Some questions from a first-timer

[sirjohnly]

I apologize if this is the wrong place to post it, but I noticed this was the most active section so I was hoping to get some answers here from people who have been to Disney world.

Context: Due to time restrictions, I'll only be able to spend 2 days at Disney world (but I'll be living on the resort for 3 days 4 nights) and I'll be there in September. A few logistical questions:

1. Although 2 days is not enough to explore all of Disney, what would you say are the highlights of Disneyworld that can be seen within 2 days? (I heard Magic Kingdom, Epcot, downtown Disney, and the boardwalk are the places one should see).

2. Assuming I go to Magic Kingdom and Epcot, does each place take 1 full day to see and experience the main attractions?

3. I've heard both Magic Kingdom and Epcot have daily fireworks in the evening. Are they both worth seeing (in your opinion)?

4. Has anyone here ever been to Disneyworld in September who can comment on how busy it is or length of lines? Is it fairly empty, or can you still expect a long wait for rides?

5. I've looked through a couple threads are here are the main rides I've noted:

Magic Kingdom:
Haunted Mansion
Pirates
Small world
Space mountain
Thunder mountain
Splash mountain
Carousel of Progress
Mine train

Epcot:
Test track
Soarin'
Spaceship earth
Mission: space
World showcase
Illuminations


Does this list look good to you ? Are there any other rides you can recommend or specific things within the Magic Kingdom or Epcot I should check out?

6. This question is regarding food. I have a hunch that food within the theme park costs an arm and a leg. What do you guys usually do for food when you go there? Do you buy a dining package? Bring in outside food? (Is outside food and water even allowed?) Know of somewhere decently priced to eat within the compound?

Thank in advance to anyone who can answer any of these questions for me.

 

[LAKid53]

Okay, so I'm thinking of cancelling my reservation with Priceline and booking through DisneyWorld directly since you can get the free dining plan.

My question is, if I'm staying at Disney for 4 nights, but only opted for tickets for two days, do I get the free dining service for all four days, or only the two days I select tickets for?

Thanks

Good question. I believe the DDP runs the length of your resort stay - 2 QS & 1 snack per person for every night you stay in the resort. But we've not used the DDP since getting our Tables in Wonderland card last year, so I would call Disney Travel and ask a Cast Member.

 

[Missymoe4]

Hi there, welcome! It seems like you have a lot of good suggestions for the parks. I don't think I saw much about the Boardwalk. I typically go with a few 25-30 something year olds. With that being said, we love the MK and Epcot. The countries are extremely relaxed. So if you find yourself running around the MK, Epcot will definitely slow your pace down.

Downtown Disney is really nice but can get busy. I have yet to visit WDW in September, though. My party enjoyed the more relaxed but fun atmosphere of the Boardwalk. The ESPN club is a good jump-off point of some apps/entrees and drinks. We really enjoyed the Piano bar. We hoped to jump over to the nightclub, but ended up staying at the Piano bar all night. It did cost $10 bucks to get in (I believe) but it was well worth it. You don't need to pay to go into the dance club (I believe). Anyhow, strolling around boardwalk and playing some of the games, grabbing a drink or visiting the bakery is a fun experience. One downfall of going to the Boardwalk is transportation. My party never rents a car so we take a taxi between Boardwalk and hotel (or we visit Epcot or HS and then stay on the Boardwalk for the evening and cab it back to our hotel). You can take a bus back to DTD or a theme park and then switch onto your hotel bus. After a long day, the cab ride can be worth the $20.

Oh, and if you can swing it, I would HIGHLY recommend getting to rope drop at the MK. It's a "can't miss" for our group. It really begins the day on a magical foot and no where in the world will you see a theme park opened in an exciting manner.

As far as dining goes, I would stick to quick service dining. My party has done it all--and sit down meals take up A LOT of time. You're better off sitting on a rocking chair mending your feet people watching than sitting down for a long meal. Quick service will work very well with your plans. (If you do want to sit down, the Plaza Restaurant is nice and not too long. Sandwiches run about $15).

Above all, slow down and enjoy the moments. Don't worry about time or being here and there around Disney. Just enjoy the moments you two will share Oh, and don't forget the pictures!!!

 

[sirjohnly]

Thanks for everyone's advice, especially about the free quick service dining plan.

I just cancelled by booking with PriceLine and booked through the Disney World website, where I was able to get the quick dining package for free! @Missymoe4 I considered getting the package that gives you 1 sitdown meal per day, but after reading your post, I may be better off with the quick service dining since I don't want to waste too much time at a restaurant.

