Hi Nicole!
How exciting to take your daughter on her first trip to Walt Disney World! I took my then 2-year-old last year and she loved meeting all the characters. When we were done with one, she would start skipping out of line yelling, "Who's next, mommy?" It still brings a smile to my face.
If you are going for one day, then I would just purchase a one-day ticket to the Magic Kingdom. I don't see any reason to park hop for one day, especially if this is a first visit. Fantasyland and New Fantasyland will keep your daughter happy and and busy most of the day, but there is plenty more to offer if you include parades and nighttime entertainment!
My 3-year-old daughter's favorite attractions are Peter Pan's Flight, Dumbo the Flying Elephant (the circus-themed play area is amazing), and Under the Sea-Journey of the Little Mermaid. We also love Princess Fairytale Hall to meet and greet with some of our favorite Disney Princesses. Don't forget to meet Mickey Mouse at Town Square Theater and you may just get a special surprise!
You can purchase your theme park tickets in advance on
Disney's ticket page. If your daughter has not reached her third birthday when you visit, then she will not need a ticket to enter the park.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask away! I wish your family the most magical, pixie-dusted visit ever!
Tania