Walt Disney World for Young Kids
Top Tips for Young Kids at Walt Disney World
Watching your little one discover the magic is a moment you’ll always remember. Enjoy heart-warming stories from other Guests and pick up a few handy tips for a magical stay.
Real Moments. Real Magic. Shared by You
"For stress free holiday with your children, get into the parks early. The wait times will be shorter, and the heat less intense. Then head back to your hotel mid-afternoon to chill by the pool."
Tessa Amor
"Take the baby!! They love all the characters and the castle! There’s so many rides they can still experience! It’s a magical age and can create some perfect memories!"
Amy Lee
"Thanks to the memory maker we caught my daughter's first trip with so much magic. I recommend you take advantage of the many photo spots around the parks"
Lisa Wright
"My five year old granddaughter colouring with Donald when the characters visited the Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Hotel. He spent so much time with her, and she adored him - as you can see"
Joanne Pridmore
"Your child is never too young to go to Disney World. All senses engaged dancing with Chip and Dale, watching mesmerizing the Lion King, meeting African animals and of course meeting her idol Mickey!"
Alicia
"Staying on site with young children is just magical. Accommodations that are in Magic Kingdom area allow for quick transfer times to Magic Kingdom, and other parks. Magical moments are special."
Louise Paton
Get Amy Hart's Tips for Visiting Walt Disney World!
On Amy Hart’s Mum’s Club, Amy shares tips to make your Walt Disney World trip effortless—from using the My Disney Experience app, finding the best fireworks viewing spots, Disney dining, to the benefits of staying on property at a Disney Resort hotel. Joined by her husband Sam, she shares what it’s like navigating the parks with their son Stanley.
14-Day Walt Disney World Itinerary for Young Kids
This sample itinerary blends iconic Disney experiences with time to recharge for an unforgettable family adventure with little ones!
Day 1: Ease Into the Magic and Make Yourself at Home
Arrive at Walt Disney World
Afternoon: Arrive in Orlando and transfer to your Disney Resort Hotel. Take in the music, the Mickey touches—your holiday has begun! Unpack and enjoy a quick swim or explore the hotel.
Evening: Dine at one of your Disney Hotel’s restaurants. If energy allows, join Campfire activities or watch Movies Under the Stars for a cozy Disney welcome.
Day 2: Magic Kingdom Classics for Little Ones
Magic Kingdom Park
Morning: Begin your first park day with gentle favourites like Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Mad Tea Party, and “it’s a small world.” These iconic rides are perfect for young children and set the tone for a magical day.
Afternoon: Pause for a midday break at your Disney Resort Hotel or enjoy shaded spots like Mickey’s PhilharMagic. Don’t miss the Festival of Fantasy Parade, a highlight for families with vibrant floats and Disney favourites.
Evening: Make dinner a storybook experience at Be Our Guest Restaurant inside Beast’s Castle. End the night with Happily Ever After, a spectacular fireworks show that will leave little ones in awe.
Day 3: Wild Encounters & Zootropolis Fun
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Morning: Begin with Kilimanjaro Safaris, where you’ll spot giraffes and elephants as the sun warms the savannah. Then meet Moana for a magical photo moment that little ones will treasure.
Afternoon: Catch Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, a lively new show packed with music and fun animal antics. Refuel with fresh bowls at Satu’li Canteen in Pandora – The World of Avatar, then drift through glowing forests on the serene Na’vi River Journey.
Evening: Watch Tree of Life Awakenings as the park transforms after dark with stunning projections. End the day with an unforgettable character dinner at Tusker House, where Safari Donald and friends make mealtime magical.
Day 4: Splash, Slide, and Soak Up the Sunshine
Disney Water Park Fun
Morning: Head to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon or Disney’s Blizzard Beach (whichever is open). Float the lazy river and let little ones explore whimsical splash zones like Ketchakiddee Creek or Tike’s Peak.
