Mother, Son, Giraffe, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Animal Kingdom, Savannah
  • On Aug 11, 2013
    Ghislaine Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi, Coming first family trip 9/7-13. 2 1/2 and 4 year old dd's. Staying off disney property at Liki Tiki and driving in everyday. I'm curious about how long the process usually takes between parking, transportation from lot takes in all parks.

    Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel Ghislaine!

    A first trip to Disney World is always super exciting! Be sure to stop by Guest Relations in one of the theme parks to pick up "1st Visit" buttons for each of you. Great free souvenEARs to start your trip!

    I've stayed off property many times and often drive to the parks when I'm staying on property.  It actually doesn't take that long.  On a typical day, I usually allow myself 30 - 40 minutes from the time I arrive at the Parking Plaza to get to the entrance of the park.  That includes the time I spend waiting on a tram to take us to the front gate and I don't feel rushed. If it takes you a few minutes to unload your strollers from your car and get grouped for the day, you may want to factor that in as well.

    The exception to this is the Magic Kingdom.  I would allow an hour to be comfortable and not feel rushed.  The reason you should allow for extra time at this park is because it can get backed up a little at the Parking Plaza especially first thing in the morning.  The parking lot is also larger than the other parks so it takes you more time to navigate it.  The tram will take you from the parking lot to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC).  From there you will have the option of taking the Monorail or the Ferry to the Magic Kingdom.  Both of these options are fun and you could take one over to the Magic Kingdom and the other on your way back.

    If you have a dining reservation you are trying to make in the parks, I'd allow additional time just to be safe.  You can always find something to do with your extra time in the parks and I'd rather do that than be stressed out trying to make it on time.

    Please feel free to visit again with any other questions.  We'll be hEAR for you up until you embark on your pixie dusted trail!

    Wishing you minnie magical memories :-) Allison V.
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Meet the Panelist: Allison, Georgia

I'm a Disney-fanatic! I made my first trip to Disney World the year it opened and have grown up crazy for all things Disney. As the Mom of a son with Cerebral Palsy, I love providing recommendations for families traveling with a special needs member. Learn More About Allison

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