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  • On Jan 14, 2022
    Arwind from IL Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi, planning our first Disney trip (wife +2 boys(9&11) We would like to visit all the parks and wanted to know if there is an efficient way to do that over a 5 day trip + any pointers/recommendations. We are planning on Staying at the Disney Dolphin.

    Arwind,

    Thanks for your question to planDisney!

    You can certainly visit all four parks in your planned trip, and I recommend you do just that, as they all merit a visit! Here are some suggestions specific to your plans

    • Magic Kingdom first... The Magic Kingdom Park has more to do than any of the other parks, and you should plan time accordingly. I would recommend you visit the Magic Kingdom on your first day. It is an iconic experience, so it should come first. I would then recommend with your four remaining days you visit each of the parks for a day each. You can use your second Magic Kingdom day later in the vacation to see more of that park, and repeat any rides you really want to try again!
    • ...and last! I like to end my trips at the Magic Kingdom as well. There is simply something wonderful about ending the trip with a walk down Main Street, U.S.A.
    • One park per day. While you can park hop, since it is all new to you I would focus instead on diving in to one park per day. Why waste time moving around from park to park, when you could be on another ride? 
    • Enjoy the cruise. Because you are staying at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, you have boat and walking access to both EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. While walking might sound great, remember that this will be a walking-heavy trip, so enjoy the boat ride when you can to give your feet a break, and to save your energy for time in the parks.
    • Afternoon Breaks. Because you can get to and from both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios fairly easily, afternoon pool breaks on those days back at the hotel might be a good idea. It can re-energize the boys for the evening in the parks, and give you some time to relax, which is the point of vacations, after all.  
    • 'Spring' break. When you visit Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park know that the morning hours are the most important, as that is when the animals are at their most active. We often will stay a bit later into the early afternoon at this park. But then in the evening, instead of returning to the park, we will go to Disney Springs for a fun dinner, some shopping, and entertainment. 
    • You won't see it all. Accept that there is more to see than you can pack in to 5 days, and you will be satisfied with your trip. Focus not on what you have yet to see, and instead on the experiences you enjoy as a family. 
    BONUS TIP
    My family always schedules just one table service meal per day, typically dinner. We make a point of each sharing our favorite moment from the day. It helps us enjoy our time together and savor the magical moments. 

    You can write me back with other specific questions, like where to eat, what to ride, and anything else I can help with!


    Have a Magical Vacation!

    Doug
thumbnail image for Doug

Meet the Panelist: Doug, Indiana

I am one of the Dads on the planDisney Panel, and I love to help parents plan their vacation, with a focus on showing them how it can be fun for them too. I am also here to help Dads plan some nice surprises for the Moms in their life (they deserve it!). Learn More About Doug

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