First Time at Disneyworld (Looking for Help)

[Proud_Papa]

I am looking for help here. I have been watching the web site for the past couple of weeks and have found lots of good information. But I would still like some advice. My wife and I will be arriving in Orlando late in the night on May 4th. And we are able to visit DisneyWorld on May 5-7, the evening of the 8th, and the afternoon and evening of the 9th. I am attending a conference at the JW Marriot so we will be staying there. We live in northern California, and visit Disneyland usually once a year with our kids.

We would like to spend some time at the Magic Kingdom, to see the differences that it has with Disneyland. I know that we won't be able to see everything at Disneyworld, but I would like to do as best as we can. So I am looking for suggestions on what parks to see on what days, and what time should we get there, as it looks like the parks open at 9:00 each day (do they open the gates early) and how long will it take to get from the JW Marriot to Disneyworld?

[Labuda]

Hey there, Proud Papa! Welcome to MiceChat!

Anyhow, the BEST WDW planning site on the planet is located at http://www.allearsnet.com - Deb Will's Unofficial Guide to WDW. It's GREAT!

Anyhow, I'd recommend you visit Deb's site and take a look at the park hours incuding Extra Magic Hours. Those are available only to Disney's onsite resort guests, so you'll want to avoid a park that's had an EMH that morning. Also, the MK is *very* busy on the weekends, so I'd recommend you spend the 6th there, UNLESS you want to be at that park on the 5th - which may be a bit more crowded than the average Thursday since it's the day of the Happiest Celebration on Earth launch - the big party to celebrate Disneyland's 50th birthday.

As for travel time, I'm not sure, but if the Marriott is on International Drive, figure anywhere between 10 to 30 minutes to get onto Disney property, then travel time to your specific park.

Oh, and brace yourself - I'm much more of a WDW regular than I am a DL regular, and to me, the MK stinks when compared to DL. heh

[WDW1974]

Yes, the MK suffers in comparison to DL. I'd still go ... BTW, J.W. Marriott is supposed to be wonderful. I had friends who stayed there recently and LOVED it. Great pool area that it shares with the Ritz Carlton. It's about 15-20 minutes away.

[Coastierox]

Being a West Coaster, and growing up at Disneyland myself, I got lost alot at the MK. Its different but good. Some things are backwards and certain short cuts you may be used to are not there. Somewhat frustrating. But the best park there is definatly EPCOT, I can stay there for days! Anyways have a good time and good luck!

[Proud_Papa]

Thanks for the information. I am really looking forward to spending time there with my wife. It will be our first real vacation without kids in 10 years. How long should we plan on spending at the Magic Kingdom compared to Epcot?

[Pizzapants]

This is me, but it depends on what you're into. You say you won't be with kids so you could almost skip Fantasyland, unless you like the Fantasyland rides. But Epcot is more adult oriented, so you should spend more time there. Explore the little "secrets" of the park (like the streets of Moracco.) I suggest a dinner with your wife at a WOrld Showcase restaurant, though i don't know what one (someone offer up suggestions!) and watch Illuminations! It's great. But as for time spend at Epcot compared to Magic Kingdom: I don't know exactly. Just spend more time in Epcot. The rest is up to you (or anyone else that could help with my vague ideas.)

[captsmith84]

Note that Epcot closes at 3pm on May 5th.

[Pizzapants]

Note that Epcot closes at 3pm on May 5th.

Whoa!!! Why?!?

[captsmith84]

It's a Press Event.