Walt Disney World can offer the perfect multi-generational family trip, and is a great place for grandparents and grandchildren to make memories together.
While planning your trip there are many different factors you may want to take into account for different generations visiting the parks. Today we share with you our best hints and tips for
grandparents visiting the parks to help you plan your next trip!
1. Resort Choice
When choosing a resort for a multi-generational visit, we would definitely recommend taking the time to pick out a resort perfect for you and your family. Grandparents may enjoy a more laid-back resort, and somewhere that is quieter for taking a break from the theme parks. In the moderate category, we would highly recommend Port Orleans French Quarter, an intimate resort with beautiful walkways and a boat service to Disney Springs. In the deluxe category, we enjoy the Animal Kingdom Lodge and Grand Floridian Resorts, both with unique theming and the perfect options for relaxing or taking an afternoon break away from the theme parks. Disney Vacation Club villa offerings may be the perfect choice for your family if you are looking to share one accommodation between the whole travel party, as these offer 1, 2 or 3 bedroom villas, and allow for everyone to spend as much of the vacation together as possible if desired!
2. Dining Reservations
One of our biggest recommendations for visiting Walt Disney World is to ensure you have your dining reservations booked in advance, and this is even more important if traveling with an extended family group. As of this time, you can book dining reservations 60 days out, and we recommend going online and checking out menus to familiarize yourself with the options before this time. Our top recommendations for large families are family-style dining at ‘Ohana in the Polynesian Resort and Be Our Guest in the Magic Kingdom. If you are looking to have a night by yourself away from the family, we’d recommend Jiko or Sanaa at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, or the Grand Floridian Café or Narcoossee’s at the Grand Floridian.
3. Theme Park Touring
In the middle of the Floridian summer, the theme parks can be tiring for guests of all ages, and so we recommend building in an afternoon break on any long touring days. Depending on the length of your stay you can also add in a lie-in or early evening a few times, and this will definitely help alleviate exhaustion from all the excitement! We recommend grandparents or older travelers to take a look at the rides and videos of them online before visiting the parks to make sure you aren’t dragged onto something by the kids you won’t enjoy! Rides are clearly marked for health and motion sickness risks, so take a quick look at the signs before heading into the queues. If you are struggling with the heat or tiredness at any point in the day, make sure to take a break in a longer sit-down attraction such as Mickey’s Philharmagic in the Magic Kingdom, or Festival of the Lion King in Animal Kingdom. Shows and 4-D shows make the perfect escape from the heat for 15-30 minutes, and allow a much-needed break for your feet!
4. Time of year for your visit
While time of year can sometimes be out of your control due to school or work commitments, we recommend avoiding the middle of summer if you know you will struggle with the heat while touring. Visiting in the Fall or before the peak Holiday season can allow for cooler temperatures and beautiful decorations around the parks and resorts. Disney offers some great extra events and parties during these times as well, and grandparents will enjoy the Food and Wine Festival at Epcot, as well as celebrating the Holidays around the world with Epcot’s Festival of the Holidays and Candlelight Processional show.
5. Extra tips to make the most of your trip
Walt Disney World has so many different experiences on offer throughout the year, and using some of these can really maximize your trip. Before park opening or after hours, Disney offers various parties and extra hour events, which allows for much smaller crowds and minimal wait times for attractions. Golfing or Mini Golf allow for a great break from the parks and a much quieter Disney experience. Don’t forget to factor in some time at Disney Springs for souvenir shopping and great dining options. Whatever you choose to do, we know Disney is the perfect location for guests of all ages. Remember to keep hydrated, pace yourself and plan ahead and you will be ready for a lifetime of memories with your grandchildren.
If you need any help with planning your next trip please feel free to contact us. We are here to help with all your planning needs including resort reservations and packages, ticket assistance and dining reservations.
