Infant and toddler meeting with Chef Mickey; mother
  • On Feb 3, 2026
    Rebecca from TN Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We're going to MK with a 4yo and 8mo. Staying in Wilderness Lodge and will get a LL Pass. What is a realistic plan for rides? When is a good time to do Mickey Mouse meet & greet? Anything we should prioritize at that age for a first Disney trip?

    Heigh ho, heigh ho, Rebecca, and welcome to planDisney!

    I'm THRILLED to hear that you're planning your little ones' first trip to Walt Disney World! I remember my kids' first trips like it was yesterday, and I can promise you there's nothing quite like it. You'll be stepping into the magic in just a few short weeks, so let's wave that magic wand and get your plans sorted out!

    First of all, I love that you're staying at Disney's Wilderness Lodge for your upcoming trip. It's such a beautiful and peaceful resort, and my family loves how restful it feels after a busy day in the theme parks. Best of all? The Wilderness Lodge is just a hop, skip, and a short boat ride away from Magic Kingdom Park. This makes it so easy to head back to the resort whenever your mouseketeers need a break!

    Of course, the other thing I love about that boat to Magic Kingdom is how easy it makes it to take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry. In case you missed it, this benefit allows you to enter any theme park 30 minutes before it officially opens. Since there is no Lightning Lane for Meet Mickey at Town Square Theater, this is a great time for your family to meet the mouse! However, if you're also interested in meeting other classic characters, you may want to consider a meal at Chef Mickey's at Disney's Contemporary Resort. It's a delicious and efficient way to meet Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto without standing in line

    Rebecca, there are SO many wonderful experiences for little ones in Disney World. With so much to do, Lightning Lane Multi Pass is always a good idea! Don't forget that as a Disney Resorts Collection hotel guest, you can purchase your Lightning Lane passes and schedule up to three attractions 7 days before check-in. In Magic Kingdom, focus on classics like Peter Pan's Flight, Jungle Cruise, and "it's a small world." At EPCOT, my little ones love Turtle Talk with Crush, Spaceship Earth, and Frozen Ever After. Toy Story Mania! is always a hit at Disney's Hollywood Studios, while Kilimanjaro Safaris is a must-do at Disney's Animal Kingdom Park.

    Bonus Tip: If you're not sure what your kids can handle, start slow with the calmest attractions. If they're feeling brave, slowly introduce them to "intermediate" dark rides like Pirates of the Caribbean or kid-friendly coasters like The Barnstormer.

    I hope this information is helpful, Rebecca, and that your visit is full of magical memories! If you have any other planning questions, you know where to find me right here at planDisney!

    Magic awaits,

    Allison


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Meet the Panelist: Allison, New Jersey

Hello, I'm Allison. I'm a wife, mom, and writer with a lifelong love of Disney magic! Like Belle, I’m a book-loving dreamer who’s always ready for the next adventure...especially if it involves castles, pixie dust, and Mickey-shaped treats! To me, every Walt Disney World vacation is a story waiting to be told, and I can’t wait to help you write your most magical chapter yet! Learn More About Allison

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