• On Feb 6, 2020
    Kelli from UT 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.

    Hi, I'm planning my family's 1st ever Disney trip! Is 3 days at the parks followed by 4 night cruise enough time to enjoy the parks or should I plan the cruise for a separate vacation and stay at the parks longer?

    Thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Kelli! Congratulations on your first vacation to Walt Disney World. Gosh, just thinking about this makes me so excited for you and your family.

    I actually struggle with this question a lot. While I’ve not had the opportunity to take a Disney Cruise, I do have plenty of experience visiting all four of Disney’s Theme Parks

    I will say, it would be hard to see all four theme parks within three days, but if you can narrow in on three of the four parks, you’ll be off to a great start! I would definitely select Magic Kingdom Park. From attractions and rides to characters and entertainment, this Park has something for everyone.

    As for your second and third choice, I’m totally torn! Here’s a quick rundown.

    If your family loves. Star Wars, Toy Story, and Disney Junior I would recommend Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I was just here in December, and let me tell you, this Theme Park is absolutely stunning right now and is another frontrunner for you.

    If the thought of traveling to 11 countries in a single day excites you, I would highly recommend Epcot. This is my favorite Disney Theme Park as there is so much to do and see. And if you love food as much as I do, check out Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria within the World Showcase.

    Finally, if you’re one with nature and the thought of stepping into Pandora, getting up close with animals along with a few amazing attractions and rides, then Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a great choice. It’s my wife’s favorite!

    Personally, my wife, daughter and I plan out our theme park visits for every other day and plan to relax on our off days at our Disney Resort. This way we have four full days at each theme park while we’re bursting with energy but we still have time to unwind at our Disney Resort. So in the end, I would say that if all four Disney Theme Parks are tugging at your heartstrings, make a Walt Disney World vacation out of it! But if only two to three theme parks are pulling you, go ahead and book that Disney Cruise as well.

    If you have any other questions please let us know. Have a magical day!

    Bryan
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Meet the Panelist: Bryan, Kansas

Hi all! I'm Bryan from Kansas City. I'm a husband, first-time dad, and man's best friend to our Golden Retriever. Like many kids, I grew up traveling to Disney World nearly every year with my family, so to say that my perspective has changed over the years is an understatement. Through my passion, firsthand knowledge and park research, I look forward to helping you with your Disney vacation! Learn More About Bryan

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