Mom And Daughter; Magic Kingdom; Cinderella's Castle; AA; Mickey Balloon
  • On Jan 15, 2012
    Michelle from MN 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.

    My Husband and I want to take our 5 year old to DisneyWorld for the first time. When is the best and most economical time to go? What are the must see attractions for a 5-6 year old? We want to avoid excessive crowds and the excessive heat!

    Hi Michelle!

    Quite honestly, I think the best and most economical time to go is when older children are in school!  That's because it's a lot easier to get around the parks, and a lot more enjoyable, when they are below average crowd-wise.  That said, my favorite time to go is during the first two weeks of December.  The weather is cool, the holiday decorations are up, and the crowds are manageable.  My second favorite time after that is October though it can still be hot on some days during that month!

    Since it is your first visit, you will definitely want to head to the Magic Kingdom, the crown jewel of the Walt Disney World Resort.  Must things to do with a 5 year old include:
    • Dumbo
    • Peter Pan
    • it's a small world
    • Jungle Cruise
    • Carpets of Aladdin
    • Pirates of the Caribbean
    • Monsters Inc Laugh Floor
    • Tomorrowland People Mover
    • Winnie the Pooh
    • Mickey's PhilharMagic
    After the Magic Kingdom, I suggest visiting the Future World portion of Epcot or Disney's Hollywood Studios next.  If you child really loves animals, then you might consider going to Disney's Animal Kingdom before the Studios.  All three parks are great, though not as special as the Magic Kingdom in my opinion, especially for young children.

    By the way, since you said this is your fist time, I really recommend getting the book "The Complete Walt Disney World' by Julie and Mike Neel.  It is a great book for first time visitors, because it has a lot of information and tips but is not overwhelming.  It is also a beautiful book full of color photographs.  It will give you a good feel of everything there is to do in the Magic Kingdom on your one day there.

    Enjoy planning your fabulous Disney vacation, and write back if you have any more questions!
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Meet the Panelist: Bernie, Maryland

I am an engineer with NASA with prior Air Force service. My wife and I have two boys, ages 13 and 8. At home, I'm known as the "Disney Guy" and I've enjoyed helping guests plan their Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, and Disneyland vacations. Learn More About Bernie

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