Which Disney World Park is the Best? Read the Guide!
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When planning a Disney World vacation, deciding on which parks to visit can be as magical—and as challenging—as the trip itself! Each Disney park offers something unique, and trust me, I agonized over every detail. A Disney trip is a big financial investment, so I’m just happy you are here and doing the research to make the most of your adventure! You’ll have an amazing time! Check out Under Cover Tourist for great discount ticket options!
As a family who has visited these parks, we definitely have some favorites. I’ll share what makes each one special for different age groups and interests, and the pros and cons of each (especially if you only have one day to visit). It’s ok if you can’t decide and end up doing them all, like me! Disney is an incredible experience for the whole family and a true investment in childhood memories.
Here’s our guide to finding the best Disney World park for your family.
Magic Kingdom: The Classic and Most Magical Park
For most families, a trip to Disney World isn’t complete without a day at Magic Kingdom. With its iconic Cinderella Castle towering over Main Street, Magic Kingdom is the place where dreams come true, especially for younger children and families who enjoy classic Disney magic.
Some must-see attractions here include:
It’s a Small World: This gentle boat ride is perfect for kids under 6 and gives everyone a taste of Disney’s global spirit.
Pirates of the Caribbean: Set sail with swashbuckling pirates on this dark ride, loved by guests of all ages.
Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: These are great introductory thrill rides for kids ready for a little more excitement.
Haunted Mansion: A dark, spooky (but not too scary) ride filled with amazing special effects and a touch of humor.
Tron Light Cycle: High speed rollercoaster in the dark. My 8 year old LOVED this ride.
Magic Kingdom is perfect for a mixed-age group, thanks to the wide variety of attractions. From the Astro Orbiter to parades and character meet-and-greets, there’s something for everyone. For our family, Magic Kingdom is a top choice, especially with little ones or those seeking that classic Disney feel.
The Pros and Cons of Disney’s Most Iconic Park (Especially If You Only Have One Day)
For most families, a trip to Disney World isn’t complete without a day at Magic Kingdom. But if you only have one day to explore, is Magic Kingdom the best choice? Let’s break it down.
Pros of Visiting Magic Kingdom
A Park for All Ages
Magic Kingdom is truly a park for everyone. It offers a mix of gentle rides, thrilling roller coasters, and interactive shows that cater to younger children as well as teens and adults.
Rides like It’s a Small World and Peter Pan’s Flight are perfect for little ones, while Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad provide thrills for older visitors.
Classic Disney Nostalgia
There’s no place more Disney than Magic Kingdom. From walking down Main Street USA to watching the evening fireworks above Cinderella Castle, the park embodies the magic of Disney.
Attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean and The Haunted Mansion bring beloved Disney stories to life in ways that resonate with all ages.
Variety of Attractions
Magic Kingdom has more attractions than any other Disney World park. You’ll find everything from iconic dark rides to live shows and parades, making it an excellent choice for families with mixed interests.
Highlights include:
Jungle Cruise: A hilarious riverboat ride full of pun-filled commentary.
Tiana's Bayou (previously Splash Mountain): A log flume ride with a thrilling drop.
Astro Orbiter: A whimsical rocket ride that offers fantastic views of the park.
Entertainment and Character Interactions
Magic Kingdom is unmatched in its character meet-and-greets and live entertainment. Kids can meet Mickey Mouse, the princesses, and other beloved characters.
Don’t miss the parades, which bring Disney stories to life with music, floats, and costumed characters. The Festival of Fantasy Parade is a family favorite.
Dining for All Tastes
Magic Kingdom offers dining options for every preference. From quick service spots like Casey’s Corner for hot dogs to themed restaurants like Be Our Guest where you can dine in the Beast’s castle, you won’t go hungry.
The Nighttime Fireworks Show
Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks display, Happily Ever After, is a can’t-miss experience. It’s a magical way to end your day with awe-inspiring special effects and music.
Cons of Visiting Magic Kingdom
Crowds and Long Lines
Magic Kingdom is one of the most popular Disney parks, and it often experiences long lines for its most popular attractions, especially during peak seasons and holidays.
