Disney Done Right - Pitstops for Kids

Tips for celebrating the holidays at Disneyland Resort

November 7, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

The holiday season truly is magical at the Disneyland Resort, bustling with special events, entertainment, and decorations. It’s also bustling with holiday crowds, which can certainly impact your experience. Here’s how to enjoy all the holiday magic while navigating the masses.

Tip 1: Know when to go

The holiday season at Disneyland and California Adventure officially launches in early November and continues through the beginning of January. The crowds will be lowest before December 20th, which is the week most kids are out of school.

Tip 2: Know what not to miss

The Festival of Holidays continues to be a hit at California Adventure, which celebrates the festivities of many cultures at kiosks offering multicultural crafts and holiday food, and performances showcasing music and dance. Families can even join in the fun during select performances, learning holiday dance moves. Think of the Festival of the Holidays as a cross between the Food and Wine Festival and a mini, seasonal World Showcase where you visit kiosks instead of full pavilions.

Tip 3: Know what to expect from nighttime entertainment

Families can expect a holiday-themed World of Color at California Adventure nightly. Over at neighboring Disneyland, Wishes is now Believe…in Holiday Magic, lighting up the night sky with fireworks, along with snowfall on Main Street. FastPass is available for World of Color shows, which are two-times nightly during the busy holiday season.

Tip 4: Know which attractions will be ‘dressed’ for the holidays

Three rides get holiday overlays during this time of year, including Haunted Mansion, which gets a Tim Burton Nightmare Before Christmas theme, It’s a Small World, which adds carols from around the world and magical lighting after dark. Lastly, the Jungle Cruise turns in to the Jingle Cruise during the holiday season, with special details in the already-detailed theming of the ride, and holiday jokes added to the script.

Bonus: Don’t forget to enjoy CarsLand during the holidays, with holiday ‘wraps’ on Luigi’s ‘Joy to the Whirl’ and Mater’s Jingle Jamboree.

Tip 5: Know where to see Santa:

In California Adventure, the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail has the usual offerings of fun hands-on activities for kids, but now includes a holiday-themed scavenger hunt where kids look for ‘presents’ along the trail (ask a Cast Member for a sheet to get started), and kids can visit with the main man of the season…Santa. Santa can also be visited in Disneyland park at Critter Country.

Tip 6: Know how to navigate parade routes:

To view the Disneyland holiday parade, Christmas Fantasy, plan to find seating in designated areas a full hour before parade time. Ask Cast Members where you can sit or stand to view; they rope off disabled viewing areas and won’t allow families to watch in certain high traffic spaces. Once the parade starts, Cast Members will move along foot traffic, so don’t plan to watch on the fly. You also cannot watch in store and restaurant doorways, so don’t try! However, if you’re within a store, you can usually still see quite well…this is a good option if you find yourselves caught without a viewing location.

Tip 7: Know how to view World of Color

If you’re staying in either park for the nightly Holiday Magic or World of Color shows, prime viewing areas will fill up about 1.5 hours beforehand. For World of Color show, get a FastPass to World of Color (available by Grizzly Rapids in California Adventure by about 9:30 am) or book a dining package at a California Adventure restaurant. If you plan to simply stake out a spot, look along the benches by California Screamin’ or Ariel’s Grotto, but get there early!

Tip 8: Know how to view Holiday Magic

To watch Holiday Magic in a prime location, plan to start queuing a full two hours early. You’ll need to wait for the rope to drop in front of the castle to view there (then you’re permitted to put down a blanket and sit), or you can find a curb along Main Street. If you want to exit quickly afterward, I recommend grabbing a spot (again, well in advance) at the train station platform by the entrance to Disneyland. There are no dining packages available for the fireworks.

Disney’s Grand Floridian review: what guests can expect for the deluxe resort price

May 20, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

What to expect at Disney's Grand Floridian, and why this resort can be worth the rate.

Before our stay for the purpose of a Disney’s Grand Floridian review, I admit to harboring high expectations. I imagine this is typical; after all, the Grand Floridian is Walt Disney World’s flagship resort. The moment we stepped off the Disney Magical Express bus into the generously appointed porte-cochère and were greeted by no fewer than three cast members, however, I knew we were in for a memorable stay.

Excellent service can (and should) be expected at all Disney resorts, of course, from deluxe to value, but for the room rate at the Grand Floridian, it’s natural to look for that little something extra. I’m happy to say we found it during our three day stay…again and again throughout the property. First off, there’s the attention to detail to the property itself. High quality storytelling and immersion is the Disney standard, but it’s on overdrive at the Grand Floridian. Every aspect of the buildings and grounds echo back to the golden era of the Florida beach holiday, from the immaculate white buildings to the meandering walkways and the water views in many directions.

The lobby is visually stunning; the moment we walked in, we simply had to look up. The eye just goes north, up story after story to elegant chandeliers and inside balconies. The entire main building is light and airy, filled with furniture to match the Victorian charm of the architecture. There’s a grand staircase leading to the second floor shops and Monorail station (more on that in a moment) and countless verandahs and benches where guests can settle in and take in the passing activity.

We were given a third-floor room in Building 5, Sago Cay. With a Seven Seas Lagoon view looking directly to Space Mountain in the Magic Kingdom, we loved this location. We were only one building away from the quick-service food offerings at Gasparilla Grill, and were steps from the marina, where guests have a perfect view of Wishes (fireworks show). We were located on the far side of Sago Cay, toward the maintenance area and the convention center, so we did notice some noise in the mornings, and we did not have a view of the Magic Kingdom castle. If this is important to you, a room on the water-side of Sago Cay would likely fit the bill. Each building in the Grand Floridian has its own smaller lobby, complete with comfortable seating, and each is small enough that there’s never a long shag to the room.

