Trip Report: Tips Summary

For those of you that don't really want to read through the longest posts basically ever for information about your Disney trip, here are the tips I compiled during my vacation.


Tips!

• Make sure to go to Terminal B, level 1 if you are taking the Magical Express. It's easy to find yourself wandering around Terminal A, with no Magical Express to be found.  When you get to the main area (with the gift shop pictured below) be sure to go to the B side!  If you aren't sure, ask for directions.

This is the outside of said gift shop.

• If you're staying in value/moderate, opt for a preferred room.  The preferred rooms are closer to the main building, and mean less hassle to talk to the front desk and for value resorts mean less walking at the beginning of the day and end of the night.  Your feet will thank you.

• Download the My Disney Experience app to your phone, and bring a charger with you to the parks. We used the times guide a lot, and switched the Fastpass+ more than I expected over the trip.  My phone only died once, but it came close a few times.  Disney is installing charging areas around the parks, and cast members are really good about helping you find somewhere to charge it in a restaurant, for example.

• Remember, anything outside of a standard drink, meal, and dessert costs extra if you are using the dining plan.  This includes alcohol and appetizers.

Be sure to budget for that trip "drinking around the world" in Epcot.

• If you are having dinner at Rose and Crown, opt for a time past 7:30 for a chance to view the fireworks front the restaurant.  And ask for a patio seat.  It was so nice to be able to sit at our table, not stand around for a good spot 45 minutes before the fireworks started.

• If at all possible, sit toward the back of the train on Big Thunder Mountain. The hills of the ride are too small, and the train too long, so when you go over the lift chains still hold on to the back while the front is already half way down the hill.  Because of this, you feel like you're going slower and you don't get the thrill of the drops nearly as much.

• Don't forget to bring sunblock.

• If your wrist is small, remove the outer grey layer of the magic band.  Alex didn't, but I did, and it made wearing my magic band so much more comfortable.  I can't even tell you the number of parents who hadn't done this for their kids, or women who had theirs wrapped around almost an extra time.  It peels off really easily.  Just take it off.

• If you buy Memory Maker, be sure to get the ride photos.  They come with the Memory Maker package, and since it's $150-$200 (depending on if you buy it before you get to Disney or at Disney), you want to be sure to get your money's worth.

• When planning Fastpass+ for Hollywoods Studios, concentrate your ride times for the evening if at all possible. This will make it easier to go see shows like Lights, Motor, Action, Indiana Jones, and Beauty and the Beast, which concentrate show times before 4:00.  Because of this, stand-by lines also seem to be longer in the evenings, and planning Fastpass+ reservations then will help you avoid that.

• Buy a poncho at a local chain store before coming to Disney.  Or, if you did buy one at Disney, save it and bring it for your next trip.  They are needlessly expensive.

• If you are not staying on property and can't make Fastpass+ reservations in advance, come early.  By 3:00, everything was booked up.  I also noticed that the lines were pretty long at the Fastpass+ Kiosks that one-day visitors and those staying outside of Disney have to use at this time.  To have the best chance at getting your picks, be at the park when it opens and head right toward the kiosks.  They are staffed by cast members in blue polos.

•  Disney does not do bussing from resort to resort.  If you have a dining reservation and then want to go back to your room, you'll have to connect at one of the parks.  Unless you are going from one resort on the monorail line to another.

One view from the Epcot Monorail

• Always chose the route with the least amount of transfers when moving between parks and resorts.  If you don't, you'll end up wasting more time than you realize. 

• Realize that Disney transportation takes a little bit of time.  We find it the most convenient, because you don't have to bring or rent a car, then pay for parking and walk to find your car after visit the park.  However, know that you will spend a chunk of time waiting for the bus/monorail/boat you need to arrive.  Usually allow 30-50 minutes to get from one place to another during peak seasons, and 40-60 during less busy times.

• If you're a big Star Wars fan, go listen to the Ewoks at night in the Star Tour queue area.  They laugh and "talk" to each other, and they have little fires burning in their tree tops.  It's something you might not even notice if you aren't looking for it.

• Sit in the "Pocahontas" section for Fantasmic!  It's the section directly in the middle of the theater.

• If at all possible, go to the 10:00 show for Fantasmic!  We had friends that tried to go at 8:30, and the theater was standing room only.  However, for us, the theater was only half full, if that.  We were comfortably seated with plenty of room, even in the middle section and during the peak time that is Spring Break.

