Should I do this on my next trip?

[meanmice]

I am really interested in the Keys to the kingdom tour (I think that's the one). The thing is it's my boyfriends first trip to Disney and I want to make it fun for him. Would this be a good thing for a first timer? Also, if I decide to do this, what do I do? Do I need to make reservations before hand or that day? Where do I go to make reservations? How long does it take? Where do you go? What do you learn? Normally these would be things to ask a travel agent, but we are planning this trip ourselves and have no one to ask. Please help! I know I have more questions, but I just can't think of them right now.

 

[AkiraRaptor]

Originally posted by meanmice
I am really interested in the Keys to the kingdom tour (I think that's the one). The thing is it's my boyfriends first trip to Disney and I want to make it fun for him. Would this be a good thing for a first timer? Also, if I decide to do this, what do I do? Do I need to make reservations before hand or that day? Where do I go to make reservations? How long does it take? Where do you go? What do you learn? Normally these would be things to ask a travel agent, but we are planning this trip ourselves and have no one to ask. Please help! I know I have more questions, but I just can't think of them right now.

I've never done the Keys tour, but I have done many others they offer. So far, all of them have been great. You get to see a little behind the sceens stuff on most, get some "inside" info, and they point out things that most people never notice.

I'd recommend any tour to everyone.

On booking them, yes, you should book in advance, some of these tours do fill up. Also, they are only available on certain days of the week.

Look over Deb's site info here ( http://wdwig.com/tours.htm ), it should answer most of your questions, and give you the numbers you need to call, which is 1-407-WDW-TOUR (1-407-939-8687).

Have fun!

 

[lildivaaa]

I'm not sure I'd take him on the tour just yet, being he's a first timer to WDW. If it were me, I'd give WDW some time for the "magic" to sink in and then on your next trip maybe take the tour.

To answer your questions:

Yes, it's called "Keys to the Kingdom" tour. I've taken it myself and it's wonderful!! As far as reservations, I believe you'd need to make them in advance since these tours are taken out in small groups. I'd try calling 1-407-WDWTOUR to make the reservation. Here is some information I found regarding the tour:

"Offered daily this four and a half hour to five hour tour celebrates Disney Magic! Learn about the Magic Kingdom's history, and backstage secrets. Hear stories of Walt Disney, his visions, his philosophies, and his accomplishments. In addition to Disney history, Guests finally get the opportunity to find answers to all of those "neat" Disney trivia questions and get an inside look at how the MAGIC KINGDOM operates by venturing downstairs to the main Utilidor entrance, MAGIC KINGDOM Wardrobe, and Cosmetology. Guests also visit the MAGIC KINGDOM Production Center, where they have the rare opportunity to see parade floats up close.


At the 2 1/2 hour mark, the group breaks at the Columbia Harbor House for a delicious meal which is prepared and waiting for all the Tour Guests. Orders are taken in the Tour Garden, next to City Hall, upon check-in before the Tour begins. Menu choices include a Fried Chicken Strips Basket, Fried Fish and Chicken Combo, Garden Galley Salad (mixed greens with feta cheese, pecans, grilled chicken, and pineapple in a zinfandel vinaigrette), Starboard Deck Sandwich (Toasted bread topped with ham, cheese, tomato, and broccoli slaw), and New England Clam Chowder or Vegetarian Chili served in a bread bowl.

Offered daily at 8:30, 9:30 & 10:00am and 1:30pm. Tour starts at City Hall just inside the Magic Kingdom Main Entrance.

Cost is $58 AND Admission to the Magic Kingdom! Discounts as of January 2002: DVC, AMEX, The Disney Club & Annual Passholders 15%; Cast Member discount available."

Hope this helps you out,
Craig - Atlanta, Ga. USA

 

[mwitkus]

We did the Keys to the Kingdom tour last year and loved it! What you do depends on your tour guide, and the group but they give you an explanation of how things work, take you backstage and down to the utilidors, give you lunch and take you on a few rides (and explain things about the ride the ride concept and how it works).

I loved this tour and would recommend it to any Disney veteran who wants the get the behind the scenes kind of look. However, I wouldn't recommend it to a first time visitor. There is so much to see and do just by visiting the parks, and I personally think the magic/mystery behind it is better left unexplained...

Whatever you decide, I hope you both have a great time!!!

 

[meanmice]

Thanks for all your help. I think your right, we may just wait until next time to take the tour, but your knowledge has really helped.

 

[noname70]

Don't take him as a first timer. I did this w/my ex girlfriend. I loved it-she was bored stiff. It's for someone who has experienced the magic and want that inside info.

 

[kennyj29]

Tour

I agree also, we went after our 12th trip and it was wonderful.............however, I would NEVER take anyone on it before you have been their a couple of times and got the FEELING first. If you do, you might ruin the fun of Disney before he even gets to know how wonderful Disney is. It's a wonderful tour and I would definitley go but not the first couple of times.