10 Simple Tips for Navigating Orlando’s Theme Parks with Kids!
Hey there, fellow Orlando moms! If you’re anything like me, the thought of taking your kids to the theme parks can be both thrilling and a bit overwhelming. Between the excitement of rides and the logistics of planning, it can feel like a big adventure! But don’t worry—I’ve learned a few tips and tricks along the way that can make your day at the parks a whole lot smoother. Here’s my guide for navigating Orlando’s theme parks with kids, featuring some personal stories about my little ones, Lily, Emma, and Jimmy!
1. Plan Ahead
Before heading to the park, do a little research. Look at the maps, check the ride height requirements, and plan which attractions to hit first. I remember our first trip to Magic Kingdom; we got there without a plan and ended up running all over the place! Now, I make sure to prioritize the rides Lily and Emma are most excited about, like the Dumbo Ride.
2. Arrive Early
Getting to the park before it opens is a game-changer! We usually arrive at least 30 minutes before the gates open. This way, you can enjoy the quieter morning hours and hit a few rides with shorter lines. I still remember how thrilled Jimmy was when we got on the Peter Pan’s Flight ride before the crowds arrived. His giggles made the early wake-up worth it!
3. Stay Hydrated
Orlando can get hot, especially in the summer. Bring water bottles for everyone to stay hydrated. I learned this the hard way during a visit to Universal Studios. We had so much fun that I forgot to remind the kids to drink water. By noon, they were feeling sluggish! Now, I set a timer on my phone to remind us to take a water break every hour.
4. Pack Snacks
Trust me, bringing snacks can save the day. I always pack a small bag of snacks—granola bars, fruit, or crackers. During one of our trips, I ran out of snacks right before lunch, and the kids were not happy! Having snacks on hand keeps their energy up and saves you money on pricey park food.
5. Use the Stroller Wisely
If your kids still use strollers, bring one! Even if they’re a bit older, it can be a lifesaver for tired little legs. On one visit to Epcot, Emma was so tired after just a few hours that we ended up using the stroller as a resting spot. We decorated it with fun stickers, making it a little adventure on wheels!
6. Take Breaks
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but remember to take breaks. Find a shady spot to relax and recharge. We often find benches near attractions to sit and enjoy some downtime. One day, we took a break near the Carousel of Progress, and I let the kids watch a quick show while I enjoyed a snack.
7. Have a Meeting Spot
In a sea of excitement, it’s easy to lose track of each other. Choose a designated meeting spot in case anyone gets separated. I still remember when Lily wandered off to look at a souvenir stand at Disney Springs. It was a bit panicky, but knowing we had a meeting spot made it easier to find her!
8. Use Rider Switch
If you have little ones who can’t go on certain rides, take advantage of Rider Switch. This allows one parent to ride while the other waits with the kids. I loved using this during our trip to Islands of Adventure when Jimmy was too small for the Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. It gave us a chance to enjoy the ride without the stress of waiting in line twice.
9. Be Flexible
Plans can change in a heartbeat! Sometimes, rides break down or kids get tired. Be prepared to adjust your plans. Last summer, we planned to see a parade, but Lily wasn’t feeling well. We found a quiet spot for her to rest instead, and I grabbed a coffee while the others played nearby. It turned into a lovely little break!
10. Capture the Moments
Don’t forget to take photos! The parks are filled with magical moments. I love snapping pictures of my kids with their favorite characters. Just last month, I got a sweet shot of Emma hugging Cinderella. Those photos are treasures I’ll always cherish!
Navigating Orlando’s theme parks with kids doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and a positive attitude, you can create wonderful memories that your family will treasure for years to come. Here’s to making magical moments with your little ones in the happiest place on Earth!