Afternoon: Refuel with lunch at Leaning Palms or Lottawatta Lodge, offering hearty sandwiches, salads, and refreshing drinks. Then chill out on the white sandy beaches.
Evening: After a day of splashing in the sun, enjoy a relaxed evening back at your Disney Resort hotel, where little ones can wind down with a bedtime story from “Hey Disney!”
Day 5: Relax, Recharge, and Add a Dash of Disney Fun
Your Disney Resort Hotel and EPCOT
Morning: Sleep in and enjoy poolside fun with Disney magic all around.
Afternoon: Join in resort activities like poolside games or crafts for the kids. Grab a casual lunch at your hotel’s quick-service restaurant.
Evening: Head over to EPCOT’s World Showcase for Moroccan flavours at Spice Road Table then watch Luminous: The Symphony of Us fill the sky over World Showcase Lagoon.
Day 6: Frozen Fun & Ratatouille Adventures
EPCOT
Morning: Start your day with Frozen Ever After, a gentle boat ride through Arendelle that’s perfect for little ones. Then explore Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana where kids can splash and play in an interactive setting.
Afternoon: Shrink down to chef-size on Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, a family-friendly 4D ride that’s a huge hit with kids. Next, follow Nemo's underwater journey through vibrant ocean scenes at The Seas with Nemo & Friends.
Evening: Enjoy a rotating feast at Garden Grill, where Chip ‘n’ Dale (and friends) stop by your table for photos and giggles for extra dining fun.
Day 7: Play Big in Toy Story Land and End With a Spectacular Show
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Morning: Step into Andy’s backyard! Experience Slinky Dog Dash, Alien Swirling Saucers, and Toy Story Mania!
Afternoon: Lunch at Woody’s Lunch Box, then sing along at Frozen Celebration and ride Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
Evening: Enjoy Character Dining at Hollywood & Vine, then settle in for Fantasmic!—a spectacular mix of dreams and Disney magic.
Day 8: Chill Day at the Resort & Disney Springs Stroll
Your Disney Resort Hotel and Disney Springs
Morning: Ease into the day with a character breakfast at Chef Mickey’s at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Tuck into Mickey Waffles while Mickey and friends make the rounds for waves, photos, and big smiles.
Afternoon: Spend a laid-back afternoon by the resort pool while kids splash and play. It’s the perfect reset day between park adventures—sunshine, snacks, and plenty of time to recharge.
Evening: Head to Disney Springs for a relaxed stroll, shopping, and family-friendly dining. Treat the kids to a visit at the LEGO Store and a meal at Rainforest Café, with jungle theming and animatronic animals.
Day 9: Safari, Shows & Bioluminescent Wonders
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Morning: Meet Timon & Rafiki at Conservation Station, visit Affection Section petting zoo, and stroll Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail for up-close animal encounters.
Afternoon: Enjoy a spectacular stage show like Festival of the Lion King or Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!, and then savour delicious Asian‑inspired dishes at Yak & Yeti.
Evening: Return to Pandora for its stunning bioluminescent glow and dine at Tiffins, a signature celebration of global adventure and artistry.
Day 10: Fantasyland Favourites, Jungle Laughs & A Starlight Night
Magic Kingdom Park
Morning: Start in Fantasyland with Prince Charming Regal Carrousel for a gentle “first-thing magic” moment, then head to Seven Dwarfs Mine Train for a family coaster adventure through the diamond mine.
Afternoon: Sail away on Jungle Cruise for classic skipper humour and kid-friendly laughs, then fly high on an enchanted carpet ride on The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, before letting little ones cool off at Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station, a whimsical water play area.
Evening: Dine like royalty at Cinderella’s Royal Table inside Cinderella Castle, then find a spot along the parade route for Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away.
Day 11: EPCOT Exploration (Little Explorers Edition)
EPCOT
Morning: Meet Winnie the Pooh for a cuddle in the United Kingdom Pavilion, then experience popular Disney and Pixar short films in 4D at Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival.