Our room included two queen beds, plus a couch/day bed that could be used by a small child. The room was larger than most by Disney resort standards, and included a balcony with table and chairs. There is room service available at the Grand Floridian, and cuisinart coffee makers in every room. There are also hair dryers, of course, complimentary wifi, and robes. What we did not have: a mini fridge.

A noticeable omission: as we covered, the Grand Floridian sports luxury hotel room rates, but there were a few omissions from their service that we’d never see in other luxury properties. Firstly, we were not asked if we’d like a bellman to assist us with our luggage. Did we need one? No, but the service should be offered to all guests. Secondly, doors were not held open, and at times, landscaping and maintenance work presided over guest areas during day time hours. Again, did we mind? No, not particularly, but we’re easy to please. It’s worth noting as this is a departure from top level luxury service elsewhere.

Grand Floridian pools, activities, and recreation:

The Grand Floridian boasts two large pools, the Courtyard Pool and the Beach Pool, plus a water play area with climbing areas and slides. There is also a beach area (for sand play only; no swimming), but at the time of our visit in 2013, the beach was closed due to the construction of the Grand Floridian Villas. The Courtyard pool includes beach-entry (gradual), with wading depth for most of the pool. There’s also a hot tub and poolside snacks and drinks. At the Beach Pool, kids will find a quite ambitious water slide (for resort hotels), plus a full bar and quick service dining venue. There are also cabanas for rent.

If you’re feeling very adventurous, the marina offers a variety of personalized watercraft rentals, and the generously staffed concierge staff can assist you with any other dining reservations, golf tee times, or spa treatments. (The Grand Floridian is currently the only Disney resort with an on-site spa, though at the time of this writing, another is under construction at Sarasoga Springs Resort.) Side note (because it seems to be but an afterthought for Disney, too): a small video game arcade is located at the back of Gasparilla’s.

In addition to the character dining experiences available at the Grand Floridian’s 1900 Park Faire, the Grand Floridian hosts an afternoon tea for children with Alice in Wonderland and a Pirate Adventure from the Marina. These activities are open to any WDW guest, but are highly convenient to Grand Floridian guests. There is also a full brass band that plays live in the evenings, and poolside games and entertainment in the afternoons. On select nights, outdoor Disney movie events are held on the Courtyard lawn.

Theme park transportation:

One of the best aspects of a Grand Floridian stay is the ease of Disney transportation options to and from the parks. Transportation to and from the Magic Kingdom is so convenient, in fact, that you never feel as though you’ve left the ‘magic’ at all. To the park, you simply take the Monorail from the second story of the main building directly to the park, a five-minute commute. Back to the Grand Floridian, you take the boat: the dock is located directly across from the theme park exit, and boats come every 15-20 minutes. The boat ride takes no more than 10 minutes, and is fun for kids and relaxing for parents. During our stay at the Grand Floridian, we also took the Monorail easily to dining options at the Contemporary and the Polynesian. We also took it to Epcot, but this does require a transfer, adding to the commute. Still, it was quicker than bus service, and more fun. For bus service to Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, water parks, and Downtown Disney, the Grand Floridian is the final resort stop (of three), making it a direct commute. (However, on the return, you can expect to stop at the Contemporary and Polynesian before arriving at the Grand Floridian.)

Dining at Grand Floridian:

The Grand Floridian is home to some of Walt Disney World’s finest dining, including Victoria and Albert’s, Citricos, and and Narcoossee’s. Did we eat at any of the above? No, though had we time for a parents’ night out, babysitting is available at the Grand Floridian. Instead, we focused on the quick service venues, which were less crowded than their counterparts in moderate and value Disney resorts. We loved the poolside service, and the Grand Floridian Cafe, which offers relaxing table-service meals in a kid-friendly environment. (Breakfast is especially great here.) The aforementioned character dining experiences at 1900 Park Fare will appeal most to little princesses and those hoping to see Alice’s gang at the Wonderland Tea Party or Mary Poppins at the Supercalifragilistic Breakfast. At night, 1900 Park Fare turns into Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner.

Throughout our stay, we felt relaxed, happy, and well-immersed in the famous Disney magic. Is is possible to feel this way at less expensive Disney on-site resorts? Yes…if you don’t think so, you’re doing it wrong. However, with the constant views of the lagoon and passing Monorail, the glimpses of the castle as you round a bend, and the cheerful greetings at every turn, you’d have a hard time not feeling the love.

Room rates:

At the time of our visit (mid-April), room rates began at approximately $600 per night. During ‘value’ season, you can find them for less. Like at all Disney resorts, room rates include Disney transportation (including Magical Express transport from the airport), extra and early magic hours, and the option of the Disney Dining Plan add-on.

Is it worth it?

I hear this question more often than any other when it comes to Disney–or any–luxury resorts. Of course, whether a particular resort is ‘worth it’ to you will depend on your personal tastes, budget, and expectations. That said, having reviewed many luxury and not-so-luxury resorts for kids, here are our opinions on circumstances in which the Grand Floridian may be worth the splurge:

1. If you have small children or babies, and plan to spend the majority of your time at Magic Kingdom. The beauty of the Monorail system (to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and three deluxe resorts) is that babies and toddlers do not have to be taken out of strollers. No need to fold it up as you would on the bus: simply roll it in and out, letting sleeping children sleep. This in itself, but especially combined with the very fast commute to the Magic Kingdom, makes the Grand Floridian a prime resort for the younger set.

2. If you have kids of any age and ease of Disney transportation is a high priority to you. There’s nothing more tiring at the end of a long theme park day than trudging along winding paths to your bus stop or room, or enduring long bus commutes. You’ll experience considerable less of this at Grand Floridian. As mentioned above, it’s the last bus stop en route to parks, and the option of the Monorail and boat are highly convenient. Also of note: the property is not nearly as spread out as some Disney resorts in the moderate and value categories. What does this mean? You won’t be walking half a mile to your room from the bus stop. We were a one minute walk to and from the bus stop at Grand Floridian, in Building 5.

