A Perfect Day

Early birds don't just get the worm in these parts; they also skip the lines. Consider kicking off the fun-filled festivities as the gates open to Walt Disney World's sprawling theme parks, which is typically at 9 a.m. While other families are still rolling out of bed or noshing pancakes, your merry brood will already be halfway around Magic Kingdom Park. Hit all the favorites, especially the new attractions inside Fantasyland, long before the lines become a spectacle of their own.

Snag a table for an early lunch at the ultra-popular Be Our Guest Restaurant, where a lavishly decorated dining room resurrects the regal backdrop from the beloved animated feature film Beauty and the Beast. Then you'll have just enough time to hit a few more rides before heading out with your stamina still intact. No need to wear yourselves out when you can go back tomorrow.

With the day still young, make a few stops at some of the family-friendly attractions along Kissimmee's main drag, U.S. Highway 192. Here a bevy of glee-inducing spots awaits, including Congo River Golf, where more than a few families have unleashed their competitive nature in the name of putt-putt victory. Fulfill a need for speed on the world-renowned go-cart tracks at Fun Spot USA, and then challenge your peeps to a game of laser tag at Old Town next door. These popular family attractions are designed with tight itineraries in mind.

No need for the revelry to let up during the dinner hour thanks to the many dinner shows in the area, including Medieval Times, one of the area's oldest entertainment-based dining establishments. Inside the charming castle walls lies the Grand Ceremonial Arena, where guests experience the famous jousting tournament and feast. Costumed performers serve up true medieval fare (including gargantuan roasted turkey legs) as the crowd goes wild cheering for the knights who face off against each other with a demonstration of unrivaled equestrian skills and knightly prowess.

Finally, those families lucky enough to have a responsible teen in their midst might consider planning a mom and dad date night out on the town in Celebration. Perched along the Pleasantville-esque streets in Celebration's Town Center and overlooking Lake Celebration's shimmering waters, several great restaurants stand ready to delight diners with everything from pub grub and classic Spanish tapas to sushi and Italian cuisine. Share a towering sundae at a retro dinner, sip some vino at a wine bar or devour a hot New York-style pizza. Then cap the night off with a starlit horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming streets of the country's favorite Americana town.