What Disney is Like, Based on Your Kid’s Age
Though you definitely have full permission to visit Disney anytime your heart desires (or ahem, you wish upon a star) – most people make the trek for the first time either as children or when they have kids of their own. Riding the many amusement park rides, seeing the talented performances of artists across the kingdoms and getting autographs from beloved characters is all part of the joy of visiting ‘The Happiest Place On Earth’ – but what makes it that much more special? Experiencing the true splendor and magic through your child’s eyes, as they light up at every twist, turn and corner. However, it’s important to remember your kiddo’s ages when you start to plan your vacation. Depending on what development stage they’re going through, you can enlist the help of a specialized Disney travel agent who will map out the best adventure suited to their age. Experiencing Disney with kids is so much fun!
To help inspire your travels, here’s some must-see attractions and experiences, no matter how old your little (or not-so-little) one is:
Disney World With A Baby
As long as your baby is past the infancy months – say around 8 months – going to Disney can be enjoyable and memorable. While it’s true that your baby might not remember their first trip to Disney, you and your partner definitely will – and have the photos to prove it! Here’s some fun facts about babies at Disney:
They’re allowed on most rides.
With the exception of rides you’d never ever think of taking your baby on (like Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Space Mountain), most rides are baby-friendly. While your baby will have to sit in your lap, they’ll love feeling the wind in their face, hearing the songs and watching the lights. Talk about an adventure in sensory discovery!
You can rent strollers.
Don’t want to check your stroller when you catch a flight? You don’t have to – Disney World offers the opportunity to rent strollers for your time in the park, allowing you to pack lighter and get going faster. Though rates begin at $15/per day for a single stroller, to save yourself the stress and hassle of BYOS-ing, consider budgeting this perk into your vacation funds.
Disney World With a School-Aged Kid
Your kiddo is growing faster than you’d care to admit. Not only are they running circles around their parents but they are fully obsessed with everything Disney. Taking them on this trip will be the best birthday surprise – ever – and one they’ll remember for decades to come. Here’s some tips to make it extra-special:
Book breakfasts with characters.
…or really, any meal. Your Disney travel agent can help reserve this one-on-one time based on your schedule and events. Since your child likely watched their favorite Disney films or shows from the moment they wake up, being able to share a bagel with a princess or with Mickey Mouse himself will blow his or her mind.
Get the FastPass
What if you could breeze through long lines and limit the amount of time you’re waiting to board (and thus, saving yourself from dealing with a whiny kiddo)? Fun fact: you can. Even more fun of a fact: it’s free! Check out our guide on the FastPass to make this vacation of a lifetime much smoother for ma and pops.
Disney with a Teenager
So your youngest one is all about Disney but your pre-teen or teenager is rolling their eyes that you’re making them trek to a park that’s ‘no longer cool.’ Try and resist the temptation to talk sass back to them, and instead, utilize your Disney travel agent to find the best age-appropriate activities that your oldest will enjoy. These might do the trick:
Focus on theater.
While your growing teen probably won’t be the biggest fan of, say, Alice’s Teacups, he or she might enjoy the many performances that Disney World offers. With amazing, talented performers and singers and eye-dropping set design and costumes, a budding actor, actress, designer or writer will be glued to the stage.
Have more adventurous meals.
Instead of catering to your little one’s tastebuds – which is all about hot dogs and plain cheeseburgers – book some meals that will fascinate your teen. Your Disney travel agent can suggest some fun culinary finds at Epcot or around the park that will introduce your teen to flares all over the world.
Want to bring your family to the Most Magical Place on Earth? Get a FREE quote below!