Saturday, February 09, 2008

Calling All Disney-ites
I need advice from anyone who has ever been to Disneyland! If you only had one day in the park, what would you see? Where would you eat? What rides would you HAVE to get on? Please keep in mind that my kids are 9,7 and 4 years old. I'm trying to think positively and start planning things out... maybe it's a little premature, but I'm just going to go for it. We will be healthy. We are going to the park!
I visited Daring Young Mom's blog because she asked some similar questions just a few days ago. But now I'm asking you guys... give me the low down on all things from the Magic Kingdom! What are your best Disney tips?

11 comments:

Holly (2 Kids and Tired) said...

We haven't been there yet with kids, but because of Little Bug I know you definitely would qualify for the pass that gets you on all the rides first. When we do go, I'm definitely playing our autism card for that one!

Anonymous said...

The rides I HAVE to ride whenever I go are:

1) Star Tours
2) Indiana Jones (too short but sweeet)
3) Big Thunder Mountain
4) Space Mountain (might be too jarring even for the 9 year old. I have a scary time holding on, feeling like I'm not about to be flung out of my seat)
5)Splash Mountain (If you don't like incredibly steep drops this is not for you)
6) Pirate's of the Caribbean


Two other's that I enjoy are Haunted Mansion and Roger Rabbits Car Toon Spin. Oh, and they have an AWESOME show/ride that I can't wait to take my kids to whenever we go again:
Honey, I shrunk the audience. It's a great family one and is a blast!!

Busy Bee Lauren said...

I am a Disneyland EXPERT. I have only been probably 20 times.

Well, I would definately hit up "Fantasy Land" and go on all of the rides there. Also, you must go on The Haunted Mansion (not the least bit scary), Pirates of the Carribean, Splash Mountain, and Utopia! I would stay away from Space Mountain because it is kinda scary for little kids, and probably Thunder Mountain too.

... said...

you've come to the right place, girl. i've read all the comments and don't really disagree with any of them. but i think i'm going to email you cuz i don't want to take all the space here.

look for the email. and i'm so glad you've decided that you can go :D

Yvonne said...

I agree that Space Mountain and Thunder Mountain are too scary for little ones. Some of my grandsons were very frightened by the Haunted Mansion, but most of them loved it.

I haven't been there for years and things have changed a great deal. I just want you to have the best time ever!!!

Tonya said...

I've never been so I don't have any tips but I know you will have fun and can't wait to hear about it.

Anonymous said...

One day? Oh, man. That's darn near impossible. I've been to DL probably 100 times, and I never stay less than three- but if I HAD to narrow it down, I would:

USE FAST-PASS- it will save the line waiting times. This is a good time of year to go, as the crowds are less.

Hit the Mountain Rides (Space, Splash, Thunder, Matterhorn)

Pirates (line moves fast)
Haunted Mansion
Buzz Lightyear
Nemo's Submarines

For the little ones:
Pooh in Critter Country
Alice in Wonderland
Peter Pan
( The rides in Fantasyland often have really long lines that move slowly- if you only have time for two, hit Alice and Pan. If you can fit one more, hit Mr. Toad's Wild Ride) Fanstasyland sometimes slows down after dark- but not always.

For your older kids:
Indiana Jones
Autopia

Skip Toontown if you can manage- the lines are crazy and the rides are rediculously short. It it's a slow, low-crowd day, you can try it, but otherwise, leave it alone.

Stay at night for the fireworks, and if you can manage, see Fantasmic. People start sitting down early for the show, but it's SO worth it. It's the most incredible show ever.

If you're there on a Monday or Tuesday, my uncle Freddy works as an artist in the clock shop on Main Street- say hi!

tracey.becker1@gmail.com said...

I have never been to Disney LAND, but Disney World is my favorite family place to go. Space Mountain and Thunder Mountain are only scary if your kids get scared easily. My boys loved them both at age 5 (right around when they're tall enough!) Just read the descriptions and know your kids' personalities. If scary movies are not allowed in your house, then the Haunted Mansion would NOT be the best spot to find out if they're scared of the dark!

Have fun! I love vacations! My best advice is to KNOW the maps, KNOW where the food, bathrooms, etc. are at. Have each person pick one or 2 spots that they would REally hate to miss (be prepared, and check their schedules ahead of time to see what rides are closed for maintenance during your visit).

Anonymous said...

Well, of course you have to go to It's A Small World - that's a given. The older ones would probably love Splash Mountain. And don't forget to catch Fantasmic! if it's showing when you're there.

Also, don't forget to buy those autograph books when you first get there.

Ally said...

I've got nothin' for you, Sweetie. Sorry.

But I'm still praying for the recovery of your health - all of you! - so that you'll be in good shape for the trip.

I'm thinking positively too. ;)

Good luck planning!

melissious said...

I've been a few times. The last time was years ago, and the ride I remember most is Indiana Jones. We all loved it. And don't they have Splash Mountain or something? My hint - elect someone to be the "invalid" for the day. My aunt had a broken ankle and her wheelchair got us to the front of all the lines!
I'm pretty sure we survived on hot dogs, french fries, and those huge "souvenir" cups that you never end up taking home because they're too awkward to carry around all day.