The ONE Disney World Park That's Perfect For Your First Day (and NO, It's Not Magic Kingdom)

So you’ve done it and you’re on your way to Disney World.

Disney World

You’ve driven or flown (or taken the train) to your Disney World hotel and you’re all checked in. Now, this is not technically your first day in Disney World, as it’s not a full day, so maybe you spend some time enjoying your resort, or you’ll be taking advantage of that free water park ticket perk on your check-in day. Now, your full first day is the NEXT day and it’s probably your first park day. You’ll probably be tempted to go to Magic Kingdom first, but we’ve got a BETTER plan.

Okay, so here’s what you want to do: go to Animal Kingdom on your first full park day. Now, hear us out. We KNOW you’re going to want to see Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom and get those magic feelings when you take that first step onto Main Street, U.S.A. BUT we think going to Animal Kingdom FIRST is way better.

Animal Kingdom

First, if you’re traveling with kids who’ve never been to Disney World before, starting in Magic Kingdom can be SUPER overwhelming — seriously, it is a LOT. There is SO much to see and do: tons of rides, loads of characters, and a lot of moments that can result in full-on sensory overload for kids and adults alike.

Magic Kingdom can be overwhelming

However, Animal Kingdom has a whole other vibe. This is the most CHILL park of all four of Disney World’s parks. Plus there are things to see and do that won’t overload your senses. There are rides, of course, but there are also walking trails to see animals that are downright peaceful and not full of lights, sounds, and smells just EVERYWHERE like in the other parks.

Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail

Sure, there aren’t a lot of rides in Animal Kingdom, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t things to do. In addition to the walking trails, there’s the underrated Affection Section at Rafiki’s Planet Watch where you can pet some of the animals that call Animal Kingdom home. There’s even a drawing class in this part of the park where you can learn to draw a Disney character. Like we said, CHILL. It’s a great way to ease you and your kids into the whole Disney World thing.

Affection Section

This easy pace is the perfect way to start your Disney World trip. Honestly, we prefer to save Magic Kingdom for our last day because by then, we’re ready to tackle Disney World’s most overwhelming park, plus it’s a great way to end the magic on a high note (especially if you stick around for the Happily Ever After fireworks).

Happily Ever After fireworks in Magic Kingdom

Are we biased when we tell you to start your Disney World vacation in Animal Kingdom? Probably. It IS AJ’s favorite park, and well, a lot of us on the DFB team are inclined to agree. So when you visit Disney World, consider making Animal Kingdom your first day — you can thank us later.

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Which park do you usually start your Disney World vacation in? Let us know in the comments!