Hey there, Niki, and welcome to planDisney!
I know that your Mousesketeers are counting down the days to your most magical vacation. And let me tell you, visiting Magic Kingdom Park is the BEST choice for your daughter's first-ever visit. It was my older son's first theme park as well, and that memory will stick with me forever. I'd love to share my ideas about how to make the most of your trip.
My first tip is to prioritize your must-do attractions. Check out
these attractions on the Walt Disney World website. You can filter them by height, age, and interests, too! Show your kiddos the attractions and ask "What are your absolute must-dos?" I'm transparent with my little ones, so I'll add that in case an attraction is closed, "What else would you like to do as an extra?" It may sound funny that I ask my kids these questions, but it makes them feel involved and excited.
Niki, get to Magic Kingdom Park as early as possible. We super fans like to call park opening "rope drop." It's a must, especially if you have limited days planned to visit. Your priority list will help determine where to head first, but one popular attraction that both kiddos will most likely be able to ride is
Seven Dwarves Mine Train. The queue can get pretty long as the day goes on, and after you're done riding it, you'll already be right there in Fantasyland. This land is the home of family-friendly classics like Peter Pan's Flight and "it's a small world." And it's the home of Princess Fairytale Hall where you can find many Disney Princesses like the inspirational Tiana.
If your teen likes thrill rides, I recommend using Rider Switch for the rides that your daughter isn't tall enough to ride yet. Your son is old enough to ride alone while you wait with your daughter; however, if you have another adult with you, then this system will work well for your party. Check out more info about
Rider Switch here. One of those thrilling rides at Magic Kingdom Park is the brand-new
TRON Lightcycle / Run. To experience this, you'll want to grab a spot in the Virtual Queue via the My Disney Experience app at 7 a.m. (from anywhere) or 1 p.m. (from inside the park).
When the big day finally arrives, get a first-time visit celebratory button for your daughter. It's a fun and free way to show some love to her as she experiences the magic for the first time. And she may get some extra hellos and magic from Cast Members and other Guests while wearing it.
AN EXTRA GEM: My all-time favorite parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade hasn't been around for a while. But there is a beautiful
Electrical Water Pageant in the Seven Seas Lagoon that your whole family will love. After a day at Magic Kingdom Park, hop on the Disney Monorail and head to the beach of
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort--with a DOLE Whip in hand, of course. My kiddos eyes light up when they hear the whimsical music and see the dazzling lights of the water floats. It takes place every night (weather permitting).
Niki, I hope that you have so much fun in May! If you have any other questions about your upcoming trip, please don't hesitate to revisit me here at planDisney.
I'm all ears! Magic always,
LeAndra