The entrance to Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom showcases a vibrant sign surrounded by greenery and colorful flowers. A
  • On Mar 11, 2025
    Sandra from NJ Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    So many parks ! Which park should I book for a first time family with two boys, ages 8 and 10

    Hello Sandra, thank you for stopping by planDisney with your question. This is an important question for these two adventurous young men. I am honored to be able to help with these first-timer visitors from my home state of New Jersey. I have a 12 year old son and we love exploring the parks together. 

    I hope these little dudes are ready to have an amazing time, and you adults better get ready to act like kids again. These are the rules, I don't make them. If you are only visiting one park my answer will always be Magic Kingdom Park. This is the park all the kids back in Jersey will talk about and be able to swap stories about Spring Break in Florida. When I was a kid growing up in New Jersey I saw my friends at the parks randomly more than once. This is the park where they will also be able to try and pull the sword from the stone next to Prince Charming's Regal Carrousel. This park has bunch of opportunities to meet favorite characters, like the big cheese himself Mickey Mouse. He can be found at the beginning of Main Street U.S.A. inside of Town Square Theater

    If you folks are thrill seekers there are a plenty of things to ride where screaming and adrenaline will be involved. TRON: Lightcycle Run, Space Mountain, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Tiana's Bayou Adventure will be full of laughs and memories. And don't worry if they are not huge thrill junkies there is still plenty to enjoy at my favorite place on the planet. The Haunted Mansion is a classic slow moving attraction and is full of creepy things to look at as you ride through on a Doom Buggy. The ghouls are not super scary and most of this fun is light hearted. Another favorite and Disney must-do is Pirates of the Caribbean. This park has the most attractions by far and is full of Disney Magic. The end of the night is just as special with Happily Ever After lighting up the sky above Cinderella Castle. This nighttime spectacular is the best way to end the night. You will want to find a spot about an hour ahead of the show. Check the My Disney Experience App for showtimes as they change each season, and could change due to weather. 
     
    As a Dad and foodie I always worry about feeding my troop. If you plan sometime off your feet the family will be happy to do so. A great place to eat that is not your typical theme park food is Columbia Harbor House. This New England inspired restaurants has a majority seafood menu, but still can satisfy those picky eaters. If your family feels the burn and seems a little tired there are shows to watch where you are able to sit for a while. These will give you a nice air-conditioned show with a seat. The Carousel of Progress provides a catchy tune in and a break. Country Bear Musical Jamboree is a raucous time with hilarious songs and great jokes, and seats. These locations will come in handy and sometimes if your little guys are tired enough they will fall asleep and get a nice refreshing rest. 

    I hope this trip is a great vacation for your family, and that you have a magical time. Come back again anytime and we will be happy to help again. 

    See ya real soon, 

    Jeremy A.
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Meet the Panelist: Jeremy, New Jersey

Bright Suns travelers! I'm Jeremy from Jersey, a lifelong Disney fan. Father to 3 amazing kids, and husband to my wife of 16 years. I've been sharing the Walt Disney World Resort with my family for 19 years to join in the wonder and joy the parks have brought me my entire life. Consider me here to help with all you travel questions from Batuu to Cinderella Castle. Whether it's teenagers, toddlers, or your middle-aged cousins. Helping you find your version of magic is my mission. Learn More About Jeremy

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