Hi, there!
Odinah, I'm so very excited to hear you're planning your family's first Walt Disney World Resort vacation. I just know you'll have a magical visit!
Magic Kingdom Park is an absolute must-do. This iconic theme park is perfect for Guests of all ages! Head to Fantasyland first. There you'll want to be sure to experience classic attractions like Peter Pan's Flight, "it's a small world," Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant. I bet your 5-year old will enjoy The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh and Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid too. If your kiddo is a thrill-seeker, try Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and The Barnstormer! You can bet there are lots of magical experiences to be had in the other lands at Magic Kingdom Park. If your 5-year old meets the
height requirements, go on a rip-roaring adventure on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and search for the "laughing place" with Br'er Rabbit on Splash Mountain. In Adventureland, don't miss Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, and Swiss Family Treehouse. Travel into the future in Tomorrowland and experience Space Mountain, Tomorrowland Speedway, and Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin. Magic Kingdom Park is also home to incredible entertainment. Plan on seeing
Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade in the afternoon and
Happily Ever After in the evening.
What other theme park would be best for your 5-year old? That's hard to say! The truth is,
all the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks feature family-friendly attractions that appeal to both the young and the young at heart. If I had to recommend just one more, though, I'd have to say
Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. My sons (ages 6 and 9) both agree this is a must-do. Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of my family's favorite attractions at the Walt Disney World Resort. It should be your top priority at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park! You'll also want to visit
Pandora - the World of Avatar. If you're traveling in the summer months, Kali River Rapids, in Asia, is a super fun way to cool down! My little guys could spend ALL day playing and excavating fossils in The Boneyard. There are two Broadway-worthy shows at this park that are equally fantastic;
Festival of the Lion King and
Finding Nemo - The Musical. Be sure to catch a performance!
Odinah, I also recommend you make a reservation for at least one
Character Dining Experience. I love these unique meals when I'm traveling with my kiddos because we enjoy delicious food AND the company of beloved Disney Characters!
Thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Please let me know if you have any other questions about your Walt Disney World Resort vacation!
Ashley