Disney Vacation (7 Viewers)

[Bruce Dickinson]

After the mom's panel disappointment, wasn't sure if we would re-up, but wife made her peace and got back in the saddle. We are pass-holders again -- booked an early Dec. trip -- and she will be going for the panel again in '17.

As for dining, we don't really care for the food at BoG. Thought we were alone on an island on that one@Bruce Dickinson. Do not get my wife started on what she thinks about "the gray stuff". Agree that it is a cool space tho.

We have had great experiences at Cinderella's castle. Food is good, and you can't beat the access to the princesses. It is a bit pricey, but worth the splurge.

One of our hidden faves is Sleepy Hollow at Liberty Square. The chocolate chip cookie ice cream sandwich is made fresh. It's enormous and awesome.

Agree on Via Napoli at EPCOT. Also think Biergarten is underrated. It rarely is mentioned here. Some positives: better than decent German-fare buffet, good beer, you can ALWAYS get a reservation and they do a fun live Christmas music set for the kids.

Never been to Le Celier. It's on our list for December.

Good to see y'all back in the saddle.  I'm going to reapply for the DPMP next year, too.

We've booked early breakfast at BoG to jump the rope in the morning, but wow the food is such a disappointment for how clever everything else is there.

+1 on Sleepy Hollow.  Those fresh cookie ice cream sandwiches are generous and delicious.  Forget to mention it in this thread because until now I didn't know what the name of the stand was.

Only been to Biergarten once, on a humid 90-degree day.  I think I would like the buffet a lot more in cooler, crisp weather.  The live music is great, and they want young kids up by the stage participating and dancing around.  Totally get they would put on a great Christmas show.  

 

[stubby]

Changed Tusker House to bkfast....great idea. Wife endorsed it, too (which we all know makes things easier.)

Great arrival day. Pulled into Bay Lake Tower around 2:30pm. Picked up stroller that was pre-delivered. Room wasn't quite ready. No big deal....they held our luggage for us. Walked over to the dock@Contemporary and took boat to Ft. Wilderness for HoopdeDoo. Great show. Highly underrated. One of the showgirls was at least a 8.5 on the Offdee scale. Wasn't too loud for the baby, either. 

Got back to hotel and checked into room while they brought our luggage up. Garden Grocer delivery was already in our fridge.

Holy crap our one-BR suite is nice. Immediately spoiled now. 

Magic Kingdom tomorrow....love that we can just walk over.

More later this week.

 

[Capella]

Just walked 12 hours around MK with my 45-pound nephew on my shoulder for seemingly half of them. My whole body is telling me to #### off right now. 

Ohana for breakfast tomorrow and then another long day at Hollywood. 

 

[glvsav37]

Great arrival day. Pulled into Bay Lake Tower around 2:30pm. Picked up stroller that was pre-delivered. Room wasn't quite ready. No big deal....they held our luggage for us. Walked over to the dock@Contemporary and took boat to Ft. Wilderness for HoopdeDoo. Great show. Highly underrated. One of the showgirls was at least a 8.5 on the Offdee scale. Wasn't too loud for the baby, either. 

Got back to hotel and checked into room while they brought our luggage up. Garden Grocer delivery was already in our fridge.

Holy crap our one-BR suite is nice. Immediately spoiled now. 

Magic Kingdom tomorrow....love that we can just walk over.

More later this week.




 

we upgraded to the 1 brdm at bay lake on our last trip too and you are 110% right...spoiled aint the word. 

and yes...the walking convenience from BLT to MK is the main reason we stay there....along with just being right in the visual middle of everything...love the morning walk across the skyway bridge for coffee and seeing the castle. 

enjoy...looking forward to updates. 

Any chance of swinging a @stubby / @Capella cornhole? I see you are both there now. 

 

 

[Capella]

Ha I have too much family here to trail off. 

 

[stubby]

we upgraded to the 1 brdm at bay lake on our last trip too and you are 110% right...spoiled aint the word. 

and yes...the walking convenience from BLT to MK is the main reason we stay there....along with just being right in the visual middle of everything...love the morning walk across the skyway bridge for coffee and seeing the castle. 

enjoy...looking forward to updates. 

Any chance of swinging a @stubby / @Capella cornhole? I see you are both there now. 

 

Already hit Seven Dwarfs, barnstormer,  and Buzz Lightyear twice (once with Fastpass). Quick Lunch at Cosmic Ray's.  I'm "taking one for the team" by bringing the baby back at 2 for a nap.

 

[glvsav37]

Wow! this is new...I'm seeing reports of tent cabanas up at the MK in Tomorrowland for rental...at $650 per day. 

Can't find any official information yet, but here are some photos.  

I'm torn...

1. its really expensive but for a full day it would be a great place to get away from the crowds, store your stroller, etc. 
2. I rarely stay in a park for a full day so its really not for me.  
3. I hope they are not as obvious as they look in the pictures....kinda refugee looking and not at all invested in the theming. 

I’ll admit, i’m kinda of a snob when i travel. I like my upgrades and special ticket things. I love dessert parties mainly b/c it gets me away from waiting for hours on a packed main st.

