Hi Jessica!
Arriving at Walt Disney World Resort early in the day is something we do often! You'll find there is plenty to do if you don't want to go into a park just yet.
Hanging out at the
Downtown Disney Area is a great way to kick off your magical vacation. Transportation to Downtown Disney is provided from all Disney Resort hotels and you could easily spend hours walking around, shopping, eating at one of the many wonderful restaurants, or my personal favorite, snacking on ice cream from
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop! The atmosphere during the day is definitely child-friendly and we always have a terrific time.
Another option is to spend the afternoon at your Disney Resort hotel for a meal or for a splash in the pool. Most Disney Resort hotels also show outdoor movies in the evenings. When you arrive, just ask a Cast Member for a list of activities during your stay.
Of course, if your 2-year old is like mine was, meeting Mickey Mouse is high on the priority list. Character Dining is an exciting way to spend your first evening at Walt Disney World Resort and you can do it without even entering a park!
Chef Mickey's in Disney's Contemporary Resort is a great choice for fun character meal. It doesn't get much better than the Mouse himself!
Thank you for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel. If you have any other questions as you plan, please feel free to ask. Enjoy your vacation!