Taking Babies and Toddlers to Disneyland? Here Are 25 Tips That Make It Way Easier

Are you planning a trip to Disneyland with a baby or toddler? Maybe both?

I’ll be honest with you… it can feel a little overwhelming. There’s more to think about, more to pack, and a lot more unpredictability.

But here’s the good news—it can still be such a fun and magical trip.

With just a little planning (and the right expectations), visiting Disneyland with babies and toddlers can actually be one of the sweetest seasons to go. Seeing the parks through their eyes just hits differently.

If you’re feeling a little unsure about bringing your little ones, you’re not alone. Some families choose to wait, others bring them along—and honestly, there’s no wrong choice. You just have to do what works best for your family.

But if you are bringing them… I’ve got you.

Start Here: What You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Before we jump into the tips, here are a few quick things that will make your trip planning so much easier:

• Children under 3 are free and don’t need a ticket or reservation
• You’ll need both park tickets and reservations to enter Disneyland
• If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start with my complete Disneyland planning guide
• I also have a full list of toddler park essentials to help you pack

If you’re pregnant, I also have a separate guide with everything you need to know before visiting Disneyland while pregnant.

1. Buy Discount Disneyland Tickets (Don’t Pay Full Price)

Please don’t pay full price for your Disneyland tickets—there’s an easier way to save.

I always recommend booking through Get Away Today. They consistently offer discounted Disneyland tickets, and I’ve personally used them for years. It’s one of the simplest ways to save money on your trip without changing anything else. You can use the link or give them a call at 855-GET-AWAY and tell them Mix In Some Magic sent you for the best deals!

If you’re planning to bundle your hotel and tickets, they also offer vacation packages that can save you even more.

One more thing to know—kids under 3 are completely free and don’t need a ticket or reservation, which makes Disneyland a great option for families with little ones.

👉You can check current ticket deals here.

2. Skip Park Hopping (It’s Not Worth It with Little Kids)

I know it can be tempting to add the Park Hopper option… but when you’re visiting Disneyland with babies and toddlers, it’s usually not worth it.

Park hopping costs extra, and more importantly, it takes extra time and energy—two things you don’t have a lot of with little kids.

Between packing up your stroller, navigating the esplanade, and getting everyone settled again, it can turn into more of a hassle than it’s worth.

The good news? You really don’t need it.

There is so much to do in both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure that you can easily fill an entire day in each park—and still not get to everything.

You’ll have a much more relaxed and enjoyable trip if you stick to one park per day and take things at a slower pace.

3. Stay Within Walking Distance (This Makes Everything Easier)

If you’re visiting Disneyland with babies or toddlers, this is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make—and it can completely change your trip.

I highly recommend staying within walking distance of the parks, especially somewhere right across Harbor Blvd.

Being able to walk back to your hotel for naps, breaks, or an early bedtime is a total game-changer. You don’t have to worry about shuttles, long waits, or keeping a tired toddler together at the end of the night.

And if you’ve ever had to fold up a stroller, carry your bags, and juggle a sleeping child just to get on transportation… you already know 😅

When you stay close, you can just roll your stroller straight to the gates and back again. It makes the whole day feel so much easier.

👉 I put together a full guide to the best hotels within walking distance of Disneyland (right across the street), including my favorites for families.

If you’re looking to bundle your hotel and tickets, I also use Get Away Today—they often have really good package deals and make the whole process super simple.

4. Make a Simple Plan (It Makes the Day So Much Easier)

You don’t need a minute-by-minute itinerary… but having a basic plan will make your day so much easier.

Before you go, take a few minutes to think through what matters most to your family.

What time do you want to arrive?
What rides are at the top of your list?
Do you want to meet any characters?
Where do you want to eat?
Will you take a midday break?

Even a loose plan like this will save you time, reduce stress, and help you avoid that overwhelmed “what do we do next?” feeling in the parks.

And when you’re visiting with babies and toddlers, that kind of simplicity makes a big difference.

If you want something more step-by-step, my Disneyland planning guides include done-for-you touring plans that show you exactly what to do and when—so you don’t have to figure it all out on the fly.

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5. Bring Extra Help (Grandparents Make It Even Better)

If you have the option to bring grandparents along… do it.

Having an extra set of hands at Disneyland with babies and toddlers can make a huge difference. It gives you more flexibility throughout the day and takes a lot of the pressure off.

Grandparents can stay back with a sleeping baby, take a toddler on slower rides, or just give you a little break while you take older kids on attractions with height requirements.

It also makes things like Rider Switch so much easier to manage.

And beyond the logistics, this is such a special opportunity.

There’s something really sweet about watching grandparents experience Disneyland with their grandkids—it turns into a trip full of memories for everyone.