3. If you plan to spend significant time in your resort (as opposed to spending every waking moment in the parks).
Let’s face it: if you pay for the ambiance and comfort of the Grand Floridian, you want to spend some time enjoying it. If you’re the type of family who likes to spend all day (and into the night) at the theme parks, your vacation dollars might be better spent elsewhere. However, if you want a slower-paced Disney experience, you would do well to stay at the Grand Floridian and take afternoons off pool-side or get late starts after leisurely breakfasts by the marina.

As I disclose whenever applicable, I stayed at the Grand Floridian as a guest of Disney for the purpose of review.

When to upgrade to Park Hopper tickets at Disney theme parks (and when not to)

May 16, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

When buying Disney theme park tickets, families have the ability to upgrade to Park Hopper tickets. What does this mean? Instead of gaining admittance to one park per day, you have access to all four (plus water parks, if desired). Do you ‘need’ Park Hoppers? Most families believe the answer is yes, but in fact, it depends on your family’s plans in the theme parks, style of touring, and organization. Read on to find out when it’s really valuable to upgrade to Park Hoppers at Disney theme parks and when it simply doesn’t make sense.

Park Hopper myths:

1. It’s easy to ‘hop’ from park to park. The term ‘park hopper’ implies it’s only a hop, skip, and a jump from one Disney theme park to the next. In fact, it can take up to an hour to ‘hop’, depending on your luck with bus schedules and how crowded Walt Disney World is at the time of your visit. During a non-peak week in late April, it took me 45 minutes to get from Animal Kingdom to the Magic Kingdom, for example. Why? Disney busses don’t go directly from park to park. Rather, they go from park to hotel resorts, or from parks to the Ticket and Transportation Center, where you ‘hop’ onto different lines.

Even commuting from the Magic Kingdom to Epcot, both on Monorail lines, requires a transfer and occasional resort stops en route (plan on 30 minutes, depending on Monorail queues). Planning to drive your own vehicle? You still need to commute to your current parking lot, drive over, then park and commute again. This is not to say to avoid Disney transportation: we’re fans. Just know that while reliable and relatively stress-free, Disney transportation is not swift.

2. You can hop to a second park late in the day and still ride major attractions. Again, it depends on the season and how busy the park, but sometimes you can, and sometimes you can’t. If you spend your day at Epcot, for instance, and decided to hop to Hollywood Studios at 2 pm to ride Tower of Terror, you may run into difficulty if Fast Passes have run out for the day. Because your party cannot all obtain FP until they’re all in the park, there’s no way to secure Fast Passes until you’ve ‘hopped’.

3. The Park Hopper add-on barely costs anything. In fact, at $35 extra per ticket (over $50 extra with water parks), the cost adds up! Savings can be in the hundreds of dollars to opt out of Park Hoppers. If your family typically tours a park for most of any given day, then enjoys resort time, or likes to spend time in other areas not requiring theme park admission, such as Downtown Disney or Wide World of Sports, you may have no need of a Park Hopper. Just be sure to plan to attend evening shows and entertainment at the same park you visited earlier in the day. (This will take planning.)

You need the Park Hopper add-on if:

1. You plan to take advantage of a morning Extra Magic Hour and then get out. This is a wise strategy, as the Extra Magic Hour park tends to become overcrowded after the hour is up and regular park guests arrive on top of the resort guests. If you plan to leave a park by 10 am and hop to another, you’ll likely have time to arrive before lunch and secure the Fast Passes you need for the afternoon.

2. You plan to utilize the Park Hopper just for evening dining and entertainment (not rides). If you like the idea of arriving at a park early in the morning, focusing on rides, then leaving for a mid-day rest, then heading to a different park for a relaxing dinner and evening entertainment, the Park Hopper may be a great value to you.

3. You’re visiting at a very low-crowd time of year. In this case, you may not need a full day to accomplish what you want in one park, and your transportation time may be lower due to smaller crowds.

How you can get Disney Vacation Club points for less

May 13, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

What family hasn’t dreamed of a magical Disney vacation? The characters, the rides, the enchantment…and oh yeah, the cost! Planning a family getaway to Disney is not only expensive, but it can also be stressful and difficult. These days, there’s just so many different ways to “do” Disney that it can be nearly impossible to find the best deal. But I think I have discovered the best way to indulge in an unforgettable Disney escape that will please your family and your wallet–the Disney Vacation Club!

A look at the Disney Vacation Club and how you can get Disney Vacation Club points for less:

This wonderful timeshare program is a Disney lover’s dream. Wildly popular among Disney fanatics and vacation lovers alike, Disney Vacation Club offers an affordable and comprehensive way to get great accommodations and enjoy a wonderful variety of membership perks related to all things Disney.

How the Disney Vacation Club Works:

No longer must you stress over finding accommodations that not only fit your family, but also your budget. Here’s the basics of how it works:

Buy Disney Vacation Club Points – Use points like currency to book your accommodations at the resort of your choosing. This is also how you’re able to book the accommodation style you want (Larger accommodations = more points)
Your Home Resort – Each Disney timeshare owner who purchases points has a specific Home Resort. You can reserve a vacation at your Home Resort up to 11 months in advance, whereas at other DVC resorts, you can only do 7 months ahead of time.
Banking and Borrowing Points – Save your points for booking a better week or bigger accommodations. You are also able to borrow points from future years.
Annual Maintenance Fees – Just like all vacation ownership clubs, you will have to pay annual fees in addition to the cost of your initial purchase.