I have rented cabanas at Sesame Place the few times we visited, but it was mainly as a place to meet, store phones (its mostly a water park), change out of wet clothes and a quiet place for the baby to nap (when he did nap). But for this, IDK?  From the looks of it, it really detracts from the park/Tomorrowland atmosphere. Now if they had a spot well off to the side, that is in its own hidden area, I could see it. ™stubb

@stubby is on the scene....report back if you go back to the MK and head over there. 

 

[stubby]

Wow! this is new...I'm seeing reports of tent cabanas up at the MK in Tomorrowland for rental...at $650 per day. 

Can't find any official information yet, but here are some photos.  

I'm torn...

1. its really expensive but for a full day it would be a great place to get away from the crowds, store your stroller, etc. 
2. I rarely stay in a park for a full day so its really not for me.  
3. I hope they are not as obvious as they look in the pictures....kinda refugee looking and not at all invested in the theming. 

I’ll admit, i’m kinda of a snob when i travel. I like my upgrades and special ticket things. I love dessert parties mainly b/c it gets me away from waiting for hours on a packed main st.

I have rented cabanas at Sesame Place the few times we visited, but it was mainly as a place to meet, store phones (its mostly a water park), change out of wet clothes and a quiet place for the baby to nap (when he did nap). But for this, IDK?  From the looks of it, it really detracts from the park/Tomorrowland atmosphere. Now if they had a spot well off to the side, that is in its own hidden area, I could see it. ™stubb

@stubby is on the scene....report back if you go back to the MK and head over there. 

I didn't see them when I was there earlier,but I was busy juggling kids and not looking for anything like this. We move around so much I can't see us renting one. Even though I'm an average Footballguys guy with a supermodel wife and a manbag full of cash,  I'm not paying an extra $650 just so I don't have to walk back to Bay Lake for nap time.

 

[jb1020]

@glvsav37 I can give a report in 2 weeks.  I don't see how I'd ever want one though, but we've always stayed on resort.  But even I don't see the benefit.  If you're tired just go sit at a restaurant and people watch.  If you need to dump a stroller you can do that anywhere?!?!?!

I see the point of having them at water parks and what not...but not at MK. 

Unless you can do body shots off of Ariel in those cabanas then I doubt I'd ever be interested. 

 

[Bruce Dickinson]

IMO A really good WDW follow of social media is "Kenny The Pirate". His areas of expertise are character meet-and-greets and attraction maintenance schedules.  He has regular access to knowledgeable cast members who deliver reliable inside info and Kenny protects their identities well.

Anyway, Kenny's latest report is about Rivers Of Light.  AK will have a couple of Cast Member Only test shows on November 27 and 28.  Cast Members have been told how/where to pick up passes to the shows and are under strict orders of no photos or video.

 

[Capella]

We walked past the cabanas yesterday. People were looking at them like it was 2 dogs having sex. Funny how bothered people were. 

 

[stubby]

Currently at Ohana. Negotiating naming rights for the skewers. ???Look for a short-term pop  in Disney stock tomorrow. 

 

[Bruce Dickinson]

Currently at Ohana. Negotiating naming rights for the skewers. ???Look for a short-term pop  in Disney stock tomorrow. 

Happy Thanksgiving, Cousin!

 

[GoBirds]

Headed down in two weeks with the kids for the 1st time staying at the Wilderness Lodge. Of course after we reserved got the letter it will be under construction and a pool closed. Any insight into if other pool is decent and construction an annoyance?

 

[The Ref]

Anyone ever been the eurodisney?

looking like I'm taking the family over next summer and I'm thinking of spending one day.

 

[ThreeThousand]

Happy Thanksgiving, Cousin!

I've been to Disney many times, but never eaten at O'Hana.  Heading down for another trip tomorrow, and managed to score a reservation.  Advice?  Wear stretchy pants?

 

[Bruce Dickinson]

I've been to Disney many times, but never eaten at O'Hana.  Heading down for another trip tomorrow, and managed to score a reservation.  Advice?  Wear stretchy pants?

Enjoy!

The food will be brought out to you and presented.  No need to order off a menu.  

If it looks good, try it.  If you want more, they will bring it.  

The grilled, skewered meats and shrimp was what make the place famous.  My favorite is the shrimp.  It's a little extra effort to peel them, but the smoky flavor still penetrates the shell and protects it from overcooking.  The chicken thighs are marinated to protect against dryness and are great with either dipper.  The sirloin is a mixed bag but delicious when removed from the heat in time.

The underrated course is a plate of noodles, wings, and potstickers that come out after the salad, before the meats.  The wings are flavored with honey and coriander (the seed of the cilantro plant), so they aren't Buffalo-style hot or BBQ-style sweet.  It's a mellow smoothness and crispy texture.  The kid likes to reserve some noodles, wait for the chicken to come out, mix them together and dump the peanut sauce on it.  I approve of this message.  The potstickers seem ordinary at first wow the texture on them delivers. There's a dispute in my family about which dipping sauce is better with them.  Obviously the solution here is to try both.  

If you like Polynesian/ukulele music, you're gonna love the background music.  If you're bringing kids, there will be an opportunity for them to race coconuts around the restaurant and dance to live music.  

 

[glvsav37]

Well, it looks like it's actually happening!!

Cast preview of the long overdue night time Animal Kingdom show "Rivers of Light" are in just a few minutes. 

Instagram and Twitter #RiversOfLight

Finally!!!!!

