each year we go I wonder this as well. My youngest is now 14, and she is one that could go on her own, just not sure if she will. we always go with the idea that they can go off and enjoy some time away from us(they need it, we drive 22 hrs down) and yet they don't always go. the last trip my 3 youngest did do off without us, but they tend to stick together. my DH and I did let the girls catch the bus back to the resort while we enjoyed emh and I think my son was off on his own(17). I guess my best advice is you know your kids, how they react to people and places. I know that I would not hesitate to let mine roam(maybe even hop) with todays technology and phones, I tend to worry a little less as I can keep tabs on them and they love to call/text/post.