Planning a Disney World Vacation

Seems kind of simple, but to me the cardinal rule in planning a Disney vacation is to get your family involved, find out what the parks offer, and have each family member share their priorities. Disney World is HUGE and few families see it "all" on their first visit. Do yourself a favor, and take a bit of time before you arrive to discuss what the most important things are to see. That way, if you get hot, tired, or the crowds begin to build, you can take a break knowing that you got to see your "must-sees". Needless to say....this is especially important for children.

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Also seems very simple, but one I think that many folks overlook. Check out the park hours ahead of time: each park has different operating hours and they vary by the day of the week and time of the year. You don't want to arrive at the Magic Kingdom one evening, only to find out that it is closing in 30 minutes! Find out also, what rides will be closed when you are there. Other than the busiest times of the year, Disney nearly always has several rides closed for refurbishment at a time. If your child's favorite is going to be closed, make sure she knows before you get there! And be sure to check the weather forecast BEFORE you leave home: on our most recent trip this past January, temperatures were in the low 50s most days and in the 30s at night.....winter coat and glove weather in Florida! We saw many many families in shorts and sandals that looked pretty darn cold. Plan for your Disney World vacation before you leave home, to avoid disappointments and unexpected...and unwelcome...surprises.

It is hard to know what you want to eat a day ahead, let alone months ahead. But if you wish to eat at a table service restaurant, or your child has his heart set on breakfast with Mickey, then you must plan ahead for meals on your Disney World vacation. Reservations for most character meals and table service restaurants open up 90 days in advance....and during busy seasons, the most popular ones will book up well before hand. For example, traveling to Disney World during Christmas and/or New Years? Don't even think of trying to get dinner reservations or character meals once you are there....they were probably booked months ago. Avoid disappointment and make those reservations in advance!!