Hi, there!
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Tara. We're glad to see you again!
A visit to
Magic Kingdom Park is always magical, but it's exceptionally so with a little one in tow. Your heart is sure to melt when you see your
preschooler experience the magic of the Walt Disney World Resort! I'm happy to share what I think would be an ideal touring plan for your 4-year old.
Plan on arriving at Magic Kingdom Park 30-45 minutes before official opening time. The theme parks are typically the least crowded the first hour of the day, so you won't believe how much you can accomplish in that time if you're there as they open!
I recommend heading straight for Fantasyland. This immersive and enchanting area of the park will transport your preschooler right into the middle of beloved Disney fairytales! In Fantasyland, plan on riding Peter Pan's Flight, "it's a small world," Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant. If your preschooler is a thrill seeker and meets the height requirements, be sure to ride The Barnstormer and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train! Your preschooler may also enjoy experiencing Enchanted Tales with Belle and Mickey's PhilharMagic.
After a pixie-dusted morning in Fantasyland, you'll need to stop for lunch. You have lots of family-friendly Quick-Service dining options at Magic Kingdom Park! I recommend
Pinocchio Village Haus. Grab a table by the windows so your 4-year old can eat a yummy lunch AND wave to Guests riding past on "it's a small world!" Here's an extra tip: to maximize your precious time, place a mobile order using the My Disney Experience mobile app.
In the afternoon, search for adventure in Adventureland. You won't want to miss Jungle Cruise and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin. If your preschooler is brave enough for a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas, be sure to ride Pirates of the Caribbean.
Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade is an experience any preschooler is sure to love. This incredible parade usually begins at 2:00 PM, but you should grab a Times Guide when you arrive at Magic Kingdom Park. The Times Guide will list performance times for Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade in addition to other entertainment options and Character meet-and-greets!
Check out Tomorrowland in the late afternoon and early evening. There, you'll want to experience Tomorrowland Speedway, Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, and the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover.
I suggest making a dinner reservation at
The Crystal Palace. Preschoolers love the kid-friendly fare and the fabulous company of Winnie the Pooh and his friends from the Hundred-Acre Wood!
Watching
Happily Ever After is the most magical way to end the day at Magic Kingdom Park. Check the Times Guide for a performance time and find a great viewing spot about 45 minutes before it starts. My family loves to watch Happily Ever After from the Plaza Gardens!
I hope this was helpful, Tara. We're wishing you a magical visit!
Ashley