If all goes well, I think @jb1020 is going to be the 1st to be able to check it out. Not sure if anyone else was asking about it...it seems so damn long ago. I mean, I was supposed to be seeing it back in August. 

 

[glvsav37]

UH OH

hit a snag already

 

[GoBirds]

UH OH

hit a snag already

This something you would recommend for 3 and 5 year olds?

 

[glvsav37]

This something you would recommend for 3 and 5 year olds?

If it ever actually happens, I dont see why not. But no one has actually seen the show yet—1st preview happening right now. We will know more in a few days.

I would say the only issues with kids with these types of shows is them getting restless waiting for it to start (could be waiting upward of an hour in the same spot), the late time, and then loud noises. If your kids are cool with those things, I don't expect it to be scary or anything.

 

[GoBirds]

If it ever actually happens, I dont see why not. But no one has actually seen the show yet—1st preview happening right now. We will know more in a few days.

I would say the only issues with kids with these types of shows is them getting restless waiting for it to start (could be waiting upward of an hour in the same spot), the late time, and then loud noises. If your kids are cool with those things, I don't expect it to be scary or anything.

Appreciate it. 

When end you have time give me your top 5 for that age not to miss. Staying at Wilderness Lodge. 

 

[glvsav37]

@GoBirds Boys or girls? and how many days are you staying?

 

[GoBirds]

@GoBirds Boys or girls?

Both boys. 

4 days. 

 

[Moe.]

Well, it looks like it's actually happening!!

Cast preview of the long overdue night time Animal Kingdom show "Rivers of Light" are in just a few minutes. 

Instagram and Twitter #RiversOfLight

Finally!!!!!

If all goes well, I think @jb1020 is going to be the 1st to be able to check it out. Not sure if anyone else was asking about it...it seems so damn long ago. I mean, I was supposed to be seeing it back in August. 

I will be there at AK Saturday December 16th. Just tried to make a FP reservation for Rivers of Light for that evening but it wasn't available. 

 

[glvsav37]

@GoBirds

Both good ages but equally tough b/c I'm sure nap and melt down times are all over the place. Also their heights play into it. Measure the 5 year old and see if he hits any of the height requirements. At 5 my little guy was jacked for the thrill rides, not sure how your's will be. You know them best.

You are in a good resort based on proximity to MK, easy boat ride over with the benefit that on boats you don't need to fold up strollers (like on buses).

Unless they are really into Princesses (no judging ) they you can save a bunch of time by not doing a lot of Princess hunting —unless it's for you, lol. I'm right there man!

Must dos in MK IMO:
• Talking Mickey on Main St
• Mid Day (3pm) parade—Festival of Fantasy. You'll get to see all the main characters and some pretty spectacular floats. Crowds super dense on Main st, so try and get a spot in Fronteerland. Or, if you are on Main St., my super secret location is right outside the barber shop right at the parade exit (across the street from the firehouse). Its a hidden little nook that not many people see and being it is right before the performers exit, you are more likely to get a high-five from them then anywhere else on the parade. Show excitement and wave the baby around..they love that.
• Philharmagic in Fantasyland. No need for a FastPass, big theater and very low wait times.
• Otherwise, attraction-wise. you cant go wrong with the classics for the whole family: Jungle Cruise, Peter Pan, Small World, Dumbo, etc.
• If you are up for spending a little extra $ on things:
—Pirate's League: They will give your boys a pirate makeover...bandannas, eye patches and fake beards. heck even me and the wife get in on it. Gotta make a reservation.
—Wishes Dessert Party. i'm a big fan of these b/c it gets you off main st and out of the crowd waiting for the fireworks. You gotta do the fireworks, but why not do it with a buffet of desserts in front of you and no kids hanging on you or screaming for balloons or ice cream.

Epcot:
• Turtle Talk with Crush. Kids will eat this up.
• Club Cool: free samples of soda from all over the world. Go b/c its rare to get anything free in WDW
• Other then that, Epcot is a tough one with kids that age. If they can get on Test Track then by all means do it. Soarin is great too, but height may be an issue. If they re slightly into Frozen, then that ride is cute, but not worth the wait or FP if they are not.
Lots of character meeting spots within the countries. If you think the kids don't mind going around World Showcase, there is a lot of stuff to see—cultural shows and performers—and things for the parents—lots of good drink and food sampling options.

Studios:
• If they are into Star Wars then this is the pace to be.
• Check the ages, but the Jedi Training is the cool thing here. Gotta sign up super early—like at rope drop—but kids get to fight a 'real' Darth Vader, or other villain.
• Launch Bay has all the SW's props plus Chewie and Kylo Ren
• Star Tours if they are tall enough.
• If they are into Disney jr, then try and get a table at Hollywood and vine. Its a Disney Jr character meal...Jake, Sophia, Doc McStuffins, and Oso (he may be on his way out).
• Def hit the Disney Jr show, the 3 yr old will be all over this.
• Indy stunt show is good for them too.
• Get a FP for Toy Story Midway. Great ride.