6. Introduce Disney Characters Before You Go (It Makes a Big Difference)

Before your trip, spend a little time introducing your kids to Disney characters—it makes meeting them in the parks so much more fun.

When kids recognize the characters, those interactions go from “who is that?” to full-on excitement… and those are the moments you’ll remember.

You can keep it really simple:

• Watch a few favorite Disney movies or shows on Disney+
• Read books with familiar characters
• Show short YouTube clips of character meet-and-greets

Even just a little exposure ahead of time can make a big difference.

It helps your child feel more comfortable, more excited, and way more engaged when they see those characters in real life.

7. Be Prepared (This Saves You So Much Stress)

When you’re visiting Disneyland with babies and toddlers, being prepared can make or break your day.

Having everything you need in your park bag means fewer meltdowns, fewer last-minute purchases, and a much smoother experience overall.

Make sure you pack the basics like:

• Diapers and wipes
• Snacks and drinks
• Sunscreen
• Hand sanitizer
• Bottles or sippy cups
• Anything your child can’t go without for a full day in the parks

Because once you’re inside, it’s a lot harder (and more expensive) to track those things down.

👉 I put together a full list of everything I always bring in my park bag, so you don’t have to guess or forget anything important.

It’s also worth checking the weather before your trip.

Southern California can be unpredictable—mornings and nights can be chilly, afternoons can be warm, and rain does happen.

👉 I also have a month-by-month Disneyland weather guide so you know exactly what to expect and how to pack.

8. Pack a Change of Clothes (You’ll Be Glad You Did)

Always pack a change of clothes for your kids… just trust me on this one.

Spills, accidents, water rides, sweaty afternoons—it happens. And when it does, having dry clothes ready to go can save your entire day.

Even just a simple extra outfit in your bag or stroller makes a huge difference.

It’s also a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweatshirt.

Even on warm days, mornings and evenings in Southern California can feel surprisingly chilly—especially for little kids.

9. Know What They Can Ride (There’s More Than You Think!)

One of the best things about Disneyland with babies and toddlers?
There are so many rides they can go on.

Before your trip, it’s really helpful to know which attractions don’t have height requirements so you can plan your day around things your child can actually enjoy.

This helps you avoid disappointment in the moment and keeps your day running smoothly.

And the good news—you’ll have plenty of options.

👉 Below is a full list of rides with no height requirements in both parks.

If you want the complete breakdown (including height requirements for every ride), I also have a full guide for Disneyland height requirements that makes it really easy to plan ahead.

Disneyland attractions without height requirements

Alice In Wonderland

Astro Orbitor

Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters

Casey Jr. Circus Train

Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes

Disneyland Monorail

Disneyland Railroad

Dumbo The Flying Elephant

Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage

Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln

Haunted Mansion

“it’s a small world”

Jungle Cruise

King Arthur Carrousel

Mad Tea Party

Main Street Vehicles

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Mark Twain Riverboat

Mickey And Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride

Peter Pan’s Flight

Pinocchio’s Daring Journey

Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island

Pirates of the Caribbean

Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin

Sailing Ship Columbia

Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough

Snow White’s Enchanted Wish

Storybook Land Canal Boats

Adventureland Treehouse

Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room

Disney’s California Adventure attractions without height requirements

Animation Academy

Golden Zephyr

Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind

Jessie’s Critter Carousel

The Little Mermaid- Ariel’s Undersea Adventure

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!

Pixar Pal- A- Round- Swinging and non-swinging

Redwood Creek Challenge Trail

Sorcerer’s Workshop

Toy Story Midway Mania!

Turtle Talk with Crush

WEB Slingers: A spiderman Adventure

10. Bring Your Own Food (Especially for Picky Eaters)

If you have a picky baby or toddler, bringing your own food can save you a lot of stress.

Pack a small cooler or bag with things you already know they’ll eat. It’s one of the easiest ways to avoid the struggle of trying to find something in the parks that your child will actually agree to eat.

Because let’s be honest…
you don’t want a hungry toddler who will only eat a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on a very specific brand of bread… with homemade jam 😅

Trust me—been there.

Bringing your own food also helps you save money and keeps snacks on hand for long lines or unexpected meltdowns.

👉 I also have a full list of what food you’re allowed to bring into Disneyland so you can plan ahead.

11. Use a Stroller (Even If You Think You Don’t Need One)

If you’re going to Disneyland with a toddler… you need a stroller.

Even if your child is a great walker.
Even if you plan to carry them.
Even if they “never use one at home.”

Disneyland days are long, and little legs get tired fast.

A stroller gives your child a place to rest, nap, and recharge—and it gives you a place to store all your stuff (which, let’s be honest, adds up quickly).

If you have more than one young child, I highly recommend bringing a double stroller. It just makes the day so much easier.

