When people ask me what is the single most important, most utilized tip that I give to families, I don’t hesitate. My number one, best tip of every tip that I have is:
Take. The. Nap.
That’s right. Take the nap. You can spot the families from a mile away that have not taken heed of this sage advice. They are the ones with a crying toddler that won’t ride in the stroller. They are the family that by 4:00pm just doesn’t look like they are having fun anymore. They are the group that has stopped in the middle of the walkways with a dazed look on their face and are getting run over by strollers and scooters alike.
I know it’s hard to leave a park when it seems like everyone still has plenty of gas left. The bad news is – everyone starts to run out of steam at different times, so it’s hard to gauge.
So, do your family a favor. Call a time out at around 2 pm. It doesn’t have to be right after lunch, heck – most people have a burst of energy after they eat. Take advantage of that! But, when that second wind wears off, head back to your resort. Ok, I can hear you saying that your kids gave up naps at age 4. So did mine. Except…at Disney. Lay down on your bed, close those wonderful blackout curtains and 95% of the time…zzzzzzzzzz. Even if they don’t conk out, they are relaxing and rejuvenating. I promise, it will all be worth it when you: make it to the fireworks with your little ones awake and engaged, are able to really enjoy that dinnertime character meal, and can enjoy the smaller lines as the meltdown families head for the hills around 7pm.
IF you cannot bear to leave the parks…here are some places to cool down, close your eyes for a minute or two, and recharge for a few minutes.
Magic Kingdom – Disney’s Philharmagic: Plenty of AC, comfy seats,and a dark theater to close your eyes. Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover – you can ride this as many times in a row as you want – there is virtually never a line and each time around takes a full 10 minutes.
Epcot – Epcot France pavilion – The 18 minute movie is Impressions de France. The smooshy seats and French classical music make this a great place just to close your eyes for a moment and rest.
Hollywood Studios – The Muppet Movie 2D: Another movie with plenty of time to sit and enjoy the AC.
Animal Kingdom – Ride the train. You can board and ride continuously. Heed this tip: Sit near the back of the train to avoid the loud whistle!
Remember this – You do NOT have to do it all. If you did every single thing at Disney you would have no reason to return! Slow down, avoid the crankiness (adults, not kids!), bypass the meltdowns, and have an overall better vacation…by TAKING THE NAP.
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You can also take your kids to the Free Activity at Lego Store Downtown Disney.
Learn more tips and tricks for your next Walt Disney World vacation. Destinations in Florida can also help you add tips and tricks to your next vacation.
I used Cameron for my Disney trip and he helped plan our trip for this June to Hawaii. Best travel agent ever.
we would get up early in the morning. Have a healthy breakfast go until 1pm. Come back the the hotel the boys would go down to the pool to unwind while the girls all took naps. Get up and showered by 5 pm have a delicious dinner and start all over again…. so yes do nap!
My whole family ended up taking a little catnap in the Carousel of Progress! It wasn’t intentional. We were all just hot and tired when we got there I guess..LOL!
Amen. Best. Advice. Ever. :)
Aw, thanks! :)