Orlando with or Without Mickey Mouse??

If he like the "Fab 5" characters, why not try to do a meal at Chef Mickey's? It's at the contemporary. You don't need a park ticket...just pay for your meal. Everyone will get to eat (Mickey waffles for breakfast!) while the characters come around to you. We are a princess family but also LOVE Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, Daisy, Pluto, etc. You get to take pictures with your camera and get autographs if you're interested...all while eating in an air conditioned area! Have fun!

Oh, by the way...we LOVE Disney but don't do it in the summer.

You know the few times I've been in Orlando I've felt the same as you, How can I be in Florida and NOT go to Disneyland, as if it was a sin! LOL
You know your son better than anyone, if you know he will enjoy more Seaworld and Legoland than the heavy crowds at Disney just visit what you know he can handle.
Paying for those expensive tickets just to take pictures with the characters seems like a waste to me but remember you can change your mind when you're down there.
Orlando is so great that I don't think you can go wrong with any of the parks.
Have fun!

What does your son want to do? Does he WANT to go to Disney and see the characters? Mine were never "into" it like so many. They do love amusement parks of all kinds though. My daughter's 2nd grade class went there on an overnight field trip a few years ago, and that was the first interest my daughter had in going. We had a great time (Mommy and Daughter time with the class... Dad and brother had work and school, lol). Only after she came back saying how much fun it was, did our son (3 yrs older) express any interest.

We went last spring as a family. They had a blast, but haven't really asked to go back. They are more excited to go on their Confirmation camp trip this summer with their church group--to the mountains in NC. It'll be our son's 3rd trip (and last before he ages out) and he looks forward to it all year.

Our kids' personalities are much like ours (me and husband) and neither of us was ever big huge Disney fans either. We both grew up within a few hours drive (4 at the most). We prefer mountain trips (hiking, water falls, white water rafting, etc). And our kids love it too.

So I ask you: What does your son enjoy? Go with that. You won't be disappointed.

The summers here are hot, in fact it is already hot now (90’s). Once all the schools are out for the summer everyone goes to Disney. Living here we only visit the parks in summer if family or friends are here other than that they are too crowded.

The lines are so long you will be lucky to get on five rides in a day. If you want to experience some of Disney then go to Downtown Disney, there is no admission and there are lots of stores including a large Lego store. There are no characters there though. Maybe go to dinner at T-Rex or Rain Forest Cafe both are fun for kids.

If you do decide on a park I would avoid Magic Kingdom that is the busiest of all. I would suggest Hollywood studios, they have fun shows (kid friendly) and you can see Mickey inside with the AC. They also have a laser light show with fireworks that is worth going to see. The park closes around 9PM and that about when the show starts, if you go find seating early because it fills up.

I have not been to Legoland, but my friends have said it is not worth the price. I can’t truly comment on that park since I haven’t been there yet.
If you need info on a specific area or park you can PM me.

Did you mean Legoland park in Winter haven (outside of Orlando?) It's a new theme park and perfect for your son's age . My kids loved it . The rides aren't too scary but super fun. They are opening the waterpark in June I think . You can check on their website. We got a pepsi can when we were in floida that was buy one adult get a child ticket free. I have a couple left if you would like me to send you one.
In regards to Disney, there are alot of things to do without going to the park .I found them on a website(forgot which one, typed in Disney tips ) . You can drive to one of the Resorts and tell them you want to check out the hotel because you are planning a visit. They will let you park for free. at the Beach/Yacht Club you can walk across to the boardwalk (lots to see and do) or walk over to Epcot and watch the show from the bridge . You can park at the Polynesian and watch the fireworks or water parade. You can also ride the monorail from the polynesian.
We have been to Disney twice for a week and twice for a day . I asked my kids what their favorite thing was this last trip and my son said Legoland Park and my daughter said swimming in the pool =0)

Have a great trip !