my first disney trip for toddler

I Write About Theme Parks For A Living. Here’s What I Packed For My Toddler’s First Disney Trip.

This Disney adult finally brought a kid to Disney World.

Despite having gone to Disney World countless times over the years for my job, this Disney adult has a confession to make: Until very recently, I'd never gone to Disney World with a child . That's right; despite visiting a theme park that the world would have you believe is made for kids, I never actually visited with one since I myself was a child.

But over the summer, we took my one-year-old daughter to the parks for the first time — and, tbh, planning for it made me feel like a Disney newbie again. While I wasn't naive enough to think everything would go according to plan on her first trip to Disney World (nothing ever does with a toddler), it didn't stop me from starting my packing list way earlier to map out the best course of action.

Here's everything that made the list for my kid's first trip to Disney World.

Toddler's First Disney Trip Packing List

While your packing list can change depending on what age your child is, these are a few of the essentials I knew I wanted to bring for my daughter's first Disney World trip.

1. Stroller

If I were flying into Disney World, I'd likely rent a stroller. However, since we live in Florida and just drive to the parks, I brought a travel stroller. Our travel stroller is the Colugo Compact Stroller, which is easy to fit in the car and supremely lightweight.

2. Stroller Fan

Any time we’re spending lots of time outdoors, I also bring our stroller fan, which helps to bring just the slightest breeze to a boiling hot Florida day.

3. A Baby Carrier

While a baby carrier is definitely not something older kids will need, it’s a must-bring for my newbie walker. While Disney will allow you to bring strollers to most areas of the parks and resorts, they are not allowed in lines or in restaurants. If we’re waiting awhile in a queue, bringing a baby carrier saves us (the parents) from having very tired arms.

4. A Backpack That Holds It All

Whether you’re going to Disney World with kids or not, having a backpack that can hold it all is incredibly important. For our first trip, I opted for the Colugo Parent Backpack, which is lightweight but has tons of room to store everything I could possibly need to pack for myself, my husband, and my daughter (because I am the queen of packing for all).

The backpack comes with pockets for everything and is machine washable, so I can throw it in the washing machine when something inevitably spills in and/or on it.

5. Slumberpod

This item on the list is more geared toward the younger kids, but I no longer travel anywhere without the SlumberPod. A 6:30 p.m. bedtime may sound nice in theory, but you realize quickly on vacation in a single hotel room that it’s… inconvenient.

Instead of sitting in a dark hotel room in silence to not wake the baby, I swear by the SlumberPod, which essentially acts as a blackout tent that goes over our Pack ‘n’ Play. With spots to put a video monitor and fan, this was a game-changer in ensuring our kid stays asleep on vacation. Not to mention, it makes nap time a whole lot easier (and a day in Disney World definitely requires a nap).

6. Portable Silicone Plate

Whether we’re stopping for a quick snack or sitting at a table, I love to travel with a small silicone plate. She’s still at the age where she will happily grab and throw just about anything, so having something that will stick to the table is key. Plus, it’s super easy to wash off in a sink and put back in my (giant) backpack.

7. Sun Essentials

No matter what age you are, sunscreen at Disney World is an absolute must. I brought a kid-friendly bottle with me that could be used before going to the parks and then reapplied after.

To keep the sun out of her eyes, we also brought along a UPF protection hat to cover her face and neck.

While Disney World hardly lacks food options, it’s never a bad idea to bring a few small snacks to avoid hunger meltdowns. My favorite way to do this is with small puffs like the ones from Little Bellies.

10. Snack Containers

I store them in the Munchkin Snack Catcher so she can easily eat them. These save us in any lines we end up standing in.

What to Know About Bringing a Baby to Disney World

If you plan on visiting Disney World with younger kids, there are a few very important things to keep in mind.

Ticket and Meal Pricing

While it may sound like a poor life decision to spend a ton of money on bringing a young kid to Disney World, there is one major thing to consider. Kids under three do not require a ticket to the parks at Disney World.

Additionally, there are different dining rules for kids under three at Disney. At buffets, kids under three eat free and can be served on their own plates. For prix-fixe or a-la-carte menus, kids under three can share anything from your plate.

Baby Care Centers

Whether you're visiting with a baby or a younger kid, you should know about the Baby Care Centers in each of the parks. With a location at all four Disney World parks, Baby Care Centers provide a spot for parents to feed, change, or nurse their children.

The full-service facilities have changing rooms, restrooms, a feeding area with highchairs, a room with a TV, table, and seating, and even a shop that offers formula, baby food, and other essentials. If you are with younger kids, the Baby Care Centers are essential locations to take care of all their needs in a more relaxed environment than you'll find in other spots around the parks.

Stroller Policy

Because Disney World is huge, bringing a stroller can also be essential to avoid carrying around a toddler all day. You have a few options when it comes to strollers, including bringing your own. If you do bring your own, you'll want to note that Disney does have some requirements in place. Strollers must not be larger than 31 inches wide and 52 inches long, and stroller wagons are prohibited.

You can also rent a stroller if you'd prefer not to bring your own. You can do this through a third-party stroller company (Kingdom Stroller, Orlando Stroller Rentals, and Magic Strollers are a few options) or through Disney itself. A single stroller is $15 a day or $13 a day if you plan on renting for multiple days. A double stroller is $31 a day or $27 a day for multiple days.

Am I out of my mind for bringing a one-year-old to Disney World? Perhaps. But with my packing list set, I felt confident that this Disney adult could sufficiently handle the Most Magical Place on Earth with a toddler in tow.

This article was originally published on November 21, 2023

Home » Disney World with Toddlers: 22 Tips & Tricks for a Perfect Trip

Disney World with Toddlers: 22 Tips & Tricks for a Perfect Trip

By Author Meg Frost

Posted on Published: August 24, 2023

Disney World is a magical place for everyone, but taking your little ones can be quite an adventure – and a challenge.

With so much to see and do, you’ll want to make the most of your trip without overwhelming your tiny tots, which is just a recipe for a meltdown.

That’s why I’ve put together a list of my top tips and tricks, so your trip to Disney World with toddlers will be filled with fun memories, instead of frustration and dread.

Kids age 3 and under are FREE

Toddlers on the younger end of the age group can get into the parks for FREE.

So if you’re thinking of going when they’re a tot, why not save some money and go before they turn 3? Seems like a no brainer to me!

Best time to visit Disney World with toddlers

Take advantage of lower crowds by visiting at the beginning of school terms and just before school ends.

Overall, you’ll avoid the throngs of crowds, long wait times on rides, and can move more comfortably throughout your day.

September, January, and May (before Memorial Day weekend) are all top months to visit if you have toddlers and kids that aren’t in school yet.

September is also great for getting tickets to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party !

October and February are also nice, but some school districts have breaks during that time, so you’ll have to be strategic about which week you visit.

When my family and I visited with my niece when she was a toddler, we went in September for this very reason!

The only downside to September is that it’s the tail-end of hurricane season, so we had 1 big rainy day while we were there.

Luckily it’s super easy to have fun at Disney World in the rain !

Best Disney hotels for families with toddlers

My favorite Disney hotel for families with toddlers and young kids is the Art of Animation Resort, as seen above in the photo with my niece when she was still in preschool.

She LOVED seeing all of the artist sketches on the lobby walls, the Finding Nemo pool, and the giant sculptures from Finding Nemo , Cars , and The Little Mermaid .

However, there are lots of great hotels at Disney World that toddlers will enjoy.

Check out my post about the best hotels for kids at Disney World for more tips on which hotel to pick.

Book dining reservations 60 days ahead

Character meals are a great way to meet your toddler’s favorite Disney characters without a long wait in line. Plus it leaves more time for rides, shows, and swimming in the resort pool!

And that’s probably why they are the most sought-after dining reservations at Disney World! Luckily, you can book a reservation ahead of time.

If you’re staying at a Disney resort and select neighboring hotels, you can book your dining reservations 60 days ahead of the first day of your trip.

Everyone else can book reservations 60 days ahead of the desired date.

Themed restaurants are also a ton of fun, especially for kiddos, so if you can’t get a character meal (or just aren’t interested), aim for something with a theme your kid is interested in, like space (Space 220), marine life (Coral Reef Restaurant), or Sci-Fi (Sci-Fi Dine-In).

Visit other resorts

While the easiest option for meals are to eat at restaurants from your resort or the parks, if you don’t mind going to other resorts, you’ll open up your options for some delicious dining.

Plus, you might find a fun souvenir shop or cool photo ops to add to your collection.

To make it more convenient, choose a hotel that is on the Monorail or Skyliner , so you can easily hop to and from one of the parks on whichever mode of transportation you chose.

So when you go on Epcot or Hollywood Studios, you can hop on the Skyliner to go to Topolino’s Terrace at the Riviera Resort or visit Art of Animation for fun photos.

Another option is to walk to the BoardWalk area, which is quite easy to get to from the International Gateway at Epcot.

There you can access restaurants at the BoardWalk, BoardWalk Inn, Beach & Yacht Club Resorts, as well as the Swan & Dolphin.

When you go to to the Magic Kingdom, you could start with breakfast at Ohana’s at the Polynesian or Chef Mickey’s at the Contemporary. I love the gift shops at both of these resorts, too!

Purchase the Memory Maker package

I cannot recommend the Memory Maker package highly enough!

Without it, we would not have captured all of the stellar moments that the Photopass photographers created for us, like the photo above with my niece marveling at Tinkerbell in her hand.

This pass gives you free, unlimited downloads of all photos for 45 days after they are taken.

Memory Maker is a great way to get everyone in the photo, as well as to get professional-looking photos.

It also includes Magic Shots, where PhotoPass photographers can add in a secret element like Tinkerbell in your hand (see above) or Stitch busting out of the ground.

You can also add cool borders and stickers to the photos before you download them.

Get your tot their own luggage

Toddlers love imaginative play and carrying their own luggage at the airport definitely falls within that!

My niece felt so grown-up with her own Sofia the First suitcase and Disney princessbackpack. She insisted on carrying both, even though she didn’t have to carry either.

The backpack was stuffed with things to do and other comfort items for the flight, while the carry-on had a change of clothes and swimsuits for the four of us.

For more Disney luggage recs, check out my post about the best Disney luggage and travel accessories .

Best Disney World park for toddlers

In my opinion, all of the parks at Disney World are great for toddlers. There are pros and cons to each, so let’s go over what they are with little ones in mind so you can decide which one to go to.

Animal Kingdom

Part zoological park and part amusement park, Animal Kingdom is great for toddlers because it offers lots of hands-on experiences that your little ones will love.

For example, they can dig for fossils at the Boneyard playground or pet farm animals at the Affection Section in Rafiki’s Planet Watch.

Child development experts say learning about and interacting with animals can be very beneficial during the toddler stage. For more information, visit this  PBS Kids section  about learning about animals with kids, which can be filtered for age-specific information.

However, if your child is easily frightened by animals, this park might be too much for them.

When my family and I visited Animal Kingdom when my niece was still a toddler, she was terrified of the animals at the Affection Section and made it VERY CLEAR that she wanted to leave.

So we did, but she still loved visiting the rest of the park. For her, seeing the animals close up, but behind some kind of barrier, was more than enough!

For more insight, check out my post about visiting  Animal Kingdom with toddlers .

Epcot has both an indoor and outdoor playscape areas that are great for letting toddlers burn some energy.

Plus they have a bunch of great rides and interactive experiences that don’t have height requirements, like Journey of Water, a walk-through water trail inspired by Moana , and two Finding Nemo attractions.

In addition, some pavilions in the World Showcase have character meet-and-greets associated with that country, like Winnie the Pooh at the UK and Belle in France!

And the Kidcot Fun Stops in each country allow children to create their own souvenirs while parents take a break from the heat. I feel like a lot of toddlers enjoy a challenge and also ask a lot of questions – and this activity will definitely scratch that itch, so to speak.

For more insight, visit my post about visiting  Epcot with toddlers .

Hollywood Studios

Toddlers will love seeing their favorite Pixar characters in Toy Story Land and competing in the Toy Story Mania Ride or blasting away on the Alien Swirling Saucers ride.

The  Frozen  Sing-Along is always a hit with the young kids, as is the  Beauty & the Beast  stage show, and Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy.

I will say – Hollywood Studios has a lot of dark and loud attractions that may be overwhelming for some toddlers, and others that they just aren’t tall enough for.

But with some planning, it might end up being your tot’s favorite park!

For more insight, visit my post about visiting  Hollywood Studios with toddlers .

Magic Kingdom

This park is always a top choice for families with toddlers thanks to classic attractions that don’t have height requirements, like Peter Pan’s Flight and It’s a Small World.

The Magic Kingdom is also home to countless character meet and greets, making it easy for your little ones to get some face time with their favorites.

There’s even an entire section of Fantasyland that is geared toward toddlers and preschoolers, with a splash pad, rides, and a souvenir shop filled with stuffies and t-shirts with their fave characters.

However, the popularity of the park means it can get crowded and lines for attractions can be long.

Attending an “after hours” event can be a fun way to get around the long lines at Magic Kingdom.

Plus the ones during the Halloween and Christmas seasons have special attractions, like extra meet-and-greets, a special parade, and an excuse to play dress up.

When my family and I went with my niece back when she was still a toddler, we got tickets for  Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party  so we could enjoy a light crowd at the main park.

Plus, my niece really liked dressing up as Cinderella, with my mom, sister, and I as “Princess Security,” and of course, all the candy from trick-or-treating.

For more insight, visit my post about visiting  Magic Kingdom with toddlers .

Make time for Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon

Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon are great water parks with tons of activities for toddlers and preschoolers.

Both water parks have areas that cater specifically to toddlers, so they can splash and play while they cool down.

Blizzard Beach

While this water park doesn’t offer at ton of attractions for very young children, it does have a designated play area just for toddlers called Tike’s Peak.

With mini-slides and splash pads, this is the perfect spot for your little ones to cool off from the Florida heat. It was also revamped recently to add a  Frozen  theme.

There’s also a lazy river called Cross Country Creek and for daring tots, the Ski Patrol Training obstacle course.

Lastly, if you and your tot just want to swim and relax in the water, there’s Melt-Away Bay.

Some of the water slides here don’t have a height requirement, but in my opinion they aren’t really for toddlers. Older ones might be interested if they can ride with an adult, though!

Typhoon Lagoon

Typhoon Lagoon has a kiddie area called Ketchakiddee Creek, a water playground designed specifically for children under 48 inches tall, complete with mini slides, water jets, and a sandy beach for building castles.

The park also offers a lazy river called Castaway Creek for when you and your little one want to take things slow and just float around.

Adventurous toddlers might enjoy Miss Adventure Falls and the Bay Slides, which they would have to ride with an adult 18 or older.

Make time for Disney Springs

Disney Springs can be a great break from the park without leaving Disney itself. It’s my favorite place to go on arrival and departure day!

It’s a free entertainment with shopping, dining, performances, and even a few rides for the kiddos.

Rides include a carousel, small train, and a splash pad. The carousel and train rides are $5 per ride, but the splash pad is free!

There’s also a massive LEGO store with giant LEGO statues outside that toddlers are sure to love. Plus, it’s home to the world’s biggest Disney Store!

Toddlers might also enjoy seeing the latest Disney movie at the AMC movie theater or dining at the T-Rex restaurant which has a Build-a-Bear like experience in the gift shop.

For more tips on things to do, check out my post on what to do in Disney Springs .

Use the My Disney Experience app

It’s nearly impossible to visit Disney World without using the My Disney Experience app.

Can it be done? Sure .

Will you get more out of your time and money if you use the app? Yes .

This app can do it all: book dining reservations, select Genie+ or lightning lanes, unlock your hotel room, find performance times, look up character meet-and-greets, and so much more.

Do yourself a favor and download it before you leave and have an account set up and signed in. That way you can hit the ground running as soon as you get there!

But the most important reason? Your toddler is probably going to want to meet their favorite characters and the app will have all of their meet-and-greet locations and times.

Purchasing a Genie+ pass can make your day at the park run smoothly and ensure you get all your must-do attractions done without running ragged.

You can skip the long lines, book your rides ahead of time, and leave more room for exploring and going at your own pace.

Sounds like a recipe for avoiding meltdowns and crankiness, too!

Lastly, you’ll get free downloads of your ride photos for 45 days after the photos are taken. So if you don’t want to get the Memory Maker package, this is a great alternative.

What to pack in your park bag

Visiting Disney World with a toddler can be a bit like going anywhere with a baby.

That is, you’re going to need to pack a bag with some essentials to ensure a smooth, meltdown-free day.

Firstly, definitely bring some snacks for your little one to munch on.

While there are plenty of places to get food at the parks, sometimes you just can’t wait or your little one will start to fuss.

The same goes for a water bottle or sippy cup to help ensure they stay hydrated. No one wants a sick kiddo!

Next, a small toy or stuffed animal is great for keeping busy in long lines, if they are feeling anxious, or for snuggling during nap time.

My niece always had a small Pascal stuffed toy or a baby Rapunzel with her all day when she was a toddler!

A portable charger will definitely come in handy, as you’ll likely be using the My Disney Experience app to book Genie+ selections, mobile order food, or find the nearest bathroom.

Sunscreen and other sun protection, like a hat or sunglasses, are also a must-have in your park bag.

If you’re not used to the heat and humidity, I recommend bringing a hand-held fan or cooling towel, as well.

My niece was a big fan of the misting fan, so we got her her own so she didn’t have to share with the adults.

Next up, an extra outfit in case of spills, water rides, or other messes will help avoid wasting time running back to the hotel room to change.

And while you’re at it, depending on which park you’re going to, you may even want to bring their swimsuit.

A towel is great for drying off after water rides or sitting on during a parade.

Lastly, if you’ll be at the park into the evening, bring a light jacket or sweatshirt that can easily layer over their clothes so they can keep warm.

For more tips on what to pack, check out my ultimate packing list for Disney World .

Bring or rent a stroller

Renting a stroller can save a lot of trouble and help avoid tantrums or crankiness. Your toddler can rest when they get tired and you can avoid having to carry them for long distances.

Plus, you can use the basket underneath or an organizer on the back to stash the essentials for the day.

My niece also liked having the tray where she could stash a snack, misting fan, or water so she could access them independently whenever she wanted to.

Get a balloon on your first day

Your toddler is probably going to beg for a balloon as soon as they see the cast member holding an Up -sized bundle of colorful balloons near the main entrance of the park.

We caved and got a Frozen -themed one for my niece. It was actually helpful for quickly finding her stroller when we had to park it in a giant sea of strollers.

The only park where you can’t do this is Animal Kingdom, but other than that, it was a time saver for sure!

Get an autograph book

Without a doubt, your toddler will be begging to meet as many characters as possible.

My niece was so excited to meet her favorite princesses, as well as some non-princess characters, like Marie from The Aristocats , too.

Before your trip or as soon as you get there, pick up an autograph book and a big-barreled pen or Sharpie marker.

I prefer the autograph books that have space for photos so you can add photo prints after your trip for an easy souvenir that your toddler can flip through when they are missing Disney.

Utilize the baby care centers

At Disney World, you don’t have to worry about changing your toddler in just any old bathroom.

They have baby care centers available to change, feed, and rest with your little one. There are even private nursing rooms with rocking chairs, if you toddler is still nursing.

Plus, if you run out or forget any essentials like pull-ups, toddler snacks, and kid-friendly sunscreen, they’ve got a shop stocked with everything you need.

I list the location of each baby center in my toddler guide for each park, but in a pinch, you can also use the My Disney Experience app to locate it.

Take advantage of rider swap

Worrying about who’ll watch the tot while you hit your favorite ride?

Fear not – with rider swap, you can take turns swapping spots. One adult goes on the ride, while the other watches the toddler – and then you switch.

It’s the perfect solution for families with young ones who may not be tall enough to ride or are too scared.

Join a dance party

I don’t know what it is, but toddlers love to dance!

That’s probably why you’ll often find a dance party or two at the parks, often geared toward the Disney Junior crowd.

For example, there’s the Disney Junior Play and Dance! at Hollywood Studios, located in the Animation Courtyard.

However, you can sometimes find pop-up dance parties at the other parks, especially during special events.

If your tot has some energy to get out, a dance party is a great way to do it – plus they might even make a new friend or two!

Take a break in the afternoon

Taking a break in the afternoon will help keep you and your toddlers from getting overwhelmed by all the excitement.

Plus with all the walking and the heat, you’ll get tired more easily.

So take a midday nap, have a quiet meal, or go for a swim back at your hotel.

By the time dinner rolls around, you’ll be ready for a delicious meal, perhaps with a few of your favorite characters, and a few more rides before bed!

Consider the Minnie Van

While the public transportation at Disney World is well-run, it can get crowded at key times, like in the morning at resorts and at park close.

If you don’t want to deal with long commutes or crowds, especially with kids, budget for a few Minnie Van rides.

This private transportation is available via the Lyft app.

It’s a bit more expensive than other Lyft options, but these cars are allowed closer to park entrances than regular ride shares.

Plus there’s the added Disney magic sprinkled in, like watching Disney cartoons during your ride. What toddler wouldn’t be entranced by that?

Consider doing Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

If budget permits, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is a magical experience for kids age 3-12.

Basically, your kiddo can get a princess or prince makeover, with packages that might include hair styling, costumes, makeup, and more.

Afterwards, your mini will even get their own photo shoot!

This experience fills up super quick, so I highly recommend booking ahead.

If you’re staying at a Disney resort, you can book 60 days in advance of the start of your trip for up to a 10 day stay.

If not, you can book 60 days ahead of the date you want – so there’s a bit of an advantage for Disney resort guests.

What to do if your toddler gets lost at Disney World

Just in case the unfortunate happens and your toddler wanders off, head straight to the Baby Care Center if you can’t locate them right away.

Any time a cast member happens upon a lost kiddo, that is where they are taken to until they are reunited with a parent or guardian.

If you see a cast member on your way there, let them know so they can be on the lookout, as well.

In addition, consider adding a contact bracelet or lanyard to your kiddo with your name and cell phone number. I’ve also heard of people having their kiddos wear AirTag bracelets or necklaces.

That way the cast member at the Baby Care Center can call you immediately to let you know they are safe and can be picked up.

It might also help to take a picture of what your kid is wearing each day before you leave the resort. That way you can show a cast member what they look like if they haven’t been located yet.

And remember – Disney World is a crowded place and toddlers are prone to wander. Please don’t be too hard on yourself if it happens.

How do you manage Disney World with toddlers?

Disney World can be a place of wonder and delight for the whole family even with your little ones.

Just remember to plan ahead, utilize Disney magic, take breaks when needed, and above all, enjoy all the moments.

Hopefully, these tips and tricks will make your trip a memorable one. Have fun!

About the author

Meg Frost is the creator of  The Park Pixie , where she covers Disney World, Disney+, and Disney fandom.

She holds an M.A. in Journalism from Northeastern University and B.S. in Communication & American Studies from University of Miami in Florida.

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This post was originally published on August 24, 2023. It was last updated on March 10, 2024.

Ultimate Guide for visiting Disney World with Toddlers

By: Author Heather Thomas

Published: October 20, 2022 Updated: February 17, 2024

All the extra challenges might make you think it would be crazy to attempt a trip to Walt Disney World with toddlers , but it really shouldn’t.

One of the best things you can do while kids are still young is to plan a trip based on what they are into. Though the days may seem long with toddlers, the phase passes quickly. And before you know it, that toddler stage is over, and they are doing all of the grown up things in the parks.

We can help you with the logistics, so you can stick to the fun. Here’s how….

In this article

What you can expect in this guide

In this guide, we’ve combined all of our best resources for planning Disney World trips with toddlers into 1 spot. We’ll cover some ideas on what to do before you leave, answer all your questions about things like strollers and dining, and go over the best attractions for toddlers in each of the 4 parks.

This guide has a TON of info, but it also has a lot of links that go off to more in-depth coverage of each topic. We encourage you to start here, but make sure you check out the companion posts for more tips and information.

Before you leave

Before you even leave on a Disney World trip, there are a few things you can do at home to make your time at Walt Disney World go more smoothly – for both you and the little ones:

Best age for Disney World

Before you even start planning your trip, you may be asking yourself if it is worth it to take a baby or toddler to Walt Disney World.

Unless this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, we definitely think it is. That’s because even if your little one won’t remember the trip, YOU will.

We have an entire post about the best age for Disney World , including a pros and cons list that can help you decide when to take your little one to the Most Magical Place on Earth.

• Read more about the Best Age for Disney World

Counting down to the trip

When to tell them.

While waiting to go to Disney World with toddlers, it’s good to get your little one involved, so they can get excited and know what to expect.

One dilemma for parents of little ones is knowing how far ahead to tell them because every day could become “when are we leaving? are we leaving now? how about now?”

You might want to talk about Disney World (the rides, the hotels, etc.) but without telling your child that a trip is planned. That way they know what Disney World is and what you can do there, but can’t nag daily asking if it’s time to go yet.

You could decide to tell your child just before the trip begins and use a fun countdown to count down the final days before your trip. Depending on your child’s age, you might want to keep the countdown short (10 or fewer days).

Looking for a way to make the countdown fun? We asked some of our favorite WDW Prep readers to chime in with their best ideas:

• Fun Ideas for Counting Down your Disney World Trip

What to watch

There are a lot of things you can watch to get your toddler prepped and excited. In fact, many of the baby and toddler friendly rides have movies or shows that will help introduce your little one to the characters they’ll see in the park.

We have an entire post that will give you ideas on which movies and TV shows are connected to which attractions, character meets, restaurants, and resorts:

• What to Watch on Disney+ Before Going To Disney World

Ride and attraction videos are a great way to let a little one experience what they’ll see before they actually do it. It can help with fears and also get them excited.

YouTube is a wonderful resource for finding high-quality videos of all the rides at Walt Disney World.

• Watch ride/attraction videos on YouTube

What to read

Although toddlers can’t read yet, the Birnbaum’s Walt Disney World for Kids book is good for all ages. It has big pictures and ratings by kids to give you an idea about what kids will like.

If this will be your first time in a plane or on a long distance road trip , you might also consider reading books about flying or traveling by cars.

And, if you prefer to read to your child about the characters they’ll see in the parks rather than watch TV, Disney has plenty of books for kids of all ages.

You can find them in your local library, on Amazon, and Disney even has a website just for its books , too:

Packing for a toddler

Traveling with a toddler usually means you’ll be packing some extra stuff.

We have an Ultimate Disney World Packing List of items to help you out, but some of the must-have items you’ll want to make sure you include:

• child-friendly sunblock
• stain stick or Shout wipes, etc.
• backpack or diaper bag that you can carry into the parks
• large Ziploc bags (for holding wet clothes, snacks, etc.)
• multiple pairs of shoes (in case one pair gets wet from rain or playing in splash zones)
• Post-it Notes to cover the toilet sensor if auto-flush toilets are scary to them
• Favorite snacks to bring into the parks

Toddler-friendly trip itinerary

Trip itineraries are perfect for helping kids know what to expect.

For little ones, that means using more pictures than words to show the daily plans.

If you are crafty you can make your own, or we have several free templates you can use as is, or even just as inspiration.

• Check out our free itinerary templates to put together your own.

Where to stay at Disney World with babies and toddlers

When choosing an on-site hotel that your toddler will love, you might want to look in the Value and Deluxe categories. Moderate theming is beautiful, just not super toddler-friendly.

