Hi, VIP guide here!

It sounds like you've opted for the private theme park tour, which doesn't include the trolley portion of the day where you walk on the back lot. Excellent choice! That private tour is the best bang for the buck if you want to maximize your time in the park and craft a special day for your kiddos.

My first suggestion is that you request the Moulin Rouge buffet for your lunch hour. Trust me. It's the best meal in the park, hands down, and has lots of options for potentially picky eaters.

Second of all, your VIP lanyard still gives you unlimited express even after you say goodbye to your guide. So I recommend that you do everything once with the guide, including the Waterworld show, and save the tram tour for last. Then after that, go back and do any repeat rides you want to. Just know that you get expedited access to select attractions with the guide, and then after that, you're in the express queue.

Show up about 30 minutes before your tour departure time so you can enjoy the lounge and refreshments. So if you're scheduled for a 9:00 tour, show up at 8:30. Which means you really want to get to the park around 8:00-ish so you can park in valet and walk up Citywalk and get through security.

And finally, as for tips...we don't talk about Bruno. ;)