Welcome to the Happiest Place on Earth! When it comes to family-friendly fun, Disneyland has always been at the top of the list. As a parent, one of the most magical moments is introducing your little ones to the wonders of Disneyland. The joy in their eyes as they encounter beloved Disney characters and experience enchanting attractions is truly priceless. As someone who has had the pleasure of experiencing the magic of Disneyland Park with small children in tow, I understand the importance of finding rides and attractions that cater to their needs. Little Kids are kids too, you just need to find what works best for them. In this comprehensive guide to the Best Disneyland Rides for Toddlers, we’ll explore the best rides in Disneyland for your tiny adventurers.
Fantasyland
Fantasyland is the epitome of enchantment, for children and adults alike. For many families with toddlers and younger children, Fantasyland is often home base. With some many rides built for the younger set, I can see why. Don’t limit yourself to just Fantasyland though, you will miss out on so many attractions that are perfect for young ones. Let’s explore Fantasyland first.
It’s a Small World
Height Requirement: None
Our journey begins with a timeless classic that’s perfect for all ages: It’s a Small World. This gentle boat ride takes you and your little ones on a delightful voyage around the world, featuring dolls dressed in traditional clothing from various countries. The iconic song, “It’s a Small World,” sets the tone for this heartwarming experience. There are no height restrictions, making it accessible to even the tiniest of tots.
Peter Pan’s Flight
Height Requirement: None
Peter Pan’s Flight is a beloved attraction that transports you to the magical world of Neverland. The good news is there are no height restrictions, making it suitable for toddlers and babies. This fantastic adventure allows you to soar above London and immerse yourself in the world of Peter Pan.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
Height Requirement: None
Dumbo the Flying Elephant is a quintessential Fantasyland ride that’s tailor-made for toddlers and babies. There are no height restrictions, and the experience is pure joy. Each Dumbo ride vehicle allows you to control its ascent and descent, giving your little ones a sense of autonomy and thrill as they “fly” alongside the iconic flying elephant.
Alice in Wonderland
Height Requirement: None
Join Alice on a whimsical adventure through Wonderland on the Alice in Wonderland dark ride. This attraction is suitable for toddlers and babies, as there are no height restrictions. The colorful scenes and imaginative storytelling will captivate your little ones as they follow Alice down the rabbit hole and encounter characters from the classic story.
Storybook Land Canal Boats
Height Requirement: None
Storybook Land Canal Boats offers a picturesque journey through miniature villages and landscapes inspired by beloved Disney stories. This gentle boat ride is perfect for toddlers and babies, as there are no height restrictions. The intricate details of the miniature scenes will fascinate your little ones as they cruise along the winding waterways.
Casey Jr. Circus Train
Height Requirement: None
All aboard Casey Jr. Circus Train for a delightful ride around Fantasyland! This miniature train is a favorite among young children. The train cars resemble circus wagons, adding an extra layer of excitement for young riders. It’s a charming experience that the whole family can enjoy.
King Arthur Carrousel
Height Requirement: None
The King Arthur Carrousel is a classic attraction that’s perfect for little ones. There are no height restrictions, and your toddlers and babies can enjoy a gentle ride on beautifully decorated horses and other creatures. This carousel is a lovely way to introduce your children to the magic of traditional theme park rides.
Mr Toad’s Wild Ride
Height Requirement: None
This is one of my favorite rides from my childhood, and I am old! Toddlers thrive on stories and imaginative play, and this ride offers just that. Based on the classic Disney film “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad,” the attraction takes guests on a whimsical journey through scenes inspired by the movie. Toddlers may not fully grasp the storyline, but the colorful and detailed sets, along with the music and sound effects, will captivate their imaginations. While the ride’s name suggests wildness, the thrills on “Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride” are of the mild variety. It includes gentle twists, turns, and surprises that add excitement without being overly intense or frightening for toddlers.
Adventureland
When you’re visiting Disneyland with toddlers and babies, Adventureland provides an array of exciting experiences suitable for the whole family. There aren’t a lot of great rides for toddlers, but the ones available are fantastic!
Jungle Cruise
Height Requirement: None
Our Adventureland adventure begins with the classic Jungle Cruise. This gentle boat ride takes you and your little ones on a humorous and adventurous journey through exotic rivers. While there are no height restrictions, it’s worth noting that some scenes in the ride feature animatronic animals and occasional loud noises. However, the lighthearted humor and your skipper’s witty commentary usually keep the atmosphere fun rather than frightening for young children.
