My top regret is not doing my research. Making a plan that will work for your family is key. Once upon a time there were times throughout the year that were much less busy at Walt Disney World, now you need to do a little research to see if the crowds will be compatible with your family. While school and work schedules can greatly impact travel plans, you may also need to consider your family’s ability to deal with summer heat and humidity and plan accordingly.
The Stroller
While there is often debate about how old is too old for a stroller. Disney is not one of those places that this is even a second thought. Heat, long days, over stimulation, and tired legs, all add up to meltdowns, and not just the kids. While the stroller is intended for the kids, let’s be honest it is great for holding “all the stuff” we bring with us.
Down Time
Next is not planning enough “down time.” We LOVE to try to do it all, but there is nothing worse than ending the day with overtired cranky kids and spouses. Depending on the time of the year, a trip to the resort pool can be just we all need mid-day. A break can also be a late lunch at a resort sitting down in an air-conditioned room can help reset the mood. For longer trips down time can be a day without a theme park visit. There are so many great options that are not just sitting in a hotel. Have a slow morning, then head to Disney Springs for some shopping and lunch. Take a trip over to Ft Wilderness and visit Tri-Circle D ranch and take a horseback ride. Book a fishing excursion or rent a boat and spend some time exploring Seven Seas lagoon. If you have some golfers in your family book a tee time at one of the amazing golf courses or head to one of the three miniature golf courses for some friendly family competition.
Water Parks
Another regret is not visiting a water park during the summer. When you add the water parks and more option to your theme park ticket package, you have access to two amazing water parks. Have you ever been to a melting ski resort? Check out Blizzard Beach and see what happens when you build a ski resort in the middle of Florida. Or head to Typhoon Lagoon a tropical oasis with lush greenery and thrills for all ages. Just do not forget the sunscreen, summer sun in Florida can be brutal.
Dining
This will vary from family to family, but not planning out dining thoughtfully. Our family needs a balance of table service dining and quick service. Booking too many sit-down meals and we feel weighed down with planning around meals. When we don’t book enough sit-down meals, we yearn for some time to sit, relax, and talk about our experiences. For our family having a sit-down meal in the middle of the day seems to be the perfect option.
What I don’t regret
I never regret adding one more day to our vacation, even if it does not include one more park day. I never regret making a game time call and heading back to the resort for some pool time or a nap. I never regret saying yes to a snack to get through until a dining reservation time. And most important, I never regret any Disney vacation.
