Hi, Jesse! Welcome to planDisney.
Planning a two-day Walt Disney World Resort getaway is such a fun adventure. With a shorter trip, I always tell people this: the goal isn't to do everything (it's impossible!). Set your expectations right and you'll have a great time. One of the best ways to set yourself up for success is by staying at a
Disney Resort hotel. Not only do you get
Early Theme Park Entry (a huge help for beating the lines!), but you're also surrounded by
Disney transportation options that make getting around simple and stress-free.
For your two park days, I'd recommend choosing
Magic Kingdom Park for one of them. It's the perfect "welcome to Disney" experience with iconic attractions, breathtaking fireworks, and immersive lands. There's so much to do here that you'll need a full day. For your second day, pick the park that best fits your style:
EPCOT for food and cultural exploration,
Disney's Hollywood Studios for thrill rides and Star Wars, or
Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park for awe-inspiring environments and fascinating animals. There's no wrong decision, Jesse! Once you know your parks, make a short list of your must-do attractions so you're not making decisions on the fly.
I often recommend the 3-2-1 rule (I didn't make it up, so I can't claim the credit)—three rides, two experiences (i.e., shows or character greetings), and one
dining experience that you must do each day. This gives you a reasonable planning strategy as you seize each day.
When planning your days, try to take advantage of those early mornings. Arriving before park opening (especially with Early Theme Park Entry) lets you experience one or two popular attractions with much shorter waits. If it's in the budget,
Lightning Lane Single, Multi, or even Premier Pass will help maximize your time, especially at Magic Kingdom Park and Disney's Hollywood Studios. And don't forget about
mobile ordering for meals; it saves a surprising amount of time and keeps hangry moments to a minimum.
In the midst of all the planning, leave room to enjoy the little things, Jesse. Watch a parade, grab a Mickey-shaped snack, wander through the shops, or simply sit back at your resort after a long park day and let your feet recover. With a thoughtful plan and the perks of staying on Disney property, your two-day trip can be both manageable and wonderfully memorable. Enjoy every minute, Jesse—you're stepping into a world of magic!
If you have any more questions, you've got a friend in me!
Mike