Even with tools like the Lightning Lane Multi Pass, you may find yourself spending a good portion of your day waiting.
Time-Consuming Layout
The park is expansive, and navigating it can take time, especially with young kids in tow. Attractions are spread across themed lands like Adventureland, Tomorrowland, and Fantasyland.
If you only have one day, it can be challenging to experience everything.
Fewer Thrill Rides
While Magic Kingdom offers a few thrill rides like Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, it’s not the best park for adrenaline junkies. Older kids or teens may find more excitement in Hollywood Studios.
Not as Unique for Repeat Visitors
If you’ve been to Disneyland or another Disney park like Tokyo Disneyland or Hong Kong Disneyland, Magic Kingdom may feel familiar. While it’s magical, it doesn’t have the distinctive, cultural charm of parks like Epcot or Animal Kingdom.
High Cost for One-Day Visitors
If you’re only visiting Magic Kingdom for one day, the high ticket cost can feel steep, especially when factoring in dining and souvenirs.
Tips for Making the Most of One Day at Magic Kingdom
Arrive Early
Arrive before the park opens to enjoy popular attractions with shorter wait times. Heading to big-ticket rides like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or Space Mountain first can save you time.
Use Genie+ and Lightning Lane
Invest in the My Disney Experience app to reserve ride times and avoid lengthy waits for top attractions. The Genie + in the app just provides you with recommendations for attractions during the day. Don’t click everything! Really try to pick your top attractions to make this tool effective.
Prioritize Must-Do Rides
With limited time, focus on key attractions. For younger kids (those who want more scenery and less thrill), prioritize Fantasyland rides like Dumbo the Flying Elephant and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. For older kids and adults, head to Frontierland and Tomorrowland (More thrill with Big Thunder Mountain, Space Mountain, TRON, and Tiana’s Bayou).
Plan Dining in Advance
Book table-service meals ahead of time or stick to quick-service spots to maximize your ride time. Don’t forget to try Disney’s famous snacks, like Dole Whip or a Mickey pretzel. Pack a lunch to eat in line and save yourself a ton of time! Disney allows you to bring in your own food. We brought a cooler backpack that saved the day for us!
Save Time for Evening Entertainment
End your day with a prime viewing spot for Happily Ever After. Arrive early to secure a spot on Main Street USA or near the castle.
My opinion: Is Magic Kingdom the Best Disney Park for One Day?
If you’re traveling with younger children, first-time visitors, or a mixed-age group, Magic Kingdom is an excellent choice for your one day at Disney. It captures the essence of Disney magic with its iconic attractions, classic stories, and enchanting atmosphere. However, if you’re traveling with teens or thrill-seekers, you may want to consider other parks like Hollywood Studios or Epcot for a different vibe. No matter which park you choose, Magic Kingdom’s blend of nostalgia, family-friendly attractions, and unforgettable entertainment makes it one of the most magical places in the world.
Animal Kingdom: An Adventure for All Ages
Disney’s Animal Kingdom combines the beauty of nature with Disney’s signature storytelling, making it an ideal park for families with young kids or anyone who loves animals and scenic landscapes. The sprawling layout, lush greenery, and themed areas make every step feel like an adventure. Some highlights include:
Kilimanjaro Safaris: Hop aboard a jeep for an authentic safari experience, complete with giraffes, lions, and elephants.
Expedition Everest: For thrill-seekers, this roller coaster takes you on a heart-pounding journey through the Himalayas with an encounter with the legendary Yeti.
Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!: A vibrant musical performance, perfect for young families who love a mix of music and storytelling.
With its balance of shows, slow rides, and thrills, Animal Kingdom has become a family favorite. Plus, the educational value and cultural richness of the park add a unique experience that sets it apart from the other Disney parks. Save Money on tickets with UnderCover Tourist!
Animal Kingdom: The Pros and Cons of Visiting (Especially If You Only Have One Day)
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a park like no other. Combining the beauty of nature with the magic of Disney storytelling, it offers a unique mix of attractions, wildlife experiences, and cultural enrichment. With its balance of shows, slow-paced rides, and thrilling adventures, Animal Kingdom has become a family favorite. Add in its educational value and cultural richness, and it stands apart from other Disney parks. But what if you only have one day to explore? Let’s dive into the pros, cons, and tips to make the most of your visit.
