Quick Disney Trips - The in's/out's/do's/don'ts of of a 3-day trip

[IndyDisney]

Hey all -

Gonna be in Hilton Head for the family vacation at the end of July and it struck me that it's only a short drive to WDW. I've been pining to take my DD(3) for her first trip and mentioned to my wife that maybe we should "pop down to Disney for a couple days" after leaving HHI. To my utter surprise she agreed. So I'm planning a 3 day/2 night trip with two days of tickets (probably just hit DTD/Boardwalk the day we get in). Gonna be the last week of July.

So I've always been a Disney "purist" and have gone for week long vacations to WDW. I've never been there for such a short time. Obviously, being my daughter's first trip, MK is in order, but where else would you go? Where would you eat? Any tips on where to eat seeing how this is a last minute addition meaning no ressies? What extras do you hit? Things (besides the obvious) that a 3YO should see?

Plus - is Cat Cora's restaurant kid-friendly? Will it be tough to get in (duh)?

Any other issues/thoughts/suggestions/ideas are welcome.

Thanks in advance to everyone!

Cheers,

Dave

 

[wolf359]

First off, be prepared for the heat. I'd plan for a midafternoon trip back to the hotel each day to rest and cool off.

Since Magic Kingdom is the obvious main draw for young children, I'd suggest being at the Magic Kingdom as early as possible to take advantage of the shorter waits in Fastasyland and Toontown at the beginning of the day.

Since you can now reserve dining online, try playing around with the various options until you find something on the days you're going to be there. Cinderella's Royal Table is most likely not going to be available, but Tony's Town Square, the Plaza Restaurant, or Liberty Tree Tavern might still be possible.

I'd suggest either EPCOT or Animal Kingdom as your second park, because I think there are limited attraction options for young children at Hollywood Studios.

I think EPCOT is the stronger choice because of the wider attraction and dining options. It also keeps later hours than Animal Kingdom, making it easier to leave and come back in the evening.

I'd also suggest you visit the other park before the Magic Kingdom. The MK can be sensory overload for a young child, but any of the other parks will allow for a slightly less intense first experience to get them prepared for what is to come.

 

[Susan Savia]

I would certainly take that opportunity to drop into WDW, even for just two days. I think I would visit Epcot the first day. Yes its not quite as kid friendly, but then when you go to the MK on the second day, it would be a WOW day for her. Both days, I'd be at rope drop to hit the favorites. Fast Pass the rides that you need it (longer lines, etc.). Maybe for the MK call ahead and have a reservation at the Crystal Palace so your daughter can meet Pooh and friends. Be sure and get your daughter her 1st visit button and some mouse ears. Take your sunscreen and water. Being that its just 2 days, I don't think I'd take the time to go back to your resort, but rather take breaks in the parks someplace cool.
Have a great time.