Great tip about the rope drop, I definitely want to be there early to see that, and also to take advantage of an entire day at the park. My girlfriend is probably going to kill me for making her walk around the entire day.

 

[cw1982]

Thanks for everyone's advice, especially about the free quick service dining plan.

I just cancelled by booking with PriceLine and booked through the Disney World website, where I was able to get the quick dining package for free! @Missymoe4 I considered getting the package that gives you 1 sitdown meal per day, but after reading your post, I may be better off with the quick service dining since I don't want to waste too much time at a restaurant.

Great tip about the rope drop, I definitely want to be there early to see that, and also to take advantage of an entire day at the park. My girlfriend is probably going to kill me for making her walk around the entire day.

If you get to the Magic Kingdom at rope drop, you'll be surprised at how much you can do by lunch time. Depending on what hours they are open that day, you very well may have plenty of time to head back to the room for a break after lunch. You can come and go from one park aa you please each day without a park hopper (as long as it's the same park), so you could always go back a couple of hours later and finish out the day. I'd play that by ear based on how the say is going, but it's definitely doable. Otherwise, there are a few shows that can help break up all the walking.

At Epcot, some of the rides are fairly long and can provide a nice break from the walking around.

 

[sirjohnly]

Thanks for the tip! Does anyone know where I can find a schedule for park shows that I can check out throughout the day?

Also, I'll have one night (the day I arrive in Orlando) free to check out DTD and/or the boardwalk. Can anyone recommend anything to see or do in any of those areas? I trust you more than tourist websites.

 

[RScottyL]

Since you mentioned you are going in September, according to MouseSavers.com, it is one of the best times to go. This is because the kids are all usually back in School:

The BEST times to go to Walt Disney World are:

• Late August and entire month of September (even Labor Day weekend). It will be extremely hot, and this is peak hurricane season. Plan on taking afternoons off and visiting water parks. Crowds are low. Off-site hotels usually have their rock-bottom deals during this period, and Disney has offered “free dining” packages in this time frame each year since 2005.

It will be to your benefit, as you will not have to wait much to go on the rides and will be able to ride a lot more!

Your list of rides is very good! Normally in the past, I have gone two days for MK and two for EPCOT and one each for the other two! That was usually because the parks are pretty busy!

Also, if you are not sure about any rides, feel free to check out YouTube and they have POV videos of most of the rides. The other night I was just watching on Maelstrom and Three Caballeros!

 

[Missymoe4]

Also, I'll have one night (the day I arrive in Orlando) free to check out DTD and/or the boardwalk. Can anyone recommend anything to see or do in any of those areas? I trust you more than tourist websites.

You know what? Start with one and mosey around. There's so much to do at both. DTD has more shopping and restaurants and you can take a bus from your hotel to DTD. My party enjoys a nice dinner, drinks and then wandering around (taking it easy).

Rope drop is awesome and can be emotional (for a Disney nerd like me ).
Feet aching are part and parcel for the course. Bring comfy shoes...and take breaks! There are plenty of shows to watch and chairs to be conformed to. It's your first time in WDW, so I don't suggest taking time to leave the park, go back to the hotel to rest/swim, and then head back into the parks. However, it may be a plausible option. I have been going to WDW for my entire life. Never have I stayed in a park from open-close. As much as I love people (I'm a high school teacher) I need the break from it all. Perhaps if you or your gf tires, head over to the Contemporary (resort monorail or walk). On the 4th floor (the convention room floor "The Americas") you can find a big ole comfy chair and couch and rest your feet and eyes for a bit. There's also an amazing set of restrooms up there. It's a little-known area to hang out. (Note: if there's a convention up there it may not be available for use. However, I've stayed in the Contemporary numerous times and have only witnessed one convention on that floor). Or, you can browse through the Polynesian (fabulous, exotic hotel) or head on over to the Grand Floridian and listen/watch the orchestra. There's so many things you can do to "relax" mid afternoon and beat the heat/get out of the park for a bit. It's all FREE, too!!! BY THE WAY: couples LOVE the Polynesian beach. You can sit there for a bit (toes in the sand, looking at the water, castle, etc.) and create a romantic moment. You can take a boat directly to this hotel or the monorail. If you're worried about your lady "killing" you, build in some relaxing romance. I guarantee she'll be blown away by the dichotomy of WDW.

 

[sirjohnly]

I just want to take a moment and let everyone know how thankful I am that you took the time to help me out with my trip planning. I seriously did not expect this much helpful feedback. I have read every single post in this thread (some even multiple times) and have taken notes and considered every view point and suggestion. Since my first post, here is what I have accomplished so far:

- Cancelled my initial package with Priceline and re-booked it directly through Disney World to take advantage of the free dining plan
- Upgraded my dining plan from the quick service to standard dining plan
- Selected my rides for fast passes (I chose times that were in the afternoon/evening since I figured the park would be busier at these times).
- Customized my MagicBands. My girlfriend was so surprised when I showed her that we would be getting these cool wrist bands for our trip. Can't wait till they come in the mail.