When you are traveling with older kids or even with adults only, things like the best pool or best resort for nightlife might be the most important thing. But, when you are traveling with little ones, you’ll likely have other priorities higher up on your list.

For us, these are the things we considered when looking for the best resort at WDW for babies and toddlers:

• Transportation (How will you get to the parks from this resort? Bus only? Monorail? Can you walk to a park from the resort?)
• Dining options (If you have a screaming toddler, can you get them some food quickly?)
• Theming (Will the theming of the resort be something your little one will love?)
• Room types (Will a Pack ‘n Play fit? Do you need a separate sleeping space for the baby?)

Check out the list below for our recommendations, but for the in-depth reasons why we recommend these resorts for people with babies and toddlers, make sure you check out our post:

• Best Disney World Resort for Babies and Toddlers

Best Value Resorts

• For Values, Pop Century and Art of Animation are our top recommendations if traveling with a little one.

Best Moderate Resort

• Most Moderate Resorts just aren’t kid-friendly. The one exception is Caribbean Beach. It has a lot of elements that make it a good Moderate option.

Best Deluxe Resort

Your best Deluxe options when traveling with a baby or toddler are:

• Beach Club Resort
• Contemporary Resort
• Polynesian Village Resort
• Animal Kingdom Lodge

Best Deluxe Villa Resorts

All of the Deluxe options above have Disney Vacation Club Deluxe Villa options, too. The studio size Deluxe Villa rooms are typically a bit smaller than a Standard room on the regular Deluxe side of the resort, but on the Deluxe Villa side you will get additional layout options (1-3 bedrooms, plus Grand Villas).

Here are our top bets for Deluxe Villa resorts with babies and toddlers:

• Beach Club Villas
• Bay Lake Tower
• Polynesian Villas
• Animal Kingdom Villas

Bed rails and Pack ‘n Plays

With all the families traveling to Walt Disney World, Disney is prepared when it comes to beds.

To help make bedtime easier, Disney has both bed rails and Pack ‘n’ Plays available to borrow.

You can request one when you get there or, even better, you can call (407) 934-7639 to have the request added to your reservation.

Need more info? We’ve taken pics of Pack n Plays at bunches of resorts so you can get a feel for how it will fit in your room, plus we compiled and answered a bunch of the most common questions we receive about them, all in one spot.

• Pack ‘n Plays, cribs, and bed rails at Walt Disney World

General Disney World with toddlers touring advice

Before getting into the specifics of each park, let’s talk about some general park touring advice first.

How many days to spend in each park?

Step 3 in the 6-step process is to make a daily plan. That includes deciding how many days to spend in each park.

It’s really hard to tell people how they should spend their days, but here’s some advice. Feel free to adjust based on your family.

For people who want a toddler-focused trip, this is how you might want to split up your days.

• For a 3-day trip , do 2 days at Magic Kingdom and then either Hollywood Studios or Animal Kingdom.
• For a 4-day trip , do 2 days at Magic Kingdom, 1 day at Hollywood Studios and 1 day at Animal Kingdom.
• For a 5-day trip , do 2 days at Magic Kingdom, 1 day at Hollywood Studios, 1 day at Animal Kingdom and 1 day at Epcot.
• For a 6+ day trip , do the same as a 5-day trip but with a break day (or days) in the middle to rest at the hotel, visit Disney Springs, swim, etc.

Will you need a stroller at Disney World?

Your toddler may not use a stroller any more, but unless they’re ultra toddler marathoners who can go 10+ miles per day, they will very, very likely need one at Disney World.

Strollers are very handy for not only providing your little one with a spot to rest their feet, but they also provide a place for you to store some of that extra stuff toddlers need.

You’ll have lots of options when it comes to strollers – renting offsite, renting from Disney, bringing one from home, shipping a new stroller to yourself, etc.

• Be sure to read our  comparison of stroller options to decide how you will want to handle strollers for your trip.

Whatever stroller you decide to use, we highly recommend you also consider bringing along, renting, or purchasing a rain cover (affiliate link). Not only will it keep all your stuff dry, it will also protect your stroller from damage.

Going when the temperatures are predicted to be hot ?

If you’re using a stroller, you’ll likely want one of these stroller fans (affiliate link), too.

Transportation with toddlers

Disney World is huge – roughly the size of San Francisco – so understanding how to get around is an important piece to avoiding frustrations.

And, when you are navigating with strollers and/or car seats, it is especially important to understand how everything works.

One of the most common questions we get regarding strollers and Disney buses is “Will I need to fold my stroller?”.

And, the answer to that is “yes.” But, there are other modes of Disney transportation where you won’t have to fold your stroller at all:

• Monorails and Magic Kingdom ferries  – strollers can stay open, and a child can stay in them
• Disney Skyliner – single strollers and double strollers that are front to back (not side by side) can stay open. Double, side-by-side style must be folded
• Buses and trams  – strollers must be folded up before boarding. Even if your little one is sleeping and the bus is totally empty, you’ll still need to fold your stroller.
• Resort boat launches  – on most, your stroller will need to be folded prior to boarding.
• Friendship boats  – strollers can be left open if space allows, but your child must be seated with you

Find out more about using Disney transportation with strollers at the link below:

• Using a stroller on Disney World transportation (buses, monorail, Skyliner, boats)

8 tips for avoiding a meltdown at Disney World

Ahhh, that nasty subject that comes up a lot with toddlers. Believe it or not, they will not magically be perfectly behaved at Disney World, so you’ll need to plan ahead.

Prevention is sooo important . Ideally, the more you can prevent the things that cause meltdowns, the more you’ll be able to avoid them altogether.

• 1. Don’t overdo it. Unless your little one is used to going non-stop, don’t try to go from sunup to sundown. Schedule lots of downtime and allow them to just do their own version of relaxing. Being overstimulated is a common reason for meltdowns in people of all ages – including toddlers.
• 2. Make sure they aren’t hungry. Being “hangry” is a real thing, and when your toddler gets hungry, you may see that manifest in bad behavior. Be proactive and ready with snacks to help avoid situations where an empty stomach causes a meltdown. You can bring food and drinks with you into the parks (just no alcohol or glass containers) which makes it very easy to always have your child’s favorites with you.
• 3. Allow everybody enough time to sleep. Even adults could use a nap daily at Disney World. The heat, extra activity, and excitement wears you out. Be sure you allow everybody the opportunity to get the sleep they need, which sometimes may mean early nights or sleeping in.
• 4. Try to limit lines as much possible. Our touring advice is optimized to keep you moving and out of lines. Whenever possible, try to make sure you stick to those to help avoid long waits.
• 5. Prepare for the weather.  Weather extremes can make even the most pleasant of people cranky. Be it rain or heat or cold, make sure you know what to expect when you go and how to handle the weather when you are there.
• 6. Try to stick to routines. Even adults like routines, and babies and toddlers are especially sensitive to changes in theirs. Whenever possible, try to make sure you’ll have the necessary items to keep major routines in place. Things like having a special blanket or pillowcase from home can help at bedtime, and familiar snacks (and snack times) can also help keep everybody smiling. If you don’t want to worry about packing all your favorites, you can order groceries  and snacks for when you are there. If you have little ones still in diapers or Pull Ups, you can also order those supplies as well.
• 7. Leave if necessary . At home, you might be willing to leave places if your toddler starts acting up, but at Disney World…that’s not so easy. It’s difficult to leave a park and get back to your hotel room. It often takes an hour and includes a lot of waiting. That’s really hard to do with a toddler in meltdown mode. Instead, you might want to consider “leaving” in a different way – leave the line you’re in (or the gift shop you’re shopping at or whatever it is), and head somewhere more private for a little downtime. You can head to a restroom, a quiet bench out of the way, or even one of the  Baby Care Centers .
• 8. Use positive reinforcement . Using rules attached to positive things like Tinker Bell gifts or an afternoon treat can often work the best.

Baby Care Centers

Baby Care Centers are perfect for anyone traveling with little ones to Walt Disney World.

You’ll find them in all 4 parks, and they are totally free to use.

Inside there is a small kitchen area (perfect for preparing bottles), a private room for nursing, space with high chairs, plus a small shop where you can purchase essentials.

You can search “baby care center” in the My Disney Experience app to be taken to the map of their exact locations.

• Learn more about Baby Care Centers at Walt Disney World

Touring plans for families with little ones

When it comes to touring with toddlers, here’s what you need to know:

Let them lead (kinda)

Although this site is all about planning, when traveling with little ones it is really important to be flexible. Your toddler wants to ride Buzz Lightyear over and over again? Do it!

Have a tot that really likes characters? See them all!

That’s the benefit of having a trip focused around them: you can do the things they like to do.

What height requirements affect toddlers?

Although there are tons of rides and attractions without any height restrictions, each park does have a few that require guests to meet a minimum height.

• Check out the overview of attractions with height requirements for a complete list.

Things that might be scary

Some of the attractions without height requirements might still be a bit scary for little ones.

Looks can be deceiving, so to help you keep from freaking your toddler out, we have an entire post on the things that might be too scary for a child (even if they are tall enough to ride).

• Things that might scare little ones at Disney World

Using Genie+ with toddlers

We miss the free FastPass+ system, but one thing we do like about the new Genie+ system is how easy it is to “stack” your attraction return times back-to-back for later in the day OR to “churn” rides one after the other.

These approaches to using Genie+ are especially useful when traveling with babies and toddlers because it allows you to ride a bunch of things without a lot of waiting .

The downside to this method, however, is that Genie+ isn’t free, so you’ll have to pay for it. And, it also will require you to be on your phone. A lot. Which isn’t exactly the ideal situation when you are trying to make memories with your little one at Walt Disney World.

The entire Genie+ system can be confusing, but we’ve put together some guides that should help.

If you’re considering purchasing Genie+, make sure you check them out. The one linked directly below this is a good one to start with:

• Guide to Genie+ at Disney World (w/links to everything you need to know)

Best attractions at Walt Disney World for toddlers

In the posts linked below, we have lists for all 4 parks (with graphics you can save to your phone) with our top picks for toddlers and little ones.

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom has the most attractions out of all 4 parks at Walt Disney World and that makes it our top pick for toddlers.

• Best Rides for Toddlers at Magic Kingdom

Epcot has seen a lot of changes over the last few years, and if you know where to look you can find lots of things to keep toddlers and little ones happy here.

• Best Rides for Toddlers at Epcot

Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios is home to two iconic lands: Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. This park is packed with shows and a couple of attractions that toddlers love.

• Best Rides for Toddlers at Hollywood Studios

Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is more than a zoo with rides. It has unique areas where you can get up close to the animals, an amazing playground perfect for letting little ones run off some energy, and lots of trails for exploring.

• Best Rides for Toddlers at Animal Kingdom

Rider Switch (for parents who want to ride bigger rides, too)

Although the touring advice below is focused on doing just things that toddlers would like to do, adults may still want to enjoy some of the bigger rides as well. Disney provides a free perk called Rider Switch which allows adults to take turns riding, which can help you do that.

• How to use Rider Switch at Disney World

FYI – if your child is over the age of 3, they will need their own Walt Disney World ticket. Children under the age of the 3 do not.

Can You Baby Wear on Rides at Disney World?

Best Disney World dining choices for toddlers

We always recommend you choose your dining near where you’ll be, but when you are dining with a toddler, it also makes sense to select places that will appeal to them and, even better, appeal to them AND help keep them entertained.

We have a post that covers all your FAQs about dining with toddlers, plus it includes lists of our top dining recommendations in each park.

• Best places to dine with babies and toddlers at Disney World

Some of the dining options listed in the post above are character meals. Be sure to check out an overview of all Disney World character meals for even more info on all options for your trip.

Traveling with little ones trip reports

• Erin C.’s trip with two little ones to Disney World – PREP 358
• Disney World with a Toddler – PREP 342
• Ken & Emily from Mousehacking first trip w/a baby – PREP281
• Kelsey L.’s March Walt Disney World trip – PREP271

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Evelyn Alvarez

Monday 6th of May 2019

Hi! Thanks for all the tips! I've been to DW before with my husband and two toddlers. Im making a first trip just myself and my two toddlers. Any specific rides to avoid where I couldn't ride with the two of them? Or specific rides that are ok for 3 people to ride together? My toddlers are 3 & 4.

Thursday 19th of April 2018

I think whether or not to take your toddler depends a lot on your toddler. I took my daughter when she was almost three and she did fabulous. My son at the same age was not so great. Everything I read about taking a toddler said get to the park when it opens...this didn’t work for my son, who is (thankfully) an awesome sleeper. A more relaxed pace in the mornings would have been better for him. We rented a great stroller (rain cover is a must, and if you have to park it somewhere go ahead and cover it because it could rain while you are doing other things) and a full size crib from Kingdom Strollers. The crib was a godsend for my son. We set it up just like his bed at home (music box and all) and he would go right to sleep. If your toddler thrives on routine, might be best to hold off on Disney until they’re a little older and can go with the flow a little more. Just my two cents, having one easy toddler and one a bit more challenging.

Tuesday 3rd of April 2018

Would love to hear what yah think the best moderate resort is for a toddler.

Saturday 30th of September 2017

We are planning a trip in December with our almost 4 year old and 18 month old. We will be at the parks 4 days. Should we do a day at each park or no go to Epcot and go to Magic Kingdom 2 days?

Wednesday 29th of March 2017

Any special recommendations for traveling this Spring Break? Heard it will be busier than usual since it coincides with Easter. We will be there from April 8 to 18 (10 days), and purchased base 6-day tickets. We are traveling with two boys (5 yr & 3 yr). The plan is to do MK 3 days, and one each of the other parks. Should we go to parks on Weekdays only? Or should we expect them to be crowded at all times? I was thinking to do Epcot and Animal Kingdom during weekends since you mentioned they are either not toddler friendly, or short visits. Thank you in advance.

Disney World with Toddlers: Guide for Parents

A family trip to Disney World can create lifelong magical memories with your kids. However, visiting Disney World with toddlers presents unique challenges to consider. This guide is designed to help you plan and navigate Disney World with toddlers in order to have a smooth, enjoyable vacation. It provides tips to help you tackle theme parks and resorts with infants and toddlers in tow. From choosing the Disney World right rides and activities for little ones to planning toddler-friendly dining and nap times, these insights will help ensure your Disney World experience with toddlers is as seamless and stress-free as possible. With smart preparation and realistic expectations, your Disney World dream vacation with your little ones can still be a success.

Prefer to Speak to Someone? Vacationeers Are Standing By!

1. Preparing for a Disney Trip with Toddlers

Choose the Right Time to Visit

When planning your Disney vacation with toddlers, one key consideration is choosing the best time to visit . The parks tend to be most crowded during holidays and school breaks. It’s important to pick dates that align with your schedule and desired park environment. Visiting during off-peak seasons when crowds are lower makes navigating the parks with toddlers more manageable. You’ll also want to check park hours and calendar schedules to see if any special events are happening during your preferred travel window. Selecting the right time to visit helps set you up for a smooth, enjoyable trip with toddlers.

For a more relaxed experience, consider scheduling your trip during the off-peak season, usually in January , February, or from just after Labor Day until the week preceding Thanksgiving. Visiting Disney World with toddlers can be a more enjoyable experience when the crowds are thinner and wait times for attractions are shorter.

Select the Best Accommodation for Your Needs

Where you stay is a crucial part of your Disney World adventure, especially when traveling with toddlers. With an assortment of on-site and off-site accommodations available, making a decision that best serves your family’s needs is key. For this reason, we strongly suggest considering a resort within the Disney property. The combination of unmatched benefits and convenience it offers makes it the best choice for families.

Disney resort hotels come with a host of perks, including Early Theme Park Entry, complimentary transportation , and the ability to book Lightning Lane reservations ahead of time. Plus, you’ll be close to the parks and immersed in the Disney magic 24/7, which can prove to be a significant advantage when traveling with toddlers.

Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts

Disney Resorts also offer numerous family-friendly amenities and activities that toddlers will love. From pools and playgrounds to movies and character dining experiences, there’s something for all ages.

For a whimsical and affordable experience, consider staying at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, All-Star Movies Resort, or Pop Century Resort.

The Finding Nemo Suites at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort | Image © Disney

If you’re looking for more luxurious options with extra amenities, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Beach Club Resort, Animal Kingdom Lodge, Grand Floridian Resort, Polynesian Village Resort, or Contemporary Resort could be your ideal fit.

A Giraffe on the savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

With a variety of resort options available – Disney Value Resorts , Disney Moderate Resorts , and Disney Deluxe Resorts – there’s something for every budget and preference. Consult with a Disney travel agent to ensure you make the best choices for your family.

Work with a Disney Travel Agent

One of the best ways to ensure a smooth and stress-free vacation when visiting Disney World with toddlers is to work with an experienced Disney travel agent . We highly recommend The Vacationeer , a Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Agency. Their team of experienced travel planners is dedicated to helping you create the perfect Disney vacation for your family.

The Vacationeer can assist you with all aspects of your trip , including answering your questions, providing insider tips, planning your itinerary, recommending the best Disney hotels for families with younger children , booking park tickets, accommodations, and dining reservations. They can even arrange your stroller rentals and transportation to and from the airport . Their extensive Disney knowledge and expertise can help you deal with the complexities of planning a vacation to Disney World with toddlers so you can maximize your time in the parks. The Vacationeer makes it easy to create your dream Disney vacation with little ones!

The best part is that their services are completely free ! By working with The Vacationeer , you can rest assured that you’re getting expert advice and assistance without any additional cost.

Contact The Vacationeer for a free, no-obligation vacation quote right now. Their team is ready and eager to help you plan the ultimate Disney World experience for your family.

Pack the Essentials

Packing for Disney World with toddlers requires careful planning. Be sure to include the following essentials:

• Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes for the entire family
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats for sun protection
• A lightweight stroller for your toddler to rest in when needed
• Plenty of snacks and water to keep your little ones energized
• Diapers, wipes, and a portable changing pad
• Entertainment, such as toys or books, for downtime or waiting in lines
• Extra layers for cooler evenings or air-conditioned attractions

Create a Flexible Itinerary

While you may be tempted to squeeze in as many attractions as possible, it’s important to remember that toddlers have shorter attention spans and tire easily. Create a flexible itinerary that allows for breaks, naps, and spontaneous activities. Prioritize the attractions and experiences that are most appealing to your family and consider utilizing Disney’s Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane passes to reduce wait times for popular rides.

2. Navigating Disney World Parks with Toddlers

Image © Disney

Take Advantage of Baby Care Centers

Each of the four theme parks at Disney World has a dedicated Baby Care Center designed to cater to families visiting Disney World with toddlers. These centers offer a quiet and comfortable space for diaper changes, nursing, and feeding. They also provide amenities such as high chairs, microwaves, and baby care supplies for purchase.

This is also where Disney Cast Members will take your little one if they’re found exploring the parks solo — if your child has temporarily misplaced you, the Baby Care Center is a great place to head once you’ve flagged down a Cast Member for help. Another great tip is to take a picture each morning of your child in the outfit they’re wearing for the day — should they wander off, CMs will be able to use the photo to immediately radio an accurate description to everyone working in the area.

Utilize Rider Switch

If there are attractions that your toddler cannot or does not want to ride, take advantage of Disney’s Rider Switch service. This allows one adult to wait with the child while the rest of the party rides the attraction. Once the first group has finished, the waiting adult can then ride without having to wait in line again.

Make Time for Character Meet-and-Greets

Meeting beloved Disney characters can be a highlight for your little ones during your trip to Disney World with toddlers. Plan to attend character meet-and-greet sessions, as they offer a unique opportunity for your toddler to interact with their favorite characters in a more personal setting. A little advanced research can help you find the best character meet-and-greet locations for your little ones ahead of time so you don’t miss their favorite character. Remember that some characters may be intimidating to young children, so be prepared to reassure and comfort your toddler if needed.

Embrace the Parades, Shows, and Seasonal Celebrations

Disney’s lively all-ages parades and shows are a great way to take a break from rides for toddlers. Check the daily schedules and plan your day around must-see performances that will capture your little ones’ attention.

The Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade pays tribute to Fantasyland with enchanting floats, music, and characters, while the Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party invites you to dance and sing along with Mickey, Minnie, and other beloved Disney pals.

Seasonal celebrations, such as Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park, offer chills and thrills with encounters with Disney’s vilest villains. Meanwhile, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party brings festive cheer and holiday merriment to the park, making your visit to Disney World with toddlers a truly magical one.

3. Choosing Rides for Toddlers

Magic Kingdom for Toddlers

Magic Kingdom is the most popular park for families visiting Disney World with toddlers, as it offers a wide variety of attractions and experiences suitable for young children. Some must-visit Magic Kingdom rides for toddlers include:

• Dumbo the Flying Elephant : This classic gentle ride lets toddlers and parents soar through the sky together on the back of Dumbo, providing a whimsical first-ride experience.
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh : Toddlers will love joining Pooh and his friends on this endearing, family-friendly dark ride through the Hundred Acre Wood.
• “it’s a small world” : Take a leisurely boat ride through scenes representing different cultures from around the world, accompanied by the iconic “it’s a small world” song.
• Mad Tea Party : Take a spin on a twirling giant teacup.
• Peter Pan’s Flight : Board a pirate ship and take to the skies on this enchanting journey through the story of Peter Pan.
• Prince Charming Regal Carrousel : This beautifully restored carousel is perfect for toddlers and offers a classic theme park experience.
• Happily Ever After : Don’t miss this spectacular fireworks extravaganza showcasing lights, lasers, and special effects set to Disney tunes.
• Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade : Watch some of your favorite Disney characters perform in the celebration of beloved Disney stories
• Mickey’s Celebration Cavalcade . Come see Mickey, Minnie, and their friends party along the parade route.
• Meet Disney Characters : Visit Town Square Theater to see Mickey Mouse or Princess Fairy Tale Hall to meet Disney Princesses.

Epcot for Toddlers

While Epcot is known for its focus on technology and world cultures, there are still plenty of attractions and experiences suitable for toddlers. Some top picks include:

• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure : Join Chef Remy in a 4D culinary adventure ride based on the Pixar and Disney film Ratatouille.
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends : Board a “clamobile” and join Nemo, Dory, and their friends on an undersea adventure. Afterward, explore the aquarium at SeaBase, where you may spot sea turtles, dolphins, rays, sharks, and more.
• Frozen Ever After : Journey to Arendelle and experience the story of Frozen in this family-friendly boat ride.
• Soarin’ Around the World : Experience a family-friendly hang-gliding adventure across the globe.
• Kidcot Fun Stops : Located throughout the World Showcase, Kidcot Fun Stops offer interactive activities for young children, such as coloring and crafts.
• Turtle Talk with Crush : Toddlers will be delighted by this interactive show where they can chat with Crush , the sea turtle from Finding Nemo.
• Meet Disney Characters : Spend time with the regal sisters Anna and Elsa at Royal Summerhus, and encounter a variety of cherished Disney Characters such as Snow White, Belle, Donald Duck, and others during your Epcot visit.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom for Toddlers

Disney’s Animal Kingdom combines the magic of Disney with the wonder of nature, offering a variety of attractions and live shows for toddlers:

• Kilimanjaro Safaris : Board a rugged safari vehicle and embark on a journey through the African savanna, where you’ll encounter real animals such as giraffes, elephants, and lions.
• Pandora – The World of Avatar : Discover this captivating land with your little explorers. Take them on the Na’vi River Journey attraction, a delightful and gentle ride that glides through a mesmerizing bioluminescent rainforest, perfect for young adventurers.
• TriceraTop Spin : Toddlers can take a spin on this colorful dinosaur-themed ride, which offers gentle, family-friendly fun.
• The Boneyard : This interactive play area is perfect for toddlers to explore, featuring slides, tunnels, and a giant sandbox.
• Wildlife Express Train : Ride the Wildlife Express Train to Affection Section, a unique area where you can engage with a diverse range of charming animals.
• Festival of the Lion King : Immerse yourself in this grand spectacle featuring puppetry, pageantry, and iconic songs from the beloved movie.
• Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! : This family-oriented musical extravaganza is filled with puppets, live performers, and remarkable undersea special effects.
• Donald’s Dino-Bash! : Party alongside Donald Duck as he embraces his newly uncovered dinosaur ancestry in this lively and entertaining event.
• Discover the Trails : Wander along meandering paths and encounter remarkable animals at Maharajah Jungle Trek and Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail .
• Spot Disney Characters : Keep an eye out for festive flotillas showcasing beloved Disney Characters as they sail along the Discovery River.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios for Toddlers

Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers a mix of thrill rides and family-friendly attractions, including several options for toddlers:

• Toy Story Land : This immersive land is perfect for families visiting Disney World with toddlers, featuring attractions such as Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers. Additionally, kids can meet Woody, Jessie, and Buzz Lightyear for some rootin’, tootin’ fun.
• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway : Board the runaway train for a wild ride.
• Disney Junior Dance Party !: Toddlers can dance and sing along with their favorite Disney Junior characters in this high-energy show.
• For the First Time in Forever : Relive some of your favorite scenes and songs from Frozen.
• Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy : Prepare for a high-octane ride into the Cars universe.
• Red Carpet Dreams : Get a glimpse of some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
• Meet Olaf Celebrity Spotlight : Head over to Celebrity Spotlight to see what Frozen’s Olaf the Snowman is up to.

You can find more information about Disney’s theme parks in the following articles: Best Magic Kingdom Rides , Best Epcot Rides , Best Animal Kingdom Rides , Best Hollywood Studios Rides , and Best Disney Rides for Kids . We also have a guide to height requirements for Disney rides and a Disney Cost Calculator page.

Water Parks for Toddlers at Disney World

Disney World’s water parks are a delightful option for families visiting with toddlers. They offer a welcome escape from the Florida heat and a fun-filled day of water play. Here’s a look at what each park has to offer for young children:

• Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park : This park features “Tike’s Peak” – a special area designed for young kids. With pint-sized water slides, splash areas, and a shallow pool, it’s the perfect spot for toddlers to cool down and have fun. The park’s winter-themed water wonderland also offers a unique twist on the typical beach day.
• Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park : At this park, toddlers can explore “Ketchakiddee Creek.” It’s a safe and fun water playground with mini slides, fountains, waterfalls, and a sandy beach area perfect for building sandcastles. The tropical storm-themed setting adds an element of adventure to the water activities.

Remember, for a successful water park day with toddlers, be sure to pack essentials like swim diapers, sun protection, and a change of clothes. Always follow park rules and guidelines to stay safe.

4. Dining at Disney World with Toddlers

Walt Disney World isn’t just about rides and attractions – it’s also a culinary adventure, even for the youngest visitors. With numerous dining options available across the parks and resorts, you can find something to suit even the pickiest of eaters.

Kids’ Menus

Disney World understands that children, especially toddlers, have unique dietary needs and preferences. That’s why many dining locations offer kids’ menus, which typically include healthier options and familiar favorites like chicken nuggets, macaroni and cheese, and fruit cups.

Parents interested in broadening their children’s culinary horizons will be happy to note that it’s not all pizza and burgers — this sample kids’ menu from Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village shows that the restaurant offers international dishes such as Butter Chicken alongside the more traditional fare.

Sample menu – subject to change

If your child has specific dietary requirements, you can request information on allergen-friendly options.

Best Restaurants for Toddlers

Each of Disney World’s parks and resorts are home to excellent dining options suitable for families with toddlers.

