What are the best ages to take your kids?
I think every age can be so sweet. But I really think 4 is adorable for the parents to watch. They really have all of that awe. But if it’s going to be there one trip to WDW, you may want to pick an age they would for sure remember it. So maybe 6 or 7?
Going for two days with 1 and 3.5 year old (both at Magic Kingdom). How many character meals? What are the best rides for toddlers?
I would say limit yourself to one character meal. It can be really overwhelming for them at that age. I may be projecting a bit because my kids were not good at sitting at the table for long at those ages though.
Best rides for toddlers at that age… I would do dumbo, tea cups, meet the characters at the circus, it’s a small world, peter pan (fast pass), magic carpet rides, jungle cruise, ride the train, meet mickey and pals. All things they both can do.
Do you recommend a stroller with a three year old?
Yes. I only use my strollers for Disney world at this point, and most of the time I don’t take them. But it’s nice for them to rest their legs, especially if it’s going to be a long day at the park. If you are just popping in, and then going to do some downtime at your hotel, then no you don’t need it for that though!
What to wear in January?
Layers! it can be icey cold in the morning, and pretty dang hot by the afternoon. I know that makes for a pain for packing, but better to grab lots of layers, and be ready to peel them off… then put them back on again when the sun goes down.
Favorite places to eat in the parks?
Hollywood Studios – Prime time cafe, hollywood & vine (if they are into disney jr), and Sci-Fi Diner
Magic Kingdom – Be our guest, pecos bills is my fave for quick service, The crystal palace (if they like winnie the pooh), and I know I’m in the minority but I love Jungle Skipper Canteen’s food.
Epcot – I love eating in France, Canada, Mexico, and Germany. I don’t really think you can go wrong with a sit down dinner here.
Animal Kingdom – Tusker house (but go for breakfast or lunch b/c dinner is so expensive), get a piece of grilled corn near the entrance to the safari!!!, tiffins.
Have you ever done the Disney VIP experience?
I haven’t but I have seen people using it and it looks pretty awesome. I think it could be worth it if you are coming down, don’t have a ton of time, and want to see everything. It would also help if a couple families went in on it. If you are interested, this is the page that has all of the information.
When is the best time of year to go to avoid crowds?
September when school is back in session – but it’s hot. or early December – because the weather is usually really nice.
Meal plan or not?
We have loved when we do the meal plan, because we don’t have to really factor in meals- they are already paid for. I think it can be the cheaper option, especially if you are staying on property. That being said, we don’t always do it because often times I get groceries so I can eat a little healthier.
Do you take your big camera or just your use phone OR rely on the memory makers to take all of your pics?
Mostly though I bring my smaller G7 Canon – which is really compact and takes great video and images. I find that when I bring my big camera, I don’t use it so much. I just prefer to have my hands more free, so often times I am just using my phone. I typically don’t like the way the memory maker pics look, so I always ask them to use my phone or camera as well. I still scan in my pics so I can see them. One time they were so cute that I bought a package. But that’s the only time!
Stay on site or off site?
I think for your first time it is nice to stay on site. There’s something really “magical” about all of that. BUT if grandparents/aunts/uncles are with you, it can get super pricey so you may want to look into The Villas of Grand Cyrpress, or The Grove.
Where to stay with a two year old and where to eat?
Y’all know I love Four Seasons Orlando, and to me, two year olds mean I’d be tired… so having a relaxing place to rest would be very nice!
Chef Mickey’s is my suggestion for that adorable age!
Have you ever sent groceries to your resort? If so, who have you used?
almost always! I will get sick if I eat out too much…. so we use Shipt.
Where do you buy your Disney Monogram attire?
I love Ellie Handmades,& Cecil and Lou, for monogrammed items for my kids.
What parks would you go to if you only had two or three days?
I do think Magic Kingdom is the iconic one, and I prefer to do one side of it one day, and the other side of it the next. But you could, if you went during a downtime, do it all in one day. But I think MK for two days is a good way to go. For the other day… Definitely depends on what your kids are into… if they like princesses, you may want to do Epcot for Frozen and a character meal. If they love animals, animal kingdom for sure. if they love toy story and disney jr – hollywood studios.
Have a detailed plan or just go with it? 4 &2 year olds.
I am a mix of that. I like to have a plan, but I also like to go with it. I think with those ages, you have to be used to curve balls. Maybe you can’t get to one of your fast passes because someone had to nap or potty, etc… you just switch gears. Honestly they love it all at that age, so it’s fun even when things do not go perfectly on schedule.
Best added extra – after you’ve paid for stay, meal plan, memory maker, etc.
We haven’t done it yet, but I would love to take the boys on the safari they do out of Animal Kingdom Lodge when they are a little older.
How do you combat all of the stores after the rides? How many times do you say yes to a new toy?
If we are there for a couple days, I will ask them “tell me what you want for Christmas/your birthday”. And lots of “we’re just looking today”.
Lots of times at the end of our trip I’ll get them something (under $15). Many times they’ve forgotten or we get something edible.
If you have any other questions, let me know in the comments or message me!
Other Disney Posts:
Four Seasons with Preschoolers + a Florida Resident Rate!
Toy Story Land with Preschoolers
Tips for Solo Parenting at Disney World
A review of The Grove Resort and Spa – a great multigenerational option close to Disney
What to wear to Disney World in the heat
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Four Seasons Orlando during the Holidays
Dressing for cold weather at Disney
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
Four Seasons Orlando with Toddler & Preschooler
Disney with Toddlers — packing list
Animal Kingdom with a one year old
Animal Kingdom with toddlers // animal kingdom lodge
Disney in january with toddlers
