Realistic time frame to get to parks after arrival

[princessjojo]

Yes, I know the problems with assuming things, but here goes... We leave in 2wks., our flight departs RDU at 6:30am and we're scheduled to arrive at MCO around 8:30am I believe. If we use the on-line check-in to expedite our process, what is a realistic time we should anticipate getting to the parks? Since I've tried, in my head, to organize our packing, we should have all our park necessities in a carry-on when we arrive. Yes, we're excited about getting there, but really, I could care less how long it takes. The fact that were there, and for 9 days is enough in itself.

[Dulcee]

If it was me I'd plan on realistically being in the parks by noon. We like grab a quick and early lunch from our home resort before heading into the park on day 1. While I'm usually bouncing to get there stopping to eat is a good idea as we like to leave early like you.

Note: assuming your using Magical Express from the airport. If your renting your own car you can probably get in earlier...

[DizneyRox]

Allow three hours from touchdow before you do anything important. You might get to a park earlier, but I wouldn't make an ADR before 11:30 in your case.

[princessjojo]

That's about what I was thinking, at the very most earliest 10am, but just wasn't sure. In the past when we arrived early like this, we've had others with us,including 3 kids so we were slowed down just a touch. This year, it's just the 4 of us, all somewhat veterans, but still at the mercy of the system. Hopefully, with us arriving somewhat early, ME won't be too full, and the stars will align in our favor. One can only hope. Just thankful that we'll be there on vacation, regardless of how long it takes.

[DisneyDINK]

I think 11:00am if all goes like clockwork, but I think the 12 noon is more realistic.

Sometimes you get right on ME (assuming you're taking it) and other times you have to wait about a half hour. You probably won't be able to get into your room until early afternoon, so you can store your bags at bell services and be off to the parks.

Since you're staying at SSR, MK will be the longest bus ride. DHS: you'd probably prefer to get there when it opens so you can Fast Pass TSM. I'd probably do Epcot or AK the first day.

Like you said, you're there for 9 days, so try to relax. There should be time for all of the stuff you want to do, but it is hard to do "everything", save something for your next trip.

[mudpuppysmom]

We usually touch down around that time and my system is.....get the bags, get the rental car (we use National Emerald Aisle, so no waiting in line -- load the bags and go to the check out booth with ID and ressie). We normally stop for "supplies" at some grocery....Walmart, Super Target or regular grocery store. Then I (mom the planner) like to see if our room is available (either way we check in), then go purchase our tickets (as we normally stay at SOG) then break out the carry ons (if we couldn't get our room) and everyone changes in the restroom and we're off! We are realistically in park no later than 12:30. If DH gets his way we eat somewhere along the line and I'm backed up 30-45 minutes.....

That is as realistic as I can get for you, but I think you already have it in your head that you will not be in park at 10 am!

We're going for 9 days in Sept/Oct and I can NOT wait!!!

[Tink#64]

We usually guesstimate about 2 - 3 hours after landing, yes definitely at the mercy of weather, DME, traffic, crowds checking in, etc.

How cool, Mudpuppysmom, we'll be there about the same time! We check in on the 25th!

[Dsnygirl]

We usually arrive about 9:30am or 7pm, and have done both ME and been picked up by a towncar.

With the towncar service, we were out of the airport, bags having been gathered at the baggage carousel, within 45 minutes, and at the resort w/in another 30. (We usually stay at CBR)

We've never done online check-in, as we like to request a certain building, and you can work with that better in person - but even with "regular" check-in, we've been in our room within a half hour of arriving at the resort, or at least checked into it, and we've then left our bags and gone on to the parks.

With a 9:30am arrival, we've been at MK by 12:30... I think your guesstimate of about 2 1/2 to 3 hours is just about right!

Have a great time!