• If you can manage to stay up that late, you can ride a huge majority of the Magic Kingdom rides after 11 PM.  A large majority of the parents and kids have left, leaving the lines basically nonexistent everywhere.  I wouldn't suggest rides like Jungle Cruise or Splash Mountain, but anything inside will give you the exact same experience.  It was so fun to go from ride to ride and get right on.

• If you plan on really exploring the countries in World Showcase (or "drinking around the world") give yourself a few hours to do so.  Epcot is huge, and World Showcase takes a while to get around.  To try a drink or some food from each of the countries, go into the gift shops, ride any rides, and just generally explore, you can factor in a few hours, if not most of the time.

• Security at Orlando International always seems to take longer than most. The time of day doesn't really seem to matter.  Just make sure you allow extra time to account for that once you arrive at the airport.

Interested in reading about the entire trip? Here are the links!

Trip Report: Part 1

Trip Report: Part 2

My Fairytale Engagement

Next post: Just Can't Wait to be Lion King Cocktail

Until then <3




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Choosing Your Deluxe Resort

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You know you want to stay in the best of the best for your Walt Disney World vacation, but aren't sure which of the 8 deluxe resorts fits your trip the best?  Are you all about the lavish vacation, or are you in it to maximize fun?  Either way, I have you covered!

I'll be going back to breaking things down Spender vs. Saver, Planner vs. Impulsive, and Romantic vs. Fun for this post!  For a more comprehensive approach overall picks from each category (deluxe, moderate, and value), check out my post The Right Resort for You.



Spender vs. Saver
Of course, if you plan on going to a deluxe resort, you are going to be spending a lot of money either way.  But which is the most expensive, and which will save you a little bit extra?

Spender

The most expensive resort on property is the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.  Not only does it cost the most on average per night, but the amentities available only add to the possibility of spending a lot of money here.  Consider spending a day solely at the resort, checking out the pool or getting a massage!  Why is the right for the spender?:

• Average per night: $530
• Main Spa and Health Club at Disney World located here
• Numerous dining options, including signature restaurants such as Narcoossee's, Citricos, and the famous Victoria and Alberts!  Other dining options as well.
• View of Wishes fireworks in Magic Kingdom from the resort
• Monorail, buses, and boat transportation available.

Saver

The Wilderness Lodge is the least expensive, on average, of the deluxe resorts.  However, this does not mean that ameneties suffer here.  With a huge, heated pool, signature dining options, and beautiful theming, this option is great for those wanting the deluxe experience, but also wanting to spend the money you'll save elsewhere.  Here's why:

• Average per night: $348
• Signature dining option, Artist Point, and fun table-service restaurant, Whispering Canyon Cafe, located here
• Bus and boat transportation available
• Beautiful scenery to recreate the Pacific Northwest

Planner vs. Impulsive

Many of the resorts in the Deluxe category are great for the impulsive because of their close proximity to many of the parks.  This transportation availability is also great for the planner, because it allows much ground to be covered over the course of the vacation.  Here, though, are my favorite picks for both!

Planner

The BoardWalk Inn is a great place to stay regardless of what your plans are for the trip.  It is placed on the water, and the proximity to the Disney's Boardwalk make it a great place to plan meals and entertainment outside of the parks.  Here's some more things that make it great for the planner:

• Average per night: $436
• Location is in walking distance from both Hollywood Studios and Epcot
• Also, location on Disney's Boardwalk opens up great dining and entertainment options (Jellyrolls dueling piano bar, anyone?), as well as different activities, like bike rentals to cruise the boardwalk with
• Boat and bus transportation options

Impulsive

As mentioned in the original The Right Resort for You post, the Contemporary resort is great for the Impulsive.  Here's a few reasons why:

• Average per night: $380
• The monorail runs right through this building, giving you easy access to Magic Kingdom and Epcot.  Also, it is a quick walk from the resort to Magic Kingdom as well!  Though it's really hard with new Fastpass+ to be impulsive, this resort gives you the best opportunity to park hop
• The resort, like the other deluxe resorts, has great dining options, including the California Grill

Romantic vs. Fun

The last category encompasses those who want to have fun, who might be going with family or friends, and romantic, those couples that was a get-away while on vacation.  Each of these categories includes two choices!

Romantic

1st Option: Polynesian

The Polynesian is truly a tropical getaway in the middle of Florida. The theming is so immersive that when you enter, you feel like you've been transported miles and miles away.  This feeling of paradise makes me believe that the Polynesian is a great option for couples.

