Traveling with Kids - Days in the Parks

I'm working with a client in planning a trip for this fall (who doesn't want to take advantage of Free Dining??) traveling with 2 little ones.  The question at hand was - how many days is enough or too much with little ones?

How Many Days is Enough?

There are 4 theme parks at Walt Disney World:

1. Magic Kingdom
2. Epcot
3. Hollywood Studios
4. Animal Kingdom

Magic Kingdom is easily a 2 day park, Epcot can be anywhere from 3/4 of a day to a 2 day park, and both Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom are 1/2 - 1 day parks.  So, to do them all, having 4 park days is a must!  

Avoid Rushing

Trying to cram in a Walt Disney World visit in 3 days I compare to going on a diet - you know, the night before you give up sweets, you eat brownies and ice cream.  Or, have a big meal the night before the 'diet begins.'  Cramming in the goodness before you have to set restrictions.  Disney in 3 days or less will be restrictive, unless you're a park regular or only interested in the Magic Kingdom.

Take More Breaks

With more days in the parks, leaving the park for a couple of hours to take a nap or relax at the pool is less of a loss!  You'll have more chances to go back the next day.  Same for rain or bad weather - with an extra day in your schedule, you'll be less affected by bad weather or circumstances than if you only have 2 or 3 days!

Park Hop

If you are really strapped for time and don't want to spend the extra days in the park and on vacation, consider the park hopper!  I love to hop over to EPCOT for meals but and always want the opportunity to walk down Main Street, U.S.A. again, if I need a little extra magic!  With park hoppers, you have the flexibility to do half days, quarter days, or even head to a different park after earlier park closures, which happen on hard ticket even nights (Halloween Party, etc...) or Animal Kingdom early closings!

Another excuse to park hop?  More freedom for dining reservations!  

In Conclusion:

To me - the more days you can spend, the better.  A shorter trip, no one can really adjust and everyone rushes around!  Spend that extra day, relax, and have fun!!

Email me, JennL@thewdwguru.com for free trip planning services and to help you decide!