Pros of Visiting Animal Kingdom
A Perfect Blend of Entertainment and Nature
Animal Kingdom isn’t just a theme park; it’s a hybrid of a zoo, a safari, and a cultural experience. The park’s lush, immersive environments transport you to places like Africa and Asia, making it feel more like an adventure than a theme park visit.
Walking through areas like Pandora – The World of Avatar or Africa feels like stepping into another world.
Incredible Wildlife Experiences
Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of the park’s standout attractions. It’s an open-air jeep tour through a sprawling savanna, where you’ll see elephants, giraffes, lions, and more. No two rides are the same, making it a must-do for all ages.
Animal exhibits throughout the park, such as Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail and Maharajah Jungle Trek, let you get up close with exotic animals.
Thrills for Adventure Seekers
For thrill-seekers, Animal Kingdom offers some of Disney’s most exciting rides, including:
Expedition Everest: A high-speed roller coaster with stunning views, sharp twists, and an encounter with the legendary Yeti.
Avatar Flight of Passage: An awe-inspiring ride that simulates flying on the back of a banshee through the breathtaking world of Pandora.
World-Class Shows
The park’s live entertainment is second to none. Don’t miss:
Festival of the Lion King: A Broadway-style production featuring acrobatics, music, and stunning visuals.
Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!: A colorful musical retelling of the beloved Pixar movie.
Cultural and Educational Experiences
Animal Kingdom celebrates cultures from around the world through music, dance, and storytelling. Walking through Harambe Village or enjoying live performances in Asia gives visitors a cultural experience that’s both fun and educational.
The conservation efforts highlighted throughout the park offer an educational component, perfect for families wanting to teach kids about protecting wildlife and the environment.
Pandora – The World of Avatar
This immersive land is a huge draw. From the bioluminescent landscapes to rides like Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey, it’s a must-see area for all visitors.
Slower Pace Compared to Other Parks
While Animal Kingdom has its share of thrill rides, it also offers plenty of opportunities to slow down and take in the scenery. Walking trails, animal exhibits, and relaxing shows make it a great choice for families looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of busier parks.
Cons of Visiting Animal Kingdom
Limited Number of Rides
Compared to other Disney parks, Animal Kingdom has fewer rides. While its attractions are top-notch, you may find yourself focusing more on animal exhibits and shows than ride-hopping.
Some families may feel it lacks the ride variety of Magic Kingdom or the thrills of Hollywood Studios.
Early Closing Times
Animal Kingdom typically closes earlier than the other Disney parks. This means you’ll have less time to explore, especially if you’re trying to fit in everything in one day.
Evening entertainment options are limited compared to Magic Kingdom or Epcot.
Spread-Out Layout
The park’s expansive, immersive design means a lot of walking. While this adds to its charm, it can be tiring for families with young children or those with limited mobility.
Planning your route ahead of time is essential to avoid backtracking across the park.
Long Waits for Popular Rides
Attractions like Flight of Passage and Expedition Everest often have long wait times. Without a Lightning Lane Multi Pass, you may spend significant time in line for these headline attractions.
Weather Challenges
With much of the park outdoors, hot and humid Florida weather can make the experience less enjoyable, especially during the summer months. Afternoon showers can also disrupt plans.
Tips for Making the Most of One Day at Animal Kingdom
Arrive Early and Head to Pandora
Rope drop (arriving at park opening) is crucial. Head straight to Avatar Flight of Passage or Na’vi River Journey in Pandora to avoid long lines later in the day.
Prioritize Must-Do Experiences
If you only have one day, focus on the park’s top attractions:
Thrill rides: Expedition Everest and Flight of Passage.
Wildlife: Kilimanjaro Safaris and walking trails.
Shows: Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo.
Plan Dining in Advance
Animal Kingdom offers some of the best dining experiences in Disney World. Tusker House is a great character dining option with African-inspired flavors, while Flame Tree Barbecue is perfect for a quick-service meal.
