Tom Sawyer Island

[hoganjdmb]

I was just wondering if this is worth the time to see? We went once a long time ago and I can't remember what was over there. I have 4 kids ages 12,10,2 and 1!

 

[MelanieC]

I think its a fun place.

There are 2 caves, at least 1 fort (I thought there were two but we only found one), bridges, walkways, and all sort of things to do over there. You can stop and have lemonade at Aunt Polly's and relax for a few minutes. Its a nice break from the hustle and bustle. I think your kids would have fun exploring it. You take a wooden raft over to the island. There is even checkers at the dock to stop and play a game if you want something else to do.

 

[WDW LOVR]

It can also be a nice place to watch the parade. You're not right next to the parade route, but you're also not in the crowds pushing and shoving.

 

[bsmandi]

This was one of my sons (he is 5) favorite things is Disney. I think we all enjoyed the slower pace and exploring the island. We spent at least an hour just walking around. The fort was a huge hit also, we had to finally drag him away...I think he would have spent the rest of the day just playing there!

 

[8 Ears]

I say yes, your two older ones will even enjoy it.

What we did was told DS's 11 and 13 "to go away" , they had to stick together but to go run, have a good time and we would catch up with them. Both of them stick rather close to us and are trying to get them to venture out on their own a bit. Instead of us doing something together they got to do what they wanted and them had stories to tell us. DH and I found a bench down around a corner and sat there, watched BTM, I believe there were checkers there. We enjoyed relaxing for a few minutes and the boys were allowed to explore on their own. So, yes go!

 

[jeast]

Is it a safe place to let a 5 and 2 yr old to wander on their own while we sit, or do they need close supervision there?

 

[8 Ears]

We have always found it to feel safe. I would not let the little one wander too far as it is on an island. At the fort itself though there are benches and you can sit outside and watch. It is all how you feel. It has been a long time since our boys were little. Now we are trying to get the off on their own a little or together.

Others with little ones will pipe in, I am a little out of touch with toddlers.

Enjoy your trip in whatever you choose, but I would say go over; it is a nice distraction from the rush, rush.

Also, the younger one may fall asleep. Shady and cool

 

[MelanieC]

I personally wouldn't feel comfortable letting a 2 year old go off while I sat on a bench, but a 5 year old could probably handle it. Let the older ones take the 5 year old and you can stay a few steps behind the 2 year old while you let him take the lead. My DS7 and my DD13 had a blast running around the fort by themselves. It ended up where my DH & DS7 were somewhere on the island and me and DD13 were running around trying to find them. It is a large island.

I might even make a place to meet in case anyone gets lost. Pick an easy to find landmark and make it a meeting place.