Planning a trip to Disney World with kids can feel a bit overwhelming. Between the parks, the dining, the transportation, and trying to fit in all the magic without ending up with a crew of overtired, hangry children—where do you even start with a Disney World itinerary?

That’s exactly why I put together this 8-day Disney World itinerary. It’s a sample plan based on how my family of eight (yes, six kids!) approaches our Disney vacations. It’s designed around a 5-day park pass, with time to play, rest, and soak up the magic—without feeling like you’re sprinting from rope drop to fireworks every single day. Of course, if you love rope drop to fireworks, I’m right there with you!

Disney World Itinerary Day One: Travel & Settle In

 This is your travel day. We fly across the country, which usually means we arrive in the mid to late afternoon. After checking into the resort, we take some time to explore, grab dinner, and settle in. If your flight lands earlier, consider heading to Disney Springs for shopping, snacks, or just walking around. Or hit the pool for a relaxing start to the trip.

Day Two: Magic Kingdom 

There’s no better way to kick off a Disney World itinerary than with Magic Kingdom. This is a full-day park filled with classic rides, characters, and shows. We spend the day bouncing between favorite rides, watching the parade, and soaking in those iconic castle views. This is a great park to mix rope dropping and Lightning Lanes for top attractions, and don’t miss the fireworks to end your first park day with a bang.

Disney World Itinerary Day Three: EPCOT 

After a big Magic Kingdom day, EPCOT is a great follow-up. Yes, it involves a lot of walking, but it has a more relaxed vibe. This is our day for discovering new cultures in the World Showcase, riding Soarin’ and Frozen Ever After, and snacking around the world. There are also a TON of great characters here. If you have a princess loving kid, this is the park for them. It’s also an ideal time for a park hop back to Magic Kingdom in the evening if there are rides or shows you didn’t get to on Day Two. But we will get to park hopping later.

Day Four: Hollywood Studios

 Hollywood Studios is packed with exciting experiences for all ages—from Toy Story Land to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Lightning Lane Multipass & Single Pass can be extra helpful here with popular rides like Slinky Dog Dash and Rise of the Resistance. This is a busier-feeling park, so having a slightly more chill day at EPCOT before helps balance things out.

Day Five: Rest Day 

You deserve a break! And so does everyone else. We plan a resort day in the middle of our Disney World itinerary. Sleep in, go swimming, join a Mickey tie-dye activity at the resort, or head to Disney Springs for shopping and treats. This is the perfect time to recharge before the next round of park days.

Day Six: Animal Kingdom 

Animal Kingdom feels like a magical blend of zoo, jungle adventure, and theme park. Start early for the best shot at Flight of Passage or head straight to the safari. We love the mix of shows, rides, and animal trails. This park typically closes earlier, so plan a relaxing evening back at the hotel or even squeeze in another park hop if you’re up for it.

Day Seven: Magic Kingdom (Again!) 

There’s a reason we return to Magic Kingdom before heading home. It’s everyone’s favorite and the perfect way to round out the trip. Use this second visit to catch anything you missed, repeat favorites, or take it slower with snacks, shows, and people-watching on Main Street, U.S.A.

Day Eight: Travel Home 

Time to head home. Depending on your flight, you might have time for one last stroll through Disney Springs or a quick dip in the pool. If you’re up early and have a late flight, you could even squeeze in one last park visit.

Bonus Disney World Itinerary Tips: Park Hopping to Maximize the Magic

 If your family has the energy (and the park hopper option), this is a great way to add flexibility. We love hopping back to Magic Kingdom in the evenings after EPCOT or Hollywood Studios. It let us ride favorites again or catch missed characters like Elsa and Anna.

This Disney World itinerary isn’t about doing it all—it’s about doing enough to make it magical while keeping the whole family happy. With smart planning and built-in downtime, your trip can be full of joy and connection—without the stress. Because the real magic? It’s in those little moments between the big rides

Want to see this itinerary in action? Follow our Disney Vlog Series on YouTube.

Find more inspiration on the blog, like Splurges That are Worth the Money or How to Save Big on Disney Resorts.