Try the themed snacks in Pandora, like the famous Night Blossom drink.
Stay Cool and Hydrated
Take breaks in shaded areas or air-conditioned attractions like It’s Tough to Be a Bug. Don’t forget to bring a refillable water bottle.
End with Pandora at Night
While Animal Kingdom closes early, the bioluminescent glow of Pandora – The World of Avatar is magical after dark. Save time to explore this area before the park closes.
Final Thoughts: Is Animal Kingdom the Best Disney Park for One Day?
If your family loves animals, nature, and immersive storytelling, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is an excellent choice for a one-day visit. The balance of thrill rides, shows, and wildlife experiences makes it a well-rounded park, especially for those who appreciate a mix of adventure and relaxation. While it may not have as many rides as Magic Kingdom or the nighttime energy of Hollywood Studios, its unique atmosphere and educational value make it a standout option.
Animal Kingdom offers something truly special: a chance to explore the wonders of nature through Disney’s lens. If you’re looking for a park that combines excitement, learning, and breathtaking environments, it’s hard to beat this one-of-a-kind Disney destination.
Hollywood Studios: A Family Favorite for Thrills and Star Wars Fans
This photo was taken on Rise of the Resistance. A definite must-do for Star Wars fans!
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is where movie magic comes to life, and it’s hands-down our family’s favorite park! For Star Wars fans, it’s an absolute dream, thanks to Galaxy’s Edge. If you’ve ever wanted to pilot the Millennium Falcon or join the Rise of the Resistance, this park is a must-visit.
Some of the best attractions at Hollywood Studios include:
Rise of the Resistance: This interactive ride is like no other, with impressive special effects and an immersive storyline that puts you in the middle of a galactic battle.
Toy Story Land: A playful area featuring family-friendly attractions like Slinky Dog Dash, a roller coaster that’s thrilling but not too intense for younger kids.
Tower of Terror and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster: For older kids and adults seeking thrills, these iconic rides offer high-speed drops and loops.
Hollywood Studios has something for everyone, from thrilling rides to kid-friendly shows and experiences. We especially love it for the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge area, where we truly felt transported to another galaxy.
Hollywood Studios: The Pros and Cons of Spending your one Day in this Park
Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers a cinematic adventure that appeals to both thrill-seekers and fans of immersive storytelling. From action-packed rides to live shows and the incredible Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, this park truly has something for everyone. If you only have one day to visit, Hollywood Studios can provide a thrilling and memorable experience. Here’s an in-depth look at the pros, cons, and tips for making the most of your visit. Make sure to get discount tickets from Under Cover Tourist!
Pros of Visiting Hollywood Studios
Thrill Rides for All Ages
Hollywood Studios is home to some of Disney’s most exhilarating attractions, perfect for families with older kids, teens, and adults. Highlights include:
Tower of Terror: This spooky drop tower ride is a must for thrill-seekers.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster: A high-speed indoor roller coaster featuring music from Aerosmith.
Slinky Dog Dash: A family-friendly coaster that’s fast enough to excite kids and gentle enough for younger riders.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
For Star Wars fans, this area is reason enough to visit Hollywood Studios. The immersive land makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a galaxy far, far away. Highlights include:
Rise of the Resistance: Often regarded as Disney’s best ride, this experience combines a thrilling escape from the First Order with groundbreaking special effects and storytelling.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run: Take control of the legendary ship in a hands-on, interactive ride.
Don’t miss the themed food, drinks, and merchandise, like building your own lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop.
Toy Story Land
This colorful and playful area is a hit with families. Attractions like Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers are kid-friendly and fun, while Toy Story Mania offers an interactive arcade-style ride for all ages.
Live Shows and Performances
Hollywood Studios is known for its live entertainment, which brings classic movies and characters to life. Popular shows include:
Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage: A Broadway-style performance of the beloved tale.
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular: A high-energy show featuring stunts, explosions, and behind-the-scenes insights into movie magic.
Frozen Sing-Along Celebration: A hilarious and heartwarming experience perfect for younger children.
