A MAGICAL DAY

Yesterday we hit Disney’s Magic Kingdom in Orlando for a full (long day) of fun. The kids had the best time, and so did we. Despite the 40 degree / 100 fahrenheit weather…we were all smiles (and Mickey ears:)).

We were soooo excited to share the magic with Nico and Maya – and they were in Disney heaven. I couldn’t get enough of Maya’s excited outburts whenever she saw a Disney character. I’m already looking forward to going back with them again.

We had a jam packed 10-hour day, and if you are visiting anytime soon, here are a few of my tips for making the most of your first visit. Just a note, we arrived around 10:30 and left the grounds at 9pm. We would have loved to stay for the night-time show however, the kids were exhausted and we heard there is a lengthy wait to get back to the parking lot…it would have been too late for the kids. Next time, I would go later in the afternoon and stay late to see the show (which is suppose to be amazing!).

• Take the ferry option into the park – it’s such a beautiful fun ride and builds up the excitement for the arrival (strollers stroll right on).
• Download the Disney app and organize your fast pass in advance (you get 3 fast pass rides with your tickets…I strongly suggest you pick the rides and times ahead so you can secure your top picks otherwise the wait times can get lengthy).

• Stroller situation: You can rent strollers on site if you don’t bring your own (this is a nice option for older kids as they have large strollers in either single or double). But, they are plastic and don’t recline, so not ideal for sleeping. So, I would suggest bringing your own. You cannot bring a rear pulling wagon on site – they are not allowed. Same for selfie sticks – not allowed!
• This time of year is smoking hot – dress accordingly! We saw so many people wearing jeans and tees who were dripping in sweat. Lightweight tanks and shorts are a must.
• On that note, if you have little ones, buy a mister and stroller fan in advance (it will be way cheaper) and you can use them throughout your trip. Maya is a stroller naper so we have been using the fan everyday. I would suggest even just buying a water bottle with spray cap from the Dollarstore so you can cool down. And definitely a change of clothes for the kids (ice cream melts faster than you can eat it and ends up all over the kids and their clothes).

• You can bring your own food and drink. I highly recommend a small cooler bag with ice packs full of drinks. Bring tons of snacks and pack food.
• Sunscreen! Lots of it! And hats for sunny weather.

• Arrive early (park opens at 9am) if you can. Everything takes time so you want to make the most of it if you are only there for a day or two.
• We noticed that between 5:30 – 7pm the park dies down (people leaving for dinner) – this is the perfect time to take photos at the castle (not as many bodies and the sun starts to set making for perfect lighting). At 7:30pm the park gets busy again and people are already saving a spot for the nighttime show.

• I would definitely suggest having the park staff take photos (it links to your day pass and you can view / purchase online later…no obligation to buy)…I think it’s worth it to get that one Disney family shot
• You can book a dinner reservation with all the characters in advance (for a cost); we didn’t get to do this but would love to next time!

• Don’t underestimate the power of your outfits! People go all out with their Disney outfit choices. I would recommend planning and buying things to wear in advance, but of course buy the mouse ears on site (so many options available). You can find Disney gear at the Disney store (obviously) but many retailers also carry Disney collections – H&M , Zara, Uniqlo and Baby kids / Baby. (click on these links for a direct link to their Disney clothing / accessories) …so many adorable options!

Wishing you a magical day,

xo