Some parents wonder when the best time is to take their kids to Disney World in Florida. The truth is, there’s no wrong answer to this question! Whether you have toddlers or older kids, Disney World offers something magical for everyone. From classic rides to enchanting shows, every day spent at the parks will be packed with unforgettable moments.
Throughout the four Disney World parks in Orlando, you’ll find a variety of attractions tailored to all age groups. For parents with little ones under 5, there are no fewer than 94 rides, 55 entertainment activities (such as the famous character meet-and-greets), and around 20 shows designed specifically for preschoolers. The good news? You don’t have to look far to keep your kids entertained from start to finish.
The first thing to do when planning your Disney vacation is to decide which park to visit based on your family’s preferences. Helpful cast members can always guide you if you’re unsure where to start.
Each step in Disney World leads to another world of excitement. For families, the magic is more than just a slogan—it’s lived through the laughter of kids, the awe of parents, and those incredible moments where imagination becomes reality. Whether you’re shaking Mickey’s hand for the first time, watching a spectacular parade, or riding a classic attraction, every moment creates a memory.
That’s why a Disney vacation is so much more than just a trip—it’s an adventure that creates lasting memories for kids and adults alike!
Which part of Disney World is best for kids: must-see rides
If you’re visiting Disney World with kids and looking for toddler-friendly rides, the first thing you should do is head to Magic Kingdom. This park is a treasure trove of classic attractions perfect for younger kids. You’ll find timeless favorites like Mad Tea Party (the spinning teacups from Alice in Wonderland), an attraction that’s been around since 1955. Another must-visit is the famous It’s a Small World, a magical boat ride where dolls from around the world sing in unison—though beware, the tune is catchy and hard to shake! And don’t miss Peter Pan’s Flight, where you’ll soar over London, guided by Tinkerbell. It’s truly magical for the whole family!
Epcot
For something cool and refreshing, head to Frozen Ever After in Epcot. This ride whisks you into the icy world of Arendelle, straight from Frozen. It’s a great way to escape the Florida heat, and little ones will love seeing their favorite characters come to life.
Animal Kingdom
Over in Animal Kingdom, Kilimanjaro Safaris is an unforgettable experience. Board a guided safari vehicle for about 20 minutes, where you’ll come face to face with real African animals. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and education for young explorers and older kids alike.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
For families visiting Hollywood Studios, Toy Story Mania is a fantastic option. This interactive 4D shooting game is not only fun but also a great way to challenge the whole family to some friendly competition. It’s one of the most popular rides in the park, so be sure to use a FastPass+ to avoid the long wait times in this section of the park.
Get tickets to Disney shows that will wow kids (and adults)
Did you know there are around 30 live shows per day at Walt Disney World? It’s almost impossible to choose from everything, especially on your first visit with young children! These shows, equally captivating for adults and little ones, add a layer of magic to your Disney World trip with kids. Here are three must-see shows that will delight the whole family:
- Festival of the Lion King at Animal Kingdom: This grandiose show, featuring giant puppets, acrobats, dancers, and singers, is a must. Inspired by the iconic movie The Lion King, it transports you to the heart of Africa and celebrates the beauty of nature and wildlife. This show has been running for over 20 years and continues to mesmerize at every performance. A timeless classic not to be missed!
- Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire at Magic Kingdom: Performed in front of the iconic Cinderella Castle, this outdoor musical brings together Mickey, Minnie, and their friends—including several Disney princesses. The music, dancing, and costumes will enchant your little ones. This show is a celebration of friendship and joy—a magical moment for the whole family.
- Rivers of Light at Animal Kingdom: As night falls, this spectacular show blends water, light, fire, and music to honor animal legends. The stunning choreography captivates both young and old. Our two mini-experts were in awe from start to finish, despite a long day in the parks. Insider tip: check the schedule ahead of time and arrive early for a good seat. This magical moment is the perfect finale for a full day of discovery.
Meeting Disney characters
What could be more magical during Disney World with kids than meeting their favorite heroes in person? Whether your child loves classic characters like Mickey, Goofy, and Donald, or the Disney princesses such as Ariel, Rapunzel, and Pocahontas, there’s something for everyone in the character meet-and-greet sections of the parks. You’ll also find Pixar stars and Disney Junior favorites like Jake and Doc McStuffins. These moments are some of the main reasons why families return to Disney World year after year. Many of these locations offer FastPass+, a great way to avoid long lines and maximize your time.
Here are three ideal spots for character encounters:
- Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Your little ones and older kids alike will love meeting Kylo Ren, Chewbacca, BB-8, and even a squad of Stormtroopers. It’s an out-of-this-world experience for families who love Star Wars.
- Epcot Character Spot at Epcot: In one convenient location, all your favorite characters gather for photos and autographs. Make sure to check the day’s schedule to catch your top picks!
- Akershus Royal Banquet Hall at Epcot: Enjoy a Norwegian feast in a medieval castle, while princesses like Cinderella, Belle, and Aurora stop by for a visit. It’s a royal experience that’s perfect for a first trip to Disney!
Staying at Art of Animation is another great way to extend the magic, as the resort is filled with Disney-themed decor that brings your kids’ favorite movies to life. No matter how many days you spend at the parks, these meet-and-greets are the moments that make everything about a Disney vacation unforgettable.
Fireworks and parades during a family trip to Walt Disney World in Florida
Walt Disney World’s fireworks are not just simple pyrotechnics—they are explosions of light, color, and emotion that fascinate the little ones and captivate the grown-ups. During a family trip to Disney World with kids, these spectacular shows are magical moments not to be missed. They mark the end of a day full of adventures and memories, and their visual power and immersive staging captivate people of all ages.
If you’re planning a Disney trip with young children, the first thing to remember is that fireworks are one of the main reasons many families stay late in the parks. Here are two must-see fireworks displays:
- Happily Ever After, shown nightly above the Magic Kingdom castle, is a good option for those wanting an iconic Disney experience. This show blends music, light projections, and fireworks in perfect harmony. For 18 minutes, both kids and adults are immersed in the Disney universe, reliving classic movie moments with unforgettable songs that linger in everyone’s hearts. Arrive early to secure a great view of the castle!
- Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Launched in 2016, this breathtaking show features an impressive display of lights, lasers, and the iconic Star Wars soundtrack. Whether or not you’re a fan of the saga, this performance leaves an unforgettable impression on both little ones and older kids.
Parades are another essential part of any family trip to Disney World with kids. These moving shows, filled with floats and characters parading to lively music, are a great way to entertain young children. The most famous parade, Festival of Fantasy, takes place daily at Magic Kingdom. For 12 magical minutes, princesses, heroes, and fantastic creatures fill the streets in a fairytale atmosphere. To ensure your little ones fully enjoy the show, get to the section early to grab a front-row spot.
Whether it’s the fireworks or the parades, these dazzling moments are something that adds the perfect finishing touch to a full day of Walt Disney World magic, making sure your family remembers everything.