Enchanted Tiki Room
Height Requirement: None
Our favorite ride at Tiki Room Travel, for obvious reasons. The Enchanted Tiki Room is a delightful and engaging show that’s perfect for toddlers and babies. This colorful and musical attraction invites you to relax in a tropical paradise filled with singing birds, flowers, and tikis. It’s a serene and captivating experience that little ones tend to enjoy. Grab a Dole Whip and sing along.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
Height Requirement: None
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin is a whimsical ride that allows you to soar above Agrabah on your own flying carpet. It’s suitable for toddlers and babies, making it a fun and gentle experience. Think Dumbo the Flying Elephant. Each carpet can accommodate both adults and little ones, and you have control over the carpet’s ascent and descent.
Critter Country
For those with little ones in tow, Critter Country offers a haven of family-friendly attractions and experiences that cater to both toddlers and babies, as well as some exciting rides for those older kids.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Height Requirement: None
Our Critter Country adventure begins with The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. This delightful dark ride is perfect for toddlers and babies, especially those who love Winnie the Pooh. Climb aboard a honey pot and join Pooh and his friends on a charming journey filled with colorful scenes and lovable characters. The gentle movements and captivating storytelling make it a must-visit for young children.
Frontierland
Giddy Up neighbor, it’s time to explore Fronteirland! Here we have a few attractions suitable for toddlers, but might not be a great fit. Maybe your young child might enjoy them.
Mark Twain Riverboat
Height Requirement: None
Our Frontierland adventure begins with the tranquil Mark Twain Riverboat ride. This gentle boat ride is perfect for toddlers and babies, as there are no height restrictions. Step aboard the iconic paddlewheel steamboat and embark on a leisurely journey around the Rivers of America. The scenic views and soothing atmosphere make it an ideal choice for families with young children. There are plenty of places to run or rest aboard the ship, so it is a nice place to take a break but still enjoy the park.
Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island
Height Requirement: None
Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island offers a unique and interactive experience for families. Explore secret caves, suspension bridges, and winding paths as you immerse yourself in the adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. While there’s a bit of walking involved, it’s a fun and adventurous experience for curious young minds. Does your toddler need to get out of the stroller and run around, Tom Sawyers Island is perfect for just that!
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Height Requirement: 40 inches (102 cm) or taller
If you have an older toddler that wants to try a roller coaster, Big Thunder Mountain might be the perfect fit (it was for my kids). This thrilling roller coaster ride has a height requirement of 40 inches (102 cm). Big Thunder Mountain Railroad features fast-paced twists, turns, and sudden drops, making it potentially frightening for little ones.
New Orleans Square
New Orleans Square, home to two fantastic toddler friendly (but sometimes scary) rides, and some of the best restaurants in Disneyland!
The Haunted Mansion
Height Requirement: None
Our New Orleans Square adventure begins with the iconic “Haunted Mansion.” Climb aboard a “doom buggy” and embark on a spooky yet lighthearted journey through a haunted house filled with ghostly apparitions. The gentle movements and humorous storytelling make it an ideal choice for families with young children.
Pirates of the Caribbean
Height Requirement: None
Pirates of the Caribbean invites you to set sail on a swashbuckling adventure through a pirate-infested Caribbean island. While the ride features some dark scenes and mild drops, it’s generally considered family-friendly and tends to be more exciting than frightening for young children.
Disneyland Railroad – New Orleans Square Station
Height Requirement: None
The Disneyland Railroad provides a delightful and leisurely journey around the park, and the New Orleans Square Station is a great place to start. With no height restrictions, it’s suitable for toddlers and babies. Hop aboard the train and enjoy scenic views of various Disneyland lands as you relax and soak in the sights and sounds of the park. Stops include New Orleans Square, Mickey’s Toon Town, Tomorrowland and Main Street USA. The round trip tour takes 18 minutes, and includes a ride through the Grand Canyon and Primeaval World. If your kids love Dinosaurs, do not miss it.
Mickey’s Toon Town
Mickey’s Toon Town is a visual feast, toddlers love the oversized houses and bright colors, not to mention the rides!
Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin
Height Requirement: None
Our adventure in Mickey’s Toontown begins with the zany “Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin.” Climb into your very own “Toon Cab” and join Roger Rabbit on a whirlwind adventure through the chaotic streets of Toontown. The ride features gentle spins and turns, allowing young children to enjoy the excitement without becoming overwhelmed.
Gadget’s Go Coaster
Height Requirement: 35 inches (89 cm) or taller
Gadget’s Go Coaster is a miniature roller coaster with a height requirement of 35 inches (89 cm). While this means it’s not suitable for very young toddlers and babies, it’s an excellent choice for slightly older children who meet the height requirement and want to experience a roller coaster. The coaster features gentle hills and turns, providing a thrilling yet manageable experience for young riders.