Immersive Theming
Hollywood Studios excels at transporting guests into the worlds of their favorite movies and TV shows. From Grand Avenue’s urban vibe to Galaxy’s Edge’s alien landscapes, every area is meticulously designed.
Great Dining Options
Hollywood Studios offers some of the best themed dining experiences in Disney World. Highlights include:
Oga’s Cantina in Galaxy’s Edge: A lively Star Wars-themed bar.
Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land: A quick-service spot serving kid-friendly meals with a creative twist.
50’s Prime Time Café: A retro diner where the “family” servers make sure you mind your manners.
Perfect for Mixed-Age Groups
With its variety of attractions, Hollywood Studios caters to the whole family. Thrills, interactive rides, shows, and immersive experiences ensure everyone finds something to enjoy.
Cons of Visiting Hollywood Studios
Fewer Attractions for Young Children
While Toy Story Land and the Frozen Sing-Along Celebration are perfect for little ones, there are fewer options overall for very young children compared to parks like Magic Kingdom. Rides like Tower of Terror and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster may be too intense. Although the 6 year old in our crew LOVED both of these, and my 4 year old nephew wasn't quite tall enough for the rollercoaster, so he did the Tower of Terror again with his mom!
Crowds and Long Lines
Hollywood Studios is incredibly popular, especially for attractions like Rise of the Resistance and Slinky Dog Dash. Wait times for these headliner rides can stretch to 1-2 hours or more during peak times.
Without a Lightning Lane Multi Pass, it’s difficult to experience everything in one day.
Lack of Fireworks or Evening Shows
While Fantasmic! (a nighttime show) has recently returned, Hollywood Studios doesn’t offer the nightly fireworks displays you’ll find at Magic Kingdom. The evening entertainment feels limited in comparison.
Heat and Minimal Shade
Hollywood Studios has fewer shaded areas compared to other parks, which can make the Florida heat more intense. Waiting in outdoor queues for rides like Slinky Dog Dash can be challenging. Although I must say, we visited this park on a rainy day, it is was one of the most ideal parks to be visiting during the rain because almost everything is inside! The only outdoor attractions that were delayed due to rain was Slinky Dog Dash and the Indiana Jones Stuntacular!
Can Feel Crowded
Because it’s one of the smaller Disney parks, Hollywood Studios can feel congested, especially in high-traffic areas like Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land.
Early Closures
Similar to Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios sometimes closes earlier than other parks, limiting your evening time. This is worth noting if you’re hoping for a full day and night experience.
Tips for Making the Most of One Day at Hollywood Studios
Rope Drop Galaxy’s Edge
Arrive early and head straight to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for Rise of the Resistance. This attraction often has the longest lines, and tackling it first can save you hours later.
Use Genie+ and Lightning Lane
Invest in the My Disney Experience app and prioritize Lightning Lane reservations for Rise of the Resistance, Slinky Dog Dash, and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
Plan Your Dining
Book reservations for sit-down meals at popular restaurants like Oga’s Cantina or 50’s Prime Time Café in advance. For a quicker bite, grab a meal at Woody’s Lunch Box. FYI Oga's Cantina is ONLY DRINKS!! Don't expect to eat a meal here. It's mostly standing room, unless you sweet talk the hostess like we did to get a booth for your group. It's a super fun experience, that is limited to 45minutes. Just remember any dining plans you make will prevent you from booking a lightening lane attraction that overlaps with your dining reservation.
Catch the Live Shows
Schedule time for performances like Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular or Beauty and the Beast. These shows are not only entertaining but also a great way to take a break from walking.
Stay Hydrated and Cool
Take advantage of air-conditioned attractions like Star Tours – The Adventures Continue and shops in Galaxy’s Edge to escape the heat.
End Your Day with Fantasmic!
Secure a spot early for Fantasmic!, a dazzling nighttime show that combines fireworks, water projections, and live performances.
Final Thoughts: Is Hollywood Studios the Best Disney Park for One Day?