While Disney Vacation Club is insanely popular, I’ve found a great resource where you can purchase points for less, even at “sold out” resorts!

You can buy or rent Disney timeshares through DVCTimeshares.com for less than if you purchased directly through the resort. Here, owners advertise their Disney timeshares for significantly lower rates. You can obtain Disney Vacation Club points and enjoy Disney vacations for less. The inventory on this site features all of the DVC resorts, including the many properties in Orlando, California, and Hawaii.

Popular Resorts

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas offer two sections of accommodations, both allowing you to view exotic wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and more right from your balcony. The resort also boasts award-winning dining options and gorgeous pools with a waterslide.

At Disney’s BoardWalk Villas, you get the privilege and convenience of being within walking distance to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This waterfront property provides access to the boardwalk, a carnival-themed pool, and a premium seafood restaurant.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa allows you to play a scenic golf course that doubles as a wildlife sanctuary, indulge in a wide variety of spa treatments at Senses, and splash around in resort’s pools and aqua-play areas.

Staying at Disney’s Beach Club Villas will make you feel as though you’re experiencing a romantic New England beach escape, while still being within walking distance to Epcot. Enjoy multiple pools and lagoons, delightful character breakfast buffets, and a Fantasia-inspired miniature golf course.

Disney’s Old Key West Resort offers a tropical Key West style retreat while residing in Lake Buena Vista just minutes from the Disney parks and attractions. On-site you’ll enjoy Caribbean cuisine, a pool with a sandcastle waterslide, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

DVC Amenities

While amenities vary by unit type, generally all Orlando timeshare resorts offer:

Choice of multi-bedroom units
Full kitchen or kitchenette
Multiple bathrooms with whirlpool tubs
Laundry facilities (some en-suite)
Living and dining areas
Private balconies

Resort amenities also vary by each Disney Vacation Club property, and each often has its own unique spin on its offerings. The majority of the DVC resorts feature:

Swimming pools
Hot tubs
Fitness centers
Access to golf courses
Dining options
Spa services

Disney Vacation Club resorts are also well-known for their Disney inspired decor and offerings. This allows Disney enthusiasts to relish all things Disney even when they’re not at the parks! You can enjoy gift shops, character dining opportunities, in-room celebrations complete with gifts and decor, and Disney-themed crafts and activities for kids.

Location

The most convenient aspect of these Disney Vacation Club timeshare resorts is their close proximity to the Disney parks! Most offer complimentary bus or monorail transportation, making it easy for you to get to where you want to be. As a Disney timeshare owner, you are also able to travel and enjoy Disney experiences outside of Orlando, including Hawaii and Hilton Head Island.

Having gone on vacation to many DVC resorts myself, I can honestly say they are worth it. Not only will the kids be over the moon, but you’ll find there is plenty to do with your significant other as well! And if you want to try one for less I definitely recommend DVCTimeshares.com as a more affordable option. They offer a wealth of information and knowledgeable specialists to help you understand it all, plus great deals on DVC points rentals and resales.

Have you ever tried any of the Disney Vacation Club resorts? What was your experience?

Disney World monorail resort restaurants: where to go and when

April 4, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

We love the Disney World monorail: it’s iconic, fun, fast, and easy. Strollers slide on and off with ease, lines are always at a minimum, and for kids, it’s a ride in itself. We try to take the monorail as often as possible during a Disney trip, in order to keep stress at a minimum.

Our top Disney monorail tip: use this transportation to travel from the Magic Kingdom to Disney World monorail resort restaurants for fun or relaxing meals.

First, a quick tutorial: the Disney Resort loop connects the Contemporary, Polynesian, and Grand Floridian via monorail. A second monorail line connects the Magic Kingdom with the Transportation and Ticket Center: this is how you can get directly to Epcot or connect to other parks and resorts via bus. The resort loop is what we’re focusing on today, and it goes in a single direction: from the Magic Kingdom, it stops at the Contemporary, then the Poly and the Grand Floridian, in that order. Therefore, if you’re at the Grand Floridian, the Magic Kingdom will be the very first stop (3-5 minute ride, tops).

Our dining pick in each Disney World monorail resort:

Chef Mickey:

A classic dining experience in the Contemporary, Chef Mickey is our pick for the first dining you do in the World. Why? It hits all the buttons: you ride the monorail directly into the building, you see Mickey and his gang almost immediately, and you eat a buffet meal (read: no waiting). I know the Contemporary gets some grief, but I like the wide, bright atrium where Chef Mickey is located, and appreciate the very classic Disney feel of this restaurant. Use the dining plan to book this character meal (or experience sticker shock when you get the bill), and enjoy this experience just before entering the Magic Kingdom for the first time of your trip. Need to see the menu?

Where to go to chill: Find some quiet in the convention section of the hotel. Even if there’s an event going on, which is almost always, the hallways outside the meeting spaces are usually peaceful.

Kona Cafe:

Aloha! Welcome to the Polynesian. We think O’hana gets all the attention (and certainly deserves its fair share), but Kona Cafe is often overlooked, and has many of the same menu items in a more relaxed, quiet atmosphere. For a break from the parks, this is what you need! Have the Tonga Toast at breakfast, or go all out at lunch or dinner, making use of the sushi bar and wonderful seafood entrees. Kona Cafe is listed as casual dining (for use with the Disney Dining Plan), and adult plates range from $15-$29. View the menu here.

Where to go to chill: Head through the lush gardens to the Polynesian beach, of course. If you’re lucky, you’ll snag a hammock or swing chair. No, you don’t have to be a resort guest to use these!

1900 Park Fare:

For our money, 1900 Park Fare is where to go for that special character meal outside the parks, especially if you’ve already seen Mickey and Co. 1900 Park Fare is home to the Supercalifragilistic Breakfast, the Wonderland Tea Party, and Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner. What does this mean? Reservations are crucial (up to 180 days in advance). Use the dining plan to book these expensive meals.

