Hello,
Barbara, thank you so much for stopping by planDisney with your question. When I was a young boy, my first visit to Disney World was when I was three years old. Those memories are some of the first I can remember, and as you can tell it impacted me in a major way. I’ll be happy to help you make this a magical visit for your three-year-old.
When you are visiting
Walt Disney World with little ones I always recommend one park each day. And while I am going to make this one of the most important tips, it is not only for the three-year-old but for the adult who is bringing them. Midday breaks are key to maintaining a magical experience. If your three-year-old has a regular nap time you should plan on leaving the park at least 20 to 30 minutes before so that they can get in that break. I always say the midday break is necessary if you intend on watching the nighttime spectaculars with little ones. For this 6 year-old with 39 years experience, ending the night with my eyes set over Cinderella Castle is the definition of magic. Magic Kingdom Park has always been my favorite place. With little ones most of the rides and attractions they most want go on don’t really have long waits. One of the classics
Dumbo the Flying Elephant takes flight and usually is a walk on. Did they love it and want to go on again? Sure, why not? There is a special ticketed event happening from November 7 through December 21, 2025 called
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, this limited ticket event ensures lower wait times as well as special character meet and greets. There are select locations serving up, hot cocoa along with cookies at no additional charge. There is also a Disney Junior Jingle Jam where your three year-old can dance with his favorite characters from Disney Junior, like Vampirina, Doc McStuffins, the Lion Guard and Fancy Nancy. You might also see the likes Santa himself.
If you want to slow down a little bit and enjoy your resort, may have an awesome pool that will feel like an ocean of water to your little mousketeer. I always suggest a rest day which involves hanging back by the pool.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is an awesome place for a little explorers. There are so many nature trails as well as trails with animals on them that you can observe, from brightly colored birds to camouflage tigers. Another area that your three-year-old will enjoy is Rafiki’s Planet Watch. You will board the
Wildlife Express Train for a nice and easy seven minute train ride and learn all about conservation and travel alongside veterinary facilities for rhinos. But please be aware this experience has its last departure at 4:30 PM.
I hope this information is helpful while planning your visit as with your little one. Have a magical day.
Jeremy A.