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Well-Paced Itinerary

The Perfect 5-Day Disney Itinerary

Our well-paced 5-day plan includes a rest day and covers all four Disney parks with plenty of downtime. Perfect for families who want to experience everything without rushing.

July 18, 2024
15 min read
Family Travel
5-Day Disney Itinerary

This 5-day itinerary is perfect for families who want to experience all four Disney parks without feeling rushed. We include a dedicated rest day and strategic timing to maximize fun while minimizing fatigue.

Day 1 – Magic Kingdom

Morning Strategy

  • 8:00 AM:Hotel breakfast + Target run for snacks
  • 9:00 AM:Rope drop MK – Fantasyland & Tomorrowland highlights
  • Mom Tip: Pre-book Genie+ for one headliner (Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or Space Mountain)

Afternoon Break

  • 12:30 PM:Return for pool + sandwiches in your suite
  • 2:30 PM:Nap or quiet play by the waterslide
  • Mom Tip: Pack reusable water bottles to refill at the hotel and avoid park drink prices

Day 2 – Rest & Disney Springs

A full rest day is crucial for preventing burnout, especially with kids. Disney Springs offers shopping, dining, and entertainment without the intensity of the parks.

Relaxed Morning

  • 9:30 AM:Sleep in + hotel breakfast
  • 11:00 AM:Explore Flamingo Crossings Town Center (Five Below, Walgreens)
  • Mom Tip: Let the kids each pick one small souvenir—keeps them engaged cheaply

Disney Springs Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM:Brunch at Hash House A Go Go (share farm scrambles & chicken waffles)
  • 3:00 PM:Mom pedicure at Luxor Nails & Spa + kids pool time
  • Mom Tip: Split entrées; huge portions make sharing easy on the budget

Day 3 – Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is perfect for a full day of exploration. The park's natural beauty and animal encounters provide a different kind of Disney magic.

Pandora Strategy

  • 8:00 AM:Breakfast + drive to AK
  • 8:45 AM:Pandora – Flight of Passage / Na'vi River Journey
  • Mom Tip: Rider Switch the 5-year-old while the teens & I do Flight of Passage

Day 4 – Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios is packed with thrills and entertainment. This day focuses on Star Wars, Toy Story, and the amazing shows.

Star Wars & Toy Story

  • 8:00 AM:Hotel breakfast
  • 9:00 AM:Rope drop – Slinky Dog Dash, Toy Story Mania
  • Mom Tip: Use Early Entry benefit (30 min early) to ride Slinky Dog with minimal wait

Day 5 – Epcot & Farewell

Our final day at Epcot is perfect for a more relaxed pace while still experiencing the magic of the World Showcase and Future World.

Epcot Highlights

  • 8:00 AM:Quick breakfast + drive to Epcot
  • 9:00 AM:Guardians coaster & Test Track
  • Mom Tip: Single-rider line for Test Track speeds it up if kids meet height req.

FAQs for 5-Day Itinerary

Q: Is one rest day enough?

A: Yes—a full mid-trip day for chilling by the pool and a Disney Springs outing keeps fatigue at bay.

Q: Where can we eat healthily near Disney?

A: Lime Fresh, Satu'li Canteen, and Sunshine Seasons offer lighter, fresh options.

Q: Do we need a rental car?

A: Strongly recommended—Flamingo Crossings isn't served by Disney buses, and a car gives full flexibility.

Ready for More Itineraries?

Check out our 7-day grand tour or 3-day weekend warrior plan!

View 3-Day Itinerary