Through Their Eyes: 10 Magical Moments to Share with Your Grandchildren at Walt Disney World

Nothing quite compares to seeing Cinderella's Castle for the very first time...except maybe seeing it through your grandchild’s eyes. That spark of wonder, the unfiltered joy, the gasp of recognition when they spot their favorite character - this is the heart of Disney magic. And as a grandparent, you have the incredible opportunity to be part of those moments, right beside them.

Even the youngest guests will delight in the music, colors, and surprises around every corner, and with thoughtful planning, this trip can become a memory they’ll remember forever - one filled with laughter, discovery, and you at the very center of it all.

As someone who grew up visiting Disneyland with my grandmother, I can tell you firsthand: those trips leave a mark on your heart. Every memory of my childhood at the parks includes her whistling along to the music, chatting with the horticulturists outside "it’s a small world," or gripping my hand tightly as we braved Big Thunder Mountain together for the first time. They’re memories I carry with me to this day.

So how do you make your own magic? Here are 10 unforgettable ways to connect, laugh, and make memories at Walt Disney World with your grandchildren:

1. Be a Kid Again on the Classic Attractions

Let yourself be swept up in the fun. Whether you’re the grandpa spinning the teacups like a champ or the grandma giggling on Pirates, your grandkids will adore your sense of adventure. Snuggle up on Dumbo, relax together on the Walt Disney World Railroad, or ride Peter Pan’s Flight hand in hand. The real magic? Seeing their joy and knowing you're part of it.

I will always remember the first time I rode Big Thunder Mountain. I was in elementary school when it opened at Disneyland. My grandmother, especially, loved it, and we would always enjoy it together. That was 40+ years ago, and I think of her every time I ride it, remembering all the "woos" on the fast turns, and remembering how she loved the little mining buildings at the end of the ride.

2. Share a Mickey Ice Cream Moment

Go ahead. You can't visit Disney without eating something Mickey-shaped! What better way to take a short rest than sitting with your Mickey ice cream bars, racing each other to see who can finish theirs first. (I recommend bringing extra wipes for this part of the fun!)

Enjoying a Mickey-shaped Rice Crispy Treat!

3. Let Them Choose a Special Souvenir

Give them the joy of picking out something that reminds them of this trip with you. Maybe a plush friend, sparkly Mickey earrings, or a personalized pair of ears. It’s not just a souvenir... it’s a keepsake that brings them right back to that special time you shared.

When I was a kid, little glass animal figures were what I collected. (Oddly, they had nothing to do with Disney other than that was where we got them, but I have them to this day). My daughter collects baseball hats on each visit. My son always picks up something from Star Wars.

4. Meet Their Favorite Characters

You’re never too old to hug Mickey Mouse! But what’s even more magical is seeing your grandchild's face when they meet a favorite character for the first time. The sparkle in their eyes says it all. These are the moments that get framed, told as stories, and remembered for years.

Meeting Minnie Mouse!

5. Watch the Parade...Together

Claim a cozy curb spot, grab some popcorn, and just be in the moment. The Festival of Fantasy Parade is dazzling with music, floats, and favorite characters waving from above. It’s the perfect time to lean in and share stories, sing along, or simply savor the moment with your grandchild curled up next to you.

6. Stay for the Fireworks

Even when your feet are tired, don’t skip the fireworks! Whether it’s Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom or Luminous: The Symphony of Us at EPCOT, these nighttime spectaculars are pure Disney magic. Sharing that wide-eyed awe with your grandchild? Priceless.

7. Ride Disney Transportation Just for Fun

Monorail? Skyliner? Boat? Bus? Tram? It’s all part of the adventure. Whether you're heading to the parks or taking a mid-day ride just because your grandchild loves it, it’s a wonderful time to chat and reflect on your favorite part of the day. These simple, quiet moments often become the most treasured.

Special tip: If you've got a grandchild who absolutely loves trains, spend time in the Germany pavilion at Epcot and watch the trains go round and round the garden! (Even adults get entranced!)

Watching the trains in Germany at Epcot

8. Enjoy Your Resort and the Activities

Take a break from the hustle of the parks and enjoy your resort! Swim in the pool, build a puzzle, share a snack, or watch a Movie Under the Stars. Roast marshmallows or play a board game in the lobby. The resorts offer meaningful downtime, perfect for quiet bonding and laughter between generations.

9. Dine Where the Fun Never Ends

From character breakfasts to interactive dining shows, dining at Disney is a big part of the magic! Favorites for grandparents and grandkids alike include:

• Chef Mickey’s (with the Fab Five!)

• Cinderella's Castle (see your little princess' eyes light up when she meets Cinderella for the first time!)

• Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater (a retro drive-in experience)

• T-REX Café and Rainforest Café (dinosaurs and thunderstorms included!)

• Whispering Canyon Café (prepare for sass and silliness!)

These aren’t just meals. They’re memories.

10. Take the Picture

Yes, even if someone’s a little grumpy. Capture the moment early in the day when everyone’s energy is up. Use a Disney PhotoPass photographer and consider purchasing Memory Maker so you can all be in the photos together. Trust me - you’ll treasure these more than you know. I speak from experience. All those Disneyland visits with my grandma, and I don't have a single photo.

Because These Moments Don’t Last Forever…

The truth is, your grandkids will never be this little again, and these shared experiences - the laughs, the hugs, and the excitement - will become a legacy of love they’ll carry with them forever.

If you’ve been dreaming of taking your family to Disney, there’s no better time. Let's craft a trip that’s tailored specifically to your family with thoughtful surprises, meaningful experiences, and magical moments waiting around every corner.

Ready to start planning? Nancy@MeAndTheMouse.com