[OtherVoices]

Forgive me if this is the wrong forum. I'm hoping to get some input here.

We've never been to DisneyWorld, but we're thinking of going next summer. The week that looks the best for us happens to be the first week of July. Is it crazy to plan a trip to WDW during that week? What are the pros and cons? Has anyone been there during fourth of July and loved it? Hated it? Too many people? More expensive?

My kids would like to stay off site at the Nick Hotel. I don't have my heart set on it, but it's definitely an option. What about fourth of July at this hotel? Any other hotels that put on something big?

If we were to arrive on a Monday morning and check out on a Thursday (we wouldn't have to leave WDW until Thursday night) are we giving ourselves enough time or would we be better off staying until Friday? If we could change the plans to be there over a weekend, are there more activities going on over the weekend, or is it just more crowded with more expensive room rates? What's the latest we should make our reservations. The hotels don't seem to have their 'calendar of events' up for July, but if we wait for that, will reservations be unavailable by then? Is booking after Christmas too late for a July stay?

BTW, we're a family of five, my sons would be 10, 7 and turning 4 that week. We'd be driving to Florida, so we'd have a car at the hotel, though we'd probably do the shuttle thing to avoid parking hassles (and costs) at WDW.

Any input/advice would be welcome. We're still in the beginning stages here.

[missy H]

We where at MK last year for 4th July, it does get very very busy. They closed the park to guests at one stage as they were full. The fireworks are brilliant, well worth the effort.

I don't know about the shuttle service from nick but would take my car anyway if staying offsite, (parking is now $9 a day, so is something to budget for.)

BTW welcome to the boards, I'm sure someone will know something about the nick hotel and 4th july celibrations.

[WishUponAStar]

Hi, and welcome. I've been during the 4th of July and I'd agree it's very busy. I've seen the MK park going "to capacity" also but it never stopped me from having a good time. Take good use of the "fast passes" and pace your day expecting large crowds. I would definately compare the pros/cons of staying at the Nick Hotel versus a Disney resort. I have a slight feeling that you could get a package from Disney at a savings versus the Nick Hotel. From articles I've read and judging from past posts here it sounds to be REALLY overpriced and not worth the hype. But, check it out, and compare. You have plenty of time!

[disneycouple30]

Remember that if you stay off site you are not guarnetee to get into the parks on the 4th. They close the parks to off site vistors early in the day and if you don't have a hotel card to get in you won't be able to get in. Especially if you leave the park and want to go back later. Only Disney resort guest can get back in or if the park is full.

[OtherVoices]

Thanks so much for all the advice. I hadn't even thought about not being able to get into the park because it's busy. I just assumed if you purchased passes you'd be allowed in.

I also think the Nick hotel is overpriced, and I'm sure we could get a better deal at another hotel. It's something I'll look into, especially knowing it could guarantee us entry into the park.

I haven't had time to search this site very well yet. I'm assuming there's a 'guide' somewhere on here that explains all the good stuff... like what the heck a fast pass is and all the things you absolutely have to do when planning a trip (like how to get the best discounts, etc). I'll be more than happy to research and look around, but if someone could point me in the right direction, I'd appreciate it. I only found this site on a google search for disneyworld and figured if there was anyone who'd know how to "do Disney" it'd be you guys!

[missy H]

If you can't find it by searching, just ask. We all love helping other people plan their trips to WDW on this site.

[Erin]

My friend did this with her 4 kids, husband, and mother last 4th of July. They stayed at the Nick hotel, and went for the week of the 4th.

They said it was unbearable as far as crowds/heat. They didn't even TRY the MK, because of crowds, and opted for Epcot instead.

They said they had more fun at the hotel due to the holiday.

BUT

If you are like them, and that is the only time you can get there - do it! Go EARLY, and have the mindset that you AREN'T going to get on to every ride. Pick a few "must dos" and consider the rest "extra" - and ENJOY that Nick hotel - from what I understand, it's pretty fabulous!

[rlb]

We were at DW this past July 4th. It was extremely hot, but we had a good time. The crowds were large. We watched the fireworks at Epcot. They were amazing and well worth the time we sat waiting for them to begin. We were at the American pavilion and I can now not imaging being in another park for the fireworks on the fourth.

[chris5568]

The first and last time we went for the fourth was 2000 and the parks were packed. It is very hot and crowded, which makes people very cranky. But if its the only time you can go.