Disneyland with Toddlers: Tips, Rides, and Making the Most of Your Vacation
Wondering how to do Disneyland with Toddlers? Is it worth the money? Are their Disneyland rides for toddlers? We’re sharing all the info you need to make the most of your Disney vacation with a toddler!
Traveling to Disneyland with a Toddler
The Disneyland Resort is nicknamed “The Happiest Place on Earth” for a good reason. With enjoyable attractions, delectable food and magic around every corner, it’s no surprise as to why it’s one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. While taking a Disneyland vacation is incredibly fun, planning one can sometimes be stressful – especially if you’re traveling with a toddler.
Doing Disneyland with toddlers is so doable, and our nerves were settled instantly as we watched the magic on his face! Our first experience doing Disneyland with a toddler was surprisingly more fun than the times we’ve been just as adults! Between getting them in for free before they are three, and our hack to get Disneyland discount tickets for us, it’s such an affordable and fun time to go!
Disneyland With Toddlers: Tips and Tricks to Make the Most of Your Vacation and Their Vacation
Navigating height restrictions, planning naps and dealing with tantrums can be overwhelming. Luckily, I’ve teamed up with my friends at Get Away Today to give you the ultimate guide on traveling to Disneyland with a Toddler. Our tips and tricks will ensure that your next vacation to Disneyland with a toddler is truly a fairy tale from Fantasyland, instead of a Fantasmic nightmare.
The Lowdown on Disneyland Rides for Toddlers
- Research Rides
Just because attractions are geared towards preschoolers and kids, doesn’t mean that they are for everyone. While most of Disneyland’s attractions are fool-proof, there are some that might spook your little one. Although the rides are slow moving, your child might be surprised by villains, dark spaces and loud noises. Because of this, I’ve placed a few attractions below that might frighten your little one:
- Alice in Wonderland
- Haunted Mansion
- Toad’s Wild Ride
- Pinocchio’s Daring Journey
- Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin
- Snow White’s Scary Adventure
- The Many Adventures of Winnie The Pooh
To be safe, I would suggest that you take a “test ride” first to make sure your child can handle the attraction. Our two-year-old loved The Many Adventures of Winnie The Pooh, but we heard others crying. Disneyland rides for toddlers can vary from kid to kid. You know your little Cast Member better than anyone, so use your best judgment.
However, if you’re wondering what rides your toddler is sure to love, we’ve got you covered too!
Disneyland Rides for Toddlers They are Sure to Love
- “it’s a small world”
- Astro Orbitor
- Autopia
- Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
- Disneyland Railroad
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage
- Golden Zephyr
- Mad Tea Party
- Mark Twain Riverboat
- Monsters Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
- Toy Story Midway Mania!
Disneyland Tips with Toddlers
- Bring Snacks
It’s no surprise that toddlers will inevitably get bored in long lines and start to get hungry. However, to avoid any midday meltdowns, make sure you bring snacks. Not only does this help you avoid buying sugary treats like churros, ice cream, and cake pops, but it will keep them occupied for the time being. Food items like chips, granola bars, fruit snacks, and water will keep everyone satisfied and hydrated during the hot, Southern California days.
However, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t splurge on Disneyland’s delicious treats and eats. I’d recommend planning at least one Character Dining meal while you’re at the Disneyland Resort. Seeing your child’s face light up as a character greets them is worth every penny. The best part? Since Character Dining allows you to enjoy delicious grub while meeting Disney characters, you don’t have to worry about waiting in long Character lines in the park. It’s a win-win for everyone!
Luckily, you don’t have to break the bank when planning a Character Dining meal. Get Away Today offers discount Character Dining tickets that include tax and gratuity already, so you only have to worry about having fun.
- Stay Near the Park
Toddlers (and adults) will inevitably get tired throughout their long, Disney day. Because of this, make sure you book a hotel near the park. While staying at one of the Disneyland Resort Hotels would be a dream, I know that’s not a reality for most of us. Fortunately, Get Away Today offers SO many affordable properties that are within walking distance to Disneyland. Staying near the park allows you the flexibility to take naps, go swimming and head back to the park whenever you’re ready.
If you’re worried about leaving the park and missing out on the magic, I’d suggest buying a 4 or 5-day Disneyland ticket. By doing this, you won’t feel the pressure of staying in the park all day and all night, which makes your entire trip more relaxing and enjoyable.
Disneyland with a Toddler
- Toddler Entertainment
If you don’t want to leave the park, but your toddler needs a break, be sure to check out all of the incredible entertainment that the Disneyland Resort has to offer. Not only do they have various parades and nighttime fireworks, but they also have shows just for little ones to enjoy. I’ve placed a list of my favorite Disneyland entertainment that toddlers are sure to love below:
- Frozen – Live at the Hyperion
- Disney Junior Dance Party!
- Mickey and the Magical Map
- Paint the Night
- Pixar Play Parade
As a tip, be sure to check the official Disneyland website before you travel to see what entertainment will be available while you’re there. Some shows are seasonal and can be closed for refurbishment. It never hurts to double check before you make a plan.
- Rider Swap
Last, but certainly not least, make sure you take advantage of Rider Switch. If you’re not familiar with this feature, it will become a lifesaver when traveling with your little one. Even though experiencing Disneyland with a toddler wonderful, there are still more thrilling rides you’ll want to enjoy.
Because of this, Rider Switch allows you and a partner to ride the attraction without waiting in line twice. While one person waits with your child, the other one can go ride the attraction like normal. Once they’re done, you can switch places and go ride the same attraction without a long wait. Rider Switch makes it possible for everyone to have the ultimate Disneyland experience!
When all is said and done, taking a toddler to Disneyland truly makes it “The Happiest Place on Earth.” It’s worth every penny to do Disneyland with Toddlers in our book!
Now that you know how to navigate your next trip, what are you waiting for? To book, visit getawaytoday.com or call 855-GET-AWAY to speak to a travel expert directly. Don’t forget to mention promo code FridayLove to get an additional $10 off your hotel and tickets vacation package. Let them know that Friday We’re in Love sent you!
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Watching your trip to Disneyland this week has me ready to plan a trip with our kiddos next year. Emmy’s just so short she’s not going to be able to ride everything I’m afraid hahaha
It’s amazing how many rides babies can even go on! Yes we have a tall toddler, but we took him last year certain he wouldn’t go on many rides and we were amazed!