaos of the Hub after the parade passes.
If i know a little more about what you would be most interested in doing and seeing at DL, i am open to sharing more suggestions.
Hope the above adds some insight.
