Heading to Orlando with our 3 kids (9, 4, and almost 3 yr old.)
What places should we see and how many days are enough at Magic Kingdom and any of those other venues? We are looking to go in August . Any tips on keeping cool?

5 days WDW
2 Days Universal/Islands of Adventure
1 Day Sea World

Get to the parks early...(very important.)
Leave mid day for the hotel pool...relax.
Back to the park for the eveing.

Stay on-site at WDW and U/IoA if possible.

I would do 2 days at M. Kingdom and like the above mentioned, get there early, stay until about 3'ish, head back to the pool and relax. I would definately suggest Aquatica, it is a new water park (one year old) across the street from Sea World and it is awesome. Animal Kingdom is a must in my opinion, one day. I do not care for Universal or Islands of Adventure or MGM neither does my 11 year old. I would also spend at least 1-2 days poolside. Orlando has some great resorts with lazy rivers, zero entry pools, etc. that the kids will love to cool off and just relax. At night you can go to Downtown Disney and do not miss out on Rainforest Cafe, must book ahead though. Have fun - as far as tips on keeping cool - stay hydrated, wear hats, sunglasses and lots of sunblock and again relax by the pool.

Thanks fo the info. I seem to notice almost everyone is recommending heading back to the hotel pool to relax during the midday to avoid the heat.

Brysake, it's partly to avoid the heat, and partly to avoid the inevitable melt-down LOL!

How often do the buses to/from the hotels run during the day?

<b>"We are looking to go in August. Any tips on keeping cool?" </b>

I hate to be blunt, but you will be <font color="red"><b>hot</b></font>.

redc gave good advice about getting to the parks early, taking an afternoon break and returning in the evening. I would add that everybody should have plenty of sunscreen, a hat or cap, a (refillable) water bottle and maybe a folding umbrella(s) and/or a poncho. Summer is our rainy season, after all.

A few more Walt Disney World tips for new visitors....
http://www.tampabay.com/features/tra...icle945122.ece

If you're on property the busses run all day long. Make sure you find out the time for the last trip back to your hotel.

I agree with the advice to head back to the hotel/pool mid day. You will want to avoid cranky kids and parents.

Thanks for all the tips and advice! I didn't realize Aug was also rainy seaon. Many have been telling me to be ready for the daily but quick afternoon rain.
My 2 yr old will be celebrating his 3rd bday towards the end of the trip. He is pretty tall for his age to start with. Am I required to bring proof of his age ie Birth certificate? Do they give him a "ticket", wristband or whatever to enter as well? We planning to get Hopper tickets.