If your family loves movies, thrills, and immersive experiences, Disney’s Hollywood Studios is an excellent choice for a one-day visit. With standout attractions like Rise of the Resistance and Slinky Dog Dash, it’s a park that delivers excitement and fun for the whole family. However, if you’re traveling with very young kids or prefer a broader mix of attractions, parks like Magic Kingdom might offer more variety.
For us, Hollywood Studios is a must-visit, especially for Star Wars fans. Its unique theming and action-packed rides make it a standout park, and even if you only have one day, you’re sure to leave with magical memories. If I had to pick ONE park- Hollywood Studios is it for me!
Epcot: Travel the World and Future Possibilities
For families looking to blend theme park excitement with a cultural experience, Epcot is the place to be. This park lets you explore the World Showcase, where you can visit pavilions representing different countries like Japan, Italy, and France. Epcot is an excellent choice for families who want a slower-paced day with international cuisine, shopping, and kid-friendly entertainment. Make sure to get discount tickets from Under Cover Tourist!
Must-visit attractions in Epcot include:
Test Track: Design your own virtual car and test it on a thrilling track.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind: A new, high-energy roller coaster that’s perfect for thrill-seekers.
Spaceship Earth: This iconic dark ride within the giant Epcot globe takes you on a journey through human history.
For kids who love exploring and learning about other cultures, Epcot offers a truly unique experience. It’s less about Disney characters and more about the world around us, making it a refreshing break from traditional theme park attractions.
Epcot: The Pros and Cons of Visiting This Cultural and Futuristic Park in One Day
Epcot stands out among Disney parks for its blend of technology, culture, and innovation. While it may not have as many Disney characters or traditional theme park vibes, it offers a refreshing and educational experience. For families with kids who love exploring and learning about different cultures, Epcot delivers a truly unique adventure. But is it the right park if you only have one day? Let’s explore the pros and cons and how to maximize your visit.
Pros of Visiting Epcot
Cultural Immersion in the World Showcase
The World Showcase is one of Epcot’s most iconic features, offering pavilions that represent different countries from around the globe, such as Japan, France, Italy, and Mexico.
Kids and adults alike can enjoy cultural performances, traditional crafts, and sampling international cuisine. From sipping tea in the UK to watching acrobats in China, it’s an interactive way to explore the world without leaving Florida.
Exciting and Educational Rides
Epcot may not have as many rides as Magic Kingdom, but it offers attractions that combine thrills with education, such as:
Test Track: Design your own car and see how it performs on a high-speed test track.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind: A brand-new roller coaster that’s both thrilling and immersive, making it a must-ride for Marvel fans.
Soarin’ Around the World: A breathtaking simulated flight over famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Great Wall of China.
A Focus on Technology and the Future
Epcot’s Future World celebrates innovation and sustainability, offering attractions like:
Spaceship Earth: A slow-moving dark ride inside Epcot’s iconic globe that takes you through the history of human communication and innovation.
Living with the Land: A relaxing boat ride through futuristic greenhouses that showcase sustainable farming techniques.
These attractions are perfect for curious kids and adults who enjoy science and technology.
Special Events and Festivals
Epcot hosts several annual festivals that enhance the park’s offerings, such as:
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival: Sample dishes and drinks from around the world.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival: Explore stunning topiaries and gardens.
These festivals add a layer of fun and flavor, making Epcot an excellent choice for foodies and nature lovers.
Kid-Friendly Activities
While Epcot focuses more on cultural and educational experiences, it still offers plenty for kids, such as:
Kidcot Fun Stops: Craft stations in each World Showcase pavilion where kids can create free souvenirs while learning about different cultures.
Frozen Ever After: A boat ride through Arendelle in the Norway pavilion, perfect for fans of Elsa and Anna.
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure: A family-friendly ride in the France pavilion that shrinks guests to the size of a rat for a culinary adventure.
Diverse Dining Options
Epcot’s dining scene is unmatched, with both table-service and quick serviceoptions offering global cuisine. Highlights include:
Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria in Italy for wood-fired pizzas.
Teppan Edo in Japan for an interactive hibachi experience.
La Cantina de San Angel in Mexico for delicious tacos and margaritas.
