Grandfather, Dad and Son; Nemo and Friends; The Seas; Epcot
  • On Oct 18, 2024
    Megan from IA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Going to AK & EPCOT the Monday of Thanksgiving - girls are 5 & 2. We can do LL 3 days before. We’re most interested in Frozen, Remy and Safari. Should we get LL for EPCOT first? Or early AK and then try for a LL after we check in?

    Hi there, Megan!

    Welcome to planDisney. I'm so glad you stopped by to chat about your November getaway to the Most Magical Place on Earth. I'd love to help plan your Lightning Lane passes for an action-packed, one-day multi-park experience!

    If you start early at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park and prioritize Kilimanjaro Safaris, you can experience this attraction via the standby line and save your Lightning Lane selections for EPCOT later in the day. Here's how I'd plan the day if I were in your shoes.

    Arrive at Disney's Animal Kingdom about an hour before the official opening. If you're eligible for Early Theme Park Entry, you'll breeze right in, and if not, you'll wait just inside the gates before heading through the Oasis. If you're there for the beginning of Early Theme Park Entry, Kilimanjaro Safaris might not be up and running yet, so consider starting with Na'vi River Journey; it's a relaxing, scenic cruise through Pandora that my kids love. Afterward, go to Kilimanjaro Safaris and hop into the standby queue before the lines get too long.

    After your adventure through the African savanna, explore other attractions or shows that catch your family's eye before heading to EPCOT. Park-to-park buses begin running at 10 AM, so if you’re ready to hop over before then, you may want to drive yourself or use a ride share service.

    Arrive at EPCOT prepared with your pre-arranged Lightning Lane Multi Pass selections. If possible, try to secure a spot for either Frozen Ever After or Remy's Ratatouille Adventure (you can't book both in advance since they share a reservation group). If they’re unavailable, watch the Tip Board throughout the day - you might be able to snag a spot later. Other great options for little ones include The Seas with Nemo & Friends, Turtle Talk with Crush, and Living with the Land. If your five-year-old is up for a gentle thrill ride, Soarin’ Around the World is a fantastic choice. It's also an excellent opportunity to use Rider Switch, allowing some of your group to enjoy the ride while others wait in the nearby seating area.

    In a nutshell, my advice would be to start your day bright and early at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park and make the most of those shorter morning standby lines. Around lunchtime, head to EPCOT and dive into your Lightning Lane adventures. Keep checking for additional reservations throughout the day, and as the evening approaches, treat yourself to a relaxing table-service dinner. My family loves Via Napoli and San Angel Inn Restaurante. They're perfect spots to relax and recharge.

    I hope this is helpful, Megan. Best wishes for a magical day, and please reach out again if there's anything else we can do to make it even more memorable. Thanks again for visiting planDisney, and have a happy holiday season!

    Betsy
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Meet the Panelist: Betsy, Maryland

Greetings! I'm Betsy, a middle school teacher, wife, and mom of two. My family and I love to travel the world, but our best memories are those made when we're visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort. No matter how many times we visit, there is always something new to see, ride, or eat at the Disney Parks. Learn More About Betsy

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