Hi Linda,
Thanks so much for visiting us at the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your great question! You have asked what seems to be the age-old question, and I will tell you that there are definitely conflicting views on this topic! Some people may advise you to avoid the parks with
Extra Magic Hours as they may be more crowded, and others tell you to visit the parks on the day with Extra Magic Hours because you'll be able to experience attractions with much shorter wait times during that extra hour or two.
My advice to you? I'd have to defer to the wise words of Jiminy Cricket when he says, "Let your conscience be your guide." I don't think you're going to go wrong either way, and I would encourage you to do what seems like the best fit for your family.
With that said, I will tell you that I personally fit in the "Extra Magic Hours all the way, baby!" camp. I feel like being able to arrive early or stay late (with smaller crowds!) is an amazing perk for
Disney Resort hotel guests and my family LOVES soaking up every extra magical moment. When we purchase tickets without the Park Hopper option, we definitely try to take advantage of as many park days with Extra Magic Hours as we can. However, I will also tell you that after enjoying a couple of long days with late nights at the parks for Extra Magic Hours, we love to enjoy a day off just relaxing at our Resort hotel and enjoying all of the wonderful amenities there. After sleeping in and swimming in the pool, we enjoy a special dinner at either a Disney Resort hotel or
Disney Springs and head to bed rested and ready for more full days of theme park fun!
I hope you have a magical vacation, Linda, and enjoy your time with your loved ones!
Missy