Heigh-Ho Corinne!
Purchasing Walt Disney World
theme park tickets allows you to visit one theme park per day. With the Park Hopper Option, you enjoy same-day access to all 4 of the theme parks–Magic Kingdom park, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom park and Disney's Hollywood Studios. I usually do not find the Park Hopper option necessary if it's a first or second trip, and you are still getting acquainted with the theme parks. There is so much to do and explore in each park, that one park a day can still leave me with needing more time.
My family does enjoy the Park Hopper option now, and here's why. My family favors Magic Kingdom park for evening entertainment, so we usually find ourselves "hopping" back there almost every night. We'll visit another theme park in the morning, take a break during the day, and then watch Wishes nighttime spectacular or the parade and ride our favorite attractions.
If we have a shorter trip, like a 3-day or a 4-day visit, then I also like to purchase Park Hoppers. This keeps my dining options flexible. I can hop from park to park, eat at my favorite restaurants and munch on my favorite snacks. This also allows me to pick my favorite attractions at each theme park and make sure I don't miss anything.
One great thing about the Park Hopper option is that it is one price for one day or your entire stay. You can decide and add it to your theme park tickets when you arrive at the Walt Disney World Resort. If you feel like you'll need it, then just add it at Guest Relations or any theme park ticket window. I would add it sooner rather than later though, because since it is one price, you might as well start hopping as soon as possible.
I hope that helps. If you have any other questions, please come back and see us real soon at the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Have a magical vacation!
Tania