The Ultimate 4-Day Walt Disney World Plan

Of course, you could spend every single moment at Walt Disney World indulging in food and drinks, but we’ll reluctantly acknowledge that the resort has other attractions to offer as well.

While locals might pop in for dinner at Epcot and some dedicated families enjoy extended stays at the resorts, most Disney World visitors typically spend four days exploring everything the parks have in store. Here’s our opinionated guide on making the most of your time. If you haven’t secured fastpasses in advance, check out our suggestions below. If possible, book them online or through the app the morning before.

Day 1: Epcot

9 am: Start your day by securing fast passes for Mission Space, Soarin', and choose between a nostalgic journey on Spaceship Earth or a fun, mind-blowing experience with Turtle Talk with Crush.

9:15 - 9:45 am: Head directly to France (skipping the tempting Starbucks) for a relaxing breakfast and coffee to kick off your day with a sense of superiority.

10 am - 1 pm: Return to Future World for a few hours of fun: Enjoy Journey Into Imagination, Soarin', Living with the Land, Turtle Talk, and Nemo.

1:15 pm: Stroll back through the World Showcase to Morocco’s Tangierine Cafe. Grab a lamb, falafel, or shawarma wrap for lunch, and don’t forget to pick up a Sultan's Colada from the stand outside as you head towards Mexico for another drink.

Top left clockwise: The Living With the Land attraction, the France Pavilion, poutine from Le Cellier steakhouse in Canada, and shopping in Japan.

2 - 3 pm: Explore your selected countries — don’t miss the exceptional shopping experiences in Japan, France, and China.

3 - 4 pm: Enjoy a tequila tasting at La Cava de Tequila and embark on the Gran Fiesta Tour, the ride through Mexico.

4 - 6 pm: Wrap up your visit to Future World with Mission Space, Living with the Land (check out the hydroponics!), and Test Track.

7 - 9 pm: Dine at Canada’s Le Cellier. Savor the cheese soup, a hearty steak, poutine, and the charcuterie board.

9 pm: Watch Illuminations.

9:30 pm: Still have some pep in your step? See if any park has Extra Magic Hours. If not, head to Disney Springs for margaritas at Dockside Margaritas and dessert at Amorette’s Patisserie.

Day 2: Magic Kingdom

8 am: Plan your breakfast before heading to the park, which now allows entry to Main Street, U.S.A. before official opening. Consider a character breakfast at Cinderella’s Royal Table (meet Cinderella and other princesses in the castle) or Crystal Palace (a buffet with Winnie the Pooh and friends), among a few other options throughout the park.

Next, grab your Fast Passes for Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, and Splash Mountain (or Peter Pan's Flight for the kids, as that line is often quite long).

Organize your visit based on your Fast Pass schedule, your group's needs, and any must-see attractions. Don’t miss these food stops: Starbucks on Main Street for a coffee boost, an ice cream sandwich from Plaza Ice Cream Parlor, and a refreshing Dole Whip or Citrus Swirl for a second treat.

Time to leave for dinner. The park's dining options aren’t particularly impressive and there’s no wine to unwind with. Instead, head to Flying Fish on the Boardwalk or California Grill at the Contemporary Resort. Cap off your evening with a nightcap at Trader Sam's in the Polynesian Village Resort.

Day 3: Hollywood Studios/Relax by the Pool

9 am: Arrive at Hollywood Studios and secure your Fast Passes: Tower of Terror, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, and either Toy Story Mania or Slinky Dog Dash, depending on availability.

9:30 am: Grab your caffeine fix at Starbucks

9:45 am - 1 pm: Try to experience as many top attractions as possible before lunchtime. Prioritize the key rides mentioned earlier, including Star Tours. For a break from the sun, enjoy Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular and Muppet*Vision 3D for a more relaxed experience.

1 pm: Enjoy lunch and drinks at 50's Prime Time Cafe.

2:30 - 4 pm: Catch up on any rides you missed before lunch.

4 - 7 pm: Head back to your hotel to relax by the pool.

7:30 pm: Dine at one of the many restaurants in Disney Springs, at a hotel like California Grill, or if you have park-hopper tickets, return to Epcot for some delicious pizza at Via Napoli.

Day 4: Animal Kingdom/Epcot

9 am: With the buzz around the stunningly beautiful Avatar-themed area, your primary goal will be to determine the best time to tackle the Flight of Passage queue. Start your day with breakfast and secure Fastpasses for Kilimanjaro Safaris, Expedition Everest, or Kali River Rapids as you go.

10 am - 1 pm: Enjoy the other attractions between your Fast Pass slots, including the immersive Pagani Forest Exploration Trail and the fascinating Maharaja Jungle Trek.

1 pm: Head to Harambe Market in Africa for delicious ribs and gyros, or choose Pandora’s Satu’li Canteen for flavorful chicken thigh or crispy tofu grain bowls. For dessert, try Pineapple Whip with a splash of dark rum at Tamu Tamu near Harambe, or indulge in the Canteen’s quirky orb-shaped cakes.

Above: A delightful spread at Harambe Market. Below: Refreshing Pineapple Whip soft serve with a hint of rum at Tamu Tamu and tuna tartare at Monsieur Paul in Epcot's France pavilion.

4 - 5:30 pm: Finish up any remaining attractions and Fast Pass reservations. Then catch a cab over to Epcot.

6 pm: Enjoy an apertivo in Italy at Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar. We suggest trying the Red Passion (a blend of Campari and grapefruit juice) or Carpano Punt e Mes with a hint of orange zest.

8 pm: Dine at Chefs de France and savor some ice cream from the neighboring Les Glaces.

End the evening with a final nightcap at Trader Sam's in the Polynesian Resort.