Animal Kingdom.
• Its tough, but try and find time for both Loin King and Nemo Show. Nemo show is pretty long, but the props are amazing. If only time for 1, then hit the Lion King show—Shorter and audience participation. Really great show.
• Tough to be a bug can be scary....good show but be warned. You may want to YouTube it 1st.
• Safari, Safari, Safari...thats why you are there. Try and go early in the AM
• The 5 yr old might enjoy the Wilderness Explorers stations. You get a free book at the main bridge into Discovery Island, and all through the park there are stations where they can learn things and get a sticker for the book. Its free and educational...gasp!!!
• Flights of Wonder is a fun show and good chance to sit down
• Rafiki's Planet Watch is a nice place, but a little out of the way. Tough to get to if you don't have a lot of time.


Other stuff:
• Character meals—I'm a big fan. You gotta eat and you gotta see characters...do both at the same time. You can eliminate the Princess ones and stick to the ones with the main characters. Chef Mickey's is real close to you (Contemporary), Tusker house is in AK and Cape May is over by Epcot (Beach Club). You'll get your Mickey, Goofy and Donald fix in any of those. Crystal Palace in MK is Pooh group. And my fav is 1900 Park Fare for breakfast at the Grand Flo, great food and more unique characters—Tigger, Alice, Mary Poppins, Mad Hatter.
• A Take off of the dessert party is the Pirates and Pals Wishes Cruise. Again, extra $$, but you get a dessert party at the Contemp Resort (right by you), meet Capt hook and Smee, then go out on a boat into the middle of the lake with a Pirate skipper (who tells kid jokes and trivia) to watch the MK fireworks (with the music). Then you meet Peter Pan on the way back. Again, i'm all about getting away from crowds, but I normally go in summer time.


Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other Questions.

 

[glvsav37]

@GoBirds

Oh...forgot to add...

My opinion when hitting WDW with kids, is let them lead. If they are tiered or cranky, don't push them...all that will happen is you will end up hating life. Go in with simple expectations and expect to do even 1/2 of that

But the whole trip doesnt have to be all about the kids. Treat yourself and when you can, make a Fast Pass for a good adult ride here and there. They have a thing called "Rider Swap" on those rides that kids cant always get on. Basically you go to the attendant at the ride entrance and ask for a "Rider Swap Pass" Then you go on line (Regular or FP) and the wife takes the kids for ice cream or another ride. Once you are done, the other parent takes the pass and gets to go on through the quicker FP line. So you both get to ride the attraction, separately which kinda sucks, but its better then not at all.

And not to scam the system, (but screw it, you paid enough), you can make an adult ride FP with a kid's Magic Band. So say for Epcot, where there isnt a lot for kids, You could take each MB and make a single FP for the other big rides. 1 for Test Track, your wife's for Soarin, 1 kid for Mission Space, and the other for another ride. Then just scan yours at test track and get a Rider Swap for the wife. Then later She goes to Soarin and gets you a Ride swap, then after that you take kid #1's band to MisSpace (no one will care its a kids band) and get her a swap...etc. Rinse and repeat.

 

[GoBirds]

@GoBirds

Both good ages but equally tough b/c I'm sure nap and melt down times are all over the place. Also their heights play into it. Measure the 5 year old and see if he hits any of the height requirements. At 5 my little guy was jacked for the thrill rides, not sure how your's will be. You know them best.

You are in a good resort based on proximity to MK, easy boat ride over with the benefit that on boats you don't need to fold up strollers (like on buses).

Unless they are really into Princesses (no judging ) they you can save a bunch of time by not doing a lot of Princess hunting —unless it's for you, lol. I'm right there man!

Must dos in MK IMO:
• Talking Mickey on Main St
• Mid Day (3pm) parade—Festival of Fantasy. You'll get to see all the main characters and some pretty spectacular floats. Crowds super dense on Main st, so try and get a spot in Fronteerland. Or, if you are on Main St., my super secret location is right outside the barber shop right at the parade exit (across the street from the firehouse). Its a hidden little nook that not many people see and being it is right before the performers exit, you are more likely to get a high-five from them then anywhere else on the parade. Show excitement and wave the baby around..they love that.
• Philharmagic in Fantasyland. No need for a FastPass, big theater and very low wait times.
• Otherwise, attraction-wise. you cant go wrong with the classics for the whole family: Jungle Cruise, Peter Pan, Small World, Dumbo, etc.
• If you are up for spending a little extra $ on things:
—Pirate's League: They will give your boys a pirate makeover...bandannas, eye patches and fake beards. heck even me and the wife get in on it. Gotta make a reservation.
—Wishes Dessert Party. i'm a big fan of these b/c it gets you off main st and out of the crowd waiting for the fireworks. You gotta do the fireworks, but why not do it with a buffet of desserts in front of you and no kids hanging on you or screaming for balloons or ice cream.

Epcot:
• Turtle Talk with Crush. Kids will eat this up.
• Club Cool: free samples of soda from all over the world. Go b/c its rare to get anything free in WDW
• Other then that, Epcot is a tough one with kids that age. If they can get on Test Track then by all means do it. Soarin is great too, but height may be an issue. If they re slightly into Frozen, then that ride is cute, but not worth the wait or FP if they are not.
Lots of character meeting spots within the countries. If you think the kids don't mind going around World Showcase, there is a lot of stuff to see—cultural shows and performers—and things for the parents—lots of good drink and food sampling options.