• At Magic Kingdom, Crystal Palace and Be Our Guest Restaurant serve family-friendly meals in enchanting surroundings.
• Epcot offers the rotating Garden Grill and the authentic Italian dishes of Via Napoli .
• At Animal Kingdom , your little ones can enjoy the immersive Tusker House Restaurant and the vibrant Rainforest Café .
• In Hollywood Studios, consider dining at Hollywood & Vine or Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano for delightful meals that toddlers will love.

Moreover, Hollywood Studios’ Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant and Animal Kingdom’s Restaurantosaurus add a fun twist to the dining experience. If you’re looking for a unique, prehistoric-themed dining environment, T-REX is an excellent option at Disney Springs.

The Walt Disney World Resort hotels also provide a variety of dining venues perfect for toddlers. The popular Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Cape May Café at Disney’s Beach Club Resort serve up tasty dishes in a lively atmosphere. For a nostalgic dining experience, don’t miss the Beaches & Cream Soda Shop . If you’re a fan of mouthwatering chicken dishes, Chicken Guy! is a must-visit. Lastly, the Coral Reef Restaurant offers a unique under-the-sea dining experience that your toddlers will find fascinating.

Wherever you choose to dine, the atmosphere is always welcoming and catered to ensure your toddlers have an enjoyable mealtime.

Disney Character Dining With a Toddler

For a dining experience that delights both the taste buds and the imagination, consider Disney Character Dining . It’s a fun-filled mealtime where your toddler can interact with their beloved Disney characters. This immersive experience makes dining much more than just eating – it’s a chance for your children to be part of their favorite stories.

Options for these memorable meals span across a variety of venues. From the hearty fare at Chef Mickey’s and the rotating vistas of the Garden Grill Restaurant to the royal banquet at Cinderella’s Royal Table and the African flavors at Tusker House Restaurant , there’s a perfect setting for everyone. You might also consider the whimsical Hollywood & Vine , the enchanting Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White, or the captivating Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera .

Each venue offers a unique atmosphere and menu, ensuring your family’s dining experience is as magical as the rest of your Disney adventure. Remember to book your reservations early as these highly sought-after experiences fill up quickly (contact The Vacationeer for assistance). With Disney Character Dining, meal times become another exciting part of your Disney World adventure with toddlers.

Disney Dining Plans

Exciting news for families planning their trip to Disney World with toddlers – the Disney Dining Plans are returning ! After being suspended in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, these plans are now available for Disney Resort hotel stays beginning January 9, 2024, or later. Contact your Disney Travel Agent to add a dining plan to an existing reservation or to make a new reservation with a dining plan.

Disney Dining Plans  allow you to pre-pay for quick service, deluxe dining, and snack options at over 100 locations across Disney World. This convenient approach simplifies meal planning and budgeting for family vacations.

Remember, dining at Disney World with toddlers is not just about the food. It’s an integral part of the Disney experience, filled with magic, excitement, and unforgettable memories. Contact The Vacationeer for more information about dining plans (or anything else)! Their team is ready to provide you with a free, no-obligation quote and assist you with planning your Disney World vacation with young children.

Have Questions But Don’t Want To Wait on Hold?

5. Age-Specific Tips for Visiting with Toddlers

Visiting disney world with a newborn.

My friend Michelle, an Orlando mom who often takes her young kids to Disney World, recommends focusing on shows, resort time, and leisurely strolls for newborns. Take ample nursing and napping breaks. Use a covered stroller and plan for rain. Stay at a monorail resort for quick access when needed. Accept the fact that you won’t experience many big attractions.

As Michelle reminds us, “Disney World with a newborn is about soaking in the sights and sounds vs trying to do it all.”

Tips for Disney World with a 1-Year-Old

Michelle says 1-year-olds will enjoy Disney’s colors, music, characters, and gentler rides. Stick to mellow areas like It’s A Small World and play zones, according to her experience. See parades and fireworks from a distance or your resort. Use the rider switch on bigger attractions. Take afternoon breaks back at your room. Stay on property within walking distance of parks. Remember, young toddlers have short attention spans.

Michelle advises, “Disney World with a 1-year-old is about shorter park visits with more resort play time.”

Tips for Disney World with a Two-Year-Old

Michelle’s top tip for Disney World with a 2-year-old is to focus on characters, shows like Monsters Inc Laugh Floor, playgrounds, and kiddie rides like Dumbo and Carousel. Take frequent breaks to recharge. View evening fireworks from afar. Stay at a monorail resort if possible for park proximity and breaks. Bring or rent a stroller for naps. Have snacks, toys, and backup clothes ready. Plan more resort time over long park days.

As Michelle notes, “Disney World with a 2-year-old is about mixing play with brief, strategic park outings.”

Tips for Disney World with a 3-Year-Old

According to Michelle, 3-year-olds can enjoy meeting characters, playgrounds, shows, and many rides at Disney World. She recommends using strollers or carriers to give little legs a rest. Take afternoon breaks. Stay at a conveniently located resort. Prioritize Fantasyland and kid-friendly attractions. Pack spare clothes, toys, and snacks to keep them content.

As Michelle reminds us, “Have realistic expectations, but with preparation and patience, your 3-year-old can truly experience the Disney magic!”

Remember, kids under 3 are free at Walt Disney World and do not require a ticket for park entry. However, you will need one at the age of 3.

Visiting Disney World with 4 and 5-Year-Olds

Michelle says ages 4 and 5 are a “sweet spot” for Disney trips. Kids can enjoy more rides and fully engage with Disney magic at this age but still appreciate characters and play zones. Use Rider Switch on thrill rides. Let kids help decide the activities. Take afternoon hotel breaks—book character dining for guaranteed interactions. Pack patience and go with the flow.

With reasonable expectations, as Michelle notes, “Disney World with 4 and 5-year-olds can be amazing. It’s a time of laughter and joy (most of the time)!!”

With preparation and realistic expectations based on your child’s age, Disney World can be enjoyable with little ones!

6. Tips for a Smooth Experience

Prioritize nap time.

Toddlers require regular naps to maintain their energy and mood throughout the day. Make time for naps in your itinerary, whether it’s heading back to your resort for a midday break or finding a quiet spot within the park to nap. A well-rested toddler is key to an enjoyable Disney World experience.

Bring a Stroller or Carrier

A stroller or baby carrier can be a lifesaver when visiting Disney World with toddlers. It provides a place for children to rest when they’re tired, and it can also help you navigate crowds more easily. Be sure to select a lightweight, easily collapsible stroller that meets Disney’s size requirements , or opt for a comfortable baby carrier that allows your toddler to rest while you explore the parks. Disney rents strollers as well, but your little one may be more comfortable in a “deluxe” home model they’re used to.

Stay Hydrated and Snack Regularly

Keeping your toddler hydrated and well-fed is crucial for maintaining their energy and mood. Bring refillable water bottles and pack plenty of snacks to keep them satisfied throughout the day. Disney World caters to its young guests, offering a range of snacking and dining options. From easily accessible snack carts scattered throughout the parks to restaurants with kid-friendly menus, you’ll find plenty of options to keep your toddler satisfied.

Utilize the Disney Genie Service

Use the free Disney Genie Service on the My Disney Experience app to plan park days with toddlers. This service provides personalized ride and attraction recommendations based on your preferences, helping you maximize your limited in-park time. Disney Genie also offers real-time updates on wait times, show schedules, and dining reservations. Staying up-to-date on this key information throughout the day allows families to be nimble and make the most of every moment with toddlers in tow.

Be Prepared for Meltdowns

It’s normal for toddlers to experience meltdowns, especially in a stimulating environment like Disney World. Be prepared to handle these situations with patience and understanding. Offer comfort, reassurance, and a quiet space for your toddler to regroup. Remember that it’s okay (and advisable) to adjust your plans or leave an attraction if your child becomes overwhelmed.

Shopping for Toddlers at Disney World

Disney World will be more fun for your toddler with the right gear. There are many stores at Disney Springs where you can buy toys, clothes, and other things young kids like. The whole family will enjoy this shopping trip, and you might even get some Disney World souvenirs to bring home with you.

• At The LEGO Store , you’ll find many fun and interactive LEGO sets that can keep your toddler engaged.
• For a colorful treat, head over to M&M’s and let your child pick their favorite colors and flavors.
• Once Upon a Toy is a wonderland of Disney-themed toys and games, while the World of Disney store is your one-stop shop for all things Disney, from apparel to collectibles and more.

Enjoy these shopping experiences and watch your toddler’s eyes light up with delight!

Conclusion: Disney World with Toddlers

Disney World with toddlers may present its challenges, but with careful planning and flexibility, you can create lasting memories for your entire family. By prioritizing your child’s needs, taking advantage of the many family-friendly attractions and amenities, and embracing the magic of Disney, your trip is sure to be a magical and memorable experience for everyone involved.

Note: While most of the advice in this article is valid for both Disney World and Disneyland, those contemplating a visit to the west coast parks should also read our Best Age for Disneyland article for more guidance.

Book Your Dream Disney World Family Vacation

When planning your Disney World vacation with toddlers, consider booking with The Vacationeer , an elite Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Agency. With their top-tier industry recognition, you can be confident that you’re receiving the best service and expertise available.

With The Vacationeer , your dream vacation is within reach . Enjoy the personalized touch of working with a dedicated travel agent who will be with you from start to finish . Your Vacationeer agent will answer all your questions, provide insider tips and tricks , and diligently scour their resources for the best discounts , ensuring your family benefits from the lowest rates possible. They understand the ins and outs of traveling with toddlers, providing advice and recommendations that align with your family’s specific needs .

The Vacationeer caters to a wide range of budgets and preferences. Whether you’re dreaming of an extravagant , celebrity-style Disney World vacation , or a more budget-conscious trip , they’ve got you covered. They can even set up a layaway plan , easing the financial strain by allowing you to pay for your trip over time. With their expert assistance, planning your trip becomes a stress-free experience . The Vacationeer truly makes your Disney World adventure with toddlers an enjoyable and memorable trip.

Best of all, The Vacationeer ‘s services are entirely free of charge ! You have nothing to lose by reaching out to them. Why wait? Contact The Vacationeer today for an instant, no-obligation price quote , and start planning the Disney World vacation of your dreams.

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Guide 2 Disney World with Toddlers - Updated for 2023!

The complete guide to taking toddlers to walt disney world..

One of the iconic images of modern childhood is a little kid donning Mickey ears and spinning around in a flying elephant on Dumbo. Taking a toddler to Walt Disney World can be full of these magical moments. But it can also be daunting. What is there for a toddler to do? What rides will they like best? What should I pack for my toddler at WDW? How do I manage their nap schedule? And, most importantly, should I even bring my toddler to Disney World?

In our 2023 Disney World Toddler Guide , we are giving parents essential information to plan the best vacation ever for their little ones. This guide will give you helpful tips on navigating the parks, prioritizing the best rides for toddlers, and finding amazing toddler-friendly activities that are easy to miss.

Update 5-22-2023: We’ve just added a Disney World Toddler Packing Guide to our site, with in-depth recommendations on what to pack for Disney World. We’ve also included a new section on whether you should buy Genie+ on your trip with toddlers.

Table of Contents

Should I bring my toddler to Disney World?

Yes! Disney World can be a magical place to visit for all ages, but toddlers are an especially fun age to bring a kid to Disney for the first time. As toddlers, children are endlessly curious about how the world works. Disney World is a one-of-a-kind environment where a toddler can have new, stimulating experiences. That makes experiencing WDW through a toddler’s eyes a great thrill for a parent.

What rides or shows your toddler will be most drawn to will be unique to them. When I first brought my son to Disney as a 1 year old, I would have never predicted that his favorite attraction would be The Enchanted Tiki Room. Now, months after the trip, he still smiles and dances when I put the soundtrack on, and two of his first words are “tiki” and “tweet.”

While he won’t remember his first time in the Tiki room, but it’s been so much fun as a parent to share this experience and discover new ways to play with him.

Here are a few other reasons why Disney World is awesome for toddlers:

• Kids under 3 get in for free:  That’s right. You don’t need to buy a ticket for a child under 3. Getting into Disney World is free for most toddlers. Additionally, you don’t need to purchase Genie+ for them, and some dining locations are free for kids under 3.
• There’s a ton of great rides for toddlers:  From it’s a small world to Dumbo to the train to Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway , Disney World has a great lineup of rides that have no height requirement.
• Awesome toddler-friendly activities will make the trip extra special : From the country’s second-largest aquarium in EPCOT to a petting zoo in Animal Kingdom  to the Disney Jr Dance Party in Hollywood Studios , Disney World is packed with activities that will engage and delight toddlers. Be sure to consider a Disney World character meal , which is one of our favorite ways to meet characters at WDW without a wait.
• So many photo ops:  Whether you’re posing with Mickey Mouse or in front of the castle, Disney World is filled with places perfect for capturing memories. If you’re planning on doing regular visits to Disney World as your child grows up, these pictures are easy to repeat each trip and will make for a great photo album. That’s why PhotoPass is popular with so many parents, as it gives you unlimited downloads of pictures taken by Disney’s professional photographers.

Which Disney World park is best for toddlers?

After deciding to take your toddler to Disney World, you’re going to have to figure out which parks to visit. Whether you’re only going for a day or visiting for a week, picking the right parks can be the difference between an awesome vacation and an underwhelming time. This has been made even more important with the Disney Parks Reservation system, where you have to make a reservation for a specific park ahead of time. When planning a multi-day trip, you’ll want to make the right mix of park reservations, even if you have a park hopper.

While all four parks have a lot to offer, Magic Kingdom is by far the best park for toddlers at Disney World . It has the most toddler-friendly rides, shows, and some great activities. This is one of the reasons why it’s WDW’s most popular park. If I could only visit one day, I’d bring my toddler to Magic Kingdom. For a longer trip, I would make the most park reservations for Magic Kingdom.

EPCOT and Animal Kingdom are a close second choice, depending on what your toddler is into. EPCOT has more toddler friendly rides than Animal Kingdom, and it has an aquarium, a few play areas, and interactive activities in each of the World Showcase pavilions. However, Animal Kingdom features an entire zoo’s worth of animals , plus a petting zoo, a train, and a dinosaur dig-themed playground.

Hollywood Studios is my last pick for toddlers at Disney World. Most of the best rides at Hollywood Studios have a height requirement. However, there are still some great things to do with toddlers at Hollywood Studios.

If I was visiting Disney World for five days with a park hopper, my plan would roughly look like this:

• Magic Kingdom – 2.5 days
• EPCOT – 1 day
• Animal Kingdom – 1 day
• Hollywood Studios – .5 days

If I did’t have a park hopper, my plan would look like this:

• Magic Kingdom – 3 days

For longer trips, I would add more time to EPCOT or Animal Kingdom. Of course, the plan would change if I was also visiting with older kids or teenagers, who would enjoy Hollywood Studios more.

What to pack for bringing toddlers to Disney World.

There are a few essential items that you’ll want to pack when bringing your toddler to Disney World. In fact, packing the right gear can prevent potentially stressful moments. Here’s a quick list of items to help you best navigate the parks with your little one.

• Favorite Comfort Items:  Pacifier, blanket, and a stuffed friend can make the new environments feel more comfortable.
• Diapers / Pull ups
• Changing pad
• Multiple changes of clothes for each day of your vacation
• A stroller that easily folds up. We use the Britax B-Lively , which works great because it has plenty of storage space and folding is very easy.
• A carrier (optional). We loved using a carrier for our toddler at Disney, which gave him great views without being confined to a stroller. We highly recommend this carrier by LILLEBaby .
• Leak-proof sippy cups.  Keeping your toddler hydrated is super important, especially in the Florida heat. We love these Munchkin 360 cups for toddlers , because they feel like magic. They’re easy for your toddler to drink from, but won’t spill, even if you flip them upside down.
• Hand Sanitizer and Hand Cleaning Wipes 
• Medicine and a First Aid Kit
• Toddler Fruit/Veggie Puree Pouches – You can bring your own food or snacks into the park, and having pouches in your bag is great for giving your little one a snack while waiting in line.
• A costume – This will be so much fun for you and your little one.

For more in-depth information and recommendations, check out our Disney World Toddler Packing Guide , which features over 50 recommendations for a magical family vacation and a free PDF checklist.

Should I rent a stroller or bring my own to Disney World?

A stroller is a must for any family going to Disney World with small children. Bringing your own stroller to Disney World will save you money, but it will take up a significant amount of space in your car, and it’s one more item to navigate the airport with.

If you don’t want to bring your own stroller, you can rent them from Disney World directly or through a third-party company. We always recommend a third party company like Kingdom Strollers for these reasons:

• They will deliver the stroller to your hotel.
• They feature popular brands like Britax or Baby Jogger.
• You can use the stroller anywhere during your vacation.
• Disney strollers aren’t as comfortable.
• Disney strollers can only be used in the parks – you have to pick them up and drop them off every time you enter or exit the park.
• Third party companies are typically cheaper for the entire week.

You can rent a stroller directly from Kingdom Strollers here.

If you want to learn more about bringing strollers to Disney World, check out our Disney World Stroller Guide.

The Best Toddler Tips for Disney World

• Don’t only focus on rides  – It’s easy to go to Disney World and think that the rides are the only thing worth doing. This is completely not true, especially with a toddler! There are a ton of great shows, activities, and playgrounds throughout each theme park. The best part is that many of these don’t have any line at all. Patience isn’t a strong suit of toddlers, so having something fun to do without a wait is a game changer. Check out each of our WDW theme park toddler guides for a complete list of these activities.
• Don’t miss the Baby Care Centers – Each park has a baby center, and it can be relatively easy to overlook. However, these spaces are great for parents with toddlers. They have full changing stations that are much nicer than the changing stations in the restrooms. They also have high chairs and other amenities if you need a quieter place to take care of your little one’s needs. Read all about Disney World’s Baby Care Centers here, including maps for where to find them in each park.
• Take a break in the middle of the day –  This is one of our favorite tips for anyone visiting Disney World, but it’s especially important with toddlers. Disney World is a ton of stimulation for a toddler, and all of the new things can be exhausting. Try to stick to your toddler’s nap routine as much as possible. It might be tempting to “get your money’s worth” and power through the afternoon to do as many rides as you can. But this will just lead to a cranky toddler and a dreaded “Mickey Meltdown.” Go into the parks early, head back to your hotel during the afternoon when the parks are the hottest and most crowded, and then return for some fun in the evening.
• Pouches are your best friend in line –  Toddler pouches are a great way to easily give your little one a snack on the go. My wife and I found it to be a helpful distraction while waiting in lines if our son was hungry.
• Place an identifier on your stroller –  Your stroller will be moved around at some point by a Cast Member who manages the traffic flow around stroller parking areas. This means that your stroller could get lost in a sea of black and gray. Place a brightly colored ribbon or luggage tag on your stroller so it’s easy to identify from afar.
• Know the ins and outs of Rider Swap –  Rider Swap lets everybody in your party experience rides with height limits  without the person or people who watched your toddler having to wait extra in line. From Disney: “If a Guest doesn’t meet the boarding requirements or doesn’t wish to experience a particular attraction, it’s not a problem for family and friends who do!  With Rider Switch, one adult or supervising Guest (14 years or older) can wait with non-riders while the rest of the party enjoys the attraction. Then, they simply switch roles to allow the supervising Guest to experience the attraction without waiting in the regular queue again.” Simply approach the cast member at the entrance of the ride and say that you’re interested in Rider Swap, and they will take care of you. This also works on rides that have Individual Lightning Lane like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or Avatar: Flight of Passage.
• Character Strategy –  Seeing characters can be a joy for some kids. But others can find the characters intimidating or even scary. Every child reacts differently to the characters at Disney World. Ease your toddler into seeing characters. The currently-distanced character sightings and cavalcades are actually great for kids who might be a little freaked out by hugging a giant Winnie the Pooh. Character meals are also a great way to introduce your toddler to characters. Because the characters make appearances and roam around the room, some kids react better to the characters than just a sudden meet and greet.
• Best spot for Magic Kingdom fireworks – If your toddler has stayed up all the way until the fireworks, here’s a tip that will be awesome at Magic Kingdom. It’s actually better to watch the fireworks from the back part of Main Street, by Town Square. The booms from the fireworks are not quite as loud, and you are closer to the exit as everyone leaves the park. As a side note, try to hold your toddler at your side instead of putting them on your shoulders if possible. This way they have the same view of the fireworks as you, but you aren’t blocking anyone behind you. I found this to be a more comfortable position than having my wiggly son on my shoulders.

Should I buy Genie+ if I’m visiting Disney World with a Toddler?

Genie+ can sound like a no brainer for parents of toddlers. A way to skip long lines with a squirmy little human who has no understanding that we shouldn’t just hug the legs of that random person in front of us? For many parents, this would be worth any cost.

But toddlers can’t go on many of the rides that have Lightning Lane, and if you are a family with only small children, you may want to think twice about Genie+. Once you remove those big thrill rides from consideration, it’s a tougher value proposition.

In Is Genie+ Worth It For Toddlers at Disney World?, we break down the pros and cons of using Genie+ with toddlers, as well as analyze the ride lineup in each park. We have in-depth recommendations in that article, but here is the tldr:

• Magic Kingdom: Strongly Recommend Genie+
• EPCOT: Maybe Buy Genie+
• Hollywood Studios: Skip Genie+
• Animal Kingdom: Skip Genie+ if you can get to the park early

If you’re park hopping, that changes to a recommendation for some days of your trip. Just keep in mind that visiting Disney World with a toddler is sometimes best if you don’t try to cram in as many rides as possible, which is a bit incompatible with the Genie+ value proposition.

Disney World Toddler Guides By Park

Magic kingdom toddler guide – what to do with toddlers at magic kingdom.

In our Magic Kingdom Toddler Guide , find out all the best rides without height restrictions, favorite activities, and where to find all the characters at Disney World’s best park for toddlers.

Must-Do Rides and Attractions: it’s a small world, Dumbo the Elephant, Peter Pan’s Flight, The Enchanted Tiki Room Favorite Activities and Shows:  Tom Sawyer Island, Casey Jr Splash ‘N’ Soak, Festival of Fantasy Parade, Character Cavalcades

Read the full Magic Kingdom Toddler Guide here.

EPCOT Toddler Guide – What To Do with Toddlers at EPCOT

EPCOT has a reputation for being an adult’s theme park, but it’s awesome for toddlers. With several boat rides, a few play areas, and a whole aquarium, it’s easy to have a blast with your toddler at EPCOT.

Must-Do Rides and Attractions : Gran Fiesta Tour, Frozen Ever After, Living with the Land, the Seas with Nemo and Friends Favorite Activities and Shows:  Explore the aquarium, EPCOT Kidcot activity stations, Green Landing Family Play Zone, World Showcase entertainers

Read the full EPCOT Toddler Guide here.

Hollywood Studios Toddler Guide – What To Do with Toddlers at Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios has Disney World’s best lineup of e-ticket thrill rides. But that doesn’t mean that there’s nothing for toddlers to do. From the only Mickey Mouse ride to a Disney Jr. Dance Party, there is tons of fun for little ones at Hollywood Studios . This park is great for families who also have bigger kids, and it’s an ideal place to use rider swap.

Must-Do Rides and Attractions: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Favorite Activities and Shows: Disney Jr Dance Party, Lightning McQueen Racing Academy, Frozen Singalong

Read the full Hollywood Studios Toddler Guide here.

Animal Kingdom Toddler Guide – What To Do with Toddlers at Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is more than just a zoo! There are some amazing rides, shows, and activities that are perfect for the whole family. But it’s also an incredible zoo, which toddlers will adore. Animal Kingdom is awesome for toddlers.

Must-Do Rides and Attractions: Kilimanjaro Safaris, Triceratop Spin Favorite Activities and Shows: Affection Section Petting Zoo, Animal Trails, Kite Tails, The Boneyard Playground, Wilderness Explorers Scavenger Hunt

Read the full Animal Kingdom Toddler Guide here.

How to plan the best Disney vacation ever for your toddler

Going to Disney World with a toddler can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! Each section of this Disney World toddler guide gives you everything you need to plan out an amazing vacation with your little one. Follow these tips and recommendations, and you’ll be able to pack in each day with incredible memories.

If you want more help, get in touch with our friends at Vacationeer . Their travel agents are Disney experts who can help you plan a vacation full of magical moments for your toddler. Plus, they’ve helped tons of families, so they know a ton of advice for taking kids to WDW.

We want to hear your thoughts!

What’s your favorite thing to do with toddlers at Disney World? Let us know in the comments below.

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James Grosch

James is a lifelong Disney Parks fan. While at the parks, he loves finding new details, learning more about Disney World history, and taking pictures. His favorite WDW attractions include Rise of the Resistance, Spaceship Earth, and Tower of Terror. James is a filmmaker and writer based in Atlanta, GA.

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31 Helpful + Easy Tips For Walt Disney World With Toddlers

We have visited Disney World more than 5 times over the past few years. But traveling to Disney with a toddler is a completely different story, and not for the faint of heart. After our most recent trip to Disney with our 2 year old, I wrote this blog post to share all of the best tips and tricks that worked for doing Disney with a toddler. I hope this post helps your trip run so much more smoothly at the most magical place on Earth! Walt Disney World is a crazy place to be . Don’t get me wrong, I love it. It’s fantastic and exciting and full of magic (too cliche?).  But, it really is crazy.

And you know what makes it even crazier? Toddlers. Toddlers. Are. Wild! But, they also are a blast. If you have the right Disney World with toddlers tips…it is amazing! Toddlers are the ones who scream with excitement when they see their favorite characters. They are the ones who wave frantically at parade-goers and chatter incessantly while riding rides. Toddlers have eyes that light up at the fireworks, and they are the reason we keep visiting Disney World. Plus, they’re free under 3!

Going To Walt Disney World With Toddlers (and Pregnant!)

A few months ago, at 31 weeks pregnant, my husband and I took our two-year-old to Disney.  I knew that I was insane going to Disney at 31 weeks pregnant with a toddler, but we were going with extended family, and we were not going to miss this trip . So, I spent months reading tips and joining Facebook groups, looking for all of the best ideas for how I could possibly make our trip even a little bit easier.  I planned and planned and planned… And our trip was fantastic! I’ve rounded up the best tips and tricks, including must-have travel items , that we used to have the most magical Disney World vacation ever so that you don’t have to do all of the work searching like I did. Read on below for the best tips for Disney World with a toddler.

Getting to Disney World With Toddlers

Planning ahead can make the actual travel piece of your trip so much more enjoyable. Here’s what I recommend you do as far as travel day goes:

1. Plan your Travel Day to Disney World Well

This is the biggest mistake that I made ….Do not take a super early flight unless you’re sure your kid will nap. We took an early flight to Florida (5:40 AM). When I booked it, I did not even think about the fact that we live an hour from the airport and would also have to be there 2 hours earlier than our flight departure time.  The 2:45 wake-up was NOT kind to our 2-year-old, and we suffered MANY meltdowns that day with our normally incredibly pleasant toddler since he would not nap in the car or on the plane.  DO NOT plan a full travel day to Florida and expect your toddler to wake up ready to enjoy Disney. It just won’t happen. Give them some downtime if you can!

