The makeup of your group will always affect how you tour Walt Disney World, and this is doubly true if you’re bringing teens along. You do want them to have a great time, but you also want to avoid common pitfalls that can lead to meltdowns or, believe it or not, even boredom! After all, no teen wants to spend their vacation waiting in line and riding only kiddie rides. This ultimate touring plan will help you maximize the fun for your teens.
Get to the park early and head straight to the “mountains”
There are three “mountains” at Magic Kingdom: Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Splash Mountain. These are the rides most likely to excite and captivate your teens. They’re the fastest, loudest, most exciting rides in the entire Magic Kingdom. They’re also the rides with some of the longest lines.
As a result, your best plan is to get there right when the park opens and head straight to these popular attractions. You can also plan Fast Pass+ in advance to make sure you avoid the lines on these. Riding the “mountains” first also assures that your teens get their day started off with maximum thrills.
Take on the classics next
After you’ve ridden all three “mountains”, head out to some of the classic Disney rides. You can’t help but be impressed by the Walt Disney Imagineers and the incredible collection of attractions they’ve created, one or more of which are sure to dazzle even the most jaded teen.
Try out the spooky Haunted Mansion, with a perfect combination of classic Disney style dark ride and modern hologram technology, Pirates of the Caribbean with its new tie-ins to the popular movies, and even the Hall of Presidents, which, at the very least, will give you a great air conditioned break.
Teens may also enjoy the hooky, banjo-playing bears at the Country Bear Jamboree, or a relaxed ride on the Liberty Square Riverboat. Of course “it’s a small world” is one of the most popular rides in the entire world, and it’s hard to feel anything but a thrill when you hear the adorable, inspiring song.
A midday break will save you
Don’t assume that just because your teens are a little older, they can tour for hours and hours at a time without a break. Head back to your Orlando resort or vacation home for lunch to let everyone unwind, relax, and get ready for an exciting night.
Meals aren’t an afterthought
There are hundreds of restaurants in the parks and surrounding resorts. Trying new cuisines in incredibly themed restaurants can be as much of a highlight for your teen as the rides themselves. Make reservations up to 180 days in advance, and let your kids decide on which spots they’d like to try.
