AboutSara Expertise I can answer questions on most things to do with Walt Disney World - the resorts, the 4 major parks, the restaurants and the Disney Cruise Line.
Experience I have stayed at or been to 90% of the resorts, ridden virtually every ride, eaten at many restaurants - both sit-down and counter service and cruised on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. I have traveled to Walt Disney World over 10 times and plan vacations for myself as well as friends and family every year.
Organizations Forum Guide - Planning Your Disney Cruise Voyage - PassPorter Message Board (www.passporterboards.com), Travel Planner for www.mousefantravel.com
Publications PassPorter's Field Guide to the Disney Cruise Line
Question Hi Sara, I am taking a trip in mid July with my 2 1/2 yr old son to WDW. I wanted to try a plan ahead what would be some fun activities, areas of interest for him as well as myself. I have not been to WDW in about 20 years. My son is into characters such as Lightening McQueen(Cars), anything from Toy Story and anything to do with animals. Can you give me some tips on where to go and if certain times are available to see these characters or shows?
Thanks Deb
Answer Hi Deb,
That's a great age for a first trip! First off, plan to spend a fair amount of time in the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom. In the Magic Kingdom, you will want to check out the Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin and the Indy Speedway Race Cars. My son at that age also could have ridden Dumbo all day long and never gotten sick of it.
At Animal Kingdom there are some great live shows - Pocahontas and her Forest Friends, the Festival of the Lion King, etc. But also make time to take the train out to Rafiki's Planet Watch where there is a small petting zoo and some great indoor exhibits with animals. Plus, kids love the train ride there and back which gives you some behind the scenes glimpses of the animal care areas.
Lightning McQueen can be found at Disney's Hollywood Studios occasionally making appearances. You can find a schedule of all live show times and many character appearances at this web site: http://pages.prodigy.net/stevesoares/index.htm
Also make time for Epcot - my son at that age loved to watch the fountains, spend time with Nemo & Friends and could ride Journey Into Imagination for HOURS! There are also Kidcot stops at every country in the World Showcase where a Cast Member will help your child create a craft.
