Disney unveils faux Obama on the Fourth of July

A few months ago, while waiting in an hour-plus line with our three young sons on the Toy Story Mania! ride at Disney's Hollywood Studios, my wife and I looked around and wondered, Why are four out of five people in this line adults? I think a lot of people would have assumed the majority of Disney visitors would—and perhaps should—be kids. Recently, when a Budget Travel blog post asked readers to submit questions about Disney, I was surprised at the number of people wanting information about how to enjoy the resort without children. Several readers give the impression that the Magic Kingdom and its sister parks would be even more magical if there were fewer kids. Based on how big the crowds are at Disney, there's certainly an argument that the place just ain't big enough for both groups—i.e., folks with and without kids.

Are you heading to Disney World, but need help conquering the Mouse? What's on your mind: Where to stay (inside the park or out)? How to get around? Park Hopper tickets versus single-day passes? Ask us, and we'll try to track down the answers! We'll then share the scoop in the July/August issue of Budget Travel.

After the New York Times published a story titled "With Attendance Off, Disney Is Dealing (Discounts)," a reader wrote a letter to the editor, making this important point:Having just come back from Disney World for the third time since November, I can tell you the decrease in attendance is a myth. On each of my trips, wait times reached 150 minutes on the popular rides with all the "fast passes" gone shortly after the park's opening. Given the large influx of South Americans I noted, me thinks the mouse is crying "wolf." — Stan Pruszynski We've been hearing the same thing anecdotally: Disney theme parks remain crowded. So don't go taking the family there and expect that the recession will mean shorter lines, especially for the most desirable rides. Discounts will draw visitors from both here and abroad. I suspect the same thing will be said about Cedar Point and other theme parks nationwide as they ramp up business later this year. EARLIER Disney: Free admission on your birthday

Start honing those high notes. This Valentine's Day, at the new American Idol Experience attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios near Orlando, anyone can be the star of the show. Competitors audition before a panel of Disney casting directors for a chance to perform on a replica American Idol stage in one of seven daily shows. The top crooner from each round then heads for hair and makeup—and an evening finale judged by an audience of their theme-park peers. The victor's prize: a future tryout for the TV show's next season. 407/934-7639, disneyworld.com/idol, park day pass from $63. —Jennifer Wilson, from the upcoming print edition of BT PREVIOUSLY Disney: American Idol gets a Florida home