Best Tips for Taking Your Grandkids to Disney World

A trip to Walt Disney World is a magical experience. When you bring your grandchildren along, it becomes even more special.

Walt Disney envisioned a place where adults and children alike could experience joy together. Today, the parks continue to offer unforgettable memories for families of all generations.

However, planning a trip with grandchildren requires some additional considerations. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, here are the best tips and tricks to create an unforgettable Disney adventure with your grandkids.

1. Choosing the Right Accommodations

Selecting the right place to stay before embarking on your Disney vacation is essential. Disney offers a variety of accommodations tailored to different family needs and budgets.

Best Disney Resorts for Families

If you’re traveling with grandchildren, you’ll want to ensure that everyone has enough space to relax after long days in the parks.

Options range from standard hotel rooms with two queen beds to family suites or even deluxe villas featuring multiple bedrooms and common areas.

• Value Resorts: Budget-friendly, creatively themed resorts that capture Disney’s playful spirit, and larger-than-life Disney character designs.
• Moderate Resorts: A balance of affordability and comfort, often featuring larger pools with slides.
• Deluxe Resorts & Villas: Spacious accommodations, direct transportation to the parks, and luxurious amenities.

Consider whether your grandchildren need their own beds or a separate sleeping area. If traveling with little ones, having a kitchenette can be a great way to prepare quick meals and snacks.

Resort Amenities Matter

Different resorts offer unique amenities that can enhance your stay. If your grandchildren love swimming, consider a resort with an exciting pool area.

Resorts like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort or Disney’s Beach Club Resort feature expansive pools with slides. Others offer fun splash zones for younger kids.

For convenience, resorts with easy access to the monorail, Skyliner, or boat transportation can make getting to and from the parks much easier. This is especially useful with strollers or tired little feet.

2. Planning Park Days with Grandchildren

Disney Park Must-See Attractions

Including your grandchildren in the planning process makes them feel involved and excited about the trip.

Go through each park and discuss their top must-do attractions and experiences. Having a plan ensures that everyone gets to experience their favorite rides while also allowing for flexibility.

Some kid-friendly favorites include:

• Magic Kingdom: Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Peter Pan’s Flight, and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
• EPCOT: Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Frozen Ever After, and Spaceship Earth.
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Toy Story Mania, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, and Alien Swirling Saucers.
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Kilimanjaro Safaris and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!

How to Avoid Long Waits with Kids

Disney can be overwhelming, even for adults. Grandchildren are likely to get tired faster, especially with the Florida heat and long walking distances.

To avoid meltdowns, try to stick to their usual eating and sleeping schedule as much as possible.

• Naps and Breaks: If your grandkids still take naps at home, plan a midday break at the resort.
• Meal Times: Plan meals in advance and consider table-service dining experiences where kids can relax while enjoying their food.
• Snack Strategy: Pack snacks to keep energy levels up between meals. Consider bringing fresh fruit, granola bars, or crackers.

3. Packing Smart for a Disney Trip

Packing wisely is key to making your Disney trip more comfortable. Florida weather can be unpredictable, so bringing the right gear is essential.

Essentials for Grandchildren:

• Comfortable Shoes: Expect lots of walking, so choose supportive footwear.
• Weather Protection: Sunscreen, hats, ponchos, and portable fans.
• Entertainment: Small toys, coloring books, or tablets for long waits.
• Health & Safety Items: Hand sanitizer, band-aids, and motion sickness medication if needed.
• Memory Maker: Purchase Memory Maker to capture professional Disney PhotoPass photos.

4. Enjoying Dining Experiences

Dining at Disney is part of the fun, and with grandkids, it’s even more special.

Character dining experiences can create lifelong memories while allowing kids to meet their favorite Disney characters without long lines.

Top Character Dining Experiences:

• Magic Kingdom: Cinderella’s Royal Table or The Crystal Palace
• EPCOT: Garden Grill Restaurant (Mickey, Pluto, and Chip ‘n’ Dale)
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Hollywood & Vine (Disney Junior characters at breakfast)
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Tusker House Restaurant (Donald Duck and friends in safari outfits)

Make reservations well in advance through the My Disney Experience app. Character meals tend to be booked quickly.

5. Navigating the Parks with Grandchildren

Use Lightning Lane Passes

To minimize wait times, consider utilizing Disney’s Lightning Lane service. This paid feature allows you to reserve access to select attractions, reducing the amount of time spent in line. Prioritize using Lightning Lane for must-do rides like Frozen Ever After, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure.

Take Advantage of Rider Swap

If you have grandchildren who are too young or unwilling to ride certain attractions, Disney’s Rider Swap program can help.

One adult can ride while another waits with the child. Then, the adults can switch without having to wait in line again.

Be Flexible

While having a plan is important, it’s equally crucial to go with the flow. If your grandchild wants to ride the same attraction multiple times or suddenly takes an interest in an unexpected activity, embrace the moment. Some of the best Disney memories come from unplanned experiences.

6. Managing Disney’s Souvenir Temptations

Disney places souvenir shops at the exit of almost every ride. This makes it easy for kids to want everything they see.

To avoid constant requests, set a budget beforehand. One great way to manage this is by giving each grandchild a Disney gift card with a set amount to spend during the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time of year to visit Disney with grandkids?
Avoid peak holiday seasons for lower crowds and better weather. Spring and fall tend to be great times to visit.

Are there stroller rentals at Disney World?
Yes! Disney offers stroller rentals at each park and Disney Springs. You can rent them for a day or for the entire trip.

How can I make Disney more affordable for a large family trip?
Consider staying at a Value Resort, bringing your own snacks, and purchasing souvenirs in advance to save money.

Final Thoughts

Taking your grandchildren to Walt Disney World is an incredible opportunity to create lasting memories. By planning ahead, keeping their needs in mind, and embracing the magic, you’ll set the stage for an unforgettable family adventure.

Whether it’s riding Dumbo together, watching Happily Ever After, or simply enjoying an ice cream break, these moments will become cherished memories for years to come.

Have you taken your grandkids to Walt Disney World? What were their favorite moments? Share your magical memories in the comments!