These dining options add to the park’s appeal as a culinary destination.
Relaxed Atmosphere
Compared to the fast-paced energy of other parks, Epcot’s sprawling layout and scenic views offer a more laid-back experience. Families can take their time exploring without the constant rush to the next ride.
Cons of Visiting Epcot
Fewer Disney Characters and Themed Rides
Unlike Magic Kingdom, Epcot isn’t heavily centered around Disney characters. While there are some character appearances (e.g., Anna and Elsa in Norway), families looking for traditional Disney magic might feel underwhelmed.
Extensive Walking
The park is large and spread out, requiring a lot of walking. Exploring the entire World Showcase can be tiring, especially for families with young children.
Strollers are highly recommended if you’re traveling with little ones.
Limited Thrill Rides
While Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Test Track are exciting, thrill-seekers may find fewer options compared to Hollywood Studios or Animal Kingdom. However, Guardians of the Galaxy was my hands-down absolute favorite rollercoaster at any of the parks!!
Not as Engaging for Younger Children
The educational focus and cultural experiences may not hold the attention of very young kids, especially compared to the character-heavy attractions at other parks.
Parents may need to balance their time between kid-friendly activities and the more adult-oriented experiences.
Crowds During Festivals
While Epcot’s festivals are a major draw, they can also lead to large crowds, especially in the World Showcase. Lines for food booths and popular attractions can be long, particularly during weekends.
Less Evening Entertainment
While the park does offer a nighttime show—Harmonious, a spectacular display of fireworks and music—it doesn’t match the level of excitement found in Magic Kingdom’s Happily Ever After fireworks.
Tips for Making the Most of One Day at Epcot
Start with Thrill Rides
Arrive early and head straight to high-demand rides like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Test Track, or Frozen Ever After. These attractions often have the longest wait times.
Plan Your Route Around the World Showcase
The World Showcase is best explored clockwise or counterclockwise to avoid unnecessary backtracking. Plan your stops based on food preferences, performances, and Kidcot activities.
Make Dining Reservations in Advance
Epcot’s table-service restaurants fill up quickly, especially during festivals. Use the My Disney Experience app to secure reservations for your top dining picks.
Use Genie+ Strategically
Prioritize booking Lightning Lane passes for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Frozen Ever After, and Soarin’ Around the World.
Take Breaks in Air-Conditioned Spaces
Attractions like Spaceship Earth and The Seas with Nemo & Friends provide cool, relaxing environments where you can recharge.
End Your Day with Harmonious
Grab a spot around the World Showcase Lagoon for Epcot’s nighttime spectacular. It’s a beautiful way to cap off your day.
Disney’s Water Parks: A Refreshing Way to Enjoy Disney Magic
For families looking to cool off and relax, Disney’s water parks—Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach—are an incredible addition to any Disney World itinerary. These parks offer a unique blend of Disney’s trademark theming with the thrill of water-based attractions, providing a fun and refreshing escape from the Florida heat. Make sure to get discount tickets from Under Cover Tourist!
Typhoon Lagoon: A Tropical Paradise
Typhoon Lagoon is perfect for families who want a tropical getaway vibe. Its centerpiece is one of the largest wave pools in the world, offering gentle swells for younger kids and more adventurous waves for thrill-seekers. Here are some standout features:
Crush ‘n’ Gusher: A water coaster that sends riders through twists and turns in inflatable rafts.
Castaway Creek: A relaxing lazy river that winds through lush landscapes and shady groves.
Ketchakiddee Creek: A dedicated kids' play area with slides, fountains, and shallow pools, making it a favorite for younger visitors.
The tropical theme, complete with sandy beaches and swaying palm trees, makes Typhoon Lagoon feel like a resort within a resort.
Blizzard Beach: A Winter Wonderland
For something completely different, Blizzard Beach offers a whimsical take on a ski resort melted by the Florida sun. The snow-and-ice theme creates a playful atmosphere, and the park is packed with exciting attractions:
Summit Plummet: One of the tallest and fastest water slides in the world, perfect for adrenaline junkies.
Teamboat Springs: A family raft ride that’s both thrilling and fun for all ages.
