First Timer queries

[MarkG]

Hi all

We're returning to Orlando in September (1 previous visit 4 years ago for honeymoon) and are looking at doing at least 4 days/nights in Disney.

We are potentially looking at a split stay, but at the moment it's more likely we'll be based at Cabana Bay, so working on that basis at moment

I've bought the unofficial Disney Guide to try and get up to speed, but there a lot (!) in it.

So thought I'd ask the experts - for first timers with say 4 days/nights, what would your suggestions be for the must see/do's?

Thanks

Mark

[sheluk]

Have you done Disney before on your previous visit? Guessing not from your title, I wouldn't expect to cover all ground. I assume you'd buy a days ticket 2/3/4 days etc the hopper adds quite an expense to that and I don't think you'd get the benefit of first timers as you can spend all 4 days in 1/2 parks to not feel like you're "rushing it".

I'd probably plan one of your middle days (without a ticket) to chill at the resort for a few hours or visit Disney Springs on the bus and soak up the atmosphere. Or explore the monorail resorts.

You could do MNSSHP at Magic Kingdom one night which would get you access to MK from 4pm, then the party starts at 7pm instead of a day ticket, which would give you the morning to relax.

Make sure you book your 3 fastpasses in advance to get on the key rides.

And maybe have a look at renting DVC points too as they can work out better value than booking through Disney or another operator. Plus you wouldn't have to pay car parking. I'd do Disney at the start or end so you're not paying for two hotels.

I have made quite a few assumptions there so hope some of the above is useful.

My must do's would be... experience the parks at night as well as during the day, they take on a different life. See at least one fireworks show. Think about a character breakfast/meal if you want to meet the characters with less of a queue (we love Garden Grille at Epcot for that).

[Mazascouser]

4 days = 4 parks. But if you have a hopper pass then cross cross day and night visits for fireworks. Have your chill days at Cabana Bay if that is going to be your base. Your visits to Disney will be based on the type of ticket you buy. Check out the various tickets and prices.