2. Pack Airplane Snacks!

Hangry toddlers are miserable. And they make mommies and daddies miserable too. You need snacks for the plane, and the best way I found to do that was to bring a Snacklebox! This is a small container with separate compartments for food. My husband was so annoyed that I splurged on a Snacklebox for our son, Colton, for the plane. And that man ate his words.  The Snacklebox not only kept Colton eating throughout the ride, but he also loved holding it and opening it himself and seeing what was inside. In terms of packing, it contained everything for us, didn’t spill, and easily slipped inside my carry-on backpack.

3. Arrange Transportation to Your Walt Disney World Resort (Or Other Accommodation) Ahead of Time

If you fly into Disney, it is not enough to assume you will just hail a cab to get to where you’re staying. And, trust me, this isn’t something you want to figure out on the spot with a tired toddler. Luckily, you have a few options for how to get to your hotel from the airport.  This, of course, is complicated by the fact that with a toddler you need a car seat. We tried out Tiffany Towncar for our drive to the resort and the new Mears Express for the ride back to the airport. I’d recommend both of them, as they were cost-effective and efficient.  Tiffany Towncar picked us up right at baggage claim, took us to our private van, and dropped us off at the resort. They included two car seats for us for free , and they were already installed and ready to go! A feature I love about this company is that they offer a complimentary grocery stop if you’d like one! (Highly recommend using this stop to grab snacks for your kiddo!) Mears Express was also great (I was worried after reading some less-than-stellar reviews). They were on time to the front of our resort and didn’t make any other stops on the way to the airport. The bus was clean, and the driver was friendly and helpful! These were the best options we found (most cost-effective and efficient) for our family, though you could definitely rent a car and pay for a car seat there as well. Renting a car would make more sense if you are staying off of Disney resort property. 

How to Stay at Walt Disney World Resorts With Toddlers

How to get the most out of your resort stay with your little one!

4. Know How Your Room Will Be Set Up

We stayed in a Disney Vacation Club studio room at Saratoga Springs. I was initially worried about the space and how our son would sleep. However, he slept in the pull-down Murphy bed (almost like a sofa bed), and we just folded it right up and out of the way each morning!

⭐ Tip: If this is your toddler’s first time sleeping in a real bed, try these packable, inflatable bed bumpers! I was terrified that Colton would roll right out because he moves around so much at night, but these worked out wonderfully to keep him in place!

5. Know Where You Are Staying In Your Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World resorts are HUGE . If you are staying in one, you want to know exactly where you are located. Lugging a stroller and a toddler and whatever else you have with you to a bus stop that is a 10-minute walk away is not the look. You can request certain resort areas in the My Disney Experience App. For instance, you can ask to be close to a pool or a bus stop. Pick what’s best for you!

⭐ Saratoga Springs Tip : We love the Congress Park area . Our room was right across from the bus stop and pool. It was also MAYBE a 10-minute walk to Disney Springs . It was perfect!

Tips For Visiting Disney World Parks With Toddlers

Taking toddlers to the actual parks in Disney can be the most stressful part of the trip. Don’t worry- the hacks below saved us more than once, and they’re easy to implement!

6. Have a Plan, But Be Flexible

You definitely need to have a plan of attack for each day. Which park are you going to? What rides are you heading to first? Where will you eat? All of these things factor in. For example, you want to hit the most popular rides early in order to avoid lines ( no one wants to wait in line with a toddler). And you don’t want to have to walk halfway back across the park in order to get to your lunch spot. Plan this out ahead of time! But, overall, you still need to be flexible.

For example, one thing that we were seriously worried about was that Colton wouldn’t be “Disney tired” and would refuse to sleep in the stroller.

Most days, he fell right asleep in the stroller. One day, we even decided mid-meltdown to leave for a nap.

By the time we had walked up Main Street in Magic Kingdom, he was passed out, and we spent 2 hours sitting outside the gates where there wasn’t music blaring.

BUT- we got our nap in! There’s no way to plan for how your toddler will manage each day. So, plan ahead, but be flexible, too. It’ll make your trip more enjoyable!

7. Capitalize on Early Entry to the Parks

One of the best perks of staying on Disney property is that you gain early entry to the parks on certain days. And you should absolutely use it as much as possible! Let’s not beat around the bush- you’re up already with a toddler- lol. They aren’t sleeping in. So, you might as well make the most of that early day. Entering the parks early means shorter lines and the ability to get more rides in. This is an easy way to maximize time in the parks prior to possibly needing to leave for naptime.

8. Bring Your Own Stroller

You can rent strollers ( most rent from Kingdom Strollers ), but we prefer to bring our own.   This way, we have our stroller with us in the airport and don’t have to coordinate the pickup or dropoff of a rented one in our busy schedule. It is also worth bringing your own stroller because you already know your child is comfortable, you know how it works, and you know how you prefer it to be organized.   If necessary, you can use a stroller bag to keep it safe during the flight.

9. Figure Out How You Will Organize Your Stroller For Disney World With Toddlers

Believe me, you’ll be taking a LOT of buses during your Disney World Vacation. 🚨 Here’s the thing…You have to have your stroller for your little ones, but you also have to be able to quickly fold up your stroller in order to jump on and off Disney World transportation buses. To help make this process more manageable, we used a large Marshalls reusable bag with separate zipper pouches thrown inside. One of us would carry the stroller and full Marshalls bag through security at the parks, and the other person took our toddler through the much shorter person-only line. We received a ton of compliments from Disney staff because checking our items was so seamless! Once inside the parks, we would take a moment to unpack. We’d fold the Marshall’s bag on the bottom of the stroller and put all of the pouches on top of it. When we were ready to hop on the next bus, this setup allowed us to pack up easily. We’d throw everything into the big bag to get onto a bus, but we still had SO much organization in the smaller pouches.

10. Organize Your Stroller Pouches

This set of pouches made it so simple to organize our stroller well. Here’s how I recommend you use them: ✔ 1 large zipper pouch  A change of clothes and shoes for your toddler ( Natives are perfect for when it rains!) as well as a raincoat. ✔ 1 medium pouch for snacks ✔ 1 medium pouch for extras Kid utensils for eating , a portable noise machine , a portable battery pack , suntan lotion, etc) ✔ 1 medium pouch for diapers and wipes (To Help With Quick Changing) Having a separate pouch for diapers and wipes makes it so simple to grab and run into one of the baby care center s. No rooting through a diaper bag and forgetting something!

⭐ Tip: Disney has amazing Baby Care Centers at every one of their parks. Inside are private nursing areas, a changing room, and so many other amenities. You can find a list of where they are located here!

11. Have a Small Bag to Take on Disney World Rides

When you’re visiting Disney World Parks with a toddler, you come with a LOT of stuff. But, you can’t take your entire stroller and all of your pouches into rides or restaurants at Disney. The best way I found to combat this is to just take your valuables with you . I bought a Disney Loungefly bag (super cute, and so many styles!) to take with us on rides and into restaurants. The Loungefly bags are much more spacious than they look, and I usually packed my small wallet, my toddler’s hoodie, his water bottle, our rain ponchos, and his toddler-sized eating utensils in the bag in case we needed them.  At one point, we walked off of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, and it was POURING. It worked beautifully to have these things with me immediately and not have to sift through the stroller in the rain to find our ponchos.

12. Bring Water Bottles and REFILL Them for Free (with filtered water) at Disney Parks!

Bring reusable, stainless steel bottles and hang them from your stroller. We hung two adult water bottles and a toddler water bottle with no problem from our stroller hook .  The best way to get ice water that is filtered (because, no, we aren’t drinking dirty park fountain water unless we absolutely HAVE to) is to fill your bottles in the morning at your resort or room. Then, throughout the day, each time you are at a quick service or counter restaurant, ask for cups of water (they’re free!!) and dump them in your bottle to refill!

13. Bring a Portable Charger to the Parks

Disney is quickly moving everything to mobile platforms, so you will use your phone constantly throughout the day. Reservations, tickets, Genie+, dining, mobile ordering, wait times, MemoryMaker… it can ALL be done on the My Disney Experience app. Your phone will die. Grab a compact charger that you can use throughout the day at the parks.

14. Cover Your Stroller!

Ya’ll think I’m joking. But this is a major tip that saved us MORE than once. You need a stroller rain cover. AND-If there’s ANY chance of rain, and I mean ANY, use your stroller rain cover when you go on rides in the parks. Three or four times, we came off of a Disney World ride to see that it had sprinkled (or poured) while we were inside. Since we had thought to cover our stroller, my toddler could still sit in a dry seat. If we hadn’t. we’d have been out of luck or soaking wet for the rest of the day.

15. Toddlers at Disney World LOVE Bubble Wands

Look…apparently at Disney the bubble wands are A THING . Especially at night for parades. In well-prepared mom fashion, we bought the Disney character wand on Amazon ahead of time. It worked for one day and broke, so we ended up out the $30 for the one at the parks anyway. Awesome. If the bubble wand is going to be that important to YOUR kid, I’d say be prepared to pay $30 for the working one that will last. But, BRING EXTRA BUBBLES! You will run out!

16. Buy the $15 Balloon at Magic Kingdom

Prior to Disney, I was that mom who was all “ There’s no way I’m paying $15 dollars for a BALLOON! Are you crazy?” Welp, our little one wanted the balloon as his souvenir. Didn’t ask for one thing the entire trip…no stuffed animal, no pins, no ears. But, dang it if he didn’t want that dreaded balloon. So, naturally, I caved. And I’m just here to tell you it was the best $15 I spent on the entire trip. It was my kid’s favorite thing. Sure, it was annoying on the bus. He hit tons of people with it accidentally (lol), but he was SO happy . And, BONUS, it does really help you find your stroller easily. We could see our stroller clear across the packed Toy Story Land, which is something!

17. Mark Your Stroller in Disney World Parks

Disney is basically a sea of strollers. And they’re almost ALL black. SO, you really need to figure out ahead of time how you will find your stroller easily when you come off of a ride or out of a show. The best way I found to do this was to use stroller marker Pom poms . These clipped right around our stroller handles and were small enough that they weren’t in the way, but big enough that we could see them easily to identify where our stroller was. A lot of people also have success at night with looping battery-operated string lights around their strollers. I didn’t personally try this, but I saw lots of families who did!

18. Proactively Care For Your Feet

You will walk a ton at Disney . We walked more than 30 miles during our week-long trip. Did you read above where I said I was 31 weeks pregnant? Yep- 30 miles at 31 weeks pregnant. I’m sure I don’t need to tell you that my feet were KILLING me. Prior to this trip, I had no idea how much of a life-saver Epsom salt was….but it’s amazing. Each night, I used Epsom salt foot lotion before bed. It worked wonders. I will never travel anywhere without it again. Ever.

19. Get To Walt Disney World Parks EARLY!

With toddlers, you’ve gotta get up and go. And, when I say go, I mean earlier than the posted early entry. We often left our resort 1.5 hours ahead of the supposed park entry time. Every time, without fail, we got a bus earlier than they were supposed to be running.  Disney generally says that there will be buses running to parks  “1 hour before opening.” We found that they ran even earlier. Jumping on these early buses allowed us to be in the first group through park security. We did wait a bit, but we were ALWAYS let through the front park entrance gates earlier than the park was supposed to be open, and we were able to go in and get on rides right away.

20. The Ratatouille Hack at Epcot Park (My Personal Favorite Tip For ANYONE!)

Ya’ll- Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure ride (in Epcot) is a hot commodity. It’s a newer ride, and it has SUCH long lines. But we waited ten minutes for it. MAYBE. Here’s how we did it: ✅ Take an early bus to Hollywood Studios (It doesn’t matter if Hollywood Studios is open). ✅ From Hollywood Studios, jump on the Skyliner to Epcot. ✅ The Skyliner will drop you off at the back gates of Epcot (near France in the World Showcase.) ✅ They open this back entrance at the same time as the front entrance. Since you’re right outside of France, you can literally walk to your right and get in the queue for Ratatouille. ✅ You automatically cut off everyone running to Ratatouille from the front entrance, so the only people there are those who also knew to go in the back (World Showcase) entrance.  They ended up letting us into Epcot early, letting us jump in the ride line early, and opening the entire ride early. 

⭐ Tip: Go earlier than you think you need to. The posted early entry for Epcot the day we went was 9:00. Early entry for resort guests was supposed to be 8:30. We were already in the park and off of Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure by 8:20 (before the park was even supposed to be open!).   By the time we walked off of the ride, the line was already at over a 90-minute wait, and the park technically hadn’t even OPENED yet.

21. Use the Secret Castle Photo Spot at Magic Kingdom Park

This is the best way to get unobstructed views of Cinderella’s Castle without anyone else in your photos! Head to one of the small buildings on either side of the castle (circled on the map above). The angles feel strange at first, but the pictures come out beautifully!

22. Take a Portable Noise Machine For Naps

A noise machine is an extra thing to bring with you each day, but it definitely prolonged naps for our little guy. This rechargeable one was hooked inside our stroller to help drown out the noise. Even when we tried to find quieter spots in the parks during nap time, they really weren’t all that quiet. The noise machine helped cover that so well.

23. If You Care About the Photos, Buy the MemoryMaker

I am a photo person, so we DID do the MemoryMaker. And it was honestly way better than we expected it to be for two reasons: ✔ Only one of us paid for it (and then split the cost), but all 12 of the people in our group could use it. The key here is to have all of your guests connected on the My Disney Experience App.  Once you’re all connected on the App, no matter who scans their MagicBand, the photo goes to your MemoryMaker section. The only catch here is that only the person who paid for MemoryMaker can download the photos without the watermark. At the end of the trip, this just meant that I had to download all of the photos and disseminate them even though I wasn’t in some of them.

✔ There are lots of places to get photos taken. Disney photographers are basically everywhere. We have photos at the front of parks, at the back of parks, in front of important Disney buildings (Ex: Beauty and the Beast’s castle), with Disney characters photoshopped in, on rides, and even randomly at the park where we got family photos. This allowed us to have photos we probably wouldn’t have taken otherwise, and it was nice not to have to awkwardly ask a random person to take our photos for us.   We would absolutely do this again.

⭐ Tip: If you do buy the MemoryMaker, make sure you allow your Disney app to access Bluetooth . This is how they track you on a ride to link your photos. There are a few older rides where you have to physically scan your MagicBand by your photo on the way out, but the only one we saw was Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom Park.

24. Take Advantage of Visiting Theme Parks In the Rain

If you’re prepared for the rain, it isn’t so bad. We did Magic Kingdom Park on a day when it closed early for a cast member celebration AND it rained. Best. Decision. Ever. There was legit like no one there. We walked onto rides all afternoon. You’ll be wet, but you’ll have the best memories from it. If you have the chance, do it.

25. Stay for the Fireworks at Epcot and Magic Kingdom

I have to admit… I was so on the fence about this one initially. Who enjoys having a toddler up past their bedtime? No one. But, we rallied and went to both the Epcot and Magic Kingdom Park fireworks shows. They were the highlight of my son’s trip (as you can see from his face in the photo!). He still talks about them to this day.

⭐ Tip : If you are going to stay for fireworks, have a plan of exit ! I recommend leaving 10-15 minutes before the end of the show if you can. Otherwise, plan on waiting a while to get out of the park and back to your resort.

Disney Food Service With Toddlers

Here are a few easy tips for making meals at Disney a little bit more peaceful with kids!

26. Use Mobile Ordering (ESPECIALLY in Toy Story Land)

Using mobile ordering for lunches and snacks made our lives so much easier . Trust me, the lines for the quick service counters are B-A-N-A-N-A-S. Do not get stuck in those lines. One of the most popular counter services is Woody’s Lunchbox in Toy Story Land at Hollywood Studios. If you want to eat here, grab your mobile order window AS SOON AS YOU GET INTO THE PARK . I snagged our 12 PM mobile walk-up time around 9:30 AM. By 11:00 AM, all of the mobile pick-up windows for the entire day (both lunch and dinner) were gone.  On the plus side, this was the only mobile window we had to grab ahead of time.

27. Book Dinners Where There is Something for the Kids to Do

Our best Disney dinners were at places that had unique scenery which kept the kids engaged. We loved the following restaurants: ✅ T-Rex (Saratoga Springs): A restaurant with prehistorically decorated rooms, dinosaurs that move and roar, and a lightning rain show during dinner. ✅ Ragland Road (Saratoga Springs): An Irish pub that has Irish dancing, singing, and other entertainment. ✅ San Angel Inn (Epcot): A Mexican restaurant inside the World Showcase pavilion with a starry night sky and river ride nearby. ✅ Biergarten (Epcot): A German Biergarten restaurant with German dancers, musicians, and other entertainment. ✅ Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (Epcot): A Norweigan restaurant where Disney princesses come around and talk to tables.

⭐ Note: These are NOT my recommendations for the best dinners in Disney. They are simply my recommendations for places your toddler will not be bored out of their minds because there is something to look at.

28. Bring Kid-Friendly Activities Into Restaurants

Don’t hesitate to bring some of your child’s favorite activities with you into the parks and to meals. Just make sure they pack well! We always bring travel reusable sticker play sets , travel board books , and water wow booklets to keep Colton entertained while we are waiting for our meals. This makes life a lot more peaceful for us!

29. Book A Character Breakfast (And Get Into Animal Kingdom Early!)

We did the Tusker House character breakfast before Animal Kingdom opened, and it was AMAZING. The service was fantastic, Disney characters came around multiple times, and the food was probably the best meal we ate at Disney. Tusker House is family-style, so keep in mind that kids under 3 eat for free (winning!), and it is all-you-can-eat. As a bonus, breakfast-goers get into the park for early reservations. Because of this, we scored family photos in an empty Animal Kingdom and were already in the back of the park by the time the front gates opened to the public. This meant we were the first ones in ride lines!

30. Be Our Guest (Beauty and the Beast Restaurant) May or May Not Be Worth It 

This one is a toss-up, and people argue adamantly on both sides whether or not Be Our Guest is worth it. There’s no way around it… the meal comes with a hefty price tag . It is the most expensive meal I have ever eaten (I don’t know what that says about my palate, but hey). My little guy LOVES Beauty and the Beast right now, so doing lunch at Be Our Guest was worth it for us.  I also have to say the food was incredible. Each person gets a three-course meal (appetizer, entree, and dessert). Colton got an adorable cheese and fruit board to start and loved painting his own “Chip”-themed dessert.

⭐ Tip : If your child is NOT afraid of lightning and darkness, ask to be seated in the West Wing! This is the most decorated part of the palace, and there is a lightning storm during your meal. We loved it!

31. Have Breakfast in Your Hotel Room

Do a grocery run when you first get to Disney so that you can have breakfast in your hotel room! We picked up breakfast items (oatmeal cups, drinkable yogurts, bananas, granola bars), bottled water, and snacks to take with us into the parks. This alone saved us a ton of money and time! We were able to grab food, jump on a bus in the morning, and not waste any time finding breakfast. 

Is It Worth Going to Disney With a Toddler?

Absolutely. And, look. I, too, was a skeptic at first. My in-laws are Disney Vacation Club members, and they always asked us when we would first take Colton to Walt Disney World. We always said something like “Oh, probably not until he is like 5 so he can rememer it!” (After all, you spend all that money, right?) But, no. Taking our son to Disney at 2 years old was the perfect time. Toddlers are so full of energy and zest and excitement during these years. The way their eyes light up at the smallest thing makes it so worth it. Even if your little one won’t remember every detail, you will. And, plus, you’ll have about a thousand pictures to show him, too!

Is Disney Toddler-Friendly?

Yes! Disney is incredibly toddler-friendly. I was worried that having a two-year-old and being 31 weeks pregnant we would have nothing to do. If anything, it was the opposite. There are so many age-appropriate rides, shows, favorite Disney characters, and parades, that you will never get bored.

What Disney World Park is Best For Toddlers?

Magic Kingdom is the best Disney World Park for toddlers. Although each of the four parks has a few things that are toddler-friendly, Magic Kingdom has the most. The entire park of Magic Kingdom is geared towards younger kids, including many of the rides, characters, parades, and even the design of the areas of the park such as Frontierland. Little ones will have a blast at Magic Kingdom, and there are only a few choice things that they will be unable to participate in.

What is There To Do In Disney World Theme Parks For Toddlers?

Here are some of the top things to do in each of the Disney Parks for little ones:

Things for Toddlers at Magic Kingdom

✔️ 17 different rides that have no height requirement (Including Jungle Cruise, Peter Pan’s Flight & Pirates of the Caribbean). ✔️ Character Meet and Greets With Mickey Mouse, Belle, and others! ✔️ Character Dining at Be Our Guest, Cinderella’s Table, and Crystal Palace.

Epcot With Toddlers

✔️ Amazing family-friendly rides like Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Frozen Ever After, and The Seas With Nemo and Friends. ✔️Akershus Banquet Hall Princess Dining! ✔️Playgrounds and Splash pads ✔️ The World Pavilion Kidcot Fun Stops, shows, and rides ✔️ Character meets with countless Disney World favorites like Anna and Elsa, Belle, and Princess Jasmine.

Animal Kingdom For Toddlers

✔️ Second-best park for toddlers ✔️ Exciting rides like the Kilimanjaro Safaris, Na’vi River Journey, and It’s Tough to Be a Bug! ✔️ So many animal encounters! ✔️ Festival of the Lion King show.

Rides and Attractions for Toddlers at Hollywood Studios

✔️ Toy Story Land! ✔️ Rides like Minnie & Mickey’s Runaway Railway, Toy Story Mania!, and For the First Time in Forever: Frozen Sing Along. ✔️ Beauty and the Beast- Live on Stage! ✔️ Other shows: Muppet-vision, Lightning McQueens Racing Academy, Disney Junior Play and Dance Party.

Conclusion: Walt Disney World Theme Park Tips With Toddlers

In order to enjoy Disney with a toddler, you have to go with the flow . Do not ruin your bucket list trip by stressing over the little details. Hopefully by now this post has provided you with some epic hacks and tips to help you take your toddler to Disney…and enjoy it! Try not to stress- this trip should be enjoyable for you, too! Be as flexible as you can, and roll with what your toddler needs! Everything else will fall into place.

Taylor Beal, owner and author of Traverse With Taylor, has been traveling in Europe for more than a decade and helps others explore Europe easily through amazing guides and itineraries. She has adventured through more than 20 countries, searching for the best experiences, must-try foods, and delicious beers! She spends a lot of time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places! Taylor is also a Holocaust educator focused on raising awareness around WWII historical sites.

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Disney World with 2, 3,& 4 Years Olds: Tips and Best Rides & Parks for Toddlers

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I will always have special memories of our very first Disney World vacation as a family.

My girls were ages 2 and 4, and my son didn’t exist yet. It was my parents idea, and the six of us all went down and stayed together. (Before they invited us, I assumed we would wait a few years before going to Disney. I’m glad now that we didn’t wait.)

Even though we only went to two of the four parks, and even though we didn’t have a single character meal … that trip was wonderful because the girls were excited about everything .

So if you’re getting ready for a Disney trip with toddlers or preschoolers, you are in for a real treat.

And now I’m going to indulge in some nostalgia while I try to cover everything you need to know about taking toddler and preschool-age kids to Disney World.

After reading this post, you’ll know:

• Which Disney parks are best for toddlers
• The perfect souvenirs to buy
• What to pack
• Which rides are perfect choices for 2-4 year olds
• Special products (like noise-reducing headphones) that will make your trip go more smoothly

Preparing for Your Toddler’s First Disney World Trip

I’ve always thought a big part of the fun of going to Disney was the weeks leading up to it.

I remember playing “go to Disney World” with the girls pretty much every day. We pretended the couch was the car and we “drove” there, and immediately upon arrival ran up to hug Winnie the Pooh (ah, if only it were that easy.)

Then they would “ride” various rides, including going down the slide on our backyard swing set, pretending it was Splash Mountain.

We also enjoyed snuggling up in bed together in the evenings and reading a section from this book , which gave us a general idea of what was where and got all of us excited for the trip.

Other ways of building excitement (for yourself as well as the kids) include making or buying a Disney countdown calendar , watching your favorite Disney movies, or playing Disney games together as a family.

Does My 1 or 2 Year Old Need a Ticket to Get Into Disney World?

Nope. Children under the age of 3 don’t need a ticket for any of the four parks OR the two water parks.

They also get to eat for free at the buffets!

You do not have to prove their age with any documentation.

Could you lie and sneak in your 3 year old for free? Probably. But should you? Of course not.

I recommend scheduling a trip when your youngest child is as close to 3 years old as possible — like, 2 years and 9 months, or something like that. If you can hit that sweet spot where they’re free, but also potty trained, it’s a beautiful thing.

How Much is a Disney Ticket for a 3 or 4 Year Old?

You do have to buy tickets for a 3 or 4 year but they’re a little less money than they are for your 10 year old.

How much less? They are lots of factors to consider, like when you’re traveling and whether or not you want park hopper tickets.

But just to give you an idea, I just went over to the Disney park tickets page and quickly priced a 5-day trip in February.

• Ages 10+: $489.70
• Ages 3-9: $470.78

So no, you’re going to save a ton, but every little bit helps.

Best Disney Souvenirs for Toddlers

Some people love buying their kids’ souvenirs before they head to Disney , for two main reasons:

• It saves money
• It saves time

Some [very organized] parents even have a strategy planned, setting up a surprise stuffed animal on their child’s bed each night, or having a pre-wrapped gift for each day of their vacation.

Well … I’ve never done that.

• We don’t buy enough souvenirs for money to be a big issue
• For us, shopping at Disney is fun , not something to be avoided
• If you don’t buy it during your vacation, it’s not really a souvenir. It’s just “some Disney stuff we bought.”

Whether you want to get your souvenirs before or during your trip (or some combination of both), here are some ideas for what to get your toddler:

1. Mouse Ears

Mouse ears are so fun, and these days there are sooo many kinds to choose from that it’s ridiculous. You could easily wear a different pair for each day of your vacation, assuming you don’t mind shelling out the money.

One extra nice thing about mouse ears is that you can get the “baseball cap version,” which also serves as a way to keep the sun off your child’s face.

2. Stuffed Animals

What toddler doesn’t love their soft, stuffed friends? Like mouse ears, there are endless choices or characters and sizes to choose from.

3. Play Sets

A trip to Disney World is never complete for Rob and Benjamin without a trip to the Lego Store in Disney Springs — even though Benjamin is now 12.

As a parent, I love play sets because you can do so many things with them. You build with them. You tell stories with them. You can mix and match and join together multiple sets. You can play by yourself, or with a friend or sibling.

I think an activity souvenir is a much better choice that something like a balloon (which, you’ll notice, is not on this list), because it lasts and can be used long after the trip is over.

4. Autograph Books (and Pen)

This doesn’t have to mean a literal book. Some people have characters sign their baseball cap or tote bag.

It also doesn’t have to be something that you buy. If you plan ahead and like to be creative (and have some scrapbooking stuff buried in the back of your closet, like I do), you and your kids can make a great-looking customized book.

I have seen many moms rave about using this book for character meet and greets. Since the book contains drawings and fun facts about the characters, it gives them something to look at together and talk about, instead of the character just signing their name.

If you’re going to ask Disney characters to sign their name, make sure that you get a pen like this that is both:

• Retractable

The Best Disney Parks for Toddlers

This is one of the most common questions people tend to ask, especially if they’re only able to go to the parks for a couple days.

Unfortunately, we totally messed this one up on our first trip.