Thanks @Missymoe4 , those are some great suggestions. I actually opted for the regular dining package that gives me one sit down dinner per night. Reason for this is that it was only an additional $150 for four days for two people! In addition, so many of the restaurants look amazing. There's no way I could afford most of that food without the dining plan. With that being said, I've made reservations at three restaurants and I'm wondering if you or anyone else here has been to them and can tell me if I've made decent choices:

California Grill @ 9:15pm - I heard that this place was good for watching fireworks. I'm not sure if you can see both Wishes and IllumiNations from here.

Coral Reef Restaurant (in Epcot) - There were a lot of restaurants to choose from in Epcot, but this one seemed interesting because of the glass wall fishtanks. If anyone else has a tried and true recommendation within Epcot I'm all ears (no disney pun intended).

The Crystal Palace (in MK) - I chose this one because it's one of the few character dining options I'm given. The other one is Cinderella's round table, but that one was booked solid with no space. The other two choices available are the Liberty Tree Tavern and The Plaza Restaurant.

Of course, these are only the choices for sit down dinners. If you know of a unique place I should try with my Quick service meal at either MK or Epcot I would love to hear it as well. Snacks too! (I heard the Mickey ice cream bar is a must-try).

 

[MarieTA]

You are welcome. I'm glad you were able to get the free dining with my help.

 

[Missymoe4]

I just want to take a moment and let everyone know how thankful I am that you took the time to help me out with my trip planning. I seriously did not expect this much helpful feedback. I have read every single post in this thread (some even multiple times) and have taken notes and considered every view point and suggestion. Since my first post, here is what I have accomplished so far:

- Cancelled my initial package with Priceline and re-booked it directly through Disney World to take advantage of the free dining plan
- Upgraded my dining plan from the quick service to standard dining plan
- Selected my rides for fast passes (I chose times that were in the afternoon/evening since I figured the park would be busier at these times).
- Customized my MagicBands. My girlfriend was so surprised when I showed her that we would be getting these cool wrist bands for our trip. Can't wait till they come in the mail.

Thanks @Missymoe4 , those are some great suggestions. I actually opted for the regular dining package that gives me one sit down dinner per night. Reason for this is that it was only an additional $150 for four days for two people! In addition, so many of the restaurants look amazing. There's no way I could afford most of that food without the dining plan. With that being said, I've made reservations at three restaurants and I'm wondering if you or anyone else here has been to them and can tell me if I've made decent choices:

California Grill @ 9:15pm - I heard that this place was good for watching fireworks. I'm not sure if you can see both Wishes and IllumiNations from here.

Coral Reef Restaurant (in Epcot) - There were a lot of restaurants to choose from in Epcot, but this one seemed interesting because of the glass wall fishtanks. If anyone else has a tried and true recommendation within Epcot I'm all ears (no disney pun intended).

The Crystal Palace (in MK) - I chose this one because it's one of the few character dining options I'm given. The other one is Cinderella's round table, but that one was booked solid with no space. The other two choices available are the Liberty Tree Tavern and The Plaza Restaurant.

Of course, these are only the choices for sit down dinners. If you know of a unique place I should try with my Quick service meal at either MK or Epcot I would love to hear it as well. Snacks too! (I heard the Mickey ice cream bar is a must-try).

I totally don't blame you!!! That was a fantastic deal, one I would have made myself. The restaurants you made reservations for are amazing. It will be a great break, some exquisite food and some good adult time. The CP is also great as adults--the characters interacted so much differently with adults than kids. It's really a neat experience.

 

[RMichael21]

I just want to take a moment and let everyone know how thankful I am that you took the time to help me out with my trip planning. I seriously did not expect this much helpful feedback. I have read every single post in this thread (some even multiple times) and have taken notes and considered every view point and suggestion. Since my first post, here is what I have accomplished so far:

- Cancelled my initial package with Priceline and re-booked it directly through Disney World to take advantage of the free dining plan
- Upgraded my dining plan from the quick service to standard dining plan
- Selected my rides for fast passes (I chose times that were in the afternoon/evening since I figured the park would be busier at these times).
- Customized my MagicBands. My girlfriend was so surprised when I showed her that we would be getting these cool wrist bands for our trip. Can't wait till they come in the mail.