Studios:
• If they are into Star Wars then this is the pace to be.
• Check the ages, but the Jedi Training is the cool thing here. Gotta sign up super early—like at rope drop—but kids get to fight a 'real' Darth Vader, or other villain.
• Launch Bay has all the SW's props plus Chewie and Kylo Ren
• Star Tours if they are tall enough.
• If they are into Disney jr, then try and get a table at Hollywood and vine. Its a Disney Jr character meal...Jake, Sophia, Doc McStuffins, and Oso (he may be on his way out).
• Def hit the Disney Jr show, the 3 yr old will be all over this.
• Indy stunt show is good for them too.
• Get a FP for Toy Story Midway. Great ride.

Animal Kingdom.
• Its tough, but try and find time for both Loin King and Nemo Show. Nemo show is pretty long, but the props are amazing. If only time for 1, then hit the Lion King show—Shorter and audience participation. Really great show.
• Tough to be a bug can be scary....good show but be warned. You may want to YouTube it 1st.
• Safari, Safari, Safari...thats why you are there. Try and go early in the AM
• The 5 yr old might enjoy the Wilderness Explorers stations. You get a free book at the main bridge into Discovery Island, and all through the park there are stations where they can learn things and get a sticker for the book. Its free and educational...gasp!!!
• Flights of Wonder is a fun show and good chance to sit down
• Rafiki's Planet Watch is a nice place, but a little out of the way. Tough to get to if you don't have a lot of time.


Other stuff:
• Character meals—I'm a big fan. You gotta eat and you gotta see characters...do both at the same time. You can eliminate the Princess ones and stick to the ones with the main characters. Chef Mickey's is real close to you (Contemporary), Tusker house is in AK and Cape May is over by Epcot (Beach Club). You'll get your Mickey, Goofy and Donald fix in any of those. Crystal Palace in MK is Pooh group. And my fav is 1900 Park Fare for breakfast at the Grand Flo, great food and more unique characters—Tigger, Alice, Mary Poppins, Mad Hatter.
• A Take off of the dessert party is the Pirates and Pals Wishes Cruise. Again, extra $$, but you get a dessert party at the Contemp Resort (right by you), meet Capt hook and Smee, then go out on a boat into the middle of the lake with a Pirate skipper (who tells kid jokes and trivia) to watch the MK fireworks (with the music). Then you meet Peter Pan on the way back. Again, i'm all about getting away from crowds, but I normally go in summer time.


Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other Questions.

Greatly appreciated,this is awesome info. No princesses so far.....Star Wars is the current obsession. Thanks for mentioning height I need to measure them and be prepared for the little bro meltdown if he can't do on what big bro can. Thanks again and let me think about any other questions. 

 

[glvsav37]

Greatly appreciated,this is awesome info. No princesses so far.....Star Wars is the current obsession. Thanks for mentioning height I need to measure them and be prepared for the little bro meltdown if he can't do on what big bro can. Thanks again and let me think about any other questions. 

Been there and done that. 4 years and lots of inches between my kids. I never bought so much "diversion ice cream" in my life during the years he couldn't make height. I'm not gonna go on record, but there may or may not have been some thin gel inserts inside his shoes one trip b/c he was just scraping 40 inches and I was fully prepared to pack up and leave if he couldn't get on the rides.

Its tough man, bc on one hand you hate to see the little guy miss out, but on the other its not fair to the older one. Those of us who are 1st born need to stick together...the struggle is real.

no worries...feel free to ask anything else. Lots of good guys in here who know the parks well.

 

[GoBirds]

Been there and done that. 4 years and lots of inches between my kids. I never bought so much "diversion ice cream" in my life during the years he couldn't make height. I'm not gonna go on record, but there may or may not have been some thin gel inserts inside his shoes one trip b/c he was just scraping 40 inches and I was fully prepared to pack up and leave if he couldn't get on the rides.

Its tough man, bc on one hand you hate to see the little guy miss out, but on the other its not fair to the older one. Those of us who are 1st born need to stick together...the struggle is real.

no worries...feel free to ask anything else. Lots of good guys in here who know the parks well.

So 40" is one I'm shooting for? Thanks again....getting tape measure ready for morning. 

 

[glvsav37]

So 40" is one I'm shooting for? Thanks again....getting tape measure ready for morning. 

here is a pretty good list. It varies, and there are many rides with no restrictions.

And I just checked the Jedi Training and its min of 4 years old to do it. Bummer, Sorry!

 

[glvsav37]

@GoBirds

Also, not sure when you are going, but the Studios usually has a Star Wars fireworks show. Its down now b/c they are doing a Holiday show, but I expect it back after the 1st of the year. Its pretty bad ###. They also have a dessert party that you might want to do instead of Wishes one. Mainly b/c the viewing area is smaller at the Studios and 90% of the show happens as projections on the Chinese Theater. The Dessert party give you a reserved area to watch the show which is a big help.

Also, there is a lot of day time SW events around the main area of Studios. There is a kinda cheesy stage show, but the kids will eat it up b/c its Chewwie, Bobba Fett, DV, The Sith guy, C3PO and R2D2. Also, there is a march of the 1st order of storm trooppers though the park at different times of the day.

So lots of opportunity for the little guy to get his SW fix.

 

[GoBirds]

@GoBirds

Also, not sure when you are going, but the Studios usually has a Star Wars fireworks show. Its down now b/c they are doing a Holiday show, but I expect it back after the 1st of the year. Its pretty bad ###. They also have a dessert party that you might want to do instead of Wishes one. Mainly b/c the viewing area is smaller at the Studios and 90% of the show happens as projections on the Chinese Theater. The Dessert party give you a reserved area to watch the show which is a big help.

