Welcome to planDisney, Heather!
As a Disney dad, I remember the first time I brought my children to The Most Magical Place on Earth. I'll never forget that wonderful moment when we turned the corner on Main Street, USA, and my little princess caught her first glimpse of Cinderella Castle. Magic!
Heather, you'll be pleased to know that anyone under the age of 3 is considered a "Guest of Mickey" and therefore isn't required to purchase a theme park ticket. How great is that? You don't even have to bring proof of age with you (since this is done on an honor system). I mean, if your toddler is 6'2 and has a beard, someone will probably ask some questions. However, a 23-month-old will be able to just walk through those gates like they own the place.
Heather, there's so much for your
little Mouseketeers to enjoy at Walt Disney World. Magic Kingdom Park is my favorite park for kiddos. Your little one is going to love seeing some magical friends in the
Festival of Fantasy Parade. There are also many kid-friendly attractions, like "it's a small world," Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Jungle Cruise, Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid, and Peter Pan's Flight.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is wild, beautiful, and fun. "The wilderness must be explored!" I'm sure your Mouseketeer will love
Kilimanjaro Safaris and
Festival of the Lion King. EPCOT is also great for young kids, with attractions such as
Frozen Ever After,
Journey Into Imagination With Figment, and
The Seas With Nemo & Friends. There is less for little kids to do at Disney's Hollywood Studios. However, my little ones loved
Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy and
Disney Junior Play and Dance.
Oh, and here's a tip: Make sure you take advantage of the
Baby Care Centers in each of the theme parks. These are fantastic places to change diapers, feed your child, or even just take a break from all the noise and stimulation.
Have a wonderful trip, Heather. Hopefully, you'll also get to enjoy
TRON Lightcycle / Run (sans toddler, of course) during your visit. Did you know it opens the day you arrive? Talk about great timing!
See ya real soon!
Mike