My NASA-loving husband was dying to ride Mission:Space at Epcot, and since we didn’t spring for the Park Hopper tickets, we were stuck there for the rest of the day.

And in my opinion, Epcot wasn’t the best park for an entire day with a 2 and 4 year old. (I say “wasnt” because I think this was more true back in 2005 than it is in 2020 — meaning that Epcot seems more toddler-friendly now.)

✅ Best Park for Toddlers: Magic Kingdom

In my opinion — and most people would probably agree — the Magic Kingdom is by far the best park for a toddler .

They have a ton of rides perfectly suited for little kids, plus the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade , which features characters like

• Mickey and Minnie Mouse in a hot air balloon
• Peter Pan, Wendy, Tinkerbell and Captain Hook
• Rapunzel and Flynn Rider
• Snow White and the Seven Dwarves

I would even argue that if you’re having only 2 days at the parks, it might be best to make an itinerary where you go to the Magic Kingdom twice rather than go to 2 different parks. Just something to think about.

Here are some of the best Magic Kingdom attractions for toddlers:

Fantasyland:

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

This is a great ride with a somewhat interactive queue. There is a 3 foot, 2 inch height requirement , so some toddlers won’t be tall enough. Others will be, but the ride will be too intense for them. (It is a roller coaster, even though it’s a tame one.)

If you do ride the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, you definitely want to get a Fastpass for this one OR hit it the second the park opens.

Peter Pan’s Flight

This was officially Rachael’s favorite ride after our first trip, when she was 4 years old. To this day, J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan is one of her favorite books.

The lines for this one are almost ridiculously long (although I think the queue is a really good one), so definitely get a Fastpass for it, or plan to hit it at rope drop.

It’s a Small World

People love to hate on this ride for some reason, but it’s classic Disney and your toddler will almost certainly love it.

It features over 300 audio-animatronic children in traditional costumes from cultures around the world singing the theme song (which, according to Wiki , is the most publicly performed song of all time.

Under the Sea — Journey of the Little Mermaid

This is a slow indoor ride on a clamshell while animatronics and video effects tell the story of Ariel and her friends.

There isn’t usually a long line for this one, but it’s definitely one of the best Disney queues, as you pass under waterfalls and go through rocky coves as you enter Prince Eric’s castle.

The Barnstormer

The Barnstormer is a 53-second ride introducing toddlers and preschoolers to roller coasters, and it does a good job of it.

Of the 53 seconds the ride is in motion, 32 seconds are consumed in leaving the loading area, being ratcheted up the first hill, and braking into the off-loading area. The actual time you spend careering around the track: 21 seconds.

The only time I’ve ever ridden it was on our first trip when my girls were 2 and 4. One girl loved it and the other didn’t because it “made her butt jiggle.”

One thing worth noting, if you have two little kids like I did: Each ride cars holds only two people, and every child under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. So you either have to have an adult for each kid, or one adult has to ride it twice.

Enchanted Tales with Belle

Unfortunately, this attraction didn’t exist until after my kids had outgrown it — which is too bad, because my girls probably would have loved it.

It’s a 20-minute, live interactive show where Belle re-tells the story of Beauty and the Beast and encourages children to play the different parts. At the end, children who had a role in the show get a chance to have their picture taken with Belle.

Prince Charming Regal Carrousel

This is another underrated ride, I think. Sure, a carrousel may not be unique in itself, but this is one of the most beautiful and intricate ones you’ll ever ride. It’s particular gorgeous at night when the lights are turned on.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh I love anything involving Winnie the Pooh, and this ride is no exception. Just a heads up: when Rebecca was 2 years old, the heffalump section frightened her a little.

Walt Disney World Railroad This ride is great if:

• You have a kid who loves trains
• The idea of traveling through the park without walking appeals to you

We usually get on the train at the Main Street station right at the entrance of the park and then get off at either Frontierland or Fantasyland.

You can also choose to take a 20-minute scenic tour around the entire park, although we have never done that.

Mad Tea Party

As you can see from the cool photo above, this is a spinning ride, so some people (like my two daughters) will have a high tolerance for it, and other people (like my husband) will definitely not.

There is a FastPass option, but it’s probably the worst use of FastPass in all of Disney World. There is hardly any wait at all; in fact, we usually just walk right up to it.

If you’re an Alice in Wonderland fan , like me, there are scheduled times when you can meet Alice and the Mad Hatter near this ride.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant Boy, did we get gypped. Back when my girls were little, this ride only had one carousel, and the line had no shade and nothing to do, so you had to endure the heat while desperately trying to keep your kids entertained during the long wait.

Now, instead of having to wait in line, you get a pager and your kids can play in the Storybook Circus indoor play area until it’s your turn. I wouldn’t be surprised if a lot of kids like the play area better than the ride itself.

Adventureland

Jungle Cruise

This is a simulation of a riverboat cruise traveling down the major rivers of Asia, Africa and South America and passing audio-animatronic jungle animals. The tour is led by a Cast Member who gives a semi-improv narrative full of corny jokes. There’s a decent chance they’ll led your kid come up the front and steer for a couple minutes.

Pirates of the Caribbean

According to Wiki, Pirates of the Caribbean was originally envisioned as a walk-through wax museum attraction , but it was changed to a boat ride concept after the success of It’s a Small World at the 1964 New York World’s Fair.

It sounds like it could be a scary ride, but it’s rarely a problem for little ones. There is a very very very small drop in the dark at the beginning (you won’t get wet), so you might want to consider warning your kids if you think they’ll panic.

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin My daughter Rebecca commented on our last trip that this was one of the most underrated rides in the park. I like it because I always get a Dole Whip at Aloha Isle when I’m finished.

Tomorrowland

Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover I still think of this as the “WEDWay People Mover,” because

• I’m old enough to remember it by that name
• It’s a lot easier to say

This is a slow-moving, air-conditioned tour of Tomorrowland, including the inside of Space Mountain .

It may not be the most exciting ride in the world (although it definitely has a cult following). However, it’s perfect for a toddler (or the parents of one) who is hot, tired, or over-stimulated.

If you want to make this ride a little exciting, consider riding it at night.

My son Benjamin, who was all about cars when he was little, loved this one on his first trip to Disney when he was 3 years old.

If your child is too short to drive, he can still steer the car while you sit next to him and work the foot pedal. The cars travel at 7 mph and travel on a guard rail, so no skill is required.

Second Best Park for Toddlers — Animal Kingdom

Our family is pretty biased toward Animal Kingdom in general.

• We love having lunch at Flame Tree BBQ
• It’s shady
• It’s more peaceful and more “real” than the other parks

Another nice thing about Animal Kingdom is that you can get to meet some of the slightly more obscure Disney characters, like:

• Pocahontas and Meeko
• Scrooge McDuck
• Koda from Brother Bear
• Russell, Dug, and Kevin (from Up )
• Timon and Rafiki

Here are some attractions in Animal Kingdom that are good for toddlers:

Kilimanjaro Safaris This ride simulates an open-sided safari ride through the savanna of East Africa. Unlike the Jungle Cruise in Magic Kingdom, the animals are real, not audio-animatronic.

You’ll see zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, rhinos, and lions just roaming about, which is pretty fascinating, and never exactly the same “ride” twice. If your kid loves animals, this one is a no-brainer.

Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail (Formerly called Pangani Forest Exploration Trail)

This is an easy attraction to dismiss, assuming you’re even aware of it in the first place. But I would definitely recommend you take the 20 minutes or so to go through it when you exit Kilimanjaro Safari. It’s a nice change of pace from standing in line and being on rides. You’ll see animals like zebras, meerkats, and African birds. At the end of the trail is a gorilla exhibit.

Wilderness Explorers This is a scavenger hunt where players earn “badges” (stickers) from Cast Members for completing certain activities throughout the park. (This Disney tie-in is that it’s based on Russell’s troop from the movie Up .)

It’s intended more for ages 8-13, but Cast Members are apparently trained to modify the activities for different ages.

To play, you register near the bridge from The Oasis to Discovery Island, where you’ll be given an instruction book and a map showing where the different badge activities are.

Rafiki’s Planet Watch Touring Plans says, “Rafiki’s Planet Watch isn’t really a “land” and not really an attraction either. Our best guess is that Disney is using the name as an umbrella for Conservation Station , the petting zoo, and the environmental exhibits accessible from Harambe via the Wildlife Express Train from Africa.

We only visited Rafiki’s Planet Watch once, when Benjamin was 3. He loved the train ride, and all of enjoyed being somewhere that was a little educational and (at the time) not crowded.

Dinoland USA I really can’t stand Dinoland USA ( except for the ride Dinosaur , which I love).

It’s garish, hot, and looks like a state fair as opposed to a Disney park. Plus the rides aren’t much to get excited about. Triceratops Spin is bland and unoriginal, and Primeval Whirl has a height requirement of 4 feet (plus an unofficial requirement that you have a good chiropractor waiting for you when you get back home).

Still, your kids will probably like Triceratops Spin and playing in The Boneyard, so I need to mention it here.

Na’Vi River Journey

Toddlers certainly can ride this attraction in World of Pandora , but I wouldn’t recommend knocking yourself out to do it, especially if you’re torn between it and something else.

My family found it pretty, but underwhelming, especially considering the long wait. Plus it’s probably not something that most toddlers are going to beg to do.

Festival of the Lion King

A stage show that involves singing, dancing, acrobatics, and fire twirling. I’ve never seen it (my kids were always more interested in rides than shows), but I’ve heard great things about it.

Finding Nemo: The Musical

An elaborate 40-minute live show involving original songs, dancing, special effects, puppetry, and digital backdrops of the undersea world. It’s often I’ve heard it described as a mini Broadway show.

How to Prevent Toddlers from Getting Lost at Disney

Disney cast members recommend that you take a photo of each child before arriving at the park that morning so that it will be much easier to look for them if they do happen to get lost.

Something like these waterproof travel ID bracelets can give you peace of mind.

Amazon reviewer Payne725 describes them as “perfect for airport travel and Disney”:

Used these on our 3 kids at Disney Land for a week. We put them on when we left for the airport and took them off mid trip to replace with a fresh set– lots of bubble bath, sunscreen, and pool time left them looking dingy (but still totally functional!) we changed them out so they looked a little more presentable for dinner out with family!) Overall, amazing product if you use a fine tip sharpie (no smudging at all if you let it dry). We will be buying more for future travel!

When you arrive at the park in the morning, point out to your kids that the cast members all wear white name tags , and tell them more than once that if anyone in the family gets lost or separated, they should immediately find the nearest cast member and ask for help.

It’s also a good idea to tell your kids that they might have to go to the nearest ride, restaurant, or store to find a cast member so they aren’t aimlessly wandering through the crowds and getting more scared.

If you’re into this, especially if you have a big family, you can get some really cute matching family vacation shirts to help keep everybody together and make them easier to find.

Toddlers and Strollers at Disney

Interestingly, I heard that there are WAY less strollers at Tokyo Disney that at Disney World in Florida, suggesting that we Americans expect our kids to be less capable of walking than they actually are.

Personally, I would recommend a stroller for each child five years old and under .

Magic Kingdom is 105 acres, and Epcot is 300 acres. I do not want to discover what will happen when I tell an exhausted four year old who is on the brink of tears that we have to trek through the blazing Florida heat for another fifteen minutes just to get back to the park’s entrance.

Other than their obvious purpose, strollers are also a convenient way to store the things you need to bring into the parks, like snacks, water bottles, diaper bags, etc.

We’ve never used the Disney strollers, because they’re: personally don’t recommend the Disney rental strollers, because they

• Fairly expensive
• Made of hard plastic, which looks uncomfortable.

We just brought cheap umbrella strollers with no frills, which worked pretty well. I would recommend making sure it at least has a canopy and a basket, especially if you have one or more kids still in diapers.

The Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller pictured below isn’t cheap, but it’s a sturdy, lightweight umbrella stroller with lots of extras, if you think the investment is worth it.

Some of its features include:

• 4-position recline, making it super-easy for your child to be comfortable, at any age
• Extra-large storage basket, rear storage pocket, and cup holder
• Easy compact fold with carry strap and auto lock
• Adjustable and removable canopy with flip out sun visor

Amazon reviewer Pri calls this stroller “sturdy and convenient” and describes why it’s better than cheaper umbrella strollers:

I recommend this one over the cheap umbrella strollers for the following reasons:

1. Sturdiness: my Cosco stroller was flimsy and lasted me less than a month of ocassional use. The fabric began tearing from the sides and one of the legs of the strollers actually became bent upon hitting something. This stroller seems far sturdier in both its frame as well as seat fabric. 2. While the cheap umbrella strollers only offer a certain degree of comfort to your baby, the seat on this one reclines to a sleeping position and seems comfier for longer trips. 3. This one has a small storage bin under it, a cup holder, and a little flap behind the canopy where you can store things like your phone or keys which the small cheap ones don’t. The sun visor is also considerably bigger than what you’d get in the smaller ones. 4. The cheap strollers don’t roll very well since the wheels on them are pretty tiny, and the handles are rather low making them hard for taller parents to maneuver. I am 5’3″ and had trouble with the height of the Cosco. The handlebars on this one are well-suited for taller parents. 5. This one has a very handy mechanism for collapsing and unfolding . It’s very doable with one hand and auto locks. The cheap ones don’t usually auto lock and my Cosco actually required a bit more physical effort to collapse. One caveat and the reason I took off one star is that the stroller is still quite low to the ground and my 30″ tall 15 month old’s feet are already touching the footrest, so I can see a child who is much taller (maybe 2 years old) having some issues with their knees being bent . Because of this I don’t know how long it will last for us.

When choosing a stroller, make sure that it folds easily. And as funny as this may sound, practice folding it a few times before your trip . You don’t want to be struggling with your stroller, along with a cranky toddler and/or spouse, while you’re trying to board the monorail or Disney buses at the end of the day and there’s an impatient line of people behind you.

If you’re going to Disney World during the rainy season (from June through September), you might want to invest in a rain cover for your stroller.

Amazon reviewer B says the above this cover for more than just rain:

LOVED this! We ordered it for our trip to Disney World because there was rain in the forecast. A few days of our trip were extremely cold and windy and we used this to trap the baby’s heat and block the wind and it worked perfectly! We ended up not needing it for rain, but I’ve used it many times now for cold and wind protection! Worth every penny. Also, it came with a mosquito net, which I didn’t realize when I ordered it, so it was a nice bonus!

Disney World Baby Care Centers

Other parents, however, may not be so lucky, or maybe be traveling with children even younger. Fortunately for them, there is a Baby Care Center located inside each of Disney’s four parks.

Baby Care Center Locations

Magic Kingdom — At the end of Main Street between Casey’s Corner and the Crystal Palace.

Epcot — The long brown Odyssey building heading to the Mexico Pavilion.

Animal Kingdom — Next to Pizzafari in Discovery Island.

Hollywood Studios — Immediately inside the front entrance, in the same building as Guest Relations

The Baby Care Centers have not only padded changing tables, but also a private nursing rooms complete with rocking chairs.

The kitchenette has a microwave, bottle warmer, sterilizer, and purified water, as well as a feeding area with high chairs.

There is also a kids’ play area so that your older kids have something fun to do while you change a diaper or nurse the baby. It has a TV, books and toys. One really cool thing is that the bathrooms are equipped with snap-on toddler potty seats,

There is also a small convenience-type store set up that sells diapers and wipes, baby food and formula, toddler snacks and juice, and even things like sunscreen, feminine products, cough drops, and hand sanitizer.

Video — Walt Disney World Baby Care Centers

Disney World Baby Swap

Baby Swap is also known as “Rider Switch” or “Child Swap,” but I think “Baby Swap” is more fun to say.

This is a free service for rides that you and your spouse want to ride, but that your child can’t ride — either because they don’t meet the height requirements and/or because they’re too scared.

The best way to explain it is with an example.

Example : You, your spouse, and your 9 nine year old all want to ride Avatar Flight of Passage , but your 3 year old is with you and obviously can’t ride it.

What do you do?

Go to Avatar Flight of Passage and ask the cast member at the entrance of the line for a Rider Switch Pass. (Note that you do NOT need a FastPass to do this.)

Your spouse and your 9 year old ride Flight of Passage while you and your 3 year old grab a Blueberry Cream Cheese Mousse at Satu’li Canteen .

Then, when your spouse and 9 year old get back from the ride, you get to enter the FastPass line and ride Flight of Passage along with your 9 year old.

Do you notice who really wins out here?

The 9 year old!

Just another example of how life is good to the first-born.

It’s a smart idea to do “practice runs” of the Rider Swap/Baby Swap process when you’re at home so that your toddler understands how it works and doesn’t get confused or scared, thinking they’ll be left behind. Little kids love acting out stuff like that anyway. If your kids are like my girls, they’ll want to practice it many more times than you actually care to.

Along those lines, before you go on your trip, measure your kids’ height, and let them know what they can or cannot ride so there’s no disappointment at the last minute when they discover they’re not allowed on something they were looking forward to.

✅ What to Pack for Disney World with Toddlers

Right now I’m just going to focus on some items that are unique to having toddlers with you.

1. Toddler Leash Years ago, before I even had children, a co-worker of mine who was a grandmother said, “ I used to think people who used toddler leashes were horrible parents … until I had my third child. ”

Hey, if you think your child is gonna be safer with a “leash” (or perhaps we should just call it a “safety wrist link,” then you go for it. If you haven’t already gotten used to people making horribel judgements of your parenting style, now is as good a time as any to get started.

I like how the leash below attaches at the wrist, instead of having a cumbersome harness. It got very good reviews on Amazon .

2. Bibs Kids get messy pretty much any time they eat, and the last thing you want to do is have to worry about changing clothes every time they eat a Mickey ice cream bar.

This particular bib is very clever for several reasons. One, it has a built-in pocket to catch food. Two, you can clean it just by rinsing it off, as opposed to having to throw it in with the laundry. Three, the beaded neckline makes it difficult for a kid to yank the bib off and throw it across the table.

3. Rash Guards (aka swim shirts)

These are so much more effective that trying to get sunscreen on every spot on the neck, shoulders, and back, invariably missing a spot, and then having it wash off in the pool anyway.

4. Swimmies

There are life jackets at the pools, but you might want to bring a pair of something like this as well:

This is really important, and just the kind of thing I tended to forget when my kids were little. Our first Disney trip was with my parents, who promptly bought both girls Mickey Mouse hats almost the second we entered the park because I was too dense to realize they needed something to keep the sun off their faces.

6. Wet Wipes Bring about a zillion of these, especially if your kids like ice cream.

7. Hand Sanitizer I won’t even let my mind start thinking about how many germs must be on the handlebars of each ride. Definitely have hand sanitizer and use it often.

8. Sippy Cups I probably don’t need to tell you this, since you’re used to taking them everywhere all the time and are used to seeing them spilling out of kitchen cabinet or finding them under the couch or on the floor of your car constantly. Just thought I’d mention it anyway. This Minnie Mouse cup is cute and got pretty good customer reviews.

✅ General Tips for Going to Disney with Toddlers

Arrive at the parks before they open..

Ideally you should allow yourself at least 30 minutes to get through transportation & security and still get there before rope drop, although we’ve rarely managed to arrive quite that early ourselves. When you’re in the Magic Kingdom (which is, of course, by far the best Disney park for toddlers and preschoolers,) make a beeline toward Fantasyland.

Consider getting noise protection earmuffs

If your kids who are sensitive to loud noises (like mine were), but you still want to enjoy one of the Disney firework shows , consider getting these noise protection earmuffs created just for babies and toddlers.

You Your Toddler Will Need a Nap

In my opinion, this is absolutely critical and works nicely with #2 above. One of the perks of getting to the parks early is that you can leave around lunchtime, or just after, go back to your hotel room, and take a nap and possible a dip in the pool before heading back out to the parks for a few hours in the late afternoon and evening. This may seem like a time-waster, but it isn’t. Trust me, your kids will need a nap and so will you. If you take only piece of advice from this article, take the afternoon nap.

Come up with a “Must Do” List

No matter how hard you try, you perfectly planned schedule that looks great on paper (or screen) is going to get de-railed somehow. Trust me, I know. Things will take longer than you thought, or someone (not necessarily a child) will suddenly become very hungry and have to eat right now , no matter what your meticulously designed itinerary says.

That’s why it’s smart to have a “Must Do” list before you go.

No matter how badly things go out of whack, at least you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you did the things people really, really wanted to do.

Whether it’s getting your picture taken with Ariel, riding Dumbo, or eating a Mickey ice cream bar, find out what everybody is looking forward to the most and then stay focused on those things even if all else fails.

Disney World Itinerary for Toddlers

I know you’re looking for a perfect itinerary. After all, who doesn’t want someone else to give them the perfect formula for success?

I don’t feel qualified to put together a specific itinerary because we’re always winging it half the time ourselves, and I would hate to be a little off in my timing and throw another family’s vacation off-track.

However, I can steer you in the direction of some people who have done the work of creating an itinerary .

• Touring Plans has a plethora of very specific itineraries for different needs and lengths of stay. You do have to pay for a membership to have access to them, but it’s not very expensive. We have gotten it in the past and I think it was worth it.
• Disney Tourist Blog has a free 1-day Magic Kingdom Itinerary which is worth taking a peek at to give you some ideas, but keep in mind that they do not have children and their timing and priorities are going to be different from yours.
• Finally, WDW Prep School has an 8-Day Itinerary for Families.

What’s your best advice for Disney with a toddler?

What about you?

• What’s your must-have item to pack for a trip with a 2 year old?
• What were your toddler’s favorite Disney rides?
• Do you agree that Magical Kingdom and Animal Kingdom are the two best parks for little kids?

Let us know below in the comments!

7 thoughts on “Disney World with 2, 3,& 4 Years Olds: Tips and Best Rides & Parks for Toddlers”

Great ideas! We have a grandson, so I’ll pass this along to my daughter :). Dropping by from the weekend share thread in Create If Writing :).

Hey Anita! Thanks for dropping by and passing along. 🙂

We just got back, and I’m super glad that we packed the kids’ outfits in gallon size bags for the suitcase, including socks and underpants. No outfit hostage negotiations in the mornings, and it was easy to assess when packing that I had everything. I’d also recommend grocery delivery to your hotel. You can save on things like water/juice/milk and have healthy breakfasts and snacks first thing in the morning. Finally, I’d recommend making a list of favorite meals and experiences that you want to put into your NEXT WDW trip. If you have toddlers, I can almost guarantee you’ll want to return! It helps with scheduling and budgeting!

Thanks for sharing Betty. You sound very organized! Yes, I loved having the groceries delivered to our room. I don’t want to spend any more time grocery shopping than I have to, especially when I’m on vacation!

Thanks for sharing such useful information with us.

Very informative post and tips. Thanks a lot…

I’m so glad you liked it, James! Thanks for your comment.

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How to Visit Disney World With Toddlers

While there is no one perfect age for a first trip to Disney World , every year millions of families choose to visit with little ones in tow. And since theme park admission is free for kids under age 3, many families try to come at least once before a child's third birthday. 

Visiting Disney World with a toddler? Here are tips for getting the most magic out of your trip.

Stay Near the Magic Kingdom

Of all of Disney World 's theme parks, the Magic Kingdom is the most toddler-friendly, with myriad rides and attractions geared to little ones. (Seriously, you could spend an entire day exploring the new Fantasyland  alone.)

Since this is where you're likely to spend most of your theme-park time, choosing a nearby hotel makes it easy to nip back to your home base when everyone needs to unwind and recharge. Three deluxe hotels are moments away on the monorail , and budget-friendly Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is a quick water-taxi ride away. 

There's no need to lug all of your baby gear with you. Pack ‘n Play cribs and bed guardrails are available upon request at each Disney Resort hotel , and every restaurant has plenty of high chairs.

Go During the Off-Season

One huge advantage of traveling with kids under 5 is that they're not yet tied down to a school schedule. The upside is that you can visit when big kids are in school and  Disney World is less crowded .

Measure Your Child

Before you leave home, measure your child's height in the shoes she'll wear at the parks. Check online to see attraction height restrictions , so you don't accidentally book FastPass+ for an attraction your child can't experience. Don't worry—there are myriad attractions with no height restriction at all.

Bring or Rent a Stroller

Wear your comfiest shoes because you're going to walk for miles and miles. Even if your child is outgrowing her stroller at home, you'll be grateful to have one at Disney World. You can bring your own or rent a stroller at the entrance of each theme park. Need a stroller for multiple days? A length-of-stay rental rate knocks a few bucks off the per-diem price. 

Lock in Times for High-Priority Experiences

Want to make the most of your time? An innovative new planning tool called  MyMagic+  combines a smartphone app with wearable MagicBand bracelets containing a computer chip that holds all the components of your Disney World vacation—theme park tickets, room key, ride times, dining reservations—and it also acts as a resort charge card.

The result is a truly seamless experience that starts with your pre-trip planning, letting you  schedule FastPass+ and dining experiences , and continues during your stay at Disney World. 

Take in Some Live Shows

Disney World offers a phenomenal array of live entertainment that features familiar characters and sensational music. And, since shows are typically less than a half-hour long, they are perfect for toddlers' short attention spans. If you have to pick just one, make it the Festival of the Lion King at Disney's Animal Kingdom, which combines fabulous costumes, wonderful songs, and an incredible mix of pageantry, puppetry, and acrobatics.

Take Advantage of Baby Centers

Each of Disney World's four theme parks has a Baby Care Center where you'll find changing and feeding stations and private nursing rooms with rockers. You can also buy essentials such as disposable diapers, baby bottles, formula and other baby supplies at a nominal cost. In addition, there are baby-changing areas in all restrooms, including men’s and family ​restrooms.

Build in Downtime

Want to enjoy the parks when crowds are lightest? Plan to arrive at the parks early and take a break in the middle of the day for lunch, afternoon naps, and downtime at the pool. You can head back for a second stint in the parks in the afternoon after everyone has decompressed.

Pack Wisely

Be prepared for the Florida sunshine and heat. In your day bag, bring extra sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a sweatshirt for chilly, air-conditioned theaters. Every park has splash pads or misters where little ones can cool off—so think ahead and bring your child's swimsuit or an extra change of dry clothes.

Add an Pinch of Pixie Dust

Take the time to research other experiences that are extra special for toddlers, such as getting a first haircut (and commemorative mouse ears) at Harmony Barber Shop or meeting favorite Disney characters , as well as choosing a  character dining experience .

Book a Sitter

If parents are looking for a night out without little ones, in-room babysitting is available for children ages six months and up through the independent childcare provider Kids Nite Out. For information and reservations, call 1-800-696-8105.

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Disney with Toddlers

Walt Disney World with Kids Under 3

Ultimate Guide to Disney World with Toddlers: Tips, Advice, and Must-Knows

Discover the ultimate guide to bringing toddlers to Disney World! From tips for navigating the parks with ease to must-do attractions, dining recommendations, and helpful resources, make unforgettable memories with your little one. Simplify your trip planning and find expert advice for a magical Disney adventure with toddlers.

The Ultimate Amazon Shopping List for Disney World

For some of us, planning and shopping ahead of the trip is almost as fun as the trip itself! Over the years, I have been gathering recommendations from others planning the Disney trip of a lifetime.

I Asked AI to Create a Disney World Itinerary – Here’s What it Recommended!