You can rent a stroller at the parks, but I personally prefer bringing my own. It’s more comfortable, you’re already familiar with it, and it usually has better storage.

12. Bring a Stroller Fan and Rain Cover (Weather Happens)

Strollers can get hot—like, way hotter than you’d expect.

On warm days, they can feel like little ovens, especially when there’s not much airflow. A clip-on stroller fan makes a huge difference in keeping your baby or toddler comfortable.

👉 I’ve linked a few stroller fan options that work really well for the parks.

It’s also smart to be prepared for rain.

If there’s even a chance of it in the forecast, bring a waterproof stroller cover. Southern California doesn’t get a ton of rain, but when it does, you’ll be so glad you have it.

Because honestly… nothing is worse than a soaked stroller and a very unhappy kid 😅

👉 You can find inexpensive stroller covers here.

13. Bring a Small Cooler (It Makes Snacks So Much Easier)

A small cooler can be a lifesaver when you’re visiting Disneyland with babies and toddlers.

It’s perfect for keeping drinks, bottles, and milk cold—and it also lets you bring snacks that need to stay chilled, like yogurt, applesauce, cheese, or cut fruit.

That gives you way more flexibility throughout the day, especially if your child has favorites they rely on.

I recommend a soft-sided cooler that fits easily under your stroller or in a locker so it’s not bulky or hard to manage.

👉 I found some great cooler options that work really well for the parks.

14. Bring Your Own Snacks (These Save You in Long Lines)

Snacks are a lifesaver at Disneyland—especially when you’re stuck in a long line with a toddler.

Bringing your own snacks saves money and guarantees you always have something on hand that your child will actually eat. Win-win.

I like to pack easy options like:

• Goldfish or crackers
• Dried fruit
• Granola bars
• Snack pouches

One thing to keep in mind—the mess factor.

Whatever you hand them will likely end up on their hands, clothes… and probably the stroller too 😅 So I try to stick with snacks that are quick and not too messy when possible.

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15. Book a Character Meal (Skip the Lines for Character Time)

If meeting characters is high on your list, a character meal can be a really great option.

Yes, they’re a bit pricey—but you’re paying for convenience.

Instead of waiting in long lines throughout the park, the characters come to you while you’re eating. It’s such an easy, low-stress way for little kids to interact with their favorites.

It’s also a nice built-in break during your day. You get to sit down, cool off, and relax for a bit while still doing something fun.

My personal favorite is Goofy’s Kitchen. It’s fun, lively, and you’ll usually see a great mix of characters.

👉 I also have a full video showing what Goofy’s Kitchen is like during Halloween time if you want to see the experience before you book.

You can book dining reservations up to 60 days in advance, and I definitely recommend doing that if this is something you want to include in your trip.

16. Rope Drop (This Is the Best Time to Ride Anything)

If you can get to the parks early, do it.

Arriving right when the park opens—what’s called “rope dropping”—is one of the best strategies for avoiding long lines.

And when you’re visiting with babies and toddlers, that makes a huge difference.

During the first hour or two of the day, wait times are usually at their lowest. You can get so much done before the crowds build, which means less waiting, less stress, and happier kids.

It’s the easiest way to knock out a few must-do rides before everyone gets tired.

👉 I have a full rope drop cheat sheet that walks you through exactly what to do first so you can make the most of that early time.

If you want a deeper breakdown of how rope drop works and how to plan your morning, I also have a full rope drop guide that walks you through it step-by-step.

17. Use Rider Switch (So Everyone Gets to Ride)

If you’re visiting with babies or toddlers, you should absolutely be using Rider Switch.

It’s designed specifically for families like yours—and it’s such a game-changer.

Here’s how it works:

One adult waits with the child who isn’t riding, while the other goes through the line and rides. Then instead of waiting all over again, the second adult gets to ride with little to no wait.

It’s a super easy way for both adults to experience bigger rides without doubling your time in line.

This is especially helpful for popular attractions like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Space Mountain, and Incredicoaster.

And don’t worry—it sounds more complicated than it is.

👉 I have a full guide that walks you through exactly how to use Rider Switch step-by-step so you can take full advantage of it.

18. Use the Baby Care Centers (These Are So Helpful)

Each park has a Baby Care Center—and if you’re visiting with babies or toddlers, you’ll definitely want to take advantage of them.

They’re quiet, clean, and fully staffed with Cast Members if you need help with anything. It’s a great place to take a break, cool down, or handle anything that’s just easier to do outside of the crowds.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

• Nursing rooms with comfortable seating
• Changing rooms with tables
• Toddler-sized toilets (for little ones under 42”)
• Feeding area with high chairs
• Kitchen with a sink, bottle warmers, and microwave (limited use)
• A vending machine with essentials like formula, baby food, diapers, wipes, sunscreen, and more

You can also purchase forgotten essentials here if needed—which can be a real lifesaver.