• Average per night: $484
• The transportation includes the monorail, buses, and boats
• View of the Wishes! fireworks from the beach at the resort, as well as many places inside the resort
• Tropical and delicious dining options and lounges, as well as round-the-clock Dole Whip availability
• Again, the atmosphere is amazing

2nd Option: Animal Kingdom Lodge

The Animal Kingdom Lodge is a great option for couples looking to get away in Disney.  Though it isn't tropical like the Polynesian, it is equally as well-themed, immersing you in the African culture, and offering rooms and views right on the savannah in Animal Kingdom park.  And though it might not be the most conveniently placed, the seclusion might be enjoyable for couples to spend time together.

• Average per night: $343
• Really delicious and interesting dining options, including both signature dining (Jiko) as well as many other dining options that are hugely flavorful
• View of the savannah from the resort, including many rooms
• Atmosphere around the resort is beautiful

Fun

Though the Fun option includes two different resorts, these resorts share many amenities, and are basically attached, so I will talk about them as if they are one.  The are both within walking distance of Disney's Boardwalk, as well as Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

• Average per night (the same for both): $417
• Proximity to the Boardwalk means late night options for some fun, and ability to walk to Epcot means you can go pick a new country (and maybe have a few drinks there) every night if you want!
• Great pool area
• Between the two resorts, there are very casual dining options as well as great signature dining options
• Massage and workout center at the Ship Shape Health Club

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Dining in Magic Kingdom Area Resorts

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The resorts at Walt Disney World definitely aren't just for sleeping!  There are so many dining options spread throughout the resorts in Disney, and those around Magic Kingdom are packed with delicious venues to try!  But with so many to choose from, how do you pick?

You come to Young Adult Disney, of course!

Let's start with the closest resort to Magic Kingdom, the Contemporary Resort.

Located in the Contemporary is a visitor favorite, The California Grill

Ideal for: The Spender, the Romantic

Price Range: $30-60, or 2 table-service credits

Link to Menu: California Grill

• The California Grill's gourmet food and wine menus make it perfect for those who want to splurge.  The clean, modern, open atmosphere is a favorite place for couples to celebrate many occasions. 
• Pros:
• Newly renovated with vibrant, whimsical, contemporary design (note the chandeliers)
• An extensive list of wines (by the bottle and by the glass) to choose from
• Great sushi and good appetizers
• Cons:
• Entrees and desserts may fall short of expectations
• Service tends to be a bit slow
• Other Notes:
• The wide open windows throughout the restaurant provide amazing views!  And with foresight, a reservation later at night can grant visitors and amazing view of the Wishes fireworks show.
• California Grill is known for their options for special items for celebrations.  Be sure to call ahead and see what you can do to make your special occasion that much better.

Also in the Contemporary, you can find Chef Mickey's.

Ideal for: The Planner, Those who want to have Fun

Price Range: $30-60, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Breakfast, Dinner

• This is one of the most popular locations at Disney, so it's really important to put a reservation in early.  Also, though the character location brings in a lot of young kids, it's never a bad thing to interact with the one and only Mickey Mouse (and his friends) when visiting the parks!
• Pros: Well prepared, fresh buffet food with some classic and very delicious options
• Cons:
• Because it is a character location, there are lots of kids here and not great acoustics, so it tends to be loud
• Tables are pretty close together
• Other Notes: There tends to be a lot of dairy on the menu for dinner, so if that's an issue for you, be sure to let the restaurant know ahead of time.

And last, you'll find The Wave...of American Flavors.

Ideal for: The Impulsive, the Saver

Price Range: $10-$30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• It is typically easy to get a reservation here, and despite the food being local and sustainable, it is reasonably priced.
• Pros: Consistent, good food, with a menu that varies based on seasonal ingredients
• Cons: Atmosphere and theming are a bit bland in comparison to other Disney restaurants
• Other Notes: The focus here is on local and sustainable ingredients.  This means very fresh food, and also, quite interestingly, screw top wines to reduce "cork taint" (a chemical called TCA).

Next, and also on the monorail line, is the Polynesian Resort.

Starting with Kona Cafe.

Ideal for: The Saver, the Impulsive

Price Range: $10-30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Of all resort restaurants, Kona is one of the easier to get into with a last minute reservation, or without a reservation.  And with reasonable prices, it's a good choice for those trying to save money.
• Pros:
• Fun, bright atmosphere
• Interesting food options with a tropical feel in many dishes on available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Cons: A bit loud when crowded
• Other Notes: Two words, Tonga Toast.  Seriously. If you have not heard of it, just do some Disney research.  It's a phenomena that needs to be experienced.

