Can Disney with a Baby and Toddler be Enjoyable?
A trip to Disney with very young children, specifically a baby and toddler can be a blast. A day at a big theme park with very young children just requires a little extra preparation and patience. Last year, we packed up our 10-month-old, 2-year-old, and 4-year-old, and made our way to the happiest place on earth. Honestly, our children weren’t all that familiar with Mickey or Disney. In fact, they were much more excited about the long car ride and fast food than visiting a theme park.
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Disney World is comprised of several theme parks. Disney’s Magic Kingdom is the park I will discuss in this post because it stands out to me as being totally infant and toddler-friendly. It is also home to the iconic Cinderella Castle. I will share my tips that contributed to our having an awesome time at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. We had such a good time that we stayed until closing.
NOTE: Disney has a mom’s panel here that features thousands of frequently asked questions and answers to make planning your trip a breeze. Also, you can check here to see a list of restricted items.
NOTE: We visited Disney during the fall and I’m confident the cooler weather was critical to our having an enjoyable time. Florida gets really hot and the theme parks are especially crowded in the summer months. Please consider this before taking your little ones. Also, Magic Kingdom is decked in festive seasonal decor, and parades occur, during the fall and winter months.
WHAT ABOUT HEIGHT RESTRICTIONS?
Many of the rides at Disney’s Magic Kingdom do not have height restrictions so your little one can join in on all the fun. I actually road several rides with my 11-month-old strapped to my chest thanks to my Ergobaby Original Infant Carrier. Click here to view a list of all the rides and height restrictions at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Bring Your Own Snacks and Water!
Disney allows you to bring a lunch box and food into the park. This is a big deal. Toddlers can become irritable and impatient when hungry. Prepare snacks or light meals and bring them to the park. This will also save you a few bucks. Theme park food is pricey.
Download the Disney App!
The Disney App allows you to view wait times, a map of the park, reserve fast passes, and view park restaurant menus. This is so helpful since being well planned is crucial to making the most of your time at the park. I suggest you download the app and familiarize yourself with it a bit before getting to the park.
Don’t forget to bring the following items…
Pack sanitizer to help manage the germs. Disney welcomes millions of people and germs from all over the world. You’ll want to wipe your kid’s hands regularly as they enjoy the rides. Also, bring your stroller and infant carrier. Put your little walkers in the stroller to speed things up and give their little legs a break from all the walking. You can also use your stroller as a place to keep your water and lunch bag. You will find designated “stroller parking” all over the park.
I didn’t know you can bring food into the park. This has very help tips. Thanks for sharing! We plan on going to Disney next year with 5 kids!
Thanks for the food tip! I just assumed that they wouldn’t allow it like most other places. That definitely a plus when dealing with toddlers!
I’ve got a 4 month and a 2.5 yo and don’t want to be closed up in the house all the time. You’re completely right though. As long as you have enough food, diapers, hand sanitizer and place for them to rest (stroller or baby carrier are a must!) any trip is possible and can be enjoyable for all. We’ve got some trips planned for this spring…wish us luck!
I definitely agree with baby-wearing! There are so many places you need to park the stroller and a good baby carrier is a life saver!!
Such great tips!! I didn’t know there was a mom pannel thank you for sharing!
I once took a 5 year old and 3 year old. I can’t imagine taking them any younger. Your tips are important. Can’t stress the importantance of planning ahead enough. It looks like your family had a great time. Mine are now 12 and 14 and I can’t wait to go back.
I had no idea they allowed people to bring food into the park. That is awesome information! Thank you so much for a wonderfully well-written article.