On
Dec 23, 2009
Patty
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.
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We are coming to WDW for the first time in Feb. 2010 with our two boys ages 5 and 2. Can you recommend an itinerary of MUST do things for their ages?
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Hi Patti.
What a wonderful age to take your sons to Walt Disney World. I'm a parent of two boys, ages four and two, and I would love to share some of my family's must-dos for our Disney vacations. Your family may have different tastes, but hopefully these recommendations will be a good start to planning your trip.
At the Magic Kingdom, we always ride the Jungle Cruise, Peter Pan's Flight, Mickey's PhilharMagic, The Haunted Mansion, and It's a Small World. At Epcot, we take in Spaceship Earth, Living with the Land, Soarin', and tour the countries of World Showcase. Highlights of World Showcase are the Kidcot Fun Stops, which are craft stations where your children can draw and color while learning about different cultures as they interact with Cast Members from around the world. Our must-dos at Hollywood Studios include Toy Story Mania and Muppet Vision 3-D. At Animal Kingdom, our family always rides the Kilimanjaro Safari and the Kali River Rapids. In addition, our boys enjoy character meals, such as at Chef Mickey's and Playhouse Disney's Play 'N Dine at Hollywood Studios.
Of course, every family is different, and to have a successful trip, you will have to take your childrens' likes, dislikes, and comfort-level into account. Also, some attractions have height restrictions. To that end, consider taking advantage of Rider Swap on select attractions. Rider Swap allows guests with youngsters too small or hesitant to ride a certain attraction to take turns riding the ride. The guest waiting with the child can then "swap" with the other adults in their party to ride the attraction without waiting on line again.
Check the park schedules for parades and shows throughout the day. There are also evening firework shows at most of the parks on select nights, including Wishes Nighttime Spectacular at Magic Kingdom and IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth at Epcot.
My best advice is to relax, follow your kids' pace, and enjoy.