Also, my personal favorite, 'Ohana!

Ideal for: The Planner

Price Range: $15-60, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Breakfast, Dinner

• 'Ohana fits a multitude of different types of vacationers, and because of that it can be hard to get a reservation.  Be sure to plan ahead if you want to check out this restaurant.
• Pros:
• As much food as you can possibly eat, and then some, is given to you here
• There is an interactive component for everyone, and by participating you earn yourself  lei
• Cons:
• Not much ordering, more of a set menu.  Be sure to alert the server to dislikes or dietary restrictions
• Recently, the skewered meats seem a bit overdone
• Other Notes:
• While waiting for your table at dinner, grab a seat in the Tambu Lounge and have a tropical drink being offered from the servers!  You are given a buzzer, so you can also feel free to peruse the resort a bit.
• This is also a restaurant where you can view Wishes fireworks while dining if you time your reservation right!
• To me, dinner is the star here.  If you want breakfast, go to Kona. Tonga Toast.  Refer above.

I could honestly go on about how wonderful my experience at 'Ohana was last year, but I really just suggest trying it yourself!

And last at the Polynesian, the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show

Ideal for: Those who want to have Fun

Price Range: $60+, or 2 table-service credits

Link to Menu: Luau

• The Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show is entertaining and allows for audience participation.  It can be really fun to go with a group and encourage someone to join in when they ask for participants.
• Pros: The show is very entertaining after dinner is finished
• Cons:
• Food is good, but not great
• Service here isn't the best
• Other Notes:  Depending on the time of year, the show might be cancelled if the weather is far too rainy or too cold.  If so, a refund will be issued.

Another large contributor to the restaurant list in Magic Kingdom Area is the Grand Floridian Resort.

First, let's explore 1900 Park Fare.

Ideal for: The Romantic, the Planner

Price Range: $15-60, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Breakfast, Dinner

• This is a character dining option, meaning that it is often harder than most restaurants to get reservations.  However, the victorian feel and the characters that visit make it a fun choice for couples.
• Pros:
• Good food with a varied, international flair on the dinner buffet
• Not extremely loud, in comparison to other character experiences
• Cons:
• Less than stellar decor
• Character dining means lots of kids will be there
• Other Notes:  If you are coming here particularly for character dining, breakfast can be either Winnie the Pooh, Alice in Wonderland, or Mary Poppins, while dinner is Cinderella exclusively.

Also at the Grand Floridian, you will find Citricos.

Ideal for: The Spender, the Romantic

Price Range: $30-60, or 2 table-service credits

Link to Menu: Dinner

• This signature dining option means high prices and quality food.  It is a quiet, relaxing spot that is great for anyone who wants a break, especially couples.
• Pros:
• Quiet and comfortable atmosphere
• Easier to get a reservation here than most other signature dining restaurants
• Great service and great food
• Cons:
• Tends to be an extremely long meal, as they expect you to relax and indulge here
• Desserts are almost as delicious as they are beautiful
• Other Notes:  The shrimp appetizer comes highly recommended.

The Grand Floridian Cafe is another great options at the resort.

Ideal for: The Impulsive, the Saver

Price Range: $10-30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Considered a "hidden gem," it is typically easy to get a seat even without a reservation.  Also, you can get a considerably good deal on the food here.
• Pros:
• Really interesting juice menu at breakfast
• Quiet and relaxing
• Consistently good food
• Cons: Atmosphere is a bit dated-feeling and bland in comparison to other Disney restaurants
• Other Notes: If you go for dinner, get the dessert sampler or the fondue, as the desserts on their own tend to be a bit overpriced for their size.

Narcoossee's is a fabulous signature dining option at the Grand Floridian.

Ideal for: The Spender

Price Range: $30-60, or 2 table-service credits

Link to Menu: Dinner

• Narcoossee's has really great food and beautiful views of the water that it sits on, and is perfect for those willing to spend a little more money.
• Pros:
• Great seafood options
• Also, despite having really great seafood, their filet mignon is one of the best on property
• Consistently good food and service
• Cons: A bit expensive
• Other Notes:  The way the restaurant is arranged means that, at night, there is a Wishes fireworks view available to everyone.  Also, keep in mind that there is a dress code here.

And lastly at the Grand Floridian, the very special Victoria and Albert's.

