Heading to the parks with a toddler on board can definitely seem like a scary task. Between naptimes, potty breaks and rides that are just too tall, it can seem like conquering Disneyland can be impossible. Fear not, Disneyland was made from everyone! Here are your best tips for taking on the Disneyland Resort with your preschool-aged toddlers!
When most people think of Disneyland, they think about the attractions! But which attractions are toddler-friendly? Look no further! Here is your complete list for both parks.
Disneyland Attractions
There are a number of Disneyland attractions that were designed for the young and young at heart! Here are just some of the many options
- Alice in Wonderland
- Casey Jr. Circus Train
- Storybook Land Canal Boats
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- The Royal Theatre at Fantasy Faire
- “it’s a small world”
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- Goofy’s Playhouse
- Mickey’s House and Minnie’s House
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Disney California Adventure Park
- Redwood Creek Challenge Trail
- Turtle Talk with Crush
- Disney Junior – Live on Stage!
- Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
- Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters (32″/81 cm or taller)
- The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
More Ride Tips
- The Parent “rider switch” policy gives both parents a chance to enjoy an attraction a young child may not want to board. A parent who waits with that child while the other parent rides the attraction may then board the ride with minimal wait time after the first parent exits. Guests may ask a cast member at an attraction’s entrance about this service.
- Some attractions at the Disneyland Resort have height requirements to ensure the comfort and safety of all guests. Before visiting the Disneyland Resort, parents may want to measure their small children to limit any surprises upon arrival. Guests will find height requirements for applicable attractions at Disneyland.com and on the official Disneyland app.
- Families can maximize their day by using the official Disneyland app. The app offers useful information right at a guest’s fingertips, including attraction wait times, FastPass return times maps, entertainment guides and other special features. Guests may also use the app to purchase tickets with their mobile device, look for character appearances in the park, find park hours and even order food and beverage at select fast casual and quick service restaurant locations.
Character Experiences
Make magic with your children and their favorite Disney characters! Simply download the Disneyland app and there will be ideas of where to find characters as well as show times that include characters! There is always a Disney character spreading magic around the park, so be sure to keep your eyes and ears open! You never know who you could run into.
Want to introduce the toddler in your party to live theater and music? Performances are scheduled daily, including the stage production “Mickey and the Magical Map” at Disneyland and “Frozen—Live at the Hyperion,” and “Disney Junior Dance Party!” with Vampirina joining the show at Disney California Adventure.
Dining
There are so many options for dining with a family! If you’re looking for healthier options, look at the menu for the Mickey check symbol! These will help you sort through the options and quickly identify better choices. If you’re looking more along the lines of special dietary requests, you can check out the allergy-friendly menus at all table-service and select quick service locations!
If you’re looking for a more magical moment, check out character dining at Disney’s PCH Grill at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, Goofy’s Kitchen at Disneyland Hotel, Plaza Inn at Disneyland and Storytellers Café at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Enjoy your meal with the company of some of your favorite magical characters!
Magical Memories
Guests looking to remember the fun for ages to come can document their adventure with the Disney PhotoPass Service! You can find photographers all over the resort using the Disneyland app, and head over to one of the PhotoPass locations to purchase packages! Unlimited photo downloads are also included with the purchase of MaxPass.
There are also a number of ways to make the trip even more special including:
- Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Let your littles get the royal treatment! Guests between ages 3-12 can get a royal makeover as they turn into their favorite Disney Knight or Disney Princess!
- Disney Wish Program In 1981, Disneyland Resort and non-profit wish-granting organizations have teamed up to make real-life magic! Children with life-threatening illness are treated to memories of a lifetime courtesy of Disneyland! Guests who visit as part of the program can use the Disney Wish Lounge at the end of Main Street.
If you’re looking for more tips on making the first visit to the park even more special, check out Caitlyn’s article on how to make the first visit magical! Are you an Annual Passholder bringing a baby along? Check out these tips for making sure the whole family has a great time!
Have you taken on the Disneyland Resort with a toddler in your party? Connect with us on Twitter and Facebook and let us know everything you did!