Thanks @Missymoe4 , those are some great suggestions. I actually opted for the regular dining package that gives me one sit down dinner per night. Reason for this is that it was only an additional $150 for four days for two people! In addition, so many of the restaurants look amazing. There's no way I could afford most of that food without the dining plan. With that being said, I've made reservations at three restaurants and I'm wondering if you or anyone else here has been to them and can tell me if I've made decent choices:

California Grill @ 9:15pm - I heard that this place was good for watching fireworks. I'm not sure if you can see both Wishes and IllumiNations from here.

Coral Reef Restaurant (in Epcot) - There were a lot of restaurants to choose from in Epcot, but this one seemed interesting because of the glass wall fishtanks. If anyone else has a tried and true recommendation within Epcot I'm all ears (no disney pun intended).

The Crystal Palace (in MK) - I chose this one because it's one of the few character dining options I'm given. The other one is Cinderella's round table, but that one was booked solid with no space. The other two choices available are the Liberty Tree Tavern and The Plaza Restaurant.

Of course, these are only the choices for sit down dinners. If you know of a unique place I should try with my Quick service meal at either MK or Epcot I would love to hear it as well. Snacks too! (I heard the Mickey ice cream bar is a must-try).

I thought you may want to know this, but once in the park on the same day, you can make additional FP reservations if you have already used the 3. You won't be able to make new reservations until after you use all of the original 3. So, I would recommend making your FP for slightly earlier in the day, so that way you can make more afterwards.

 

[cw1982]

I just got a little too excited when you said Coral Reef! I love that place And since you'll be a party of two, you'll be pretty much right next to the aquarium (that's where all the smaller tables are). Awesome experience! The food was really good. Oh, and if your girlfriend drinks, tell her to try the Magical Star cocktail!

 

[sirjohnly]

@RMichael21 Thanks for that tip, I'll have to re-arrange my fast passes then to take advantage of the additional ones. Where do I book the additional ones on the day of, at the park front desk?

@cw1982 That's awesome to hear that we might get seated next to the aquarium. The Magical Star cocktail sounds amazing, but unfortunately my girlfriend isn't 21 yet

Another thing I read about was this Photopass thing that the parks have, where photographers take your photo and you can view them later online. Does anyone have any experience with this service, and is it something you would recommend?

 

[cw1982]

Ok- there's Photopass and then there's Memory Maker.

If you buy Memory Maker in advance, it's $150 and covers all pictures taken of you and your gf during the trip, including ride pictures, pictures in front of some of the icons (like the castle), and anywhere else where you see a photographer. You can also wait and buy it once you get there for $199. The ride pictures automatically show up in your account. Any picture taken by a person will be in your account as well as long as you have the photographer scan your magic band.

Photopass is a little different. Memory Maker replaced the old Photopass, and what is left is basically that you can have the same people take your pictures and scan your magic band. Then when you get home, you can decide which pictures to buy (if any) for $14.95 per download. Ride pictures won't be included automatically, but I think if you scan your magic band at the counters where they sell those pictures, they *should* show up as well. Or you can do like everyone else does and just take a picture of your ride picture with your phone lol.

Since you're only going to be there two days, you might not get as much value out of Memory Maker as you would if you were going to be there for a whole week.

Keep in mind, too, that all of the photographers will happily take your picture with your phone, camera, etc, for free. I always let them take the picture with their camera as well and scan my band, so that they got credit for taking the pictures. We ended up buying 6 pictures when we got home instead of going with Memory Maker. I wish we had the ride pictures, but other than that it wouldn't have been worth it for us to spend the $150.

 

[sirjohnly]

@cw1982 Thanks for clarifying the Photopass for me. I guess I'll use the service and maybe there will be a couple photos after our trip that I like and are worth puchasing. I'll definitely also ask them to help us take a photo with our phone. It's a good thing you let me know get them to take a Photopass shot first to make sure they get credit. I don't want to seem like one of those annoying tourists that bug these people to take photos for them!

 

[cw1982]

@cw1982 Thanks for clarifying the Photopass for me. I guess I'll use the service and maybe there will be a couple photos after our trip that I like and are worth puchasing. I'll definitely also ask them to help us take a photo with our phone. It's a good thing you let me know get them to take a Photopass shot first to make sure they get credit. I don't want to seem like one of those annoying tourists that bug these people to take photos for them!

If you decide you like all of the pictures they take, it's actually cheaper to buy all of them for $169 after the trip than it is to buy memory maker at the park for $199. The only difference would be the ride photos. To give you an idea, we ended up stopping for pictures 2 or 3 times per day. Families with kids who meet a lot of characters and people who want the ride photos probably get more bang for their buck with prepaying for memory maker.