However, if character dining is not on your wish list, take a ride to the Grand Floridian (or take the boat…you’ll see the dock right across from the monorail station), and head to the quiet, crowd-free Grand Floridian Cafe instead. We loved the breakfast here, and had empty tables on either side of us, even during Spring Break.

Where to go to chill: Head outside, past the Gasparilla Grill (quick service restaurant) to find a chair overlooking the marina. Kids can watch the boats come and go and (maybe) you can catch a few minutes with your eyes half-closed.

Whispering Canyon:

Ok, this Wilderness Lodge restaurant is not on the monorail loop, but it’s within park distance without getting in a car or bus. Here’s how: from the Magic Kingdom, take the ferry to Fort Wilderness and the lodge.

Unlike Grand Floridian Cafe or Kona Cafe, Whispering Canyon is NOT the restaurant to retreat to when you’re on stimulation overload from the parks. Instead, hit up this restaurant before your park day, like we recommended with Chef Mickey. We like to come here for a fun lunch after a restful morning, and take the boat straight to the Magic Kingdom afterward. It’s large, loud, and usually crowded, and the wait staff love to play practical jokes, tease, and sing. Expect to be entertained, not relaxed. Here’s your menu!

Where to go to chill: After or before your meal, head either to the grand lobby to sit in a rocking chair by the fireplace, or walk out back to the pool area, where kids will enjoy seeing the ‘creek’ that flows from the indoors to the outdoors.

Moral of the story: don’t be afraid to make good use of Disney transportation! The Disney monorail resort restaurants provide extra Disney magic (and a chance to catch your breath), and you don’t need to be a guest at one to stop by, enjoy the ambiance, and relax!

Disneyland California Adventure MaxPass and how to use it

October 25, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Have you heard of the new Disneyland and California Adventure MaxPass yet? Here’s what you need to know about Maxpass, in order to maximize your time in the parks.

First, the facts of Disneyland California Adventure MaxPass:

Disney’s optional MaxPass designed to do two basic things: 1. take FASTPASS paperless in the parks, and 2. streamline your PhotoPass experience. Here’s how:

With MaxPass, families can reserve FASTPASS tickets for rides on the MaxPass app, which eliminates the need to run across the parks to get FASTPASS tickets out of the kiosks. I know what you’re thinking…how will we get our steps in now? MaxPass does not alter the way FASTPASS works: you’ll still only be able to hold one FASTPASS at a time (unless you’ve reached the window of time in which an new one is available), and the rides offering FastPass are the same as before.

I tried out the Maxpass system recently, and I did notice a few small changes going paperless. The longest period of time between making reservations is an hour and a half with MaxPass (instead of two hours with paper FASTPASS), and the return time windows are often sooner than with paper FASTPASS.

And if you use MaxPass, you can have your park photos (you know, the ones taken by official Disney photographers) and character photos put directly onto your app account, instead of having to buy them later. (You have until your park tickets expire to download them). You can also scan your ride photos and put them in the app, too.

When I used the app, I had trouble with the ride photo option: it notes that it can take up to 20 minutes for ride photos to appear, but I didn’t get mine until the next morning…hopefully this is just a temporary or isolated glitch.

How to get MaxPass:

Download the Disneyland app.
Enter the park you’re visiting using your tickets.
Open the app.
Tap the circular character icon at the bottom of the screen (it looks like a Mickey).
Sign in to the app with your Disney account (or create one).
Tap “Get FASTPASS”.
Select all family members who want to use the Disney MaxPass feature (if someone is not listed, link their ticket or pass).
Purchase the Disney MaxPass feature (right on the app).
Go to the FASTPASS section and reserve.

MaxPass facts and tips:

MaxPass is optional and it’s a paid upgrade. I’m disappointed about this, because I loved that Disney resisted adding paid upgrades until now. It’s $10 per family member. (I’ll get to whether I think it’s worth it in a bit.)

The regular (paper) FASTPASS system is still in place. You don’t have to upgrade to MaxPass.

You can pay for MaxPass as an add-on when you purchase your park tickets, or later, right on the app.

MaxPass is unlike Magic Bands (in DisneyWorld) in that you must reserve your FASTPASSes the day-of, in the parks, not before your trip. You can’t even do it in your hotel room….you must be in the parks (though either park is fine).

If some members of your group are using paper FASTPASS instead of MaxPass, you can still link those people to your MaxPass. You won’t be able to reserve FASTPASSes for them, but you can see their schedule and return times.

If you have problems with MaxPass, any Guest Service location can run tech support.

You’ll want to get the app and register as a user before your trip. It’s a hassle to do in the parks.

You can’t get World of Color or Fantastic FASTPASS with MaxPass…just rides.

You’ll absolutely need a portable charger to use MaxPass, as it drains your phone! And it takes data, because the WiFi in the parks is simply not adequate.

If you have kids who don’t have their own phones, one adult can ‘hold’ their FASTPASSES on their device (but the kids will still need to ‘buy’ MaxPass).

Is MaxPass worth the upgrade? It is, if you answer yes to at least a few of these questions:

1. Your family often changes plans mid-day (you can cancel FASTPASS reservations right on the app and start over).

2. You hate running around to physically get passes.

3. You want to see all available ride and return windows at once (the handy map on the app shows you all this, plus your personal reservations for your whole group). If this is your main ‘want’, simply upgrade ONE person to MaxPass.

4. You often buy PhotoPass photos or ride photos (making the $10 worth it for unlimited downloads).

Tip: I recommend trying MaxPass on one or two phones to start with, and if you love the system, splurging for everyone in your group.