Also, there is a lot of day time SW events around the main area of Studios. There is a kinda cheesy stage show, but the kids will eat it up b/c its Chewwie, Bobba Fett, DV, The Sith guy, C3PO and R2D2. Also, there is a march of the 1st order of storm trooppers though the park at different times of the day.

So lots of opportunity for the little guy to get his SW fix.

Going in a couple weeks so getting excited for it....they will love that march through the park. I'm thinking on is about 46" and the other 37" so may be shopping for some thick soles this week. 

 

[glvsav37]

@Bruce Dickinson  !!! 

This was in the latest DVC Member magazine.

I know you are a big fan of Sanaa and their Bread Service, and you already duplicated a few of the dipping sauces, but here is the recipe for the Naan Bread. In case you are feeling adventurous.

 

[Bruce Dickinson]

@Bruce Dickinson  !!! 

This was in the latest DVC Member magazine.

I know you are a big fan of Sanaa and their Bread Service, and you already duplicated a few of the dipping sauces, but here is the recipe for the Naan Bread. In case you are feeling adventurous.

Thank you so much!  I'm going to try this out and report back.  

Do not try this at home without a pizza stone or similar device for your oven.  Won't get the texture right without it.  Unless you have a tandoor, of course.

 

[jb1020]

This something you would recommend for 3 and 5 year olds?

Knowing my 4 and 6 yo...assuming you've had a full day at the park, they will pass out when you get to your seat.  Which is really nice, IMO.

Anyone catch Moana yet?  We took the kids and they both really liked it.  Like always, it was fantastic visually.  It was a really good story, but it didn't have as many little funny parts as most Disney movies do.  It was still a great movie. 

 

[glvsav37]

Add another special ticket experience to the list

Introducing the new Highway in the Sky Dine-Around

$150/pp. Basically you get to do a Monorail crawl starting at the contemporary for cocktails, then jump on a reserved monorail car to the Polly for apps, then back on the monorail to the Grand Flo for dinner and then round back to the Contemp for fireworks viewing and desserts on a private patio. 

Truth be told, I love my special ticket experiences and dessert parties and such. While some of them are a bit out there or over the top, but this one—while pricey—actually sounds pretty cool and something special for the adults.

 

[glvsav37]

Can't just talk about Disney w/o a few mentions of their closest rival.

Some basic teaser commentary on the new Nintendo/Universal partnership and them creating a "Nintendoland" in all of the Universal theme parks. I'm really diggin this idea and expect it to be pretty bad ###

 

[Osaurus]

Add another special ticket experience to the list

Introducing the new Highway in the Sky Dine-Around

$150/pp. Basically you get to do a Monorail crawl starting at the contemporary for cocktails, then jump on a reserved monorail car to the Polly for apps, then back on the monorail to the Grand Flo for dinner and then round back to the Contemp for fireworks viewing and desserts on a private patio. 

Truth be told, I love my special ticket experiences and dessert parties and such. While some of them are a bit out there or over the top, but this one—while pricey—actually sounds pretty cool and something special for the adults.

Doesn't sound bad, but would rather have dinner at California Grill as part of package.  Heading to Saratoga Springs Saturday, drinks at Bay Lake Tower bar  (Top of the World Lounge?) or something, and dinner at California Grill around fireworks time.  Some putt putt too if Mrs. Osaurus is up for it.  First time in a while we're not going to a park. Heading over to Disney Springs after dinner for some drinks and fun.

ETA:  Forgot about the beignets Sunday morning.

 

[glvsav37]

@Osaurus sounds awesome. I'm sure you know, but be sure to bring your DVC membership card with you to the Top of the World Lounge. They usually only ask for your Magic Band, but you might get a CM who wants to see the card too, esp with the recent restrictions on resale members. 

 

[Osaurus]

@Osaurus sounds awesome. I'm sure you know, but be sure to bring your DVC membership card with you to the Top of the World Lounge. They usually only ask for your Magic Band, but you might get a CM who wants to see the card too, esp with the recent restrictions on resale members. 

Thanks for the heads up.  We're going with some DVC folks so we should be good to go.  

 

[Bruce Dickinson]

@Bruce Dickinson  !!! 

This was in the latest DVC Member magazine.

I know you are a big fan of Sanaa and their Bread Service, and you already duplicated a few of the dipping sauces, but here is the recipe for the Naan Bread. In case you are feeling adventurous.

Just mixed together the dough.  I was a little worried that it didn't call for yeast, but it turns out Naan can be made with or without it.  

Was faithful to the directions, except I skipped the paddle.  Whisked the dry, then whisked the wet, then fired up the dough hooks and went to town.  

Not going to try to re-create the Peri Peri Chicken.  Just some simple chicken breast tenderloins seasoned with oil, salt, and pepper and grilled.  Got a store-bought coriander chutney that is magnificent, a homemade mango chutney left over from Thanksgiving weekend, a tzatziki sauce because I'm in a Naan-meets-gyro kind of mood, and will chop up some lettuce, tomato, and onion for garnishes.  

Playing the role of wild animals out the window will be a 5-year-old Labrador Retriever who will hang out with me while I grill and lay at various family members' feet during the meal.

