7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary to Disney World Orlando

Wednesday, December 20: Arrival in Orlando

Welcome to Orlando! Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and unwind. Spend the morning exploring the hotel facilities and enjoying some family time. In the afternoon, head to Disney Springs, a vibrant shopping and dining district with entertainment options for all ages. You can visit the LEGO Store, enjoy a meal at T-REX Cafe, and catch a movie at AMC Disney Springs 24 theater. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll around the beautiful Lake Buena Vista area.

• Disney Springs: Free admission, 4-5 hours

Thursday, December 21: Magic Kingdom

Get ready for a magical day at Magic Kingdom, the iconic park that will transport you into the world of fairy tales and Disney characters. Start your day with the classic rides like "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "It's a Small World." Enjoy a character dining experience for lunch at Cinderella's Royal Table or Be Our Guest Restaurant. In the afternoon, catch the parades and fireworks, and don't miss the enchanting "Happily Ever After" nighttime spectacular.

• Magic Kingdom: $109 (1-day ticket), 8-12 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, grab a quick bite at The Crystal Palace, a charming restaurant located inside Magic Kingdom. Enjoy a buffet-style breakfast with Pooh and Friends. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
• For lunch, experience the magic at Be Our Guest Restaurant, a must-visit dining destination inspired by Disney's "Beauty and the Beast." Indulge in French-inspired cuisine surrounded by the enchanting atmosphere of Beast's Castle. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
• For dinner, head to Tony's Town Square Restaurant, located on Main Street U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom. This Italian-American eatery offers a cozy ambiance and delicious pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $35 per person.

Friday, December 22: Epcot

Embark on a journey around the world at Epcot, where you can explore different countries, experience future technologies, and indulge in delicious international cuisine. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Spaceship Earth attraction, followed by a stroll through the World Showcase, where you can immerse yourself in the culture of 11 different countries. In the evening, don't miss the stunning fireworks show, "Epcot Forever."

• Epcot: $109 (1-day ticket), 8-10 hours

Saturday, December 23: Hollywood Studios

Step into the world of movies and entertainment at Hollywood Studios. Begin your day by experiencing the thrilling attractions like the "Tower of Terror" and "Rock 'n' Roller Coaster." Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater or the 50's Prime Time Cafe. In the afternoon, catch the popular live shows like "Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular" and "Beauty and the Beast-Live on Stage." End your day with the spectacular nighttime show, "Fantasmic!"

• Hollywood Studios: $109 (1-day ticket), 8-10 hours

Sunday, December 24: Animal Kingdom

Discover the wonders of nature and wildlife at Animal Kingdom. Begin your day with the thrilling "Expedition Everest" roller coaster and then explore the immersive Pandora - The World of Avatar. Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at the Rainforest Cafe or Tusker House Restaurant. In the afternoon, embark on a safari adventure in the Kilimanjaro Safaris and witness the stunning "Festival of the Lion King" show. Wrap up your day with the mesmerizing nighttime show, "Rivers of Light."

• Animal Kingdom: $109 (1-day ticket), 8-10 hours

Monday, December 25: Relaxation and Resort Activities

Take a break from the theme parks and enjoy the amenities and activities offered by your resort. Spend the morning by the pool, participate in fun family games, or indulge in a spa treatment. In the afternoon, explore the resort grounds and take a stroll around the picturesque lake. Enjoy a festive Christmas dinner at one of the resort's restaurants and end the day with holiday-themed activities and entertainment.

• Resort Activities: Varies based on the resort

Tuesday, December 26: Volcano Bay Water Park

Beat the Florida heat and dive into the fun at Universal's Volcano Bay Water Park. Experience thrilling water slides, relax in the lazy river, and enjoy the tropical paradise atmosphere. Grab lunch at one of the park's many dining options, such as Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club. Spend the afternoon exploring the different attractions and water play areas. End your day with the mesmerizing "Volcano Bay Water Pageant" before heading back to your hotel.

• Volcano Bay: $80 (1-day ticket), 6-8 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Orlando, don't miss out on these family-friendly hidden gems and local favorites:

1. The Orlando Science Center: An interactive museum with hands-on exhibits, live shows, and a planetarium.

2. Gatorland: A unique wildlife park where you can get up close and personal with alligators, crocodiles, and other animals.

3. Crayola Experience: Let your creativity soar at this colorful attraction filled with interactive exhibits and art activities.

4. ICON Park: Enjoy breathtaking views of Orlando from the observation wheel, indulge in delicious dining options, and explore unique attractions like Madame Tussauds and SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium.

5. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: If you're a fan of the magical world of Harry Potter, be sure to visit Universal Orlando Resort and explore Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices on Kayak.