This 5-day itinerary allows your family to explore all four parks at Walt Disney World, visit a water park, ride the top attractions for toddlers, and dine at a different restaurant each day while staying at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The recommended transportation methods, including the Monorail, boat, and bus, ensure a convenient and hassle-free experience.

Walt Disney World Babysitting Services for Toddlers

You may be planning a date night, day of golfing or a relaxing treatment at the resort spa. You may just want an extra set of hands, or someone to entertain your little ones while you ride with the big kids. Regardless of the reason, many families look for babysitting and nanny options while visiting Walt Disney World.

Toddler-Friendly Guide to Disney’s Epcot

Contrary to what some will say, Epcot is a fun destination for toddlers. The park offers a blend of educational experiences, immersive attractions, dining options and lively entertainment.

Disney with Toddlers who Love Dinosaurs

If your toddler loves dinosaurs, there are several attractions and experiences at Walt Disney World that will surely spark their excitement. Here are some of the best things to do at Walt Disney World with a dinosaur-loving toddler.

Best Toddler Rides at Each Walt Disney World Park

With so many attractions to choose from, it can be overwhelming to determine which rides and experiences are suitable for children under 3. This guide highlights the top three toddler-friendly rides and attractions at each of the four main Disney World parks

The Best Character Dining at Disney for Toddlers: Make Reservations ASAP!

Walt Disney World offers a wide range of restaurants and dining options that cater to families with toddlers. In this post, we’ll unveil the top…

Cribs and Toddler Beds at Disney World Resort Hotels

While Disney World hotels offer crib rental services, there are also several third-party companies that specialize in providing baby equipment rentals for visitors to the area. These companies can deliver cribs and other baby gear directly to your Disney World hotel or other vacation rental.

Ultimate Guide: Disney’s Hollywood Studios with Toddlers

Planning a visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios with your little one? This guide is here to help you navigate the park and discover the best toddler-friendly rides, attractions, and experiences. From beloved characters to interactive shows, there’s something for every toddler to enjoy.

Rider Switch: Don’t Miss the Best Rides At Disney

Rider Switch, also known as Rider Swap or Child Swap, is a great service provided at Walt Disney World. It allows adult guests to take turns experiencing attractions while another adult waits with a child who does not meet the height requirements. This is a lifesaver for parents traveling with toddlers and small children.

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What to Pack for Your Baby's (or Toddler's!) First Disney Trip!

November 3, 2021 by grilledcheesesocial

Knowing what to pack for your infant's (toddler or baby's) first Disney trip might seem overwhelming. But as an annual pass holding mama with a 1.5 year old, I can tell you that I've got it all figured out! Obviously some things change seasonally, so be sure keep that in mind!

Baby's first trip to Disney World

Not going to lie, the first time we took our daughter, Poppy, to Disney, I was feeling all sorts of emotions!

I was super overwhelmed but I was also super excited. I was legit obsessing over it for weeks ahead of time and I'm so glad I did. All of that researching and planning worked out perfectly because were totally prepared and had the best time ever! ...Minus a few breakdowns but with a toddler, that is expected and OK after a few deep breaths!

If you're a first time reader, I should give you a little of our background. My husband and I are both born and raised Floridians. We live an hour away from the parks and travel to Orlando all the time just for fun... and to grocery shop. Lol.

So when it came to bringing Poppy to Disney for the first time, we decided her first birthday would be the perfect time to plan our first day trip!

Since I put so much work into packing and planning, I wanted to share my guide so you don't have to!

And since I always get so many requests for exact product links, I figured it was best to use my amazon affiliate links to show you the exact products we use. I do get a small commission if you buy something from one of the links which is always greatly appreciated.

However, these links are just our suggestions - obviously do you!

This list should just be used as a guide and personalized to fit your needs!

And of course, if you have any questions, always feel free to DM me on instagram !

Sun Protection

• Sunscreen - No matter what time of year you visit, sun screen is a must! The Florida sun is no joke (even when it's rainy and overcast) so you'll def want to come prepared! Our favorites are Super Goop Baby for face, Super Goop Mist for the body because you can just spray it on. We also love this Sun Bum baby facestick and cream combo for traveling!
• Sunglasses - as a beach baby mama, I can 100% confirm that THESE are the best baby sunglasses on the market. They are practically indestructible, they bend, they're super lightweight, not too loose or too tight, they're polarized and they cost less than $20!
• Hat - If your kid is into wearing hats, def bring one! We use one just like this hat covers the ears and neck for extra protection.
• Ponchos - Because it's FL, it's inevitable that it will rain at least part of your trip. Whether it's a drizzle or a downpour, it's best to be prepared. The ones I got are out of stock but these disposable ponchos are super similar. It's a 5 pack for like $12 and I just keep them in the bottom of the stroller in case we need them!
• Mini Handheld Fan with Mister - This little fan is so tiny and has a small water bottle attached to it so you can mist your baby's face if the FL heat gets too much! It's literally so small you could keep it in your pocket and use it while waiting in line!
• Stroller Fan - This USB-chargable stroller fan is connected to our stroller at all times! From the beach to the theme parks, it's perfect. It stays charged ALL day long too and its bendable legs allow it to cling on to anywhere. Perfect for staying cool during theme park nap times!

Stroller & Transporation

• Stroller - We couldn't do Disney without our stroller! Sure you can rent one of theirs but they're made of hard plastic and aren't very comfortable. We just bring our Graco Jogger with us because it has a shade canopy (super important!) and a large undercarriage to hold the diaper bag, ponchos, and everything else we need. It also has a snack track and lots of cup holders for mom and dad water bottoles
• Stroller Rain Cover - I found this one size fits (almost all) stroller rain covers and we love it. It's great to just throw it on top of the stroller and velcro it in place. Plus, it folds up into nothing yet covers most strollers perfectly
• Stroller Carry-all Pouch - These little carry-all pouch holders are great for the stroller. I keep wet wipes, napkins and hand sanitizer in them so that I can grab it without having to dig through a bag.
• Baby Carrier/Wrap - Depending on how big your little one is, a mesh baby bjorn carrier is great! I love putting this thing on while we're waiting in lines where you're not allowed to have your stroller... or when they just want to nap on you. Totally optional but we keep it in the bottom of the stroller if necessary.
• Tethers for binkies/lovies - You can't go wrong with this double pack of tethers . I connect one to a binky and one to her fav little lovie and attach them right to the stroller. That way, nothing gets lost or thrown on the ground!

• Diapers - I always pack 6 diapers for our 1.5 year old! It's always more than we need but it makes me feel secure. We use Pampers Pure these days and love them.
• Wipes - Don't forget the wipes. I keep a small pack in the stroller pouch and I keep a larger pack in the diaper bag for emergencies. We also use the Pampers Pure Wipes and love them!
• Diaper Rash Cream - Diaper rashes SUCK! But we've been using this SW Basics Diaper Cream since the day Poppy came home from the hospital and she has only had a rash one time (and we think it was because of teething!) Get this stuff if you're in the market. It's seriously a game changer.
• Binkies - If your kid is into pacifiers , don't forget them! I always keep one tethered to the stroller then keep two in my diaper bag just in case.
• Bottles/Sippy Cups - Water bottles are expensive at Disney but luckily they have plenty of freewater bottle filling stations everywhere! We take advantage of that every single time and save so much money! We got Poppy this baby Yeti Sippy Cup and she loves it because it keeps her drinks super cold.
• Reusable Silicon Straws - Because it's always so hot, we always love to enjoy some of the amazing frozen drinks (don't miss the apple marshamallow one!!!). But word to the wise, Disney changed to paper straws a while back and they suck... they literally fall apart in 10 minutes. Luckily we always have these silicon straws with us and they are great... especially if your baby takes a while to finish a drink!
• Bibs - I know Poppy makes a mess when she eats so we always have a smock bib on hand. I like these because they cover her whole outfit and they're super thin, lightweight, and they velcro at the neck.
• So many snacks - I cannot tell you how many snacks we go through during a Disney day. I always pack a huge ziplock full of smaller liplocks containing: cheerios, graham crackers, frozen smithfield yogurt packs, freeze dried yogurt drops (aka yogis), tangerines and more.
• Light Cloth Blanky - Having a light Muslin Cloth Blanket on hand is always a good idea. Whether there's a little bit of a breeze or you want to block the sun light from a napping baby's face, these lightweight muslin cloths can't be beat! Plus, they fold up into practically nothing and are breathable!
• 2 Changes of Clothes - because you never know when they'll have a blow out, a massive spill or get soaked on a ride!
• Comfy Breathable Shoes - Poppy LIVES in these fake baby birkenstocks . They're super lightweight, completely adjustable, totally waterproof, and very comfy! She loves them and so do we. They're made of the same material as crocs!

For Mom & Dad

• A Positive Mindset - Disney can be stressful... esp when it's a million degrees outside. Just try to go in with a good attitude and realize that you probably won't get to do everything you want to and that's ok! Don't let it stress you out. Your baby has no idea what's going on besides the wonderful magic that's in front of them!
• Grandma & Grandpa - if you can bring the Grandparents, do it!! We always invite my parents and are so thankful when they can come. Having an extra set of hands from experienced pros is always a good thing! Plus they get to see the magic in their grandchildren's eyes which is magnificent!
• Disney App on phone - Don't go to Disney without downloading their new app first . Whether you need a map, are looking for ride wait times, or need to book reservations for food, the app does it all! It's free, too!
• Rechargeable Phone Battery and Cord - They have free charging stations at Disney but who wants to be tied down?! I always just have one of these rechargeable phone batteries and a small cord on hand which I keep in my fanny pack. That way, you're always connected and can document as much as you want without draining your phone battery.
• Trips to the Baby Care Centers - Don't skip these!! Each one of Disney's theme parks has a special baby room that is perfect for parents and little ones. It's got great AC, tons of clean changing tables, nursing rooms with comfy chairs, microwaves for forumula/food, sinks, and even a small baby shop in case you need diapers, binkies or bottles or anything like that. They're so nice and I'm so glad my insta-following told me about them!!!
• Hand Sanitizer - I think we all carry this on us at all times though, right??
• Water Bottle - Disney allows you to bring your own water bottles so don't forget to pack them. I've been carrying around this spill proof Stanley Cup with the Lid . Before it, I had Corkcicle Canteen for months now and I'm so obsessed! Ice will last ALL day long and the straw makes it easy for Poppy to drink out of it too. It also has a metal loop so I can attach it to my fanny pack so I can be hands free while we wait in lines. Jerm always goes with a Yeti Rambler because that's more his style and it fits in the stroller cup holder.
• Medical info and insurance cards just in case - God forbid something happen but just to be safe, keep your insurance cards in your wallet. I've never had to use this but my mom always drilled this into my brain so I'm drilling it into yours!
• Fanny Pack - I always rock a fanny pack at Disney. It might be dorky but I literally don't care. It makes life so much easier and I stand by this!! I even keep a little clip on it for my water bottle which makes it easy to have free hands during long lines where we're all thirsty and tired.

And that's about it! It may seem like a lot but it's totally doable and customizable. I hope you have so much fun at Disney! Don't forget to tag me in your pics if you use some of my suggestions! <3

Oh, and if you're a Disney mama, check out my Toy Story Themed Birthday Food and Party Guide !

If you need other travel guides, check out my latest guide to Charleston, South Carolina or S arasota, Florida !

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Posted on Last updated: March 14, 2024 Categories Disney Travel

By: Author Kate

10 Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Trip To Disney World

This post may contain affiliate links.

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Heading to Disney World for the first time is one of the most exciting family vacations you could imagine. There is so much amazing entertainment for little kids, and of course, a whole lot of magic! Despite all the fun and excitement, I quickly realized that planning a Disney vacation is a whole lot of work and organization. Sometimes I felt like you needed a Ph.D. in Disney planning just for a four-day vacation! Now that we have a few Disney vacations under our belt, we feel like Disney experts on vacation.

Here are my top 10 Disney World Tips that I wish I had known before planning our first trip:

1. Disney travel agents can do the heavy lifting

If you’ve read any of my Disney World primers , you’ll know I’m a huge fan of certified Disney Travel Agents . Disney travel agents will make your life easier by helping plan your Disney vacation. They know the best fast passes to get, they know the best dining reservations to get, they will even help you choose the right parks for your family. Having a Disney Travel agent is like having an expert friend to guide you along the way. Travel agents don’t cost you extra and many times I’ve found their prices to be better than those posted online.

2. Set an alarm for your FastPass booking

If you are staying at a Disney World resort, you will be able to book your fast passes starting at 7 am eastern time 60 days before the first day of your trip. Believe me, you WILL want to set an alarm to book these passes, as all the good FastPasses are typically taken within a few minutes! You can book FastPasses for the entire duration of your trip starting at that 60-day mark, so if you are planning a longer vacation, you’ll have the best shot at all the FastPasses you want. Having a FastPass for a ride with a long line makes you feel like a total celebrity! You don’t want to miss out on this.

3. One character dining experience is enough

On our first trip, I got a little overzealous and planned three character dining experiences. Although our kids definitely loved meeting Mickey and friends, one character dining experience would have certainly been enough. Not only are character dining experiences quite expensive, but the food is also mediocre compared to some of the other Disney dining options. Choose one character dining for your trip, it’s plenty!

You can read about the best character dining experiences here.

4. Special Holiday Parties Are The Best Value Around

Since I discovered Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party , I don’t do the Magic Kingdom any other way. Holiday parties are amazing because there are limited ticket sales and the lines to the rides are quite manageable. We were able to get on the majority of Magic Kingdom rides within 15-20 minutes. In addition to short lines, there is also lots of holiday magic in the parks that is super fun for the kids. From Trick or Treating to special character appearances, and an amazing fireworks display, the holiday parties have the best value around! This is also a chance for adults to dress in costume if that’s your thing (costume guidelines apply).

5. The Mobile Order App is the Bomb

At home, I am the queen of mobile ordering. There is nothing more satisfying than passing a long line at Starbucks to pick up your already prepared order on the shelf. I LOVE that mobile ordering has come to Disney through the My Disney Experience app . We used this every day at the parks and it was SO convenient with little kids. Don’t wait in another line for food, use the mobile app !

6. ‘Early Morning Magic’ is better than ‘Extra Magic Hours’

Extra magic hours are special extra hours offered at rotating Disney parks for those who are staying at Disney World Resorts or specially designated hotels. These extra park hours are free and offered only to those guests of the resorts. Although it sounds great, these hours can be busy at the popular resorts, and typically the parks that offer extra magic hours will have more guests that day in general.

Early morning magic hours are special promotional hours that you can buy as a ticketed dining event. The park will rotate, and there is a cost to these hours which also includes breakfast/brunch. These ticketed events are capped at very low numbers so you will typically not have lines during these events.

We did early morning magic at Toy Story Land when it was being offered and it was AMAZING. We could have ridden on Slinky Dog Dash 15 times if we had wanted. On the other hand, the following year, early morning magic was no longer being offered so we tried ‘extra magic hours’. What a waste! We were at the park super early which meant cranky kiddos and the lines for the popular rides were still over an hour long.

7. Order groceries to your room

As a Canadian, I don’t yet have the luxury of Amazon Fresh delivery in my area. The first time I discovered Amazon Fresh in Florida, I was completely amazed! Having groceries delivered to your room saves a trip to the grocery store when you first arrive. Disney World allows outside food, so packing your own lunch and snacks is also an excellent way to save money and eat healthier on your vacation to Disney.

Try out Amazon Fresh for grocery delivery at your resort or hotel.

8. Check the Crowd Calendar

It’s basically always busy at Disney World, but there are certainly times that are less crowded than others. Undercover Tourist keeps a crowd calendar that is super helpful for planning your trip. If crowds aren’t your thing, choosing a low crowd day will be essential!

9. Renting DVC Points is the Best Value for Disney Resorts

If you are looking to save money on your Disney Vacation, and are interested in DIY planning, consider renting DVC points for your Disney Resort Stay. Disney Vacation Club is the ‘timeshare’ program of Disney vacations. This membership club allows members to buy in and receive points towards Disney Vacations.

Of course, as with any timeshare type of program, many individuals will find that there is a time when they no longer want to use their points for resort stays. This is where companies like DVC Rental Store come into play. You can rent your points from other members who aren’t planning to use their points this year.

We’ve rented points from DVC Rental Store and got great value for the money. We stayed in a two-bedroom villa for the price of a deluxe room! When one of our reservations fell through about 45 days prior to our trip, the company stepped in and resolved the issue immediately. I have been very happy with their service!

10. Plan to spend a day at the resort

My biggest piece of advice for an amazing Disney World vacation is not to OVERBOOK your vacation. It’s so tempting to get as much done as possible, but you will have a better time if you give everyone some time to unwind. We like to plan 1 or 2 days for enjoying our resort relaxing by the pool. We often spend only half a day at the park. All of these things help to keep the kids less cranky and help us to enjoy our vacation even more.

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10 Must-Haves For A Toddler’s First Disney World Trip, According To A Park Pro

12 Key Tips for Visiting Disney World with a Toddler for the First Time

We just got back from our first trip to Disney World with a toddler and I have SO many tips (personal insights and best recommendations and tips for visiting Disney world with a toddler) to share with you guys. If you’re planning your first trip to Disney World with a toddler , you came to the right place! While Disney World is without a doubt the happiest place on earth, it can also be totally overwhelming for parents to try and understand and plan a trip to!!! Which is where I come in. I’ve compiled these game-changing tips for traveling with toddlers at Disney World to ensure that your trip to Disney World with your little one is as smooth and memorable as possible! So you can spend less time worrying about planning, and more time soaking up the memories!! From choosing the right time to visit to selecting the best places to stay and eat with a toddler, to the best Disney World rides for little ones to keep at the top of your list, here are my top t ips for a magical family adventure at Walt Disney World in Orlando .

1. Choose the Perfect Time to Visit Disney World

Visiting Peak Season vs. Off-Peak Season

Especially when traveling with a toddler to Disney World for the first time, visiting Disney World during the off-peak season when crowds are lighter, and wait times are shorter, is a huuuge plus. This allows for a more relaxed experience with your toddler, and will make the experience a little less overwhelming to them versus tons of crowds. Peak seasons are usually from March to April and June to August. While shoulder season is around December to February, May, and the most off-season is September to November.

And don’t forget to think about the weather!

Orlando is in Florida which means it is HOT and humid in the summertime. The best time to visit Disney World for cooler weather and less rain is from early December to early March. And, if you’re looking for warmer weather, I’d aim for April-May. August-October you are in hurricane season so that’s always a risk.

And, while December and January may have some chilly days, this time of year usually avoids the rainy days before December. I would also try to avoid spring break since that will be some of the highest crowds.

2. TODDLERS ARE FREE AT DISNEY! But Don’t Forget to Purchase Your Adult Tickets in Advance

You read that right, toddlers and babies under 3 are free at Walt Disney World. So, while you don’t need to get an entrance ticket for your little one, make sure you get your adult tix! Getting your Disney World Orlando tickets ahead of time is always a smart idea and you can buy them up to 360 days in advance.   Here’s a rundown of how you can get your tickets:

Book at the Official Disney World Website Go to the official Walt Disney World Resort website ( https://disneyworld.disney.go.com ).

There, you can explore the different parks and ticket options Go to the “Parks & Tickets” section of the website where you can explore the various theme parks and ticket options available. Take your time to decide which parks you want to visit and how many days you plan to spend at Disney World.

After receiving your confirmation, I’d recommend linking your tickets to My Disney Experience To make the most of your Disney World trip, download the “My Disney Experience” app and link your tickets to it. This app will help you manage your whole vacation, from FastPass+ selections, dining reservations, and more..

And that’s it! You’ve successfully booked your Disney World Orlando tickets in advance, and you’re ready for a magical adventure. Be sure to check the latest updates and guidelines on the official Disney World website before your visit to stay informed about any changes or requirements.

3. Choose the Right Park for Your Family

Here are the different park options to choose from at Disney World and how to choose the best one(s) for your trip. 

Magic Kingdom – The Best Disney Park for Toddlers and Little Ones!

If you have just one day to do a Disney World adventure with your toddler, then I would head straight to Magic Kingdom! It’s the ultimate playground for the little ones since many of the rides here have no height requirement and are more relaxed – no scary drops or wild spins makes these rides for your tiny adventurers!! And they’re going to love keeping an eye out for their favorite characters like Cinderella, Mickey Mouse, or Buzz Lightyear wandering around! 

Animal Kingdom

Think of Animal Kingdom as a big zoo mixed with the fun of a theme park where your kids can see real animals like lions, monkeys, and elephants like stepping into a storybook jungle or a wild safari. There are also various paths in parts of the park named Africa, Asia, and Discovery Island where you and your kids can walk around at their own pace and see animals and plants from all over the world!! While some rides are made for bigger kids, there are plenty of gentle rides and shows perfect for toddlers that are fun and not too fast or scary.

It should come as a surprise to no one that EPCOT was my favorite park growing up ( I ammm a travel blogger now, after all) so although this is built more for the older audience, parents with toddlers visiting Epcot at Disney World can still enjoy a delightful mix of activities and attractions tailored to the younger crowd, You can visit Kringla Bakeri for delightful pastries, and try the Frozen Ever After ride, where you’ll board a Viking ship and journey through the enchanting world of Arendelle.

Hollywood Studios

I think of Hollywood Studios as a bit more for the ‘big kids’ in terms of rides. Yep, a bunch of those are best for the older group and the taller crowd. But there are still some fun parts you can do with your toddler here like a meet and greet with their Disney heroes or Mickey or Minnie!

Blizzard Beach Water Park & Typhoon Water Park

These will be ideal once your kiddos are a little older, but wouldn’t be what I prioritize for the toddlers.

4. Plan Your Itinerary Around Nap Time

When planning your Disney World Itinerary, it’s good to have a flexible schedule that accounts for your little ones usual nap time. You know your toddler best and they more than likely thrive on their routines! So try to stick (somewhat) to their regular schedule if you can. That all being said, on our first trip to Disney World with a toddler, my 19-month-old son fell asleep at 11:30 (his usual nap time is 1pm) from such an exciting morning!!!), it ended up working out well, as we breaked for lunch and he slept in the stroller until it was time to go-go-go again! But if your tot doesn’t love to nap on-the-go, you can always head back to the hotel for nap time, and come back after!

Also, I’d recommend you either do counter-service for lunch (you can order via the app – super fast and easy!) or make advance dining reservations to avoid long waits with a hungry toddler. Don’t forget, character dining experiences or themed-restaurants are always a great option and enjoyable for your toddlers!! Highly recommend planning out your day(s) on the My Disney Experience app!

5. Purchase Lightning Lane via “Genie+” in the app

Lightning lane is basically ‘fast pass’ and it means you get to go in a MUCH shorter line for a ride, versus spend your whole day waiting in lines! It’s seriously worth its weight in gold and only costs $25 per adult (toddlers are free under 3). It’s SO WORTH IT, you guys. You do not want to be standing in an hour and a half line with a toddler.

But, something to know, that I didn’t know before we went through it, is that you can ONLY do one lightning lane at once, which means first thing in the morning (7AM) you need to sign up for the lightning lane you want the most, because if you don’t use it on your first one, you might miss the windows as they might fill up (this is what happened to us with Jungle Cruise – it’s a VERY popular ride and we didn’t choose it for our first lightning lane, so by the time it was time for our second lightning lane, the times for Jungle Cruise were all gone). I would recommend choosing the most popular and busiest line rides as your first lightning lane for this reason! Then, when it’s time to book your next lightning lanes (the app will tell you your time), I would look at where has the longest lines outside of the lightning lane currently (this is an AMAZING app feature, it tells you real-time line times), and choose those (and go standby in the meantime to the rides that have easy and quick standby lines!)

Here is what it looks like in the app on the day of your trip:

6. Make a Hit List of The Best Toddler and Baby-Friendly Attractions/Rides

Since there’s so much to see and do at Disney, you’re going to have to prioritize! (Probably on of the most important tips for visiting Disney world with a toddler – no kidding!) I like to make a ‘hit list’ of which rides we want to hit and map it out ahead of time! 

The Best Disney World Rides for Little Ones Under 3

Disney World offers a host of toddler-friendly attractions, including “It’s a Small World,” “Dumbo the Flying Elephant,” and “The Seas with Nemo & Friends.” 

Here are my top recommendations for the best toddler-friendly rides at Disney that are perfect for your little ones and even older kiddos too!

Dumbo the Flying Elephant – Magic Kingdom This one’s a childhood rite of passage and was first on our hit-list for our first trip to Disney! My son loved it so much.

“It’s a Small World” – Magic Kingdom This dreamy boat ride that takes you around the globe in just 10 minutes was always my favorite as a kid (are you surprised I’m a travel blogger now?!). Imagine your little ones waving at all the happy, singing children from different countries. It’s a sweet, peaceful ride with that catchy tune we all love.

Jungle Cruise – Magic Kingdom This relaxing boat ride featuring all kinds of wild “animals” (that aren’t real but DEF will be to your kids!!!) is great for toddlers and young kids! Your little ones will love pointing out all the animals and the skippers MAKE the cruise – they are so funny and entertaining!! This one is a MUST (and I recommend getting a lightning lane fast pass for it, because it’s one of the most popular rides that always has a line!) 

Prince Charming Regal Carousel – this carousel doesn’t have a height requirement and will be a magical experience for any tot. This may have been my son Harrison’s favorite ride at 19 months old!!!!! He LOVED it!!!! And the best part? The waits usually aren’t long at all! (5-10 mins in our experience)

Frozen Ever After – Epcot If your kiddos are obsessed with Elsa and Anna, this one is a must-do! Glide through Arendelle, sing along to “Let It Go,” and maybe even get a warm hug from Olaf.

Peter Pan’s Flight – Magic Kingdom Fly over London and off to Neverland! This enchanting ride in a pirate ship will make your toddler feel like flying! And your little ones will definitely be mesmerized by the twinkling lights of this ride.

Kilimanjaro Safaris – Animal Kingdom Get ready for an adventure! This safari ride is like stepping into a real African expedition. Elephants, giraffes, lions – oh my! It’s a wild ride (but totally safe) that’s perfect for animal-loving toddlers and babies.

Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor – Magic Kingdom This interactive comedy show is a hoot! Watch your toddler enjoy and interact with the Monsters, Inc. gang.

Tike’s Peak – Blizzard Beach: For a pool day, head to Tike’s Peak. It’s a polar-themed paradise with mini-slides and wading pools, perfect for the littlest of jetsetters to splash around

What we did not like as much with a toddler : The Magic Adventures of Winnie the Pooh – This Magic Kingdom ride wasn’t the soft, sweet, storybook Winnie the Pooh ride we were expecting! It’s quite dark and twisted, and is over-stimulating for little ones, IMO!!! Some people love it, but maybe it’s better suited for older kids and older toddlers.  Character Meet-and-Greets

Choose character meet-and-greets that are focused on your child’s favorite characters, this way you’ll save up on energy enjoying rides rather than waiting in line! You can use Character Experiences or Disney Genie+ to book your favorite shows or meet-and-greets with your child’s beloved Disney character to reduce wait times. We did this to meet Mickey and it was SOOOO special!!!!!! One of the (many) highlights of our toddler’s day, for sure. It feels very VIP and one-on-one, too, which I appreciated. 

Also, don’t forget to get your toddler their first ‘ears’ – you can do this right by the Mickey Meet & Greet at the Main Street Theater! So cute and such a great souvenir. 