Afternoon: Share wood-fired pizza at Via Napoli and explore World Showcase pavilions at a relaxed pace. Make sure to meet Anna & Elsa at Royal Sommerhus in the Norway Pavilion.
Evening: Hop aboard a complimentary boat from EPCOT's International Gateway for dinner at Disney's BoardWalk, where games, evening street performers, and sweet treats make for a perfect finale.
Day 12: Lazy River Days & Starry Night Screens
Disney Water Park Fun
Morning: Start your Disney Water Park day with a splash of excitement with Miss Adventure Falls, a gentle raft ride, or Toboggan Racers for ultimate family fun.
Afternoon: Then, slow things down with a lazy-river float along Castaway Creek or Cross Country Creek, grab a shady sunlounger and enjoy a DOLE Whip treat.
Evening: Head back to your Disney Resort hotel for a relaxed dinner and cozy night in. After a sun-soaked day, a Disney movie in bed is the perfect wind-down.
Day 13: Stage Shows & Snowman Hugs
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Morning: Meet Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight for the cutest “warm hug” photos, then hop into The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure for a bright, under-the-sea theatre break with familiar songs and big visuals.
Afternoon: Savour classic American comfort food at 50's Prime Time Café followed by Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage, a Broadway-style show little ones will love.
Evening: Dine on tasty BBQ fare at Roundup Rodeo BBQ where you’ll see the world through the eyes of Andy’s toys, then end your final park night with Wonderful World of Animation, celebrating beloved Disney and Pixar stories.
Day 14: Savour One Last Magical Moment Before You Fly
Departure Day
Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your Disney Hotel, then pop into your favourite park for one last stroll and photos with beloved Characters. Wave goodbye to Cinderella Castle or EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth.
Afternoon: Savour a light lunch before heading to Orlando International Airport.
What Walt Disney World Hotel is Best for Kids?
With over 25 Disney Hotels to choose from you are sure to find one to suit your taste and budgets, below you’ll find our top picks for kids!
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
This vibrant hotel draws you and your family into the world of your animated favourites, bringing to life the artistry of Finding Nemo, The Lion King, Cars and The Little Mermaid. With delightfully themed family suites and the largest hotel pool across Walt Disney World, The Big Blue Pool, you’ll step into landscapes straight out of a storybook.
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside
Delight in the quaint romance of rural Louisiana at this picturesque hotel. Amidst whimsical backwater cottages, twinkling fountains and stately white-column mansions, discover a touch of Southern charm nestled amongst the peaceful bayou.
Disney's Contemporary Resort
With an iconic A-frame tower, a 90-foot-tall mural art by a Disney legend and plenty of panoramic vistas, the sky really is the limit at this ultra-modern hotel. Be sure to catch the Resort monorail to Magic Kingdom Park, or treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind dinner with an epic fireworks view.
Top 5 Reasons to Stay at a Disney Hotel
As a Disney Hotel Guest, you'll enjoy a range of exclusive benefits!
Close Proximity to the Parks
Wake up closer to our kingdom - some Disney Hotels are only a short walk away to our Theme Parks! You can discover all our attractions, restaurants and more in no time.
Extra Time to Play in the Parks
Make the most of the magic with 30-minute early entry to all 4 Theme Parks every day of your stay, plus extended evening hours at selected Theme Parks on selected nights!
Complimentary Resort Transportation
Explore the entire Resort with ease. Fly high on the Disney Skyliner and zip about on the monorail, plus benefit from bus and boat options.
Imagination by the Roomful
Relax in fantastical settings inspired by some of your favourite Disney and Pixar stories. Wherever you stay, you'll find fun and magical touches in every detail.
Exclusive Access to Disney Dining Plans
Enjoy our great-value Disney Dining Plans, offering pre-paid meals, snacks and drinks throughout your stay. Choose from over 170 dining options throughout Walt Disney World.