How Many days do I need in US/IOA

[ValDisney]

HI.. This will be our first trip to US/IOA. So far we will be on-site from Sun-Thur b4 going to WDW (off-site). My children will be 5 and 8 at the time of the trip. They don't love rides , just shows and visiting characters. How many days shoud I allow? I would like to get to disney earlier b4 it gets too crowded. (our trip starts DEC 19). We are going on the disney cruise on the 26th and then staying at wdw (on-site) for 2 days. I really want to enjoy Epcot bc we've never been there. Off-site we are staying at the sheraton safari. it looks like a fun hotel for them and I only have heard good things about it.
Do you think I need 4 days in Universal or cut one out and get to WDW? Thanks
Valerie

 

[robvia]

Once you get to USF/IOA you'll want to stay.
You really only need 3 full days to see everything. But one of those days could be spent visitng Sea World Florida (SWF).
Since your kids don't care much about rides, I'm sure they'd love to pet a Dolphin (all kids do). SWF has shows and a huge cargo net ball crawl behind Shamu Stadium.

 

[Prince Eric1]

I think three days for IOA and Universal is about right to cover it all, but you could spend four if you want to relax and enjoy the hotel and other ammenities. We are spending five days, four nights, but one day will be for sea world. Have fun.

 

[Tink03477]

I've been a few times to IOA and US with my son, who was 9 the first time. Without rushing, 1 day for each park is sufficient. More than enough time to enjoy what you want to see, especially if the children won't be tackling the coasters and from what you mention, most of the rides. Also, you will be staying on-site so you can use "front of the line" access; which is the best idea I have ever seen! It's even better than Fast Pass! 2 days is enough time for your plans. Go to Epcot, you'll LOVE it. Out of all the parks, IOA, US and the 4 Disney parks, Epcot is our favorite.
Have a great time!!