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How to make the most of a crowded resort with enough recreational activity for more than one vacation -- that's the real challenge at a themepark that's accessible to guests with many types of handicaps.

Wondering where to eat or how to minimize the wait? Dreaming of a theme park visit but dreading not being able to find a shady place to relax? Towing lots of little ones with no idea of where the best viewing place is? Here are some tips and pointers to maximize the fun, courtesy of the experts at Walt Disney World Press Relations.

Handy Tips to Make Any Family Visit Better

Walt Disney World theme park hours fluctuate in accordance with anticipated 'busy-iness'. Extended hours - sometimes as late as 11 p.m. or midnight - are set for peak vacation times, typically when most children are out of school for longer periods during the summer, at Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter.

Typically, the busiest days in the Magic Kingdom are Monday, Thursday and Saturday. The busiest days at Epcot are Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. At Disney's Hollywood Studios, formerly called Disney-MGM Studios, the busiest days are Sunday and Wednesday. Strategically plan your stay in order to enjoy the maximum number of attractions.

What time is the 3 o'clock parade and other show information?

Live entertainment in all four theme parks is ever-changing. Weekly show schedules are available at information locations: City Hall (Magic Kingdom), Guest Relations (Epcot and Animal Kingdom) and Guest Services Building (Disney's Hollywood Studios).

Cast of Characters

Mickey's Toontown Fair at the Magic Kingdom is the place for meeting favorite Disney characters. This special 'land' offers photo and autograph opportunities with up to a dozen characters -- all in air-conditioned comfort.

The early bird catches...favorite rides

Walt Disney Travel Company has vacation packages admitting guests to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and the Magic Kingdom an hour ahead of general opening on certain days of the week. Information may be obtained while staying on Disney property at Resort Guest Services locations, or by calling 407/824-4321.

Cool it

Central Florida average daily high temperatures range from 70°F to 90°F depending upon the time of year. Cool, comfortable clothing and sunscreen are two ways to beat the heat. During periods of extended theme park hours, guests may want to arrive early and exit the theme parks during 'high day' to head for the water parks. Remember: get a handstamp for later theme park re-entry.

Start at the heart

Arrive early at Epcot and walk past the queue-up for Spaceship Earth. Head for the heart of Future World, making your first destination 'Innoventions.' This is one of the newest Epcot attractions, and showcases products for the near future. Children are captivated by the numerous hands-on activities. World Showcase typically opens at 11 a.m. See this section of the park later in the day. Figure on two days to experience all the Epcot adventures, including the many horticultural wonders.

Next show in __ minutes

Tip boards are located in all four theme parks which provide up-to-the-minute reports on showtimes and waits. The boards are located on Main Street, U.S.A. near Coke Corner in the Magic Kingdom, on Hollywood Boulevard near the entrance to Sunset Boulevard at Disney's Hollywood Studios, in the southwest quadrant of 'Innoventions' Plaza near the Future World Fountain at Epcot, and on Discovery Island at Animal Kingdom.

Bright nights in the Magic Kingdom

'SpectroMagic,' a nighttime spectacle featuring hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights, special music and optical effects, is presented along the Magic Kingdom parade route. Viewing hint: prime locations tend to be more accessible for the late show when the parade is presented twice nightly. Another hint: while many guests are enjoying the early parade performance (9 p.m.), many favorite attractions may be more readily accessible.

You travel on your . . . feet

At 1.3 miles, the picturesque promenade walk around World Showcase Lagoon at Epcot is a favorite stroll. Comfortable footwear is a must.

and your stomach

Dining choices abound (there are more than 6,000 menu items served at Walt Disney World food locations), but early-day reservations can mean the best selection of meal times and culinary options. Guests staying in Disney resorts may call 407/WDW-DINE to make dining reservations in advance.