How to physically use MaxPass to get FASTPASS:

Follow the prompts one the app to reserve FASTPASSes (you’ll see a list of all available, plus their return windows). If you already have a FASTPASS, it will not allow you to get another one (unless you’re in the time window).

At your return time, go to the FASTPASS return lane and scan your FASTPASS at the computer kiosk at the entrance to the return line (a Cast Member will be there to assist you). Don’t put your phone away yet, though, because you’ll need to scan it again before loading (just like you have to show your paper FASTPASS twice).

After your ride, your FASTPASS will disappear from the app. In the event of a ride closure or breakdown, you’ll automatically receive a Multiple Attraction FASTPASS, which is good for one ride on any attraction with FASTPASS.

Have you tried the new MaxPass system? Do you like it?

Disneyland hotel pick: Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance

April 3, 2017 By Sharlene Earnshaw

The following guest post is written by Pit Stops for Kids contributor Elizabeth Bickford.

Need a Disneyland hotel pick? The Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance has one of the best locations and properties combined in the Disneyland resort area! We had a great stay with our two daughters ages five and seven. The property is within walking distance and is surrounded by several dining options which make it easy to keep your costs low when spending several days at Disneyland!

Check in at the Courtyard by Marriott:

I have to say this was one of the easiest check-ins ever! We even checked in during a rainstorm and were able to get in to our room within several minutes! The property offers valet only at a reasonable price of $20 per night – reasonable considering parking at the resort at Disneyland alone is $18! So for two dollars more you walk straight into Disneyland and you don’t have to break down any strollers or hop on any buses – I think it’s a great deal. As a bonus, in the lobby, while checking in was an interactive coloring station where the children could paint and play while we received our room keys. There was also a cute library and game center set up to occupy your family.

The room review:

I was extremely impressed with the size of the rooms as well as the furnishings. Each room sleeps six people! The room we stayed in offer two queen beds and a bunk bed! The children were delighted to have this option! We had a great view overlooking the water park and Disneyland resort – we were able to watch the fireworks here one night when the rain was too much to stay at Disneyland. We were so happy to be able to enjoy Disneyland from the comfort of our room.

Another great amenity at the Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance was our room came with the option of two showers! This was great for coming in from the pool. We were able to get both children quickly showered and dressed so we could head right back out and enjoy all the fun that Anaheim has to offer! The only negative was my children manage to both get soap in their eyes at the exact same moment which was quite comical I’m sure if you could see me running back-and-forth wiping children’s eyes as they bellowed for me. However, I think the likelihood of this happening to anyone else is extremely low!

The room also offered everything you would need for an extended stay; there was a mini fridge, coffee machine, and a microwave! The toiletries and complementary items were all of high quality and brand-name.

The property: What to expect at the Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance

Overall, this was one of the most child-friendly properties that we have stayed at in the area. Not only is there a giant water play structure but there are two waterslides, a full pool, Jacuzzi and a one foot splash pool for the kids! We found that many guests were able to find something for their children of all ages on the pool deck. We also saw that this was one of the best places to catch fireworks if your room did not have a direct view – remember to check out the times for the fireworks so you can plan to get a front row view along the fence over looking Disneyland.

The property also housed a convenient store, quick market, and a bistro. The restaurant was open for certain dining hours only and it was not open throughout the entire day. We had a late start one morning and missed the bistro hours – however, there are so many dining options just outside of the property that it did not cause an issue during our stay.

Additionally, guests can use the on-site exercise room and the valet service is exceptionally quick. For valet they recommend texting the valet desk and they should provide an estimated time of arrival for your vehicle. This worked great and even though it was raining throughout our stay we did not get a drop on us when heading to our car.

Suggestions for your stay:

If you are looking to stay on this property we highly recommend bringing a stroller for the young ones. The walk is extremely easy but, the stroller made it less stressful when crossing the main road. There is plenty of room in the entryway of the hotel room to store the stroller. Additionally, we recommend taking advantage of the in room amenities like the refrigerator by bringing some of your own items to offset the cost of Disneyland! Lastly, I would highly recommend Mimi’s café which is inside the same parking lot as the hotel – they offer all day breakfast which was great for the kids. It was one of the closest and most reasonably priced restaurants (other than McDonalds) in the area. We were even able to bring the food back and save it for the following morning.

I have to say, this was one of the best properties we have stayed at in the Disneyland Area. I highly recommend this property all year round as we were here in the rain and the water park was still heated to a nice temperature allowing the children to enjoy all that the property had to offer. Additionally, for the quality of the hotel – the location cannot be beat by an off property accommodation. We cannot wait to go back again – my daughter has already requested a stay here as your birthday present this year!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary two nights stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance in order to complete my review, however all opinions stated are my own.

Why you should get the Disney Dining Plan

November 25, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

Most self-respecting Disney budget blogs will tell you the Disney Dining Plan is not a savings. If you plan to stay in a condo with a kitchen and cook meals in-house, pack peanut butter sandwiches for the parks, and eat at quick-service restaurants only, they’re right. But while the plan may not give you a lower bottom line while enjoying the parks, we believe it does add to your overall value, especially if you’re already staying on-site in a Disney resort. This is why you should get the Disney Dining Plan…even if it doesn’t save you money.

Let’s break the Disney Dining Plan down (henceforth to be known as the DDP):

To get it, you need to have purchased a Magic Your Way vacation package, which is the first strike against it in the eyes of a budget vacationer. Packages are often more expensive than booking your vacation a la carte. However, with Disney, this is not always the case. If you’re staying in a Disney hotel, and booked your stay for at least 5-7 days, most likely a package is the best deal.

