Hi Michelle,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, and thank you for your question. What a wonderful birthday gift for your daughter and nephew – I know they are going to have the Best Day Ever at Walt Disney World!
This is a tricky question, because I think each of my fellow panelists would give a different answer, but the good news is there is no wrong answer because there is more than enough magic to go around. My children are close in age to your daughter and nephew, and they would absolutely choose Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom Park for a one-day birthday celebration.
Begin the day at
Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and be sure to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris, Kali River Rapids, and visit DinoLand U.S.A. The Festival of the Lion King show is a must-do as well while you’re in this park. Then, hop over to Magic Kingdom Park, where there are so many attractions for all ages. I think this is a great park to finish the day because the
Happily Ever After fireworks spectacular is breathtaking and such a special birthday treat. I would suggest looking at attraction lists for both parks and maybe even watching some videos of the rides to get a feeling for what each birthday kid would most enjoy. Since you have one day for your birthday adventure, take some time to look at park maps so you don’t waste a second once you get there.
Michelle, don’t forget to pick up birthday Celebration Buttons for both kiddos at any Guest Services location in the parks. These buttons let Cast Members and fellow Guests know there is a special celebration happening, and sometimes leads to special pixie dust.
Happy birthday to your daughter and nephew! Wishing you a magical birthday adventure,
Robyn