 

[El Floppo]

hi guys...

taking the family (9yo son, 5yo daughter) to Orlando over MLK day weekend. looking for general advice right now..

we're staying in a Hilton somewhere (will report back when I know which one)... the wife got a crazy deal that was hard to turn down. we'll definitely hit up MK for one day- was looking at going to Legoland another (the kids are giant lego-heads).

anybody have experience going to both? 

the 9yo has just gotten into the bigger roller coasters, although he hasn't hit the big ones yet. 5yo likes rides- but so far only with a parent, and not too crazy.

both of them are performance arts fans- will probably like shows as much as the rides... so any advice there too would be great.

 

[jb1020]

Haven't done Lego Land yet, thats on our list for sure.

How many total days will you be down there?  MK Is definitely a full day if you've never been.  You can probably blow thru everything else if you're short on time. 

The shows really are pretty cool.  Its a nice relaxing moment you won't really get anywhere else.  I know of Frozen and a Beauty and the Beast (I think this one is still around) at Hollywood Studios.  I've seen both of those but Beauty and the Beast might be closed now???

I haven't seen any shows at AK, but I know they have a few...Lion King and Nemo maybe?   

Not a whole lot to offer as far as "big" coasters go.  Rock N Roll at Hollywood is great, but all the others are tame...but fun. 

Meals are a big deal at Disney.  If your daughter is into the princess stuff try and get a dinner at Akershush at Epcot. 

I don't remember the dates off the top of my head but you probably need to start looking into booking fast passes.  I know you're a little behind on booking dinner reservations, but that might not be a big deal for you.

Don't over plan and exhaust yourself your first trip, just have fun. 

 

[glvsav37]

What he said ^^

If i'm reading you right, its only 1 day at Magic Kingdom  and 1 day at legoland. Nothing else? Just clarifying.

I can't speak on legoland, but for the Disney stuff

You'll be able to book Fast Passes at 30 days from the day you are going. You'll need to sign everyone up with accounts on waltdisneyworld.com as well as download the MyDisneyExperience app. This is how you will book and manage your Fastpasses.

If you are only doing the MK, it is more of a ride/attraction park then the others. Stage and theater shows are kinda limited. You have Mickeys Friendship Fare, a stage show on the main stage out in front of the castle, a Jack Sparrow show in Adventureland, Muppets Great moments in history in liberty square (none of these have seating and are held multiple times throughout the day). Then there is various streetmosphere actors and skits, mostly on main st.

The Festival of fantasy parade is really good, super cool floats. it starts at 3 everyday...try and catch it in Fronteerland where the crowds will generally be lighter.

For Rides, most of the thrill rides are based on height, starting at around 38 inches. If the older one like coasters, but the younger one is so/so, then def try and hit 7 dwarf mine train. Its a fun little coaster, but not super crazy for kids and adults. After that, on the thrill side is Big Thunder and Space Mountain—Neither of which I would conser a "Big roller coaster" when comparing it to something at a Six Flags or Hersey Park. Big thunder is a bigger "run away train' type ride and Space Mtn is just really dark. One note on Space Mtn, you sit single file in the car, so kids may not like it b/c there is nobody next to them to hold on to if they get scared.

Splash Mtn is considered a thrill ride, but its 99% slow boat ride through some amazing sets and 1% of a big drop.   

After that, it is pretty much family rides—Jungle Cruise, Pirates, Peter Pan, Haunted Mansion, Small world, are all classics.

I really recommend Philharmagic (a 4D movie) and Monster's Inc Laugh floor. Its kind of a show/movie hybrid. It all happens on a screen, but there are actors controlling the animated figures and they ad-lib like crazy. Very fun show.

If they want some live action, Enchanted tales with bell is fun. The kids get to help act out the story of when Belle meets beast with cut out props, and they use a real Belle character. So its really fun for them.

If you are short on time, I recommend skipping is Arial Undersea Journey, its pretty boring vs the average wait time.

Sit down dining is really tough here, not a whole lot of it and many tables are reserved months ago (180 days prior to your trip). Not sure if you were considering a sit down meal, but you can try. Unfortunately your best bet for getting a table is Tony's town Square. Its Italian food, but I'm from NY, so....its not really Italian food. lol.  Skipper Canteen is new, but the menu may not be super child friendly. After that, Crystal palace is a character meal (pooh group), pretty good buffet. Then the last 2 are super tough. Cinndy's Royal table is inside the castle and its all princesses. Expensive, but you are paying for the location. And lastly Be Our Guest...a rather new location but very very good considering the other options. Its often booked solid, but it can't hurt to keep checking.

There are also a lot of good options at the monorail resorts but with only 1 day in the MK, I'm not sure you want to spend the time venturing outside the park. If oyu do, let me know and I can recommend.
 

 

[Thunderlips]

What he said ^^

If i'm reading you right, its only 1 day at Magic Kingdom  and 1 day at legoland. Nothing else? Just clarifying.

I can't speak on legoland, but for the Disney stuff

You'll be able to book Fast Passes at 30 days from the day you are going. You'll need to sign everyone up with accounts on waltdisneyworld.com as well as download the MyDisneyExperience app. This is how you will book and manage your Fastpasses.

