When it comes to visiting Disney’s Magic Kingdom with small children, planning the perfect itinerary can be key to making the experience enjoyable for the whole family. The park, a place filled with excitement, wonder, and magic, offers an array of attractions, entertainment, and dining options designed to cater to children of all ages. However, navigating the park with little ones requires thoughtful preparation to ensure you make the most out of your visit without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essential ride strategy, dining tips, and entertainment options that will make your Magic Kingdom experience with small children truly magical.
Ride Strategy for Small Kids
One of the first things to keep in mind when visiting Magic Kingdom with young children is the ride strategy. Depending on the height restrictions, your little ones may not be able to experience all of the park’s rides. However, there are plenty of attractions that are perfect for families with small kids.
1. Start with Fantasyland:
Fantasyland is a must-see section of Magic Kingdom for young children. It’s home to a number of classic Disney rides that are gentle and visually enchanting, making them perfect for small kids. A few favorites to consider for your itinerary include:
- It’s a Small World: This boat ride, famous for its catchy theme song, takes guests on a journey through a variety of cultures. The vibrant colors and adorable animatronics will capture your child’s attention, making it a calm and relaxing start to your day.
- Peter Pan’s Flight: A whimsical, flying adventure that takes guests on a tour of Neverland. The gentle ride and imaginative scenery make it ideal for little ones.
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: A colorful, interactive ride based on the beloved characters from the Hundred Acre Wood. The ride features fun scenes with Pooh, Tigger, and friends, all set to a catchy soundtrack.
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant: A classic Disney ride that lets kids take control of their own flying elephant while soaring through the sky. This ride is perfect for small kids, and there’s also a great indoor play area where they can burn off energy while waiting.
2. Utilize Rider Switch for Bigger Rides:
While you may not be able to take your small children on some of the more thrilling rides like Space Mountain or Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, you can still enjoy them by utilizing Disney’s Rider Switch program. This program allows one adult to wait with the child while the other rides the attraction. Once the first adult returns, the second adult can immediately board the ride without waiting in line again.
3. Use Genie+ to Skip the Line:
If you’d like to avoid long wait times for rides, consider purchasing Disney’s Genie+ service, which allows you to reserve a spot in a shorter line for popular attractions. This can help save time and reduce stress, especially when traveling with small children who may not be able to handle long waits.
Dining Tips for Families with Small Kids
Dining at Magic Kingdom can be a fun experience, but it can also be a bit overwhelming, especially with little ones. To make sure you have a pleasant and stress-free meal, here are some dining tips:
1. Plan Ahead for Table Service Restaurants:
Table service restaurants at Magic Kingdom can offer a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of the park. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time through the Disney World app, as these popular spots tend to fill up quickly. Some kid-friendly options include:
- The Crystal Palace: A buffet-style restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while meeting Winnie the Pooh and friends. The restaurant’s atmosphere is bright and lively, which is perfect for young children.
- Be Our Guest Restaurant: Located in Beast’s Castle in Fantasyland, this restaurant offers a magical dining experience for families. Although it can be a bit pricier, the stunning decor and kid-friendly menu make it worth considering.
2. Quick Service for Flexibility:
When dining with small children, quick-service meals can be a lifesaver. These spots allow you to grab a bite without taking too much time out of your day. Some popular quick-service options for families with young children include:
- Columbia Harbour House: This restaurant offers a variety of options, including healthier choices, and has a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
- Pinocchio Village Haus: Located in Fantasyland, this spot serves pizza and other kid-friendly meals. It’s also a great place to watch people ride “It’s a Small World.”
3. Snacks for Energy:
Don’t forget to stock up on snacks throughout the day. Magic Kingdom offers plenty of snack carts with treats like churros, pretzels, fruit, and popcorn. Having small snacks on hand can keep your kids fueled and happy between meals.
Best Entertainment for Kids
Magic Kingdom is known for its magical entertainment, which can be the highlight of any visit. Here are a few must-see experiences that will capture the attention of small children:
1. Character Meet and Greets:
One of the best parts of visiting Magic Kingdom with small kids is the opportunity to meet beloved Disney characters. From Mickey Mouse to princesses like Cinderella and Elsa, children can pose for photos and receive autographs from their favorite characters. Check the app or signage throughout the park for times and locations, as the availability of characters may vary each day.
2. Parades and Shows:
Magic Kingdom hosts several entertaining parades and stage shows that are perfect for young kids. Don’t miss the iconic Festival of Fantasy Parade, where you can see floats featuring Disney princesses, pirates, and other characters. The parade is colorful, lively, and full of magic, making it an unforgettable experience for your little ones.
Additionally, be sure to check out the Mickey’s PhilharMagic show, a 3D movie experience that takes you on a musical journey with Disney’s most famous characters. It’s a fun and immersive experience for kids of all ages.
3. Fireworks Show:
While this may not be suitable for all small children, Magic Kingdom’s Happily Ever After fireworks show is a must-see for those who can handle the noise and excitement. The show features stunning fireworks, projections, and music that will transport you into a world of Disney magic. Be sure to arrive early to find a good viewing spot.
Additional Tips for a Magical Day
- Take Breaks: Small children can get overwhelmed and tired quickly, so be sure to schedule breaks throughout the day. You can rest at shaded spots, benches, or even find a quiet corner in one of the stores.
- Stay Hydrated and Pack Essentials: Florida can get hot, so make sure your kids stay hydrated. Consider packing a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and any comfort items like snacks or small toys to keep them entertained.
- Use the Disney World App: The Disney World app is your best friend when navigating the park. You can check ride times, book Genie+ selections, and locate dining options.
Conclusion
Visiting Magic Kingdom with small children can be an unforgettable experience when properly planned. From navigating kid-friendly rides and entertainment to enjoying delicious meals, the key is to maintain a pace that works for your family’s needs. By following the ride strategy, dining tips, and entertainment recommendations in this guide, you can ensure that your day at Magic Kingdom is filled with joy, laughter, and, of course, plenty of magic.
