One of the questions we see time and time again is:
"Which Disney park should we visit first?"
If you're planning your very first Walt Disney World holiday, it's a brilliant question—and one that's well worth thinking about before you arrive.
With four incredible parks to explore, it's tempting to squeeze everything in as quickly as possible. But trust us, a little planning goes a long way.
There isn't one "right" answer, but after years of helping families plan their Disney holidays, there's an order that works really well for most first-time visitors. It keeps the excitement building, gives everyone chance to recharge and helps you make the most of every magical moment.
Here's the route we'd recommend.
Start with the Magic – Magic Kingdom
If you've dreamt about visiting Disney for years, there's really only one place to begin.
Walking through the train station, catching your first glimpse of Cinderella Castle and strolling down Main Street, U.S.A. is one of those moments you'll never forget.
It's the Disney park you've seen in the adverts, the films and all over social media. Starting anywhere else just doesn't quite have the same feeling.
Spend your day soaking it all in. Ride the classics like Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion, fly through space on Space Mountain and, if you can, finish your day watching the fireworks over the castle.
Don't worry if you don't fit everything in. Hardly anyone does on their first visit, and that's all part of the magic.
Top tip: Aim to arrive before the park opens. Those first couple of hours are often the best time to enjoy the most popular rides with shorter queues.
Slow the Pace at EPCOT
After the excitement of Magic Kingdom, EPCOT feels like a lovely change of pace.
Many first-time visitors aren't quite sure what to expect, but it's often the park that surprises people the most.
Yes, there are fantastic rides—including Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Remy's Ratatouille Adventure and Frozen Ever After—but it's also somewhere you can slow down a little.
Take your time wandering around the World Showcase, try food from different countries and enjoy the atmosphere. It doesn't feel quite as rushed as some of the other parks, which makes it the perfect choice after an action-packed first day.
If you're travelling as a couple or with older children, EPCOT often becomes an unexpected favourite.
Give Yourself a Rest Day
This might be the most important tip in the whole blog.
Please don't feel like you have to visit a park every single day.
It's incredibly tempting, especially after spending so much money on your holiday, but Disney can be surprisingly tiring. Between the heat, the walking and the excitement, everyone needs a little break.
Spend a day by the pool. Have a lazy breakfast. Pop to Disney Springs for a wander around the shops. Or simply enjoy your villa or hotel. You'll come back feeling refreshed and ready for the next adventure.
Head to Hollywood Studios
By now, you'll have found your feet and got into the Disney routine.
Hollywood Studios is packed with some of Walt Disney World's biggest attractions, making it a great choice for the second half of your trip.
If anyone in your family loves Star Wars, they'll be in their element. Walking into Galaxy's Edge really does feel like stepping onto another planet.
Even if you're not a huge Star Wars fan, rides like Rise of the Resistance, Slinky Dog Dash, Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway and Tower of Terror make this park well worth visiting.
It can feel quite busy because it's a smaller park, so having a rough plan for your day really helps.
Finish with Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom is often the park people know the least about before they arrive—and then end up absolutely loving.
It's peaceful, beautifully themed and unlike any other Disney park.
Of course, Flight of Passage is an absolute must-do, but don't rush from ride to ride.
Take time to explore the walking trails, watch the animals on Kilimanjaro Safaris and make sure you see Festival of the Lion King. It's one of the best live shows anywhere at Walt Disney World.
Many families like to finish their day with an early evening meal before heading back to relax. It's the perfect way to round off your Disney adventure.
Should You Visit Some Parks More Than Once?
If you're visiting Orlando for two weeks, we'd definitely say yes.
Most families find they could happily spend two days at Magic Kingdom and another two at EPCOT or Hollywood Studios.
The second visit is often even better because you're no longer trying to work everything out.
You know where you're going, you've found your favourite snacks and you can simply enjoy the day without feeling like you need to rush.
Remember... There's No Wrong Way to Do Disney
One of the biggest mistakes first-time visitors make is trying to have the "perfect" holiday.
The truth is, there isn't one. You won't ride everything. You won't see every show. You probably won't eat at every restaurant on your wish list. And that's absolutely fine.
Some of the best Disney memories come from the moments you didn't plan—stopping for an ice cream, bumping into your favourite character or watching the fireworks with your family at the end of a long, happy day.
So don't worry about ticking every box. Take lots of photos, enjoy the little moments and remember why you booked the holiday in the first place.
Planning Makes Everything Easier
Having a rough plan before you travel doesn't take away the magic—it actually gives you more time to enjoy it.
Our Sunshine Smile Prints Walt Disney World Daily Park Planner has been designed to help you organise each park day without making your holiday feel over-planned. With space for ride priorities, dining reservations, packing lists and daily notes, it's the perfect companion for first-time visitors who want to feel prepared while still leaving room for plenty of Disney magic.
We hope this guide helps you feel a little more confident as you start planning your adventure. Your first Walt Disney World holiday is something you'll remember for years to come, and we can't wait for you to experience it.