Ideal for: The Spender, the Romantic

Price Range: $130+ (no dining plans accepted)

Link to Menu: Dinner

• Victoria and Albert's is absolutely for those who will spare no expense when it comes to dining during their Disney vacation.  It is also great for couples, as the sophisticated atmosphere is quite classy and upscale.  (Note: The Chef's Table experience is available for up to 10 people, so it is great for a group of people, if they can afford it!)
• Pros:
• Delicious and amazing food
• Sophisticated atmosphere
• Cons:
• Very strict dress codes (men wear jackets)
• The dinner is served "prix fixe," or one price for the set menu options.  Wine pairings can be added at an additional cost
• Other Notes: Victoria and Albert's is a dining experience, whether you opt for the restaurant, Queen Victoria's Room (a bit quieter), or the indulgent Chef's Table experience.  It is for food lovers, and will be enjoyed highly by those who will appreciate it.

Another resort near Magic Kingdom is the Wilderness Lodge.

And here, you can find the signature dining spot, Artist Point.

Ideal for: The Spender, the Impulsive
Price Range: $30-60, or 2 table-service credits
Link to Menu: Dinner

• Another signature dining restaurant in the Magic Kingdom area, Artist Point is great for those impulsive diners that want a more gourmet option without having to plan very far in advance.
• Pros: Really great food with very interesting flavors
• Cons: The steaks on the menu tend to fall a little flat in comparison to other entrees, especially in presentation
• Other Notes: A good signature option that is a bit easier to get a reservation at, as it is a less frequented pick.

And also here, try a little more relaxed of an option, Whispering Canyon Cafe.

Ideal for: The Saver, Those who want to have Fun

Price Range: $10-30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Reasonable food prices for a fun dining experience.  The interactivity makes for a meal that is more than just food, but a show without paying the price for the entertainment.
• Pros:
• Fun, rowdy dinner experience
• Lots of food
• Cons:
• Because the wait staff is putting on a show, the service is somewhat lacking
• Food is pretty standard fare
• Other Notes:
• If you want some decently priced BBQ, try lunch at the Whispering Canyon Cafe.  The antics are a bit reserved at this time, and the interactivity is reduced.
• For some fun, ask for ketchup.  Just do it.

And the last resort in Magic Kingdom area, find the Campsite's at Fort Wilderness.

First, try Trail's End Restaurant.

Ideal for: The Saver

Price Range: $15-30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Lunch

• Fairly inexpensive lunch, and buffet breakfast and dinners are available here, making it a great value for those who are trying to save some cash.
• Pros:
• The breakfast food here is really good, with a lot of comfort food options
• Lunch and dinner also boast good country food
• Cons:
• Transportation is complicated, and once let off it is a bit of a hike to get to the restaurant
• Service (especially refilling the buffet foods) is lacking
• Other Notes: The restrooms in this restaurant are located out back, giving them an "outhouse" feel.

Also in Fort Wilderness you can find Mickey's Backyard BBQ.

Ideal for: Those who want to have Fun

Price Range: $36-60, or 2 table-service credits

Link to Menu: BBQ

• The BBQ is very reminiscent of a backyard BBQ that you would have with friends, and the entertainment just makes it even more fun!
• Pros:
• Fun, entertaining stage show
• Some alcohol is included in the price for adults
• Cons:
• Character meal with lots of children present
• Outdoor, so the food sometimes isn't quite as hot as would be desired
• Other Notes: This is only available seasonally, so take note of when you're going when trying to make a reservation.

And last of the Magic Kingdom area resort list, find the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue.

Ideal for: Those who want to have Fun, the Planner

Price Range: $60+,  or 2 table-service credits

Link to Menu: Hoop-Dee-Doo

• The popularity of this show makes it harder to get a reservation, but it's a really fun time perfect for those looking to enjoy themselves at dinner with more than just food.
• Pros:
• Endless helpings of the food on the menu
• The show is really silly and sarcastic, and does not seem dated despite it's long run time
• Cons:
• Not a lot of food options here (be sure to tell them of dietary restrictions)
• You are mostly paying for the show, not the food
• Other Notes: The origins of this show date back to 1974, and it is the longest running musical in American theater.  It has been performed over 35,000 times!

The area around Magic Kingdom boasts many of the Deluxe Resorts, which as a result means so many possible dining options!  It's important to consider exactly what you want to get out of your dining experiences before making a choice.  You definitely don't need to be staying in a resort to dine there.  So don't think that you have to stay in the parks for your meal, venture around Disney property.  Some of the BEST restaurants are in the resorts.


Questions?  Comments?  Corrections?
Let me know!  I'm always happy to help and hear for other Disney lovers!


The next post (if not the post about who to select FastPass+) will cover the rest of the resort restaurants.

Until next time! <3



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