Hi everyone!
We're heading to Orlando on a spur of the moment trip (in 2 weeks), but only for 3 days (Wed-Fri), and we're looking for suggestions for the best parks for a 7 yr old boy and what he would enjoy during those 3 days. I'm thinking of Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios for day 1 and 2, but am undecided as to whether to do Sea World or Epcot (leaning toward Sea World) for day 3 (which is a shortened day - driving to Ft. Lauderdale). Any thoughts/ideas/suggestions would be very much appreciated! also, any don't miss attractions? It's been a long time since I've been to Orlando... thanks so much!! Tanya

Epcot is a lot more "kid friendly" than, to me, it was originally. I was there last year with nieces and nephews, and the two around the seven year old area loved "Soarin'" at Epcot as well as the Test Track. So much depends on the individual kid, of course, but I'd put Animal Kingdom in there for most seven year olds, probably ahead of Hollywood Studios. And actually, Magic Kingdom was more a fave of the five-and-unders. Again, a lot depends on his particular interests. Of course there is the factor of a three day Disney pass possibly being less expensive than two day plus Sea World would be.

I agree the Sea World will be a popular choice, but so would Animal Kingdom.

Without question you should spend your 3 days in Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and then a Disney Waterpark(unless he just doesn't like waterparks). The waterparks are our favorites. You could do a little at Epcot or MGM if you have a little extra time anywhere. There is plenty to do at Disney, stay as close as you can and do as much as you can.

I would suggest Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Sea World. Our kids were only 6 and 4 when we took them on their first trip to WDW, and they truly loved MK and Sea World. This was pre-Animal Kingdom. As far as EPCOT's concerned, your child may possibly only enjoy the rides but probably won't be able to relate to the Future World exhibits. That's what happened with my kids - they got a little fidgety at EPCOT. Not sure if a water park is a good idea because it can sometimes get a little chilly in October over there.

When you go to Animal Kingdom, make sure to bring a change of clothes (including socks), because you WILL get wet if you go on the rides. My kids and DH enjoyed all the water rides at that park!

thanks so much for the input! I really appreciate it. The last time I was at WDW, AK had just opened, and while it was fun, it seemed more like a really cool zoo...but that was a long time ago. Also, back then, Epcot didn't have a lot for kids, but I do think my guy would enjoy Soarin' and Test Track - just didn't want to go to Epcot for 2 or 3 attractions... And we are staying (yikes!) at the Nick Hotel which looks to have a decent water park/slide situation, so I thought I could skip the water parks...? though the 3 day hopper might be a good idea! I liked the idea of the Sea World shows too, but the rides there seem very adult. Also, anyone seen Fantasmic at Hollywood Studios? It plays two days a week... on Friday afternoon, we head to Ft. Lauderdale for the adult part of the trip - wanted to avoid Disney on the weekend, but a nice calm hotel and beach will probably be a bit of a letdown after all this! thanks again!!

Fantasmic is well, fantasmic. It is really good.

I think Magic Kingdom and Sea World are no brainers. For the 3rd day I would do Animal Kingdom - unless he has no interest in them. Epcot has some things for kids, but I think is better for 10 or so up - and the Movie Studios are lesser - since a 7 year old might well be too small for many of the exciting rides.