Boy; Mickey Mouse; Mickey Balloons; Main Street U.S.A; Magic Kingdom
  • On Jan 30, 2026
    Frances from MI Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    If I booked a hotel package and my child turns 3 while we're there. Would I be required to purchase a ticket? I'm really confused and first time going. TIA

    Hi Frances, and welcome to planDisney! How exciting that you are arriving very soon for your first visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth! My son’s first trip was right before his third birthday, and I can tell you this is a truly magical time in your little one’s life to experience Walt Disney World Resort for the first time!

    When it comes to theme park admission, your little Mouseketeer will be able to enter the park without a ticket while they are still two years old. Once they celebrate their third birthday, the policy states they will need a theme park ticket going forward. They’ll get to be Mickey’s guest for the start of the trip and then celebrate becoming a big kid right in the middle of the magic! A fun way to mark this special day would be to get your little one their very own MagicBand+ and let them scan into the park for the first time!

    For another fun way to celebrate, be sure to stop by Guest Relations or your resort hotel for a complimentary birthday button and a First Visit button for you! Bonus tip: My favorite place to pick up an extra special button is Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe in Liberty Square and Magic Kingdom Park. For a very small fee, you can have your celebration buttons customized with hand painted art. Your little one can choose special artistic details and colors to turn their birthday button into a true keepsake!

    Frances, I hope this helps as you get ready for your first visit and this special birthday celebration! If you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to come back and see me. I'm here to help add extra pixie dust to your Disney vacation planning!

    Magically,
    Casey
thumbnail image for Casey

Meet the Panelist: Casey, Virginia

Hello from Virginia! I'm Casey, a mom of two teens, teacher, and lifelong Disney traveler. I’ve experienced the magic of Disney from coast to coast and around the world, and I believe the real magic happens in the small moments, from hugs with your favorite characters to firework reflections in little eyes. These moments turn into the memories that will be a special part of your family’s story. I’m excited to help you create the Disney moments you’ll treasure forever!
Learn More About Casey

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