If you only have a few days to visit Disney World, you may be wondering which park you should skip. The answer is Epcot. I know, I know, Epcot is a beloved park but trust me, I have some really good reasons as to why it's the Disney park to skip when you simply don't have enough time to visit each one.
Overall, if you're looking for more of a thrill rides kind of day, definitely go with Animal Kingdom. For more mild rides, head to Epcot (but avoid the rides in the World Discovery neighborhood).
Magic Kingdom holds a special place in our hearts as the best Disney World park. Its nostalgic rides, captivating parades, and spectacular shows make it truly unbeatable.
As a general matter, Animal Kingdom is the park that requires the least strategy and is the easiest place to beat the crowds in all of Walt Disney World. It doesn't require Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lanes, and is pretty easy to knock out everything–and then some–if you stay for a full day.
If You Have One Long Day
Generally if you are planning to visit more than one park in a day it is best to choose from either EPCOT, Disney's Hollywood Studios or Animal Kingdom.
Hollywood Studios typically takes the Least Time of any Walt Disney World park. As one of Disney's smaller parks, this park is broken up into several areas. Get to know the Hollywood Studios map before you go, because while it has the least things to do, see and eat, it also has a rather confusing layout.
Park #1 – Magic Kingdom
This is a no-brainer. To get that Disney Bubble going, you have to go to the Magic Kingdom the first day. Walking under the train station and onto Main Street U.S.A. and seeing the castle first thing in the morning is something that fully cements you in the Disney Bubble.
Verdict: EPCOT
Hollywood Studios is heavy on the thrill and definitely has some of Disney World's best rides, but EPCOT offers a more balanced park experience that's enjoyable for a wide range of people. There's simply so much more to do at EPCOT. EPCOT is much more likely to please everyone when it comes to food, too.
If you're looking for classic park gear, Magic Kingdom is your best bet. But if you're looking for something unique, Epcot might be the spot.
There are some generalizations about the busiest days in each park which still do have some validity. Many guides suggest that you start with Magic Kingdom first, followed by Epcot and then Hollywood Studios. This leaves Animal Kingdom as the last Disney theme park to visit on your trip.
Animal Kingdom is very appropriate for kids ages 6 to 12 or any kiddos who appreciate animals and nature. The park is nicely spread out, and there's definitely a slower pace here (compared to Magic Kingdom). This allows you to go at your own pace, explore the side trails, and take in the scenery.
If you're a foodie, definitely head down to Animal Kingdom, although you might find taste testing your way around Galaxy's Edge to be fun, as well. That said, if you're a Star Wars fan or obsessed with Toy Story and other Pixar pals, Hollywood Studios is an absolute must-visit for you.
The ride that broke down the most in all of Disney World in 2022 is… Rise of the Resistance! This ride is notorious for constantly breaking down so it's no surprise that the ride tops the list this year.
For visitors who only have time for one day at a Disney Park, you may want to visit Animal Kingdom. Because it offers the least amount of rides, you have the best chance of experiencing everything Animal Kingdom has to offer.
A: As Disney adults, we think that the best park for Disney adults is EPCOT. There is always something new and exciting to do with the festivals, and we just love the attractions. The World Showcase is also full of history, with little museums and restaurants from around the globe.
With few height restrictions, many rides to choose from, and a laid-back atmosphere, EPCOT is the best Day Three park you will find. It's a theme park, a hands-on museum, an aquarium, a discovery zone, and a global adventure, all in one.
Best Days to visit Epcot
Epcot may not reach capacity as often as Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom, but some days are still better than others.
EPCOT vs Hollywood Studios Summary
Both parks are great for kids, with a few drawbacks. Kids can ride more things at EPCOT, but can have more immersion and character experiences in Hollywood Studios.
As of 2020, Disney's Hollywood Studios require the least walking. Magic Kingdom is second. The size and layout are the main reasons. Let's take a closer look at how much walking you'll do at Disney World's theme parks.
The middle week of March, the usual spring break for locals, and the weeks before and after Easter Sunday rank as the busiest spring break weeks at Walt Disney World. The busiest weeks by far would be around Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Six Days at Walt Disney World
Determine which two parks you want to see twice. I will always recommend that Magic Kingdom be your first duplicate visit, but you should really take the time to determine which other park gets your second double-up visit. Are you all about taking in more world culture? Then it is EPCOT.
The most prolific crowds at Disney are during summer break and the winter holidays. Throughout the rest of the year, you'll find the least-crowded times on weekdays when school is in session. In my experience, January, February, and November (other than Thanksgiving week) have the lowest crowds overall.
You can hop to another park in the evening to extend your park time, but it is definitely worth spending a whole day in Animal Kingdom. There are plenty of attractions to make Animal Kingdom a full day park if you are not purchasing hopper tickets.