Disney

The following day was dedicated to the Magic Kingdom—the quintessential Disney park where the iconic Disney castle is located. This is probably the park most people think of when they picture Disneyland, and it’s very similar to what you’d find in other Disney parks around the world.

We planned our visit with the kids in mind, focusing on attractions and experiences that suited their ages. Even with the careful planning, we managed to fill an entire day with magical experiences.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly our reservation at the Be Our Guest restaurant inside the Beauty and the Beast castle. Dining in such a beautifully themed environment was incredible, and the kids were thrilled when the Beast made a special guest appearance.

After we’d wrapped up our day at the Magic Kingdom, we took a side trip to visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge—a hotel I had initially considered booking. The lodge has a unique feature: a backyard full of wild animals roaming freely, creating a safari-like atmosphere. After seeing it in person, I’m convinced this is where we’ll stay if we ever return to Disney World. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and Disney magic, making it an ideal choice for our next visit.