Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Elizabeth! I had the great pleasure of visiting both Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida this year, getting some coast to coast comparisons in.
I would suggest scheduling one day at Disneyland and one day at California Adventure when you are visiting
Disneyland Resort in California. There is lots to see, but the parks are on the small side compared to their Floridian cousins. A preschooler will have lots to see and do at both parks, so please consider a Park Hopper ticket.
When you are on the East Coast and visiting
Walt Disney World Resort, it’s easy to spend two days at Magic Kingdom, and a day each at Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. For a
preschool 2 ½ year old, I would stick closely to Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the family friendly attractions, show and nighttime spectaculars. Once again, a
Park Hopper ticket would serve you best here. I like to take early mornings in the park followed by lunch and a nap for my baby girl, and then return to the parks in the late afternoon and before bedtime.
If I can assist you further in planning for your magical vacation on either coast, please let me know. ~ Lindsey P.