6. Take Advantage of Disney’s Baby Care Centers

Disney World features Baby Care Centers in each park, offering changing tables, nursing rooms, and quiet spaces to feed and rest with your toddler. Forget wipes or run out of diapers? You can purchase them here (and they’re not upcharged, which I think is nice!). You can check the locations of Disney World’s Baby Care Centers here.

7. Utilize The Mobile Order to Order Food Ahead of Time at Restaurants Throughout the Park (save time & skip the line!)

Mobile Order is available to Walt Disney World guests within the  My Disney Experience app ! Mobile Order allows guests to pre-order and pre-pay for their food at participating Counter Service restaurants around Disney World. You can either choose ASAP but I highly recommend you can schedule your order early in the day for later. The restaurants can get backed up and there will be less windows available, so if you have your order placed ahead of time it’s a huge time saver! Another plus? You can see pictures of menu items within the app – that app really makes everything super easy & seamless. 

Here’s where you can use Mobile Order at MK & AK!

MAGIC KINGDOM

Casey’s Corner Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe The Friar’s Nook Main Street Confectionery Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe Pinocchio Village Haus Columbia Harbour House Tomorrowland Terrace The Lunching Pad Sleepy Hollow Refreshments Sunshine Tree Terrace

ANIMAL KINGDOM

Harambe Market Pizzafari Satu’li Canteen Flame Tree Barbecue Restaurantosaurus Zuri’s Sweets Shop

8. Stay Close to the Parks

For ease when traveling with a toddler to Disney, you’ll want to stay near the parks! The best option is to actually stay within the Parks (which no doesn’t mean you’re IN the Magic Kingdom, but you’re in the metropolis, meaning from your hotel you’re a walk or a quick easy free shuttle away from your favorite entrances.

Here’s where to stay at Disney World:

For Luxury & Convenience: Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World

If you’re looking for the best luxury and relaxation near Disney World, FS is going to be the move. This is where we stayed and we had a BLAST!!!!!! They have an incredible golf course, and an oasis-like pool area, character brunches and a DELICIOUS rooftop restaurant called Capa, as well!

They also have a complimentary easy shuttle service (that was more like a big limo, seriously) to the parks making sure your Disney park hopping with your family is seamless. (Don’t have to worry about parking? YES PLEASE!)

If you’re planning to stay at Four Seasons Resort Orlando and have tickets to the theme parks, you can enjoy extra time in the parks with the EXTRA MAGIC HOURS benefit!! aka less crowds and more fun memories!

Check rates for your dates here

JETSET TIP: if you reach out to my travel agency with the referral JETSET CHRISTINA , they don’t charge anything to book (as long as you use my referral code) and will book you at this hotel at the best rate, and sometimes can get free awesome perks at the resort! Ask her about it and mention JetsetChristina!

Or Stay at a Disney Resort

Staying on-site offers a multitude of advantages, including convenient transportation, early park access, and having that immersive theming experience best for toddlers and young children. Here are some of the best Disney World Resorts to book for your on-site accommodation:

• Disney’s Contemporary Resort This Disney resort is closest to the Magic Kingdom and have easy monorail access. Imagine being able to walk to Magic Kingdom in just 5 minutes!! If you’d like to be back in a jiffy from your toddler’s nap or a short break between park adventures, Disney’s Contemporary Resort is the best option. Definitely a big convenience for parents with toddlers and small kids! 
• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Complete with a luxurious, Victorian-themed charm, the Grand Floridian is also famous for being a top choice for celebrities. Choose this resort if you want to enjoy spacious rooms, fine dining, and even live orchestra music in the lobby. The resort also comes with easy monorail access, making it a breeze to reach the Magic Kingdom.
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Great for an immersive African wildlife experience complete the African architecture. Staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offers direct view of exotic animals right from your balcony!! You can also enjoy African cuisine, and daily cultural activities. Plus, the resort also provides shuttle service to the parks, and early park entry is available.
• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort  The best tropical getaway resort in the heart of Disney World. You’ll enjoy the South Pacific vibes with island-themed rooms, ‘Ohana dining, and enjoy it’s sandy beach. Monorail access to the Magic Kingdom and easy transportation to Epcot are added perks.
• Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts  Enjoy nautical theme accommodation and the best pool on Disney property! These sister resorts offer a seaside experience, and share use of the Stormalong Bay pool. They’re conveniently located near Epcot and Hollywood Studios that you can enjoy with a boat transportation!! 
• Disney’s Boardwalk Inn & Villas Experience the charm of a seaside boardwalk and enjoy live entertainment and dining options inspired by Atlantic City-style boardwalks. This place is just a walking distance to Epcot and has boat access to Hollywood Studios that’s also very convenient!!
• Disney’s Pop Century Resort  Enjoy a nostalgic immersion in pop culture with amenities of a value resort that features colorful rooms!! You also have quick bus access to all Disney parks which is a major plus for parents traveling with their little ones.
• Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Get more Mexican and Southwest American experience if you stay in this resort. Their newly renovated rooms at the Gran Destino Tower and is also conveniently located near Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and Animal Kingdom, with bus transportation to the parks making it super easy for park hopping!

9. Don’t Forget to Pack The Essentials For The Day

Here are my essentials for what to pack for a day at Disney World with a toddler:

Hand Sanitizer 

Sanitizing cleaning wipes 

Wipes/Diapers of course

Belt Bag or Backpack – I love this one! 

Extra charged battery charger for your phone ( I like this one) bring one so that you don’t end up like me and have to buy one for $30 at a vending machine in the park. The Disney app (plus taking all the photos you’re going to want to take) eaaaaats up your battery, FAST! 

Some plastic bags to keep valuables dry on wet rides

A sharpie (if you plan on getting character autographs) 

Glow sticks (if you plan on going to the night shows and want to avoid your toddler begging for the $20 ones they’re selling!)

A cute outfit!!!

How cute is this? You can personalize it with your toddler’s name! 

Shop my exact Disney mom outfit and what I dressed my baby boy in here! 

I ironed on a Mickey patch for him on this Amazon toddler baseball cap and it turned out SOOO cute! you could do Minnie too or any of their favorite characters. It was a cute, one-of- a-kind hat that he LOVED wearing.. He kept saying it was his mama hat – he knew I made it!! He doesn’t normally love to wear hats but this one he didnt want to take off all day – It melted my heart. And it was great for sun protection too! 

10. Bring a GOOD stroller!!!!

While I love and swear by our travel stroller, we decided to bring our sturdier all-terrain jogging stroller ( we looooove this one) for Disney World and I’m SO glad we did. You are pushing this thing A LOT throughout the day, and you’re already sore and tired enough as it is, you want the stroller that’s going to be the easiest to maneuver around and is going to keep your kiddo nice and comfy for some on-the-go naps! This jogging stroller has amazing storage, too which of course came in handy for all the snacks and waters we packed! This jogging stroller still folds up easily and travels pretty well, so it was a great choice for us. I don’t recommend bringing a flimsy stroller – you’re going to want something sturdy! If you don’t want to bring your own from home, you can also rent one on-site which would cost you about $13 to $31 per day depending on the length of stay or type of stroller (single or double). You can read more about stroller rentals here .

11. Make Advance Reservations for Sit-Down Dining

The best toddler-friendly diners and restaurants in disney world, be our guest, magic kingdom.

If your toddler loves Beauty and the Beast, then this themed restaurant is a must visit! Set in Beast’s castle, their dining options include a three-course, fixed-price menu that also comes with child-friendly selections like chicken breast and mac and cheese!

Sci-Fi Dine In Theater Restaurant, Hollywood Studios

The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is an ideal dining spot for families with toddlers, featuring not only a unique and immersive atmosphere but also accommodating the needs of your little ones. Families will enjoy car-shaped booths while watching classic movie clips. (The area can be a bit dark for some people because of the movie showing but it’s also lit well enough for families to enjoy a meal.) The restaurant also ensures comfort for toddlers with high chairs available, making it a stress-free experience for parents. Plus, the menu caters to all ages with kid-friendly favorites meals and desert options.

Cinderella’s Royal Table, Magic Kingdom

Complete the whole Disney Princess experience for your little one by dining at this fantastical Cinderella-themed restaurant. Although not guaranteed, kids between the ages of 3 and 9 can receive princess wands and prince swords as special gifts (!!), and a photo package can also be included with the meals. You can always ask the staff to confirm the free stuff! You will also get a chance to take photos with Cinderella and her friends, which is a huge plus. This character dining experience requires advance payment, however, it’s completely complimentary for little princes and princesses who are under 3 years old.

Casey’s Corner, Magic Kingdom

Casey’s Corner is a huge hit, so it’s common to see lengthy lines and a packed outdoor eating area. A smart move is to use Mobile Order on the app and choose to eat when it’s not so crowded. You can also grab your food and head over to the public grassy hub section. Be warned, it doesn’t have tables though but it’s perfect for a quick picnic snack where the whole fam can stretch and relax a bit after a day of walking!!

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe, Magic Kingdom

Pecos Bill is a good spot for a quick Tex-Mex meal with customizable dishes like tacos and rice bowls. This is where we ate!  It wasn’t anything amazing – but no theme park food is. I liked that it was a healthier option than fried foods and I got some good protein in me for the day! Also, it’s super accessible while touring the park making it a convenient stop for a meal or a snack without having to go out of your way. And since it’s a counter-service restaurant, this means you can get your food without a long wait, a crucial factor when dining with toddlers who might not have the patience for a longer sit-down restaurant.

Pinocchio Village Haus, Magic Kingdom

Pinocchio Village Haus’ menu caters to kiddos, featuring menu items like kid-friendly flatbreads and chicken strips. Also, the restaurant is inspired by the beloved tale of Pinocchio. And a unique highlight for families is the seating overlooks the “it’s a Small World” ride, where toddlers can wave to travelers!!

Chef Mickey’s, Contemporary Resort

This character dining experience features the Fab Five – Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto, making it a dream come true for little ones eager to meet their favorite Disney characters. The restaurant’s buffet-style setup offers a wide range of options including classic breakfast items like Mickey waffles, as well as dinner favorites like roasted chicken and various seafood options, making sure even picky eaters find something to enjoy. Additionally, its convenient location, just a short walk from Magic Kingdom, makes it an ideal stop either to kick-start a day of adventure or to wind down with a magical meal.

(Photo from disneyworld.disney.go.com)

(Photo from themeparktourist.com)

Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & His Pals – Ravello in the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World®

This iconic character brunch is held every Thursday and Saturday from 7 a.m. until 11 a.m. at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World. Here, you can you can enjoy a buffet with traditional breakfast favorites while meeting Goofy and his pals! A photographer will also be on-site to capture your memories with these always-entertaining stars.

*In addition to every Thursday and Saturday, character breakfast will be offered on the following Tuesdays in 2024: March 12, March 19, March 26, April 2, May 28, July 2, July 9, July 16 and July 23

Satu’li Canteen, Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Satu’li Canteen in Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers a healthy menu tailored to all ages, including customizable bowls where you can choose your protein, base, and sauce!! It also has kid-friendly options such as cheese quesadillas and all-beef hot dogs wrapped in dough with sides like vegetable chips and mandarin oranges. Satu’li Canteen also caters to various dietary needs with an allergy-friendly menu. The nice indoor and outdoor seating areas provide a comfortable space for families, and the refillable drink stations are great!

(Photo from D23.com)

Space 220 Restaurant, EPCOT

This restaurant is super cool. Toddlers and kids will enjoy a simulated elevator ride to a space station!! The atmosphere here is quieter compared to other Disney park restaurants, which might be more suitable for families with slightly older toddlers or kids interested in space and science. The kids’ menu offers familiar favorites like spaghetti and meatballs, chicken tenders, and macaroni. Additionally, the restaurant offers coloring pages and other activities to keep toddlers happy while dining.

Biergarten Restaurant – EPCOT, Germany

Families can enjoy a live band and polka dancing in Biergarten creating an environment that’s both entertaining and engaging for all ages. Their buffet-style dining means there’s a variety of food options suitable for everyone, including kid faves like the traditional macaroni and cheese, German spaetzle and steamed veggies like carrots and peas. The family-style seating at long tables promotes a communal dining experience and makes Biergarten an excellent choice for families looking to enjoy a meal together in an energetic and festive setting.

Via Napoli, Epcot – Italy

Via Napoli in Epcot is another great choice for families with toddlers. The place provides an authentic Neapolitan atmosphere and the star attraction is its pizza, acclaimed as one of the best in Walt Disney World, with ingredients, imported from Naples, Italy, to ensure authenticity and quality. The open-floor plan of the restaurant is also great for families, with a view of the pizza-making process right before your eyes, which can be such an entertainment for young children. The menu also offers a variety of wood-fired pizzas and Italian dishes, and the children’s menu includes appealing options like Spaghetti & Meatballs and Kid’s Cheese Pizza.

(Photo from DisneyFoodBlog.com)

Docking Bay 7 Food & Cargo, Hollywood Studios

The restaurant is set within the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge land, immersing guests in the Star Wars universe. Toddlers will be excited by futuristic surroundings making it an exciting dining experience for kids. Plus, It’s conveniently located near attractions like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, making it easy to grab a meal before or after enjoying these popular attractions.

Tiffins, Animal Kingdom

After a day of exploring the park, Tiffins provides a comfortable, air-conditioned environment where families can relax and enjoy their meal in a quieter setting, which can be a relief for tired toddlers. While Tiffins offers a diverse menu with global flavors, they typically have options suitable for children, such as pasta, chicken, and grilled cheese sandwiches. This ensures that even picky eaters can find something to enjoy.

The Boathouse, Disney Springs

The restaurant is located on the waterfront, offering a beautiful view of the lake and the vintage boats on display. Toddlers may enjoy watching the boats. The place offers outdoor seating options, allowing toddlers to have more space to move around and explore while their parents enjoy the meal.

Their children’s menu offers a variety of selections suitable for young diners, such as chicken tenders, barbecue meatballs, macaroni and cheese, smoked pork sliders, and sliced smoked turkey breast. The restaurant also provides high chairs and booster seats for toddlers, making it more convenient for parents.

California Grill, Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Located in Disney’s Contemporary Resort which is known for being one of the finest dining experiences in all of Walt Disney, this restaurant is not the best choice for toddlers or younger kids but offers amazing view and is equipped with child-friendly amenities like a high chair. 

Whispering Canyon Cafe

Definitely a fun place for families that offers offers a mix of family-style, all-you-care-to-enjoy platters and single-serving entrees which includes a  Kids’ Create-Your-Own Entrées    Plus, your toddler will enjoy entertainment and shows from the staff (tip: never ask for ketchup). 

Ravello at the Four Seasons character breakfast (offered Thursdays and Saturdays!)

We loved this, it’s a great buffet and the characters come to every table and photos are included!!! This is a great thing to do, whether or not you’re staying at the FS!

12. Stay Hydrated and Rested

We should have brought more waters!!! They allow you to bring water into Disney World (and all the snacks you want!) so definitely don’t be shy! Pack some!! Don’t forget to keep yourself and your toddler well-hydrated throughout the day, and take regular breaks to rest and recharge!! Make sure your little one is also sun-protected with appropriate clothing and sunscreen if it’s in the warmer months.

A lot of people ask is it okay to bring in outside drinks to Disney World, and you can absolutely bring snacks and a water bottle with you into the Walt Disney World theme parks, including Magic Kingdom. Just make sure it’s not a glass bottle, but other than that it’s completely fine (and you can bring snacks too!)

13. Prepare for Rain (just in case!)

Florida is a tropical climate which means there definitely are rainstorms that roll through Disney World throughout the year. But, the good news is there any many attractions at Disney World that are INDOORS!  Some even have covered areas for lines. You just need to know which rides to go to when it rains and not all parks are created equal when it comes to stormy weather.

By the way, Disney World is a year-round, 365-day operation.  It stays open, even for rain, with one exception – if there’s a hurricane. (August – October are the biggest risky months for that).

Things to bring if you’re traveling to Disney World in rainy season: A stroller rain cover, ziploc bags, a poncho, proper footwear, and a rain jacket! 

14. Capture the Magic and Memories!!!

Make sure to snap photos and capture videos to treasure those magical moments. A lot of people have asked how we managed to get family photos at Disney World and we just asked strangers!! I like to set them up as well as I can with exactly what we want the shot to be – and it worked out!!

I’d recommend purchasing Memory Maker for access to professional photos taken throughout your trip (such as at character meet & greets!) so you’ll only think about enjoying the rides and making the best out of your Disney World trip with your little one. They show up right in your app! 

If this is your first time traveling with baby or a toddler, check out my other blogs where I talk about baby travel hacks and essential travel tips for moms/parents!

Planning the Perfect Cabo Bachelorette Party

The Best Trips to Take with a Toddler - All of the Family Travel Destinations that Should Be on Your Family's Bucket List this Year!

WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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Disney World with a Baby (Tips for First Trip, + Tips for your 2024 Trip!)

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There’s a Disney World vacation, and then theres a Disney World vacation with a baby! While things aren’t totally different, there are some changes to a vacation with the mouse when you’ve got to manage the needs of a baby.

Good news, Bringing a Baby is actually a lot easier than it seems and it’s also super fun. Also good news… you as the parent/caregiver know what’s best, so if you think it would be better to wait, then please do! Just know your baby is more than welcome at Disney World (as we’ll see below!) and it can be magical plus fun to have your baby with you on vacation.

Can I bring a Baby to Disney World?

Yes! Baby’s are welcome at Disney World and there are several great accommodations for babies. There’s Baby Care Centers at each of the four main parks, stroller rentals in the parks, and play areas/quiet areas. Plus they have supplies on hand should you need to buy diapers, wipes or care items. The staff is also happy to see babies (even when they are crying!) and so incredibly helpful! Not to mention there’s many rides that infants, small babies and babies over a year can ride!

What do I need to take my Baby to Disney World?

You do not need a birth certificate to get inside Disney World (though it’s good to have identification in case you need). It’s recommended to bring baby supplies like a stroller or bassinet, a baby carrier (that you have used before vacation) a diaper bag with supplies, and then soaps/lotions/wipes that you’ve used at home to avoid any discomfort with new items at the theme parks. Please also pack a fan, muslin blankets, lots of clothing and some entertainment (plus any first aide items you might need)

For more on what to pack for baby at Disney World, see this helpful baby packing guide!

This post may contain affiliate links, read my full disclosure here.

Quick Table of Contents

Arrival and Departure Day-Realistic Tips

Must know Stroller and Baby Carrier Hacks

Your Disney Villain: The Weather

Helpful items you should consider cramming in the Diaper Bag

How much to Budget for Baby at Disney

Lifesavers: The Baby Care Centers

Here’s why Rider Switch is your new BFF

Give yourself lots of time on Arrival and Departure day.

 This will allow for all those mishaps that will happen, like oversleeping and forgetting something important.

Sometimes those things happen a nd if you have plenty of time in the schedule it wont turn into a major disaster. You will also want to rest when you get to Disney, because doing the parks can be tiring too.

Give yourself and baby a break with lots of rest on arrival and departure day. 

It can be nice to have reservations on arrival and departure day- I totally understand wanting to get the most out of your vacation.

Enjoy fun spur of the moment things like taking a trip over to Disney Springs, exploring the resorts, heading to the pool or relaxing at the resort.

Get all your supplies set up, so that way you are set up for success on your first park day. Remember to plug in your stroller fan , your neck fan , your reusable charger and that your diaper bag is fully packed!

Also quick reminder- you’ll be walking 8-20 miles on an average Disney World park day. Use the arrival day, and your off day to recharge.

Stroller and Baby Carrier Hacks and Tips

You have lots of options for strollers. You can rent one at the park (I dont recommend this for babies!) or you can rent from one of the many rental services that will delivery to your resort or hotel. I highly recommend Kingdom Strollers for this one, as it’s strollers that are really the most comfortable for babies.

It’s also super helpful to do a stroller rental with pickup at the airport or resort delivery because it’s one less thing you need to worry about packing! 

Do bring your baby carrier though! .

This is helpful for when you stand in line for 30 minutes or when you have a fussy baby that just wont sleep! I also use it when we are using Disney Transportation, as you need to fold up your stroller. 

My favorites for Central Florida are the Lillebaby Airflow (they have DISNEY themed carriers !!) and for babies under 3 months I LOVE my Ergo360 . See all the recommendations for baby carriers at disney here.

Also consider your comfort- Alittle TMI but when it’s really hot outside I get bad chaffing/rub burns depending on the clothing I’m wearing. We always try to plan outfits ahead of time, and keep a container of this antifriction rub in our travel bag

Do you have a baby/kiddo with special needs or accommodations? They can mark the stroller as a wheelchair so you can use it in lines or bring it into the restaurant. Visit Guest Services to get the full scoop. 

Think about the Weather

The chances of it raining on your vacation are high.

What do you plan to do if it rains? Do you want to stay at the resort? Tough it out in the parks? What happens if the stroller gets wet?

having a plan in place for the rainy times, like ponchos (I like this multi pack from amazon because it’s a third of the cost for what you’d pay at the park!) will save your sanity. Pack extra ponchos for throwing over your stroller, or get a dedicated   Stroller Rain Cover . 

Also consider your comfort- Alittle TMI but when it’s really Hot outside or super wet, I get bad chaffing/rub burns depending on the clothing I’m wearing. We always try to plan outfits ahead of time, and keep a container of this antifriction rub in our travel bag.

Here’s What I would do Depending on the Weather:

If it’s Raining: I would stay in the Parks and do the inside Attractions, Shows and Character Meals. Or I would stay at the Resort until the Rain stopped, and head back to the Parks. Lots of people leave when it rains, and you can find some lower wait times if you brave the weather!

If the forecast calls for Thunderstorms all Day: I’d skip the Parks and stay at the Resort.

If the Weather is Hot and Sunny: I would go very early (show up about an hour before park opening!) and bring weather gear like Sunscreen, Hats, Sunglasses, UV Protective Clothing, Water Bottles etc, and stay in the Shade and A/C as much as possible . I’d leave around lunch, and then come back in the evening.

Yes, it’s Disney, but still bring lots of Baby Friendly Snacks!

Disney World has an amazing amount of unique treats and amazing dining experiences, but when you are waiting in line for a ride (or for food) and hunger strikes- It’s not pretty! 

I’m a big fan of comfort items, so I bring foods for baby (or myself) that I already know and love!

While shoving snacks in the diaper bag is perfectly acceptable, I do bring my collapsible clevermade cooler with me on some longer park days. This means I can take leftovers from table service, or bring fruit I grabbed from the resort. Then fold it up when I’m no longer using it! I’ve had my cooler since 2019 and even with weekly Costco trips and some Disney Trips, it’s held up great.

Budgeting for Disney World with a Baby

Kids under 3 are ‘free’ to Disney World, in that they don’t need a ticket… but they do need fun merch!

Disney has several items in their shops for our littlest humans, from cute toys to Disney Baby accessories.

You should consider a budget of at least 200 dollars for Baby at Disney! There’s strollers, fans, snacks, autograph books, souvenirs and emergency items.

Do you know how much a plain, generic looking onesie costs at the Disney Parks? 20 dollars friends. It costs 20 dollars for a plain, onesie that you will desperately need if you forget to pack extra outfits for your baby.

Yes, I want fun keepsakes from my trip. No I don’t want a baby onesie because I *had* to buy it. I want it because it’s cute!

Pack enough, or consider doing laundry, so you don’t have to make a ‘desperate’ purchase.

Some people aren’t aware of this, but it’s really a life saver! There’s a Baby Care Center, stocked with lots of stuff for Parents and Caregivers. There’s helpful staff there, plus items for purchase, and it’s got enough space for multiple families so you can enjoy the care center for as long as you need it!

My favorite is to come in, change the baby, and fill up my water bottle with cold water! There’s also a nursing room here, and a TV room, so I can spend some time taking care of the baby and myself before doing more park adventures.

Rider Switch is your new BFF

If I had to pick one thing to tell parents, it would be that Disney wants you to have a good time, and they have created the Rider Switch to help you out with that!

Simply talk to the cast member to see if its available for the Ride you are interested in (List Below!) Here’s a list of all the rides that Baby can Ride, and you won’t need Rider Switch for!

So, if a kiddo isn’t tall enough for a ride, or if someone just doesn’t want to go on a certain attraction, don’t worry at all! With something called Rider Switch, one grown-up can stay back with the person not riding (or folks not riding), while the rest of the group has a blast on the ride. When the other grown-up comes back, they can look after the ones not riding, and the waiting grown-up can hop on the ride without standing in the regular line all over again.

 Rider Switch works with the new Genie+ service but its not quite as good as the old Fast Pass System.

Magic Kingdom Park The Barnstormer Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Space Mountain Tomorrowland Indy Speedway

EPCOT Frozen Ever After Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind *Please note: All Rider Swap participants are required to be in a Virtual Queue boarding group or have an individually purchased Lightning Lane entrance for the attraction prior to boarding. Mission: SPACE Soarin’ Test Track

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Alien Swirling Saucers Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith Slinky Dog Dash Star Tours® – The Adventures Continue Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park Avatar Flight of Passage DINOSAUR Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain® Kali River Rapids Na’vi River Journey

Wrapping up this section

These are just the basics to get you started on planning your trip to Disney World with your baby. It doesn’t have to be stressful- in fact it can be a lot of fun! Simply plan ahead and make the most of your magical adventure. 

Check out these other related articles in the Bringing Baby Series!

Must Have Baby Packing Guide for Baby’s First Disney Trip

10 Brutally Honest Truths about Disney World and Babies

Breastfeeding Success at Disney World (even if Baby stays home!)

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4 Tips for Baby’s First Walt Disney World Trip

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Planning for a Walt Disney World trip can be a daunting task – but bringing a baby along for their first trip adds even more complexity!  We took our son for his first trip when he was 9 and a half months old and had an  amazing trip !  Below are my top 4 tips to make your baby’s first Walt Disney World trip a success.

1. Try to keep things familiar

This is key to keeping everyone in a good mood throughout your trip!  Walt Disney World trips are hectic (at least for us!) so keeping everyone on their normal schedules is almost impossible – but at least try to keep things familiar.

Kicked back waiting for our bus back to the resort.

On this trip we had a split stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge and Pop Century (neither of which is super convenient for midday naps) so, although it was a hassle, we brought our own stroller with us.  We knew our son napped well in this particular stroller (we have 3 others and he is not a fan of napping in those) so we lugged this stroller on the plane and on and off every bus but it was  so worth it !  He definitely didn’t nap as well as he does at home but he still got a pretty good nap in each day while we were at the park.

2. Use the Baby Care Centers

This was one of the biggest tips I read prior to our trip and everyone was  so right !  I had never even noticed these in the parks prior to this trip but they were KEY during our trip.  Although they vary from park to park – the baby care centers typically have several full-size changing tables (probably big enough for a 3-4 year old), a feeding area for nursing mothers (not typically completely private – but it is women only), a feeding area for older kids (with high chairs and small tables), a tv playing Disney movies, a kitchen area for cleaning feeding supplies and a women’s restroom.

My son was a particularly “distracted eater” at this age – meaning that if there was a lot of commotion going on around him he would much rather watch what was going on instead of eating.  So, in our situation, a quiet, cool place to feed him was a lifesaver.  The attendants at the centers were extremely helpful and made sure each area was promptly cleaned after someone used it.

