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Mom And Daughter; Animal Kingdom
  • On Dec 10, 2008
    Terra from CA 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.

    Hello, My 12 year old daughter and I will be visiting WDW for the first time. She will be performing in the Capital One Bowl On New Years. We get to visit only 1 park. Which 1 is best for a girl that likes rides? We live in Cali & have been to DL

    You're making me choose one? That's a toughie, but I think I'll have to go with Hollywood Studios. Here's why: having grown up in California myself, I can tell you that the Magic Kingdom is very similar to Disneyland. And since you can visit there anytime, you'll probably appreciate the chance to experience something different.

    Epcot is an amazing park, but it doesn't feature a ton of rides. One of its biggest claims to fame is Soarin' and since you've likely experienced that at Disneyland's neighboring park, California Adventure, I'd recommend using this opportunity elsewhere. I really wavered in recommending Hollywood Studios over Animal Kingdom. Of the three attractions your daughter will likely most enjoy at Hollywood Studios, two of them (Toy Story Midway Mania & Tower of Terror) can be experienced at California Adventure in Anaheim. The third, Rock 'n' Roller coaster is unique to WDW and, if your daughter is into thrill rides, this is one you won't want to miss.  On the other hand...Both my 10 and 14-year old daughters love, love, love Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom. It is, hands down, their favorite attraction in all of WDW. That said, they are not too impressed with the other rides at Animal Kingdom, though they do both enjoy the shows. If your daughter is more into the ride experience, I'd think you could better fill a day at Hollywood Studios riding the big three over and over again.  Hollywood Studios also has great themed restaurants and shows.  I suggest a meal at Sci-Fi Dine in or 50s Prime Time Cafe. Also, try to catch Beauty and the Beast. A trip wouldn't be complete without seeing the nighttime Fantasmic! show; you should definitely plan to see it. 

    Phew. That was a tough call. Of course, you could always buy a park hopper and plan to visit both Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. And while you're at it, just stay an extra day and visit Magic Kingdom and Epcot the following day!  :) It's just an idea. You decide!
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Meet the Panelist: Darcie, Alabama

Given your inclination to plan a magical trip, I can already tell we have a lot in common. I'm Darcie, and my friends would be the first to tell you that Disney trip planning (especially dining!) is my love language. Of course, the vacations my family enjoys today look much different than they did when our kids were little, but while some of our favorite activities have evolved, Disney destinations still top our travel wish lists. Let's work together to plan a downright dreamy vacation for your family! Learn More About Darcie

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