If you are only doing the MK, it is more of a ride/attraction park then the others. Stage and theater shows are kinda limited. You have Mickeys Friendship Fare, a stage show on the main stage out in front of the castle, a Jack Sparrow show in Adventureland, Muppets Great moments in history in liberty square (none of these have seating and are held multiple times throughout the day). Then there is various streetmosphere actors and skits, mostly on main st.

The Festival of fantasy parade is really good, super cool floats. it starts at 3 everyday...try and catch it in Fronteerland where the crowds will generally be lighter.

For Rides, most of the thrill rides are based on height, starting at around 38 inches. If the older one like coasters, but the younger one is so/so, then def try and hit 7 dwarf mine train. Its a fun little coaster, but not super crazy for kids and adults. After that, on the thrill side is Big Thunder and Space Mountain—Neither of which I would conser a "Big roller coaster" when comparing it to something at a Six Flags or Hersey Park. Big thunder is a bigger "run away train' type ride and Space Mtn is just really dark. One note on Space Mtn, you sit single file in the car, so kids may not like it b/c there is nobody next to them to hold on to if they get scared.

Splash Mtn is considered a thrill ride, but its 99% slow boat ride through some amazing sets and 1% of a big drop.   

After that, it is pretty much family rides—Jungle Cruise, Pirates, Peter Pan, Haunted Mansion, Small world, are all classics.

I really recommend Philharmagic (a 4D movie) and Monster's Inc Laugh floor. Its kind of a show/movie hybrid. It all happens on a screen, but there are actors controlling the animated figures and they ad-lib like crazy. Very fun show.

If they want some live action, Enchanted tales with bell is fun. The kids get to help act out the story of when Belle meets beast with cut out props, and they use a real Belle character. So its really fun for them.

If you are short on time, I recommend skipping is Arial Undersea Journey, its pretty boring vs the average wait time.

Sit down dining is really tough here, not a whole lot of it and many tables are reserved months ago (180 days prior to your trip). Not sure if you were considering a sit down meal, but you can try. Unfortunately your best bet for getting a table is Tony's town Square. Its Italian food, but I'm from NY, so....its not really Italian food. lol.  Skipper Canteen is new, but the menu may not be super child friendly. After that, Crystal palace is a character meal (pooh group), pretty good buffet. Then the last 2 are super tough. Cinndy's Royal table is inside the castle and its all princesses. Expensive, but you are paying for the location. And lastly Be Our Guest...a rather new location but very very good considering the other options. Its often booked solid, but it can't hurt to keep checking.

There are also a lot of good options at the monorail resorts but with only 1 day in the MK, I'm not sure you want to spend the time venturing outside the park. If oyu do, let me know and I can recommend.
 

I got to be THAT GUY in Monsters Inc.  Pretty fun.  

 

[Thunderlips]

First timer who just went before Thanksgiving. Just a great place that really treats you well.  Their people are friendly, they know their stuff and at no point did they ever not make the utmost attempt to be helpful. I'm half serious in my idea to finish my 10 years at my current job, get my pension....move down there and try to work for them for another 25+ years.  

The one thing I picked up on was to try to get your Fastpasses early in the day as it sucks to have one dangling out in the late afternoon. We had a Seven Dwarves fastpass for late in the day (5:00) and it kind of sucked not having the ability to get new ones after your first two were used up.  If you have to, get to whichever park early enough and it might be easy enough to just get whatever ride you wanted with a minmal wait....we did it with Toy Story and Aerosmith in Hollywood.

Did the Christmas Parade/Party.  I thought it was actually pretty good value for the price.  Someone said they let you in early sometimes....but even if not, it's a 7 hour day in the park....it just starts at 5:00. Had next to no lines at the rides after the first parade. The person who booked the trip for us (Mother in Law) suggested we used one of our daily tickets for the Magic Kingdom that morning....so I guess in a sense we didn't get optimal value for the ticket.....but it was still cool being there from 8AM to basically 11:30PM.  In hindsight, I should have probably used that morning for Typhoon Lagoon (we had some sort of free waterpark day), went to the MK that night and then the MK on the day we went to TL......but even then, they closed the MK at 4:30 that day for the Cast Member Party.  

Went with our two kids, had a blast and can't wait to go back.......but I FINALLY understand why adults would go there without kids.  Just awesome.

 

[Bruce Dickinson]

I got to be THAT GUY in Monsters Inc.  Pretty fun.  

You're a good sport for participating.  I'm sure it was a big hit with your family.

I had a bonus laugh about it picturing Thunderlips The Ultimate Male as THAT GUY.  

 

[AAABatteries]

http://wdwnt.com/blog/2016/11/disney-introducing-monorail-resort-restaurant-hopping-experience-highway-sky-dine-around/

New dining experience - pretty cool concept with restaurant hopping.  At $150 per it's probably an adults only thing for most of us.

 

[Thunderlips]

You're a good sport for participating.  I'm sure it was a big hit with your family.

I had a bonus laugh about it picturing Thunderlips The Ultimate Male as THAT GUY.  

Yeah, they got a chuckle.. At least the second and third time ( I wasn't expecting it the first) I made a huge show of it.....shaking my head, rolling my eyes, puffing my cheeks and letting out a big sigh...those got some laughs from the crowd. 

I proudly placed the I WAS THAT GUY sticker on the front of my Death Star Ears....and more than one Cast Member the rest of the week said something "OH IT'S THAT GUY" when I walked by.