Kilimanjaro Safaris; Animal Kingdom; AA
  • On May 13, 2012
    Melissa from NY Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Our 1st trip is 7/15-19, with a 5 yr old girl and 4 yr old boy. They can stay up late, need breaks in the afternoon, & want to do everything! My husband & I want to avoid the bigger crowds & tantrums! What's our best plan/itinerary? We're stayi

    Hi Melissa! The goal of all parents is to avoid the terrible melt downs of the kids and hopefully with some good planning you can alleviate it the best you can!

    July is a hot and busy time at the parks so I strongly suggest you get up early and get to the parks so you are there at opening. This will be the cooler times of the day and better to get little ones up early then to keep them up too late every night. The parks that have Extra Magic Hours during that time are Animal Kingdom (opens 8-9am on 7/16 and 7/18), Epcot (opens 8-9am on 7/17), and Magic Kingdom (opens 8-9am on 7/19). Hollywood Studios will also have Extra Magic Hours  on 7/16 from 7-10pm.

    Here is a possible itinerary for you to follow so you can visit all four parks:
    7/15 - Magic Kingdom only for night time parades and fireworks; visit Hollywood Studios or Epcot during day
    7/16 - Magic Kingdom for attractions; if you have park hopper then head to Hollywood Studios in evening
    7/17 - Epcot (extra magic morning hours so be there before 8am)
    7/18 - Animal Kingdom (extra magic morning hours so be there before 8am)
    7/19 - Magic Kingdom (extra magic morning hours so be there before 8am)

    The parks that have Extra Magic Hours can tend to be more crowded but if you stay diligent and get the family up early and to the gates before 8am you will have the chance to enjoy 3-4 attractions before the big crowds come. By mid day you can then return to your resort for naps and swimming and then head back later in the day for dinner or more attractions. If you have the Park Hopper tickets you can go to other parks once you have enjoyed the perks of the Extra Magic Morning Hours. Let me know if I can help you with more specifics.
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Meet the Panelist: Kay, Indiana

Hello Adventurers and travelers! I am Kay and a past Adventures By Disney mom for the panel. But now I am excited to share vacation planning tips for those heading out for an incredible vacation to Walt Disney World. Learn More About Kay

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