Planning a trip to Walt Disney World in Florida with your kids? This magical destination offers endless fun and unforgettable experiences, but it can also be overwhelming, especially for parents with young children. I know firsthand how difficult it can be when planning your first trip to Disney World with kids. You want it to be unforgettable, exciting, and you’re so ready to make core memories! Yet you know, meltdowns will happen, long lines and heat will set your kids off (and you lol), and not every park and ride will hold your little one’s interest.
That’s why I decided to put together this comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your Disney World adventure, including the best resorts, restaurants, park highlights, how to navigate the lines, rides, snacks, and travel tips.
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Best Disney World Resorts for Traveling with Kids
1. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
This resort is a hit with kids, thanks to its colorful, themed rooms based on Disney movies like “The Lion King,” “Finding Nemo,” and “Cars.” It also has three pools, a playground, and larger-than-life character statues.
2. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
This resort offers a tropical getaway with a convenient monorail connection to Magic Kingdom. There are multiple themed pools with water slides, nightly torch lighting ceremony, and ‘Ohana restaurant featuring character dining.
3. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
The Animal Kingdom Lodge provides a unique experience where kids can see animals like giraffes and zebras right from their balcony. Some of its kid-friendly amenities include Savanna views, cultural activities, and themed dining options.
Best Restaurants to Eat at in the Disney World Parks
1. Magic Kingdom: Be Our Guest Restaurant
At the Be Our Guest Restaurant you will get to dine in Beast’s Castle with beautiful themed dining rooms. Breakfast and lunch are quick service, while dinner is a table service experience. There are plenty of options for kids and adults, as well as an allergy friendly menu! You can check out the full menu here! (*link)
2. Epcot: Garden Grill Restaurant
At Disney’s Epcot Garden Grill you will experience a rotating restaurant with views of Living with the Land ride. Enjoy character dining with Mickey, Pluto, and Chip ‘n’ Dale. They offer all-you-care-to-enjoy family-style meals featuring comfort food with Mickey waffles on the breakfast menu, Mickey cupcakes for dessert, and specialty character drinks for kids. View their full menu here! (*link)
3. Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 50’s Prime Time Café
Step into the 1950s with comfort food served in a retro setting. Kid favorites at 50’s Prime Time Cafe include fried chicken, milkshakes, and a playful atmosphere where servers treat you like family.
4. Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Tusker House Restaurant
Experience an African-inspired buffet with character dining featuring Donald Duck and friends in safari gear. Kids will love the Mickey waffles, mac and cheese, and unique flavors to explore.
Best Kid-Friendly Attractions at Disney Parks
1. Magic Kingdom
It’s a Small World: Gentle boat ride, no height requirement.
Peter Pan’s Flight: Suspended ride through Neverland, no height requirement.
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: Mild roller coaster, 38″ height requirement.
2. Epcot
Frozen Ever After: Boat ride with gentle drops, no height requirement.
Soarin’ Around the World: Simulated hang-gliding, 40″ height requirement.
Test Track: High-speed car ride, 40″ height requirement.
3. Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Toy Story Mania: Interactive 3D shooting game, no height requirement.
Slinky Dog Dash: Family-friendly coaster, 38″ height requirement.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run”**: Interactive flight simulator, 38″ height requirement.
4. Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Na’vi River Journey: Gentle boat ride through Pandora, no height requirement.
Kilimanjaro Safaris: Open-air vehicle tour of African wildlife, no height requirement.
Expedition Everest: Thrilling coaster, 44″ height requirement.
Best Disney World Snacks for Kids (and Adults)
- Mickey-shaped Ice Cream Bars: Classic treat available throughout the parks.
- Dole Whip: Pineapple soft-serve available at Aloha Isle in Magic Kingdom and Tamu Tamu Refreshments in Animal Kingdom.
- Churros: Sweet, cinnamon-flavored pastries available at various snack carts.
- Pretzels: Mickey-shaped pretzels available at snack carts in all parks.
