Wrapping up our look at how to plan a Disney vacation, here are some ideas for what to do and where to eat.

What to do …
If there are younger kids in the group (under 15), or if this is your first trip to the Walt Disney World Resort, your first stop has to be the Magic Kingdom. There are so many classic rides (Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain) and attractions (Pirates of the Caribbean and the Haunted Mansion) in the park that most people need a couple days to see it all. Just be sure to take advantage of the FastPass whenever possible.

If your group includes thrill seekers, you might want to start at one of the other parks instead. Animal Kingdom has Expedition Everest and Kali River Rapids to get your adrenaline flowing, while MGM-Studios has Rockin’ Roller Coaster and the Tower of Terror. A good plan might include Animal Kingdom in the morning (as early as possible to catch one of the first safari tours before hitting the roller coasters), followed by a trip over to the MGM-Studios for the latter half of the day (requires a “Park Hopper” ticket). Epcot also includes a few thrill rides (Mission Space and Test Track), but is generally a slower-paced park good for taking a deep breath while investigating the various pavilions and attractions.

If you’re planning on visiting during the warmer months, make sure to plan a trip to one of the water parks. These parks are probably the most fun locations on property. There is a wide variety of attraction options and there’s always a spot in the shade or on a raft in the lazy river where you can relax. Plan on getting to the water park as early as possible, though, since they often fill up to capacity during the summer months.

As far as nightlife goes, take a look at the House of Blues schedule and see if any concerts of interest are available during your stay. Cirque du Soleil is a great show to enjoy with the family, and the Boardwalk provides an excellent view of the Epcot fireworks, some good dining options and Jelly Rolls, a piano bar that is a fun way to end the night.

For off-property activities, families with kids might want to head over to International Drive for the day. Start at Pointe Orlando and work your way north and east to see the Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum, miniature golf, go karts, and more.

More adventurous groups might consider heading over to Tampa to test their luck at the Hard Rock Casino, or maybe go even further west and check out the Gulf beaches. It’s an easy drive that takes about an hour and fifteen minutes (two hours to the beaches). Just follow the signs on Disney Property to Intrastate 4 and then head west.

Where to eat …
Finding a place to eat while in Orlando shouldn’t be a problem. While there are a lot of chain restaurants familiar to everyone, there is also a large handful of local places worth a visit. The theme parks can also be great places to find something good to eat.

The Magic Kingdom will never be known for its food selections, but the Harbour House is always a good spot to get something quick. MGM-Studios has many great options, highlighted by the Brown Derby with their world famous cobb salad and classic desserts. Epcot may have the best selection of all the parks, with the Rose & Crown pub being a new favorite of mine (along with the fish & chips quick service stop outside). Animal Kingdom’s Flame Tree Barbeque and Tusker House Restaurant & Bakery are done really well, too.

If you’re looking for lunch outside the park, try Earl of Sandwich at Downtown Disney or the Whispering Canyon Café at the Wilderness Lodge Resort. Then again, the hot dogs on the beverage carts at the Disney golf locations have been a classic selection for many years. That would, of course, require a round on one of Disney’s premier championship golf courses, though (the Magnolia course is my favorite).

Once you’re done for the day, look to the California Grill at the Contemporary for a memorable dinner. This restaurant has been consistently voted as one of Orlando’s best. For a fun family experience, try Ohana’s at the Polynesian. You’ll definitely get your fill and the kids will have a great time playing some Hawaiian games.

Away from the park, try Bahama Breeze just south of I-4 on 535 in Lake Buena Vista, or Carmela’s on Kirkman near Universal Studios. If you’re looking for something spicy, try the Thai restaurant Red Bamboo in the shopping center at the corner of Kirkman and International Drive. If you’re not sure what you’re in the mood for, drive down “Restaurant Row” in Dr. Phillips for some inspiration.

Again, you won’t go hungry …

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