📍 Locations:

At Disney California Adventure, it’s near Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop in San Fransokyo Square, across from the Bakery Tour

At Disneyland Park, the Baby Care Center is at the end of Main Street, U.S.A., next to First Aid

19. Visit Favorite Characters Early (Timing Matters)

If your child has a favorite character, make sure you plan time to meet them.

Those character interactions can end up being some of the most special moments of your trip.

But timing makes a big difference.

I recommend meeting characters earlier in the day—before your child gets tired, overwhelmed, or overstimulated. You’ll usually get better interactions, happier photos, and a much smoother experience overall.

If your child loves someone like Mickey Mouse, try to prioritize that early so it doesn’t get missed later in the day.

20. Use Mobile Ordering (Skip the Food Lines)

If you’re not using mobile ordering at Disneyland, you’re missing out.

You can order your food right from the Disneyland app and skip the long lines completely.

When you’re visiting with babies and toddlers, this is a game-changer.

Instead of waiting in line with hungry kids, you can order ahead, walk up when your food is ready, and go straight to finding a table.

It saves time, reduces stress, and makes meals so much easier to manage during a busy park day.

21.Order Toddler Meals (Smaller, Simpler, and Easier)

When you’re ordering food, keep an eye out for toddler or kids’ meals on the menu.

Most quick-service locations offer smaller portions that are much more manageable for little kids—and usually come with simple, familiar options they’re more likely to eat.

You can browse menus ahead of time right in the Disneyland app, which makes it easy to find options before you’re dealing with a hungry toddler in the moment.

These meals are often more affordable too, which is always a bonus.

22. Take a Midday Break (Everyone Will Be Happier)

Taking a break in the middle of the day can make a huge difference when you’re visiting Disneyland with babies and toddlers.

You can head back to your hotel for a nap if that works best for your family, or find a quiet, shady spot in the park and let your little one rest in the stroller.

One of my favorite things to do is hold a sleeping baby while taking a few relaxing loops around Disneyland on the train—it’s such a peaceful break in the middle of a busy day.

However that break looks for you, the goal is the same: give your child some time to rest and reset.

Because a well-rested baby is a much happier baby—and that makes the whole day better for everyone.

23. Catch Some Entertainment (Perfect for Little Kids)

Rides aren’t the only thing to do at Disneyland—there’s some really fun entertainment that’s perfect for babies and toddlers.

These shows and experiences are a great way to take a break from lines while still doing something your kids will love.

One of the best options is the Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! in Disney California Adventure Park. It’s high-energy, interactive, and designed specifically for younger kids—they can dance, move around, and burn off some energy.

Parades are another great option. You don’t have to worry about height requirements, and kids love seeing the characters go by.

You can also check out shows at the Fantasyland Theatre, which are fun for all ages and give everyone a chance to sit down and relax for a bit.

24. Keep Them Entertained in Line (This Helps Avoid Meltdowns)

Waiting in line can be one of the hardest parts of the day for little kids.

Having a few simple distractions on hand can make a huge difference.

I like to bring a couple small toys they can play with, or even a bottle of bubbles—those are always a hit.

Before our trips, I’ll grab a few inexpensive toys from the dollar store. Something new and exciting can go a long way in keeping babies and toddlers happy while you wait.

25. Go with the Flow (This Is the Most Important Tip)

Visiting Disneyland with babies and toddlers can be challenging—especially if you’re trying to create the perfect trip.

But here’s a little secret… there’s no such thing as a perfect Disney vacation.

There will be tears. There will be tantrums. And at some point, you might wonder why you thought this was a good idea 😅

But there will also be so many really special moments.

Moments where your child is completely in awe. Moments that make all the effort worth it. The kind of memories you’ll look back on for years.

The hard parts? Those tend to fade.

The best thing you can do is stay flexible. Make a plan, prepare as much as you can—but once you’re there, let go of the pressure and just go with the flow.

Be present. Soak it all in. And enjoy the magic with your family.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Disneyland with Babies and Toddlers

Visiting Disneyland with babies and toddlers can be a little tricky—but it’s so worth it.

They may not remember the trip at all… but you will.

You’ll remember the little moments. The excitement, the smiles, the way they experienced everything for the first time.

And someday, when they’re older and not nearly as little as they are right now, those memories will mean everything.

👉 If you want help making your trip easier, my Disneyland planning guides include step-by-step touring plans so you know exactly what to do and when.

Make sure to check out my YouTube videos for helpful info, fun videos lots of Disney planning information! Follow me on Instagram or Facebook for lots of Disney tips and fun and make sure you join my Disney planning Facebook group! It’s a great place to ask all your Disneyland planning questions and get expert help.