You can add one of several DDPs to your package. The cheapest is going to be the Quick-Service Dining Plan. Sounds good, right? Skip it. It only includes two meals per day, and doesn’t include any of the character dining or table service restaurants, which is where the value of the DDP comes into play (and remember, you’re staying on-site and don’t have a kitchen to cook that last meal).

The next option is the standard DDP. It includes 1 quick service and 1 table service meal per person, per day, plus 1 snack each. Table service meals can be redeemed at character dining. You can add signature dining, but it will ‘cost’ you two table service points. This is a nice option, but remember, you’ll still be on your own for one meal per day. We find this plan to be the sweet spot, and simply buy some breakfast items to eat in the room.

You can also upgrade to a deluxe (3 meals per person per day), premium, or platinum plan, which give you more in the signature dining area, but the costs outweigh the value, unless your prime reason for being in Disney is to dine.

Prices for any plan depend on the number of days and ages of people in your party. Calculate it all here.

Now that you know what the DDP includes, how do you use it to the top value?

Use the DDP to take park breaks. Leave the park, hop on the monorail, and enjoy a more relaxed meal in a Disney resort. This gives you a chance to see the inside of some of the deluxe resorts without staying there, and gives your family a breather from the theme parks. Our favorite picks: Ohana at Polynesian Resort and Whispering Canyon at Wilderness Lodge (take the boat over!) For a quieter meal, opt for 1900 Park Fare when it’s not a character dining time period.
Use the DDP to enjoy affordable character meals. The first time I booked a character meal at Disney without the DDP, I almost fainted when I got the bill. Are you kidding me, Disney? But with the DDP, you feel like you’re getting a downright deal. Our favorite tip: book a character meal in your favorite park before park opening. Once you’ve eaten, you’ll enter the park ahead of the wave of crowds.
Use to DDP to curb kids from whining for snacks. Snacking is where I get really worn out at Disney. I just get so tired of watching the budget (disappear) and saying no. When we have the DDP, each kid (and grown up) gets one snack per day. That doesn’t sound like a lot, but it goes a long way toward morale. Toss granola bars in your backpack for those other 2,000 times per day people want snacks.
Use DDP to truly experience all of the Disney magic. There’s something so wonderful about taking a tired, sweaty family and bypassing a long counter-service line in favor of sitting down in air-conditioned bliss. The first example that comes to mind: the day we were touring Epcot World Showcase, were practically at the end of our ability to walk/talk/be civil, and ducked into the sanctuary of Le Cellier for an elegant family meal. Everyone was in heaven. Ditto for stepping into Tusker House in Animal Kingdom or Ohana to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks.
Use DDP to have an amazing meal out. If you have babysitting services, use your DDP to have a signature meal out with your significant other. If not, spurge on a dinner show (our favorite is Hoop Dee Doo Revue). It’s already built into your plan, and using this option truly feels like you’ve unlocked a new ‘level’ of Disney.

But wait, you’re not done!

Now that you’ve decided which plan is best, swallowed the cost of it, and know how to use it to enhance your trip, you need to make Advanced Dining Reservations (ADRs). At Disney World, this is easier than ever, and at Disneyland Resort, it’s also cut-and-dried. Make ADRs six months in advance, and use this FAQ to get started.

Once you’re at Disney, each receipt you receive from a Disney Cast Member when buying meals will show your DDP balance. All participating restaurants are listed and have a DDP symbol (but don’t worry…it’s just about every restaurant).

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How to plan your Disney Vacation with FastPass+

March 17, 2014 By Amy Hagstrom

We have written extensively about enjoying Disney parks using FastPass. Is all this advice out the window now that Disney has introduced FastPass+ and Disney Magic Bands? The short answer: maybe. The game certainly has changed.

How to plan your Disney vacation using FastPass+ and why it will make touring Disney parks easier than ever for those who dislike planning (but harder for those who do):

Step 1: Know what’s included in your FastPass+ options

If you’ve been in a Disney park in the last year and have paid attention, you’ll have seen gradual changes to the current FastPass system, starting with FastPass options to nighttime entertainment, and the arrival of new Mickey ear-sporting Magic Band kiosks. The new Magic Bands utilized by Disney use RFID technology, and hold your park ticket, room key, dining plan, dining reservations, Fastpass + reservations and much more. Say goodbye to Key to the World (KTTW) cards. The band ‘holds’ your FastPass reservations (up to three per day, per park, per user).

More than double the current FastPass attractions are offered with FastPass+, as well as reserved seating for shows, parades, and dining reservations. FastPass+ is available for ALL Disney guests, not just those staying on-site. (Disney hotel guests can make FastPass+ reservations up to 60 days in advance, however.) What does this mean for your park touring strategy? You may want to consider making FastPass+ reservations for several attractions that have not previously been included in the traditional FastPass list. Then, hit the traditionally popular rides at the very start of your day, knowing you have reservations for those rides that fill up after park-goers cross the ‘top’ experiences off their lists.

The number of FastPass+ reservations per guest per day per park varies slightly depending on crowds and season, but is generally 3-4. While this number might mirror the number of traditional FASTPASS tickets an average guest might secure during a day, it’s less than that which a savvy guest (willing to do the legwork across the park) has gotten in the past. That said, the new FastPass+ reservations do include evening entertainment options and meet-and-greets not previously available.

Step 2: Make your FastPass reservations online before you arrive

As a Type A Disney planner, I’m giddy about the ability to pre-reserve FastPasses! If you’re not a planner, and now groaning about this development, take heart: Disney makes it easy to make FastPass+ reservations, even if you don’t like to ‘map out’ your day. When you get your park tickets (or hotel reservations), you’ll be prompted to select your Magic Bands (and colors), assign them to your family members, and start making FastPass+ reservations. As soon as you designate a park and select your attractions, the site will automatically suggest the best order in which to schedule your FastPasses, utilizing a park map and known parade and entertainment schedules. A planning nut like me would have done this anyway, but I realize I’m in the vast minority!

