Three generations of the Silverstein family with eight adults and five children ages 1–7 gathered from South Florida and North Carolina for a four-night stay at Walt Disney World in Orlando. They chose to stay at the Bay Lake Tower, one of Disney’s Vacation Club properties and next to Disney’s Contemporary Resort, for its excellent value and convenience.  The one-bedroom suites gave each family plenty of space, privacy and full kitchen facilities, and the property monorail and park bus access from The Contemporary. They especially loved the easy 10-minute walk on a wide sidewalk to the Magic Kingdom.

The resort’s amenities were a hit with all ages, including a pool with both large and small water slides, bocce ball, and a small practice putting course. Since some family members had been to Disney before, each group selected different parks and experiences to try around Orlando. The entire family came together to experience the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, while smaller groups branched off to enjoy SeaWorld and its dolphin and penguin encounters, EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival, and Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure with Express Passes for easy ride access with toddlers.

Using the My Disney Experience app, they mapped out Lightning Lane selections in advance based on the grandchildren’s preferred rides and height requirements. Coordinating Lightning Lane access around the same times made for smooth meetups, while still allowing them also to enjoy age-appropriate attractions, stage shows, and the afternoon parade.

Dining as a party of 13 was a bit of a challenge, as Disney has limited availability for larger tables. They booked multiple reservations in advance, adjusting and canceling as needed. Most nights were spent eating together, and one evening they opted to bring food back to a suite for a low-key dinner. Some restaurants initially hesitated to accommodate an open stroller which is tricky with babies but eventually made accommodations.

One suite had a view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks, though the late-night Electrical Water Pageant at 10:00 p.m. proved loud for some trying to sleep after long park days. A highlight for the grandparents was riding the monorail one evening to reminisce about past Disney trips including a visit during its first year back in 1971.