As a parent of a toddler, one major question I get asked is “what is there for toddlers to do in _________ park?”
I think so many parents are afraid to take their young ones for fear that they won’t have fun, or they won’t remember it. One thing that Walt Disney drove home is that Disney World would be for people of all ages. It is meant to be as friendly for your little ones, as it is for older children and adults. Plus, I went when I was 8 and don’t remember much at all.
You can always check the height requirement list to know what your child can or cannot do beforehand. But, I have decided to gather up all of my favorite attractions for Toddlers in the 4 parks, as well as Disney Springs. You may have seen these before in my social media tips, but here they are in one location to help you plan for a magical experience with your little ones.
Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom is going to have the most offerings for little ones. More than half the park is appropriate for Infants and up.
1. Mad Tea Party– Yes, I took my toddler on this. No, you don’t have to add the extra spin!
2. Princess Fairytale Hall– Has your little Princess or Prince been dying to meet their favorite idol? Here is the place to do it.
3. Jungle Cruise– A comical Skipper, a boat in water, and animal animatronics? What more could you ask for?
4. Journey of The Little Mermaid-This ride was the saving grace for the 4 year old in our family who thought most rides were scary. There’s even a big “Under the Sea” dance scene along this boat ride.
5. Dumbo the Flying Elephant– This lifts you in to the air, making it feel like you’re flying (not too fast) with Dumbo. The key to this ride is the big top playground that the kids can play on while you wait for your beeper to go off, calling you back to the line.
Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios is heaven for a Toddler. Yes, it is known for having the most thrilling rides on property, which is not exactly toddler appropriate. But it has so much more than that!
6. Disney Junior Dance Party– This is an air conditioned, semi-dark room for your child to dance around, expend some energy, and see all of their favorite Disney Junior characters, including Mickey!
7. Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway– Whiz around with Mickey and Minnie along this crazy and fun ride. Fun Fact: This is the only ride that includes Mickey and Friends.
8. For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration– Hands down the best show in Hollywood Studios. Plus Elsa actually makes it snow for a big finale.
9. Meet your favorite Pixar Pals– Let your Boo give Sulley a hug over at Walt Disney Presents, greet Buzz or Woody at the entrance to Toy Story Land, or dance the afternoon away with The Incredibles in Pixar Place (when it returns).
10. Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy– Your little one will learn what it takes to be a champion racer from the legendary Lightning McQueen, himself, at Sunset Showcase.
EPCOT
Most people assume EPCOT is an adult park. But, that is growing more and more wrong by the day! It has always been a “learning” park to me. But, now that there is more Disney IP than ever, it’s even more perfect for your little ones!
11. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure– You child can shrink down to the size of a mouse and scurry through Gusteau’s French kitchen. There are 3D glasses to wear. But Bean enjoyed it even without the glasses.
12. Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros– This homage to the Three Caballeros is so fun for littles. The music, alone, makes it so worth it! Pro Tip: make it a game by telling your toddler to point out every Donald Duck they see.
13. The Seas with Nemo and Friends– Even more than the clam ride through a story of finding Nemo, your marine loving child will light up as they come up on the second largest aquarium tank in the US at the end.
14. Meet Anna and Elsa in the Norway Pavilion– You might be shocked to learn that this is one of the only places in Disney World where you can meet these Frozen gems.
15. Frozen Ever After– I go back and forth with whether or not I should put this in here. It is a favorite for some littles, and “scary” for others. If your child is obsessed with Frozen, I say try it! But go in to it knowing there is a bit of a drop and it can get pretty dark.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Let me start out by saying that Animal Kingdom is NOT a zoo!!
Most of my clients with little ones have mentioned that they wish they had scheduled more days in this park. This beautiful park teaches them respect for the earth and every tall and small creature on it.
16. Festival of the Lion King– This Broadway caliber show is so perfect for the little ones because of its upbeat and recognizable music, bright colors, and familiar faces.
17. Kilimanjaro Safaris– Board your open air vehicle and take a tour of Disneys own African Savanna. It is home to over 34 species of animals roaming free.
18. Kite Tails– This newly added show is a beautiful display of colorful kites flown over the lagoon using impressive jet skis skills.
Pro Tip: There are two shows, one with mostly Jungle Book and the other with The Lion King. Ask a cast member when each show is playing if you have a preference.
19. TriceraTop Spin– Yes, it is a slow spinning ride just like Dumbo or The Magic Carpets in Magic Kingdom, but there is something about these dinosaurs that the little ones love!
20. Finding Nemo: The Big Blue and Beyond– This newly updated version of Finding Nemo the Musical returns this summer, and we cannot wait!
Disney Springs
Finally, we are looking at Disney Springs. No, this is not a park, but it is a must-do during a Disney World vacation.
21. “Rope drop” World of Disney– This massive Disney Store opens with cast members cheering or singing as your little one walks in. It makes them feel like royalty. Plus there are fewer crowds at this time of day.
22. The Lego Store– There are stations for all age groups, and they can build to their heart’s content. Or, if you are short on time, take them around to the life sized Lego characters for photos.
23. Goofy’s Candy Company– Ready for a sweet snack? Stop into this sweet candy shop for themed baked goods, fun candy mixtures, or yummy popcorn.
24. The Marketplace Train Express or Carousel– These fun little attractions are the perfect shopping break for your little one (or you.) A token ride costs $3.
25. Build-A-Dino by Build-A-Bear at T-Rex– In my honest opinion, if you are looking for good food, skip the meal at T-Rex and go someplace else. But, stop in to the connected Build-A-Dino if your child is as fascinated with dinosaurs as the kids in our family.
Runners-Up
I realize there are a few fan favorites that did not make the list, and there is a very good reason for that. Either, they are just not our thing, or I have had feedback that they are “too scary.” For instance, Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion are a favorite of ours, but my niece thought they were too scary. It’s Tough to be a Bug, might be for some little ones- but not ours. Finally, I know I didn’t even touch on the Face Painting kiosk, the Once Upon A Toy Store, or the Amphicars over at Disney Springs. Mainly because my toddler isn’t ready for those yet. But if yours is- they are so fun! So take this list knowing that it is absolutely subjective. What may not be a favorite for my family, might be for yours!
If you are thinking about taking your little ones to Walt Disney World or Disneyland sometime soon, I am a Travel Advisor that specializes in Disney and would love to help your family plan the most magical vacation. You can contact me here for a no-obligation quote.