3. Plan some special “firsts”

Obviously these “firsts” are mostly for the parents’ enjoyment but adding a little extra pixie dust to your trip will make baby’s first trip even more memorable!

“My first Disney visit” package from Disney Floral and Gifts

On our arrival night we found some extra magic sent by our travel companions – our son’s “first Disney visit” package was waiting in our room when we checked in!  This package included a plush Sorcerer Mickey, a personalized fleece blanket, an autograph book and pen, a set of personalized Mickey ears and some “firsts” cards for photos throughout the trip (my first Disney ride, my first Disney meltdown, etc.).

Enjoying his “first visit” gifts!

We also planned our son’s first haircut during our trip (we were determined to do his  actual first haircut at Disney and it was way past due by the time our trip came around – as you can tell in the picture above!) at the Harmony Barber Shop .  We called for reservations about 6 months in advance – reservations are not necessary, but cutting down time spent waiting is key with a baby!

Baby’s first haircut at Harmony Barber Shop

This first haircut experience could not have been more perfect.  The barber (Michel) put stickers up and down our son’s legs and gave me a light-up, spinning toy and that occupied him for the entire haircut!  You could tell that the barber does this all the time – the entire haircut took less than 10 minutes and it was perfect.  This is also one of the best deals on Disney property – $19 for the perfect first haircut experience, a set of “First Haircut” Mickey ears and a certificate of bravery!

4. Characters, characters, characters!

This may not work for every child – but my son’s all time favorite part of our trip was meeting the characters.  We only planned one character meal because we were a little worried about how he would react but he loved them!  He spent every other meal looking around just waiting for a character to come visit him.

Nice to meet you, Donald!

At this age our son wasn’t afraid of the characters at all, but every child is different.  So I would recommend at least one parent stay close during the interaction and ease into the first one slowly to gauge their reaction.  After we discovered how much our son loved the characters at Tusker House, we packed in as many more character stops in our trip as possible!

Finally, I just want to stress one thing: it is  never too early to take your child on their first Walt Disney World trip!  While he won’t remember this trip, we will remember it forever!

What are your tips for taking a baby on their first Walt Disney World trip? Share in the comments!

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2 thoughts on “ 4 Tips for Baby’s First Walt Disney World Trip ”

Hi Katie, Where did you get those super cute “firsts” cards?! I have a trip planned for November with our little girl who will be 8 months when we go and would LOVE these sweet cards for her first Disney trip! we are HUGE “Disney people” and her name is Briar Rose, so she will obviously share our love for Disney too 😉 Thanks!

Hi Theresa! The “firsts” cards came with the “My First Disney Visit” package from Disney Floral & Gifts! There were so many great ones like “First Bus Ride,” “First Meeting with Mickey” and even “First Disney Meltdown!” They were so much fun for our little guy’s first trip!

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How to Plan a Disney Vacation with a Baby

Disney parks can provide a magical experience for the whole family, tiny babies included., by amylia ryan.

Whether you’re eight weeks old or eight decades old (or more—or less!), the Disney parks have always been full of magic. And while it may seem daunting and potentially un -magical to take your baby or toddler on a Disney vacation, rest assured that a little planning and preparation can make it an enchanting and unforgettable experience for the entire family.

From character encounters and gentle rides to baby care centers, Disney parks offer a level of joy and hospitality that’s sure to make your little one’s first visit a truly magical one.

• What to pack
• Planning your day at a Disney Park

Best rides for babies and toddlers

• Baby Care Centers

When to take a Disney vacation with a baby or toddler

Is my baby too young for a disney trip.

If you have a baby and you’re considering a trip to any of the Disney theme parks, this might be one of your first questions. Unless your little one has significant health concerns that might be made worse by overexertion or crowds, then the answer is a pretty confident “no.” Even if you have a one-month-old , they’ll still be just as welcome as the rest of your family since the Disney parks are so accommodating to families with babies.

In fact, it’s worth considering that children two years old and younger get into Disney parks  for free , so if you were thinking about putting off that Disney vacation until your toddler’s third birthday, consider the cost benefit of going sooner.

While it’s true that babies and toddlers can’t enjoy every Disney ride, there are still plenty of attractions to keep them entertained for multiple days at one park. With colors, music and people all around, even the youngest babies can have a magical sensory experience on a Disney vacation.

View this post on Instagram forever grateful that I get to share my happy place with him 🥹💙🏰✨🐭 A post shared by ALANNAH (@wifelifemagic) on [MAY 31, 2023] at 3:46pm PDT

The best time of year to visit Disney parks

No matter the age of your little one, the main thing to consider in planning your Disney park adventure is the time of year. Visiting the park during the “off seasons”, which are usually September, early November and mid-January through late February, can help minimize crowds and wait times—and that means minimized fussiness (for both little ones  and adults). 

If you can’t plan your trip around those months, then your next best bet is to go on weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday. And definitely try to avoid holiday weekends, as those tend to be the most crowded.

How long to stay

The length of your Disney vacation really depends on your own comfort and energy level. It can be really rewarding to try and make the most out of your trip, but it can also be completely exhausting. Many families with young babies or toddlers keep their Disney trips to about one to two days per park. So if you’re going to Disneyland and California Adventure, three days is a good amount of time. If you’re going to Disney World, consider four days total (and maybe skip one or two of the parks if you want to spend more time in Magic Kingdom).

It’s worth noting also that the longer your vacation is, the more likely it is that any established feeding and sleeping routine will get thrown out of whack.

What to bring to Disney with a baby or toddler

How smoothly your day goes at the park will greatly depend on how prepared you are. While it’s important to pack all the essentials, it’s equally as important to not over-pack, since you’ll be lugging your stuff around all day. You can rent a locker at the park, but you’ll find it way more convenient (and cheaper) to just keep all your baby-related stuff on hand. 

You’ll want to take a diaper bag that hits the sweet spot between “big enough to fit all your daytime baby essentials” and “small enough to fit in the stroller basket or to carry around.” Here are some of our favorites:

Petunia Pickle Bottom   Disney Mini Backpack

Eddie Bauer   Sport Traveler Diaper Backpack

TWELVELittle   Midi-Go Diaper Bag Backpack 3.0

What’s more important though is what goes  inside the diaper bag. Here’s a packing list for a full day at a Disney theme park:

• Diapers or training pants
• Extra full set of baby clothes
• Sun hat (in warm weather) or beanie (in cold weather)
• Outerwear layers (in cold weather)
• Water (no glass containers, but baby bottles are an exception)
• Bottles (with breastmilk if you pump, and glass bottles are okay)
• Small soft-sided cooler and ice packs to store breastmilk
• Pre-portioned formula (if you’re formula feeding)
• Nursing cover (if you’re breastfeeding)
• Baby food (if you’re feeding solids, and glass baby food jars are okay)
• Snacks (for the whole family; Disney food can get expensive)
• Pacifiers and pacifier clips

Don’t bother with things like toys, pacifier sanitizers or bottle cleaning supplies in the park. Toys are likely to get lost, and anything that gets dirty can be cleaned either in the Baby Care Center (more on that later) or back at your hotel.

A stroller may be the number one thing to bring with you into a Disney park. While Disney does have a stroller rental service , they’re not a great fit for babies and younger toddlers—the Disney strollers are hard plastic, don’t provide any support and are generally uncomfortable after long periods of sitting.

If you can, you’ll be much better off bringing your own stroller or renting one from a local baby gear rental company. And don’t hesitate to bring a full-size stroller or large travel stroller ; Disney allows a pretty wide range of stroller sizes, and it’s guaranteed to be more comfortable for your little one (and a larger basket means more space to stash all your souvenirs).

View this post on Instagram So glad we got to visit Disneyland over the holidays! It sure made everything a bit more magical ✨ All the holiday festivities officially end on January 6th for both @waltdisneyworld and @disneyland. Who’s making a last ditch effort to squeeze in some magic? A post shared by Grace (@onlymagicaldays) on [JAN 05, 2020] at 3:46pm PDT

To make sure your stroller is allowed inside the park, here are Disney’s guidelines (applicable to all US Disney parks):

• Strollers must be 31” (79cm) wide and 52” (132cm) long or smaller.
• Wagons and stroller wagons are not permitted.

Additionally, while stroller boards/riding boards used to be prohibited in Disney parks, they’re now allowed as of 2023 ! This is especially good news for families with multiple children and older toddlers who don’t want to be confined to the stroller seat all day .

Here are some of our favorite strollers to make for a comfortable day at Disney:

Babyzen   YOYO2 Stroller Bundle

Mockingbird   Single-to-Double Stroller 2.0

Baby Jogger   City Mini GT2 Double Stroller

A carrier isn’t an absolute necessity for taking your baby to a Disney park, but it’s a huge help for keeping wiggly babies close by while standing in line and ensuring little ones stay safe and secure on rides. Strollers aren’t allowed in line for attractions, and some rides might require babies and young toddlers to sit on an adult’s lap for safety. So it’s better to bring your carrier and potentially not use it than to leave it at home and wish you had it.

Here are a few of the best baby carriers for spending a whole day at a theme park:

Ergobaby   Omni Breeze Baby Carrier

lillebaby   Complete All Seasons 6-1 Baby Carrier

Infantino   Flip 4-In-1 Convertible Carrier

Tips for planning your day at a disney park.

Whether you’re at Disneyland, Disney World or any of the other Disney theme parks across the globe, all of these tips can help your day run a little smoother with a baby or toddler in tow.

Familiarize yourself with the park’s attractions

Before you head out to the park, it’s a good idea to know what you’re getting into. All of the Disney parks have a lot of attractions, and not just rides, either! Check out the Disney park website and app to get all the necessary information on character meet-and-greets, parades and shows, dining options, ride closures, ride height restrictions and special accommodations for families. 

Knowing what all is available beforehand will help you make a personalized itinerary that suits your whole families interests and needs.

Try to stick to baby’s schedule

Try to keep your normal feeding and nap schedule as much as possible, but don’t be surprised (and try not to stress out) if it all goes out the window. With the level of convenience and hospitality that the Disney parks offer, it’s not difficult to find spots to sit and eat or even have your kiddo take a nap at their regular time.

The wildcard here is timing everything with all the lines . So if it’s 20 minutes until nap time, you might want to rethink jumping into the 30-minute line for Pirates of the Caribbean. With that in mind, don’t be surprised if your family gets at least a little bit off schedule.

If your little one has a bedtime routine, that’s likely to be the first thing out the window, especially if you plan to see any nighttime parades.

Download the park’s app 

A major part of planning a day at Disney, especially when you have a baby’s schedule to take into account, is keeping on top of wait times for rides, character encounters and restaurants. Don’t get trapped in a 50-minute line with a starving toddler; knowing ahead of time which attractions have short lines, can be hit back-to-back or timed with meals and naps can make your whole day run like a well-oiled machine.

Another perk of the park app is  ordering food ahead ; you’re already going to be standing in a lot of lines for rides, so don’t get stuck in a food line too. Schedule your food pickup for the same time as kiddo’s regular meal time.

Don’t eat during regular mealtimes

This may sound contradictory, especially after the tip to stick to your baby’s normal schedule. While schedules are important to keep kiddo as happy as possible, if you can move their meals by even just 30 minutes outside of a “typical” eating time (like 12 p.m. for lunch), you’ll end up in much smaller lines at Disney eateries.

If you can’t move baby’s eating schedule, then at least consider moving your own. Scheduling the adult meals at 11 a.m. for lunch or 4 p.m. for dinner can go a long way in saving you time during your day at the park.

Take breaks at the hotel

Especially with a toddler, returning to the hotel for nap time can be the perfect reset everyone needs. Take an hour or two to rest your (undoubtedly aching) feet, restock on diapers, bottles and snacks and maybe even take a nap yourself. Even if you feel like you still have the energy to push through—and it can be tempting to hit up some of the non-kid-friendly rides—it’s better to rest as much as possible than to risk having a cranky  adult later in the day.

If you’re just doing a day trip to the park and don’t have a hotel booked, then make sure you’ve brought a stroller that accommodates a sleeping child (either with a reclining seat or a bassinet attachment), and be sure to snag one of the many good resting spots for yourself, too.

Use the “Rider Switch” for bigger rides

While it’s important to keep your little one’s needs in mind during your Disney adventure, the adults and older kids should be able to have their fun too! If you’re with another adult and can switch off watching the baby, you can take advantage of Disney’s “Rider Switch” perk to swap out parents without having to wait in line multiple times. Here’s how it works:

• At least one adult waits with any non-riders (kiddos who don’t meet the height requirement, may experience adverse effects on the ride or just don’t want to go) at the ride exit.
• The other group members, including other children who do meet the height requirement, wait in the regular ride line.
• Once the riding group returns, the adult who waited can then go on the ride while the previous riders hang out with the non-riders. They don’t even have to wait in the regular line—they’re given special permission to move right on through to be boarded immediately!

Be a “single rider”

If only one adult wants to ride something, you can take advantage of Disney’s “single rider” line.

Though it’s not available for every ride, most of the bigger Disney rides offer a separate line for individual riders to fill in any gaps left by varying group sizes. Using the single rider line doesn’t guarantee that you’ll get on the ride immediately, but it does move significantly faster than the regular line.

Do early entry if possible

If you’re staying at a Disney Resort Hotel, you can take advantage of early entry. Previously known as Magic Mornings and Extra Magic Hour, this early entry perk allows Disney hotel guests to enter the park before the general public—a huge bonus to hit the most popular rides before the crowds arrive and keep your little one from having to stand in even more lines. Participating parks include all four of Disney World’s parks, Disneyland and Disneyland Paris.

Keep in mind: Early entry is only available for guests of official Disney hotels, not “friendly neighbor” hotels (hotels near the park that may offer other perks). While Disney hotels are typically more expensive than nearby options, they come with a much more immersive experience and numerous perks, including character meals.

Disney parks have no shortage of attractions tailored to little ones—even babies can get the most out of what Disney has to offer. The classic gentle rides like “it’s a small world,” Dumbo and Peter Pan are perfect for introducing new theme park adventurers to the magic of Disney. Be sure to check at each ride entrance or on the park’s website or app for any rider restrictions.

View this post on Instagram We are all smiles over here because Disneyland and California Adventure have submitted plans for their phased reopening! A post shared by Grace (@onlymagicaldays) on [JUN 10, 2020] at 3:46pm PDT

Older toddlers may even be able to try out some of the bigger rides like Pirates of the Caribbean (which has a couple of small yet exciting drops!), but keep in mind that reaching the minimum height requirement doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ready . Use your best judgement to determine whether your child is ready for attractions that include drops, darkness, speed or scary scenes (looking at you, Snow White’s Scary Adventures—which thankfully no longer exists).

Along with rides, your little one can also watch parades and live shows and even meet some of their favorite Disney characters. While it’s unlikely that any children under the age of three will remember the experience as they get older, it creates lasting memories for you as well as highly photographable moments to show them for years to come.

Baby Care Centers 

Whether you’re there for just a few hours or you’re in for several long-haul days, Disney’s Baby Care Centers are a true lifesaver for families with babies and toddlers. Located in every Disney park, these facilities provide a dedicated space for everything you could possibly need to care for your little one, including:

• Changing stations. Ever try changing a blow out in the middle of a busy theme park? Don’t. The Baby Care Centers include padded changing tables, sanitizing wipes, tiny toilets for potty training toddlers and, most of all, a private, quiet place to keep little ones from getting overstimulated while getting a diaper change. Some centers even have free diapering supplies just in case you run out!
• Feeding and nursing areas.  Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle feeding or giving solid food, Baby Care Centers have a spot for you. The private nursing area is peaceful with comfortable arm chairs, and the kitchen area has high chairs solid food eaters.
• Kitchen and food prep areas.  Speaking of feeding, these facilities have full kitchens. A sink to wash your bottles or pumping supplies? Check. Bottle warmers to reheat breastmilk? Check. Microwaves to heat baby food? Check. Everything you need to make sure your little one gets fed.
• Play areas and activities.  The Baby Care Centers aren’t just for changing and feeding. Sometimes the parks are just too overstimulating, and kiddos need a calm place to regroup. The play areas in these centers usually include toddler-sized tables and chairs, books, coloring supplies and a TV (playing Disney movies, of course).
• Supplies.  Forgot to bring sunscreen? Lost all of baby’s pacifiers? Or maybe you just  really need some Advil. Not to worry, Baby Care Centers have just about everything you might need when visiting with little ones. From formula and baby food to diapers and wipes, you can find baby care necessities for purchase.

Along with all of the practical baby care necessities, these centers also offer the simple pleasure of good hospitality. The staff are welcoming and accommodating, the chairs are comfortable, the space is quiet and, on a hot day, the air conditioning is on!

Taking your baby or toddler to a Disney park can be an incredible experience filled with joy and wonder. By planning ahead, knowing which attractions are age-appropriate and understanding all of the accommodations available to you, your family can create an adventure that maximizes the magic and limits the stress. From the excitement of meeting favorite characters to the enchantment of rides and shows, Disney parks offer a world of fun and entertainment that can be enjoyed by even the youngest family members. So pack your bags, put on your mouse ears and experience the magic!

Reddit drama about Disney trip by grandma and kids goes viral as she refuses to apologize to family

A grandmother who took her grandchildren to Walt Disney World for their first visit when she was unexpectedly forced to babysit the kids for multiple days did nothing wrong and was right not to apologize to her daughter-in-law, said social media users as well as a family therapist.

Reddit user "Simple-Band-9096" revealed the situation on the AITA ("Am I the A--hole") subreddit in a post on Thursday, March 7, asking, "AITA for taking my grandchildren to Disney for the first time without their mother and refusing to apologize when confronted?" 

Fox News Digital also interacted with the poster via Reddit's messaging feature to learn more about the story; the woman lives not far from Disney World. 

WOMAN ON REDDIT IS CONFUSED BY BOYFRIEND'S NEGATIVE REACTION TO HER CARE PACKAGE: 'UNGRATEFUL DUDE'

In the post, the woman said her son asked her to make a Reddit account and share the story, "because he claims my normal meter is skewed and the internet is going to tell me" she's wrong, she wrote.

She said, "I recently babysat my grandchildren (5 and 4) for a period of four nights and five days so my son and his wife could attend a wedding in Mexico, and spend a few days on vacation."  

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Initially, the woman said she did not want to babysit her grandchildren for that long a time period — and told her son and daughter-in-law that she was not comfortable doing so. 

"It seemed like a long time to watch the kids, and she has point-blank told me that the woman's family is more important than the man's, so I was irritated I was being asked" to babysit the kids, yet the daughter-in-law's mother was not asked to do, the woman wrote.

But Simple-Band-9096 changed her mind and agreed to babysit the kids after her son "became very emotional," she shared. Even so, she felt that they were being manipulative. 

DAD ASKS REDDIT IF HE SHOULD LET HIS TEEN DAUGHTER MEET A BOY FROM INSTAGRAM IN PERSON

Flash ahead to the babysitting time period. While the kids were with her, Simple-Band-9096 said she was invited to a birthday party at Epcot, one of the four main theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort — and wanted to go.

"It didn't even occur to me to run it by my son or daughter-in-law, as I had the kids for an extended period of time and obviously they knew they would be going where I went," she said. 

In the past, the woman's daughter-in-law said she planned on taking the kids on a multi-day trip to Walt Disney World, but "never made me aware it was something super special to her." 

REDDIT USER ACCUSED OF SPOILING HER YOUNG SON BY ASKING FOR AN INVITE TO GIRLS-ONLY EVENT

Added the woman on Reddit, "Also, it was Epcot. It's not like I took them to Magic Kingdom and they had some magical moment of seeing their favorite character." 

In follow-up comments, she said she lives about two hours away from the park and they did not need to stay overnight in a hotel . 

When her son and daughter-in-law got back from their trip, they did not take the news of the trip very well at all.

"My daughter-in-law was furious and burst into tears," she said. "She said I stole one of her kids' 'firsts' and called me entitled ."

She continued, "To be honest, I didn't react well to being called entitled, when she was the one who previously demanded babysitting."

She went on, "My son asked me to apologize as she was distraught over missing their first Disney trip , but I declined and asked them to leave." 

The son later asked again for an apology, and Simple-Band-9096 again declined.

REDDIT RELATIONSHIP DRAMA GOES VIRAL AS WOMAN DITCHES DATE WHO LIED TO HER ABOUT HIS AGE

"I know she is a huge Disney person, but it was Epcot, not quintessential Disney and I don't feel I should have had to miss out on a birthday party I wanted to attend," the woman wrote. 

"I told my son I am not apologizing for anything and maybe they should think about how they made me feel when they didn't respect my initial 'no,'" she said. 

Simple-Band-9096 added, "My son feels like Reddit is going to show me the error of my ways."

Speaking to Fox News Digital, the grandmother said she felt good about the resulting responses to her post.

"I know my son read all the comments and is feeling pretty embarrassed right now," she said. 

A family therapist told Fox News Digital that while the daughter-in-law's emotions were understandable, she needed to adjust her views of the situation. 

"It's understandable for the daughter-in-law to feel disappointed that she wasn't the one to introduce Disney to her kids," Rachel Goldberg, LMFT, founder of Rachel Goldberg Therapy in Los Angeles, told Fox News Digital via email.

FRIENDS AT ODDS IN DRESS DRAMA AS BRIDE INSISTS ON NEW BRIDESMAID GOWN NO MATTER WHAT

The daughter-in-law and Simple-Band-9096 already did not get along well, something that may have "heightened" her distress, suggested Goldberg.

"Taking care of two young children for an extended period can be challenging, and if you're entrusting Grandma with that responsibility, it's essential to relinquish some control over how things are done, even if it doesn't meet your expectations," said Goldberg.

The day at Epcot was a positive experience for the grandchildren and their grandmother, said Goldberg — meaning that she did not do them any harm.

"It could be beneficial for the daughter-in-law to reframe her mindset to focus on the joy the children experienced rather than solely on not being the one credited for the outing," she said.

Reddit users largely agreed with this sentiment, saying that Simple-Band-9096 was not in the wrong to take the kids with her to Epcot.

On the AITA subreddit, people can reply to posts and indicate the poster is "NTA" ("Not the A--hole"), "YTA" ("You're the A--hole"), "NAH" ("No A--holes Here") or "ESH" ("Everyone Sucks Here").

Users can "upvote" responses they think are helpful and "downvote" ones that are not. 

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While there was somewhat of a debate, most of the 7,000 or so replies to the post said that Simple-Band-9096 was "NTA" — and that, instead, her son was wrong.

"I hope your son feels humbled here today," said Reddit user "BulbasaurRanch" in the top-upvoted comment, saying that Simple-Band-9096 was not wrong about what she did. 

"They imposed on you to watch their children. You did exactly as they requested. You’ve done nothing wrong," said BulbasaurRanch. 

The user continued, "You are not responsible for your rude daughter-in-law crying. Tears don’t make a person right." 

Other users criticized the mentality that placed so much value on experiencing a child's "first" everything.

"My mom has more of my kid’s 'firsts' than I do because I gotta work," said user "BadTanJob." 

"That’s life. It was just as magical the second, third and fourth time," added the same user. "DIL and son need to get a grip."

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle .

Original article source: Reddit drama about Disney trip by grandma and kids goes viral as she refuses to apologize to family

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I was traumatized by my first cruise vacation after two ship-rocking storms in five days.

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Lavishly celebrating a wedding anniversary is sweet. However, it’s best to not go  overboard .

But couple Alisha and Nate Downey nearly went down with the ship when their luxury liner became entangled in two “traumatizing” thunderstorms .

What was meant to be a lovely $3,294 float to Mexico almost cost the lovebirds their lives.  

“My first cruise was … quite the experience,” Alisha, 31, a mom and dental assistant from Denver, Col., captioned Instagram footage of her rocky Royal Caribbean voyage in January. 

Washing up a staggering 28.4 million views, the trending post featured clips of swollen waves crashing against the boat. 

The intense impact of the troubled waters caused the ship’s built-in pool to violently slosh, sent glassware and liquor bottles flying off shelves in the bar and dining areas, and made casino slot machines fall on top of passengers, per the viral vid. 

Royal Caribbean did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for comment. 

Alisha and Nate, 31, a sales manager, set sail for their five-day romantic escape to tropical Costa Maya and Cozumel, leaving from a port in Galveston, Tex., on Jan. 22.

Mid-way through the jaunt, cruise executives reportedly announced that docking in Costa Maya would be “too dangerous.” Instead, the watercraft drifted directly to Cozumel before heading back to the US. 

However, on the way home, a dark cloud upended vacationers’ fun in the sun.  

“We could see from our balcony that the overcast was getting worse, water was becoming very choppy, and looking toward the direction we were headed,” Alisha explained to What’sTheJam. 

“Very quickly the weather became worse, rain pouring down, the ship rocking,” she recalled. “Around this time is when I believe an announcement was made that we were in a storm and to ‘find sanctuary’.”

Alisha filmed herself and Nate hiding out in their room, which was located on the liner’s eighth floor. However, the pair’s sky-high digs was no match for the mighty ocean. 

“Soon our room was taking on water, coming under our balcony door,” she said. “A wine glass slid off the vanity and shattered, all the stuff came falling off.”

In fear for their lives, the trembling twosome went downstairs to the main deck — only to find broken glass and equally spooked trippers scattered everywhere. 

“We even saw women wearing their life jackets coming up the stairs from lower decks…people were scared,” Alisha remembered. “And by that point, there was about three feet of water in our room.”

Harrowing visuals of the chaotic scene elicited sympathy from some online viewers. However, less compassionate folks on the internet scolded Alisha and Nate for taking the watery risk. 

“Just don’t take a cruise during hurricane season,” scoffed a cynic. 

“Smh they are not all like this. Stop spreading fear,” demanded an equally apathetic commenter. 

“I would say the risk you take for booking a cruise??? Like demanding a refund because it rained on your beach vacation??,” another outraged critic ranted. “Maybe they should refund you. Then just not pay any of their staff that worked the cruise and kept you safe so you can get your refund for your inconvenience?” 

Alisha clapped back at the shade. 

“[I] Never demanded a refund, to be clear. I respectfully requested a small credit or voucher toward another cruise,” she explained in her Instagram comments. 

The incensed traveler, too noted that her cruise wasn’t during hurricane season — which, in Mexico, spans from June through November. 

“Our room flooded as did many. We paid for unlimited drinks to which bars closed for a while. We were supposed to stop at two places…one of which was skipped,” confined the blond. “And whilst one captain on another cruise line redirected for safety our captain went through not one but TWO dangerous storms.”

“People got hurt.” 

Rather than a refund, Alisha said Royal Caribbean offered her 20% on her next cruise. 

However, while she and her hubby may not be in a hurry to board another tub any time soon, other sea lovers have become completely addicted to the motion of the ocean. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alisha Downey (@leesh.downey_)

Influencers across the globe have infamously ditched dry to hop onboard the Ultimate World Cruise , a nine-month Royal Caribbean cruise that launched in December.  

And newlyweds Monica Brzoska Jorell Conley recently quit their jobs and hawked all their worldly possessions to become permanent mariners . 

“All my meals are cooked by chefs and staff change my bedding,” said Brzoska, 32. “I haven’t stepped into a kitchen or used a washing machine for a year.”

“I’m not a millionaire,” she teased, “I just live full-time on cruise ships.”

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