Hi Caitlin,
Welcome to planDisney. I'm so glad you brought your question to us today and I'm happy to help!
I love
park hopping when I'm short on time but need to fully refuel my pixie dust. I often split one day between Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT since they are just a hop, skip and a
Monorail ride away from one another. There really is no wrong way to coordinate your parking and transportation game plan and you can absolutely go with the plan you mention. I'd just confirm the
operating hours for both parks on your preferred date of visit since EPCOT sometimes opens a bit later than Magic Kingdom Park, and as such, the EPCOT parking lot may also open later.
Since you're hoping to maximize your one-day visit I'd like to suggest an alternate plan. I'd begin early by parking at the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) and heading directly to
Magic Kingdom Park. I find that crowds build as the hours tick by and I'd rather spend those precious early morning hours strolling down Main Street, U.S.A., and exploring Fantasyland and Adventureland than riding the Monorail.
When you're ready to head over to
EPCOT you can utilize the Monorail via a transfer through the TTC, but you'll also be able to drive there in your personal vehicle as
theme park parking is valid at each of the parks on the same day for one price. I reached out to a Cast Member who confirmed that this is the case for standard and preferred parking. You'd just need to save your receipt to show at the second park. Driving to EPCOT might save a bit of travel time, and will also ensure your car is waiting for you at the end of your magical day. I know I'm ready for some quiet and a comfy seat at the end of a long, but wonderful day in the parks.
Disney Genie+ Service would also be a great addition to your park plans as it will reduce your standby wait at many popular attractions. I almost always purchase it for my Magic Kingdom Park days, since it has the largest selection of attractions with Lightning Lane entrances. You can purchase the Multiple Parks option and will be able to use it to schedule return times at both Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT. I'd also recommend purchasing an Individual Lightning Lane for
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, which is my favorite attraction at Walt Disney World Resort.
I hope this was helpful Caitlin. If we can offer any additional recommendations or suggestions please don't hesitate to come back and let us know.
Wishing you a magical visit!
Amy