- Popcorn: Iconic Disney popcorn, often served in collectible buckets.
Disney World Packing List Essentials
Packing for Disney World with kids requires striking a balance – bringing everything you need without overdoing it. Here’s a list of Disney essentials to ensure a smooth and magical trip:
- Sun Protection: Pack plenty of sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and hats for everyone. Reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after water rides and swimming.
- Water Bottles: Refillable water bottles are lifesavers! Pack one for each family member and fill them up throughout the day. These are our favorite water bottles for our kids and you can find them in so many different characters, colors, and styles! (*link)
- Comfy Clothes: Breathable, moisture-wicking clothing is ideal for the Florida heat. Pack quick-drying options for water rides and splash pads.
- Weather Items: Pack a lightweight rain poncho for sudden showers. A small umbrella can be helpful too!
- Stroller: Even if your kids are older, a stroller can be a lifesaver. It provides a place for them to rest weary legs, store essentials, and even take a nap on the go!
- Snacks: Pack healthy snacks to keep energy levels high and avoid constant meltdowns due to hunger pangs. Yes! You can bring your own food into Disney World parks!
- Mickey Must-Haves: Pack Disney-themed shirts, hats, or accessories to add to the excitement. Matching family outfits are a fun way to commemorate your trip with adorable photos.
- Mouse Ears: Mickey Mouse Ears and Minnie Mouse Ears like these are an essential for me and I love that you can get them for such a bargain in multiple styles to match your outfit or Disney park of the day!
- Essentials Pouch: Pack a small pouch with sunscreen, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, first-aid essentials, and lip balm for easy access throughout the day.
Best Tips for Navigating the Parks with Kids
1. Plan and Book Ahead
Be a Disney Genie and grant wishes by pre-booking dining reservations and FastPass+ selections (if applicable) for popular restaurants and attractions. This ensures minimal meltdowns and secures your spot at must-do experiences.
2. Take Breaks
Superhero stamina runs out! Schedule downtime for recharging. Seek cool, shaded areas or retreat to air-conditioned shows for pit stops. These breaks will help everyone bounce back and keep the magic going strong.
3. Stay Hydrated and Snack Often
Florida sunshine is no joke. Pack refillable water bottles and keep the energy levels high with healthy snacks throughout the day. Luckily, Disney offers plenty of water fountains and quick-service restaurants for on-the-go refuels.
4. Utilize Rider Switch
Conquer rides with height restrictions! Rider Switch allows one adult to wait with non-riders while the other enjoys the thrill. Then, simply switch places without waiting in line again. This keeps everyone happy and lets everyone experience the magic (eventually!).
5. Use the My Disney Experience App
This app is your park navigating compass! Keep track of wait times, show schedules, and dining reservations with a tap. Plus, it has interactive maps to help you find hidden Mickeys and secret shortcuts.
6. Pack Essentials
Sunscreen, hats, and comfy shoes are your park essentials. Pack a stroller, even for older kids – Disney days are long, and little legs get tired. A stroller provides a comfy haven for naps or weary explorers.
7. Arrive Early
Rise and shine, sleepyheads! Arriving at park opening boasts cooler temperatures, shorter lines, and a chance to snag that coveted spot by the castle for the perfect family photo.
8. Be Flexible
Have a plan, but be prepared to adapt. Disney World is full of surprises, and sometimes the best memories come from unplanned adventures. Maybe you stumble upon a hidden character meet-and-greet or discover a delightful show you didn’t know about. Go with the flow, and let the magic take you where it wants to go!
Are you ready to take on Disney World with kids?
Traveling to Disney World with young children can be magical and manageable with a little planning. Be sure to choose kid-friendly rides and dining, prioritize breaks, and embrace a little spontaneity. Remember, the focus is on creating memories together. Don’t be afraid to adjust your plans on the fly, and most importantly, have fun! Walt Disney World is designed to bring out the kid in everyone, so get ready to make some unforgettable memories with your little ones.