And if you decide to change your plans on the fly while at Disney, it’s easy to alter your FastPass+ reservations from the My Disney Experience App. You can make new reservations, opting for the ‘earliest time available’ feature, or skip it altogether. Even I realize that plans do change!

Step 3: Make sure you have the FastPass+ app downloaded on your smart phone

This is the easiest step, but crucial. Download the My Disney Experience App, so you’re ready to make any necessary changes to your FastPass+ schedule. If you don’t make changes, no need to check the app every time you arrive at a FastPass line: the new kiosks allow you to simply touch your Mickey ears on your Magic Band to the Mickey ears on the kiosk. Yep, it’s pretty cute.

So, how will this change the way you currently plan your Disney park day?

Here’s how I see it: extensive advanced planning will only make you more efficient in the parks and more prepared for your day. The bad news: mega planners who used to secure 6-8 FASTPASSES per day will now be limited. The good news: My old strategies for obtaining FASTPASSES throughout the day included a lot of trekking back and forth through the parks, which will now be eliminated. Families will be able to arrive at the park of their choice and virtually have three passes in their pockets, instead of the traditional none.

Because families are currently limited to three FastPass+ reservations per person (and times cannot overlap), here’s my strategy in a nutshell: 1. get to the park early, 2. ride stand-by before the park fills up, 3. have FastPass+ reservations for the afternoon, allowing for a relaxed day. Now you can use the rest of your time discovering unique things to do at DisneyWorld.

For a full play-by-play of the FastPass+ reservation process, including screen captures to illustrate the process, check out this post.

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Questions I have been asked:

Can I still use traditional FastPass kiosks using my Key to the World card?

The answer is, sometimes. Traditional FastPass kiosks are being phased out, and Magic Bands are replacing KTTW cards. If your Disney hotel still issues you a KTTW card (as I’ve heard some are still doing), you may have the option of using both FastPass methods. However, since the vast majority of users get 3 or fewer FastPass tickets per person per park, you’re not likely to ‘need’ both. Better to get used to the new system. If you really, really want a card or ticket to put into the kiosks, you can obtain the paper ticket type by buying admission to the parks at Downtown Disney locations or online.

Can individual members of my family reserve FastPasses to different attractions?

Of course! Just like with traditional FastPass, each Magic Band is entitled to three reservations per park, and is not tied to family members. In your park touring plan, take into account instances in which kids of various ages will want to tour separate attractions, and reserve FastPasses accordingly.

What if we’re park hopping?

Well, my answer to families wanting to park hop is usually, ‘don’t’. I advice not park hopping in most instances, the exceptions being to see a show or dine in a different park in the evening. If this is your situation, my advice is to arrive at your first park early, ride stand-by, and make your FastPass+ reservations (including the one for your entertainment or dinner) at the second park. FastPasses are at their most valuable in the afternoon, anyway.

Learn more about FastPass+ and My Magic here! And then get more DisneyWorld secrets!

How to plan your Disney vacation with FastPass+

Photo credit: Amy Whitley and Walt Disney World Resorts.

Tips on how to make the most of a family holiday to Walt Disney World

June 21, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

The following post is brought to you by one of Pit Stops for Kids’ sponsors. Sponsored posts contribute to the site’s operational costs, so our editorial team can keep bringing great pit stops to vacationing families.

A Walt Disney World holiday in Florida is a fantastic experience that all family members will enjoy, both parents and children alike. It’s fun, colorful and exciting, but with so much to do and see, it can be difficult to know how to make the most of your time, especially if it’s your first time on a family holiday to Walt Disney World. Here are a few useful tips:

1. Explore the resort before you arrive

You don’t want to miss out on an amazing experience simply because you couldn’t find it or didn’t even know it was there. There are various visitor guides and online tools that can help you plan your days, and Walt Disney World offers a free holiday planning guide so you can explore this amazing resort before you even get there to make sure you make the most of all the attractions on offer.

2. Dress for the weather

Make sure you wear clothing and footwear suitable for walking around for long periods of time, taking into account the weather. It will most probably be hot and humid if you visit in the summer months, but there is a chance of rain so lightweight ponchos are a cheap option that can easily fold up into a rucksack when not needed. Consider hats, sunglasses and sunscreen for the hotter months so your family is protected.

3. Eat well and drink plenty of water

You can bring your own food into the resort which helps to keep costs down, while having the additional benefits of being able to eat a bit healthier and making sure your child likes the food, if they are a fussy eater. Remember to stay hydrated. With the humidity and lots of walking, running, dancing and general excitement, you’ll need to drink more water than usual.

4. Stay safe, not separated

While Walt Disney World ensures the resort is very safe for children, sometimes they do get separated from their parents, especially in peak seasons when the crowds get extremely busy. Cast Members are all trained to reunite lost children with their parents as soon as possible. There are a couple of steps you can take to reduce the chance of becoming separated, for example all the family can wear bright tee-shirts to be easily seen, or a distinctive feature such as a hat. If not everyone in the family goes on a particular ride, arrange a waiting point to meet up afterwards.

5. Take advantage of the package and pickup service

With souvenir shops everywhere you turn, even as you are getting off a ride, it can be tempting to buy, buy, buy! But some souvenirs aren’t suitable for carrying around with you all day – you know the ones we mean, a giant Mickey Mouse plush toy that is incredibly soft and cuddly, but also incredibly difficult to carry! Luckily, all Disney stores on the resort offer a package and pickup service where your purchases will be looked after and you can pick them up when you leave for the day.

If you haven’t yet planned this year’s holiday, there’s still time to book a late holiday in 2013 to Walt Disney World so you and your family can experience the magic and enchantment.