Hello Natasha!
Welcome to planDisney, and thank you for visiting us with this wonderful question. My kids were toddlers when we first took them to Walt Disney World, so this gave me a happy trip down memory lane. There's nothing quite as magical as seeing the wonder in their eyes at this age... I'm excited for you!
First, I will say three things pop into my head when I think about Disney visits with toddlers: characters, parades, and strollers! These are all essential, in my opinion.
If you were on the fence about using a stroller, I strongly recommend it. You can rent them easily at the front of the park if that is more convenient for you. It really saves their little legs from exhaustion, and may even be a way to sneak in a mid-day park nap. My fellow panelist and friend Jenn has some
awesome stroller tips to share.
Now for my park picks.
My top Disney Park recommendation for a 2 year old would have to be Magic Kingdom! This park just has so many iconic experiences to offer, and lots of things that work well for a wee one. Attractions like Dumbo and Prince Charming Carrousel
are gentle yet "oh, so very exciting!" for toddlers... and are a true rite of Disney passage. The music, dancing, and beloved characters included in the parades also dazzled my kids. You will absolutely love the
Festival of Fantasy Parade, it's not to be missed.
It's a tough choice, but I think my #2 Disney Park recommendation for you would be Animal Kingdom. Kids of all ages love the opportunity to watch wild animals on Kilimanjaro Safaris. And what could be better than getting hands-on cuddle time at the
Affection Section petting zoo? Animal Kingdom is also home to my kid's favorite live entertainment show packed with gorgeous costumes and breathtaking talent, the
Festival of the Lion King.
And Natasha, if you have a park you'd really love to visit.... pick that one! Because honestly, each of the four Disney Parks does a fantastic job of offering something for little ones. Hollywood Studios'
Toy Story Land is larger-than-life cool for kiddos, and you could spend hours with your toddlers at EPCOT's World Nature - The Seas aquarium and hands-on Moana's
Journey of Water.
One last tip before I go... did you know the
My Disney Experience app can help you find toddler-specific attractions, or even the location of a character your little one would like to meet? From the menu bar along the bottom, just select the map icon (2nd from left). Along the top you'll then see options from "Attractions" to "Characters". Play with the filters to find your favorites by park location, or even filter attractions by "Age - Preschoolers" to see a customized list.
I hope this gave you some magical ideas for your May trip. Please
visit me again at planDisney with any other requests. Wishing upon a star for an incredible, pixie-dust filled vacation with your 2 year old!
See ya' real soon,
Tami