Tike’s Peak: A kid-friendly zone with scaled-down slides and shallow pools for little adventurers.
Blizzard Beach’s quirky mix of "snow" and sunshine makes it a unique experience, blending the fun of winter sports with the thrill of water attractions.
Why Add a Water Park to Your Disney World Visit?
Disney’s water parks are more than just places to cool off—they’re an opportunity to unwind while still enjoying Disney’s world-class storytelling and design. Whether you’re floating in a lazy river, braving a water slide, or building sandcastles by the shore, the water parks provide a perfect balance to the fast-paced excitement of Disney’s main theme parks. For families needing a break from long lines and intense park days, a water park visit is the ideal way to recharge while staying immersed in the magic of Disney.
With a mix of relaxation and excitement, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach cater to guests of all ages, making them a must-visit for families planning a complete Disney World experience.
Tips for Planning Your Disney World Visit
A Disney trip can be magical but also requires some planning. Here are our top tips to make the most of your visit:
Best Time to Visit: Visiting during off-peak times (like early fall or late winter) can help you avoid long lines and enjoy cooler weather.
Use the My Disney Experience App: This app helps you book FastPasses, view maps, check wait times, and keep track of dining reservations.
Lightning Lane Multi Pass: For popular attractions like Rise of the Resistance, purchasing a Lightning Lane pass can save you hours.
Disney is piloting the Lightning Lane premier pass for guests staying at certain luxury properties. They offer a similar experience at Disneyland Paris, and it is IDEAL for the family who can afford the price tag because it means you don't have to worry about when you arrive at a ride, you just go at your own pace and can use the lightning lane ANYTIME, instead of during a specific 1 hour time frame. Way less planning, and it frees you from always being in the app, which quite honestly is a big distraction from just enjoying the park.
Make sure to join the Virtual Queues at 7am! Both Tiana's Bayou at Magic Kingdom and Guardians of the Galaxy at Epcot do not have a standby line. You can only ride this attraction if you are in the virtual queue (through the Disney App) or if you have a lightning lane pass.
By planning strategically, you can maximize your time and make sure you experience the best Disney has to offer.
Dining Recommendations: Best Restaurants and Quick Service Options
Each Disney park has excellent dining options, whether you’re looking for a full meal or a quick snack. Here are a few of our favorites:
Epcot: The World Showcase offers an array of international cuisines. Our go-to is Via Napoli in the Italy Pavilion. The Coral reef near the entrance has a great view of the aquariam and isn't very busy due to it's location. The food options may not appeal to all since it is mostly seafood, but we enjoyed it. The Boulangerie Pattiserie in France is a must do for pain au chocolate (chocolate crossaint) and eclairs.
Magic Kingdom: Be Our Guest Restaurant provides a chance to dine in the Beast’s castle, making it an unforgettable experience for fans of Beauty and the Beast. We ate at the Diamond Horseshoe in Adventureland since that was where we planned to be around that time of day. It was great food, served family style. Great kid-friendly options!
Disney Springs: For more dining options, head to Disney Springs, where you’ll find a range of family-friendly restaurants and quick-service options. The rainforest cafe is a popular spot both at Disney Springs and Animal Kingdom.
Animal Kingdom: Character experiences at Tusker's Restaurant was a great all you care to enjoy buffet, with visits from Mickey and friends dressed in their safari attire. You can also opt to eat at a more fast/casual restaurant in Pandora to experience it at night.
Dining is part of the experience at Disney, so make time to enjoy a few of the themed restaurants that offer more than just a meal.
Making the Most of Your Disney Vacation
In the end, the best Disney park is the one that suits your family’s preferences. For families with young kids, Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom offer the most age-appropriate attractions. For older kids and thrill-seekers, Hollywood Studios and Epcot are filled with unique experiences and exciting rides. And if you’re looking for a relaxing day, Disney’s water parks provide the perfect blend of adventure and downtime.
No matter which park you choose, Disney World is the most magical place on earth, where each park offers its own enchantment and adventure. We hope this guide helps you find the best Disney World park for your family, making your Disney vacation unforgettable.