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Height Requirement: None
When exploring Disneyland with toddlers, the newest attraction, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, is a must-visit experience. It is a groundbreaking attraction that seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with classic Disney charm. The ride transports you into a cartoon world where anything is possible, making it a delightful experience for families with toddlers. Upon entering the attraction, you’ll find yourself in the whimsical world of a Mickey and Minnie cartoon short. The ride’s storyline revolves around Mickey and Minnie preparing for a picnic, but things take a comical turn when they end up in a runaway train. But don’t worry, Mickey Mouse saves the day!
Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland is home to Space Mountain and Star Tours, two big kid favorites. But don’t be fooled, there are plenty of attractions for toddlers.
Astro Orbiter
Height Requirement: None
Our adventure in Tomorrowland begins with the classic “Astro Orbiter.” This iconic ride offers a gentle spinning experience high above Tomorrowland, providing breathtaking views of the park. The best part? There are no height restrictions, making it accessible to even the tiniest of tots. Parents can sit with their little ones, ensuring their safety and comfort throughout the ride. If your toddler is afraid of heights, you may want to skip this one.
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
Height Requirement: None
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters is an interactive dark ride that invites you to join Buzz Lightyear on a mission to defeat the Evil Emperor Zurg. The ride’s interactive nature, with laser blasters for each rider, adds an element of excitement for older children, but it’s still suitable for toddlers and babies. Young ones may not be able to defeat Zurg, but they can sit comfortably on your lap as you explore the galaxy together.
3. Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
Height Requirement: None
The Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover, often referred to simply as the PeopleMover or TTA, is a leisurely and scenic tour of Tomorrowland. The ride offers a gentle pace, allowing young children to take in the futuristic sights and sounds of Tomorrowland while resting in the safety of their parents’ laps.
Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage
Height Requirement: None
One of the standout attractions in Tomorrowland is the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage. This underwater adventure takes you and your little ones on a journey to explore the vibrant marine life of the Pacific Ocean. Climb aboard a submarine and embark on a colorful voyage with Nemo and friends.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland primarily features immersive experiences and attractions designed for older children and adults, with an emphasis on the Star Wars universe. Neither attraction is suitable for toddlers, so a ride swam may be in order. However, if you are traveling with a toddler, don’t miss a visit to this incredibly themed land.
Disney California Adventure
Disney California Adventure may be full of big kid rides, but there are some classic attractions for toddlers that you cannot miss.
The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
Height Requirement: None
Who doesn’t love The Little Mermaid? The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure is a delightful ride that takes you and your little ones on a journey under the sea to relive the story of Ariel and her friends. The gentle movements and familiar characters make it a perfect choice for toddlers and babies.
Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
Height Requirement: None
Join Mike, Sulley, and Boo from Monsters, Inc. on a heartwarming adventure to save Boo in Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! This dark ride offers a delightful and family-friendly experience. Toddlers and babies can sit comfortably on your lap as you follow the fun-filled story.
Pixar Pal-A-Round
Height Requirement: None
Formerly known as Mickey’s Fun Wheel, the Pixar Pal-A-Round is an iconic Ferris wheel with both swinging and non-swinging gondolas. While it’s a picturesque attraction that offers panoramic views of the park, the swinging gondolas may not be suitable for very young children (or adults who are scared of hights). However, the stationary gondolas provide a calm and enjoyable experience.
Jessie’s Critter Carousel
Height Requirement: None
Jessie’s Critter Carousel is a delightful spinning carousel featuring adorable critters from Woody’s Roundup. Little ones can enjoy a gentle spin while riding on their favorite critter.
Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters
Height Requirement: None
Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters is a delightful spinning ride where Luigi and his cousins engage in a joyful dance. The ride vehicles move in unpredictable patterns, creating a lighthearted and entertaining experience. Little ones can enjoy a gentle spin while riding on their favorite roadster.
Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
Height Requirement: None
Mater, the lovable tow truck from the Cars movies, invites you to join his “Junkyard Jamboree.” This ride is a delightful mix of a spinning teacup ride and a whip ride. While it offers a bit of excitement, it’s still suitable for toddlers and babies. Young ones can sit comfortably in your lap as they whirl around with Mater’s catchy tunes.
Character Experiences
Many toddlers are afraid of Disney characters. We have a few tips you can use to help your toddler get used to those oversized Disney characters.
- Consider watching characters from afar for a while before thrusting your child into Maleficent’s arms. Parades are a great options where many characters can be seen riding and walking. You can also stand to the side while characters are meeting other guests and just let your child watch for a while.
- Start with characters they know from home, they may seem less frightening. List a few favorite characters and ask a cast member where you can find them.
- Encourage your toddler to greet all of the characters with a high-five, it will break the ice.
- Take advantage of Character Meet and Greets in the parks. They are a bit more low key.
- Don’t press your child if they are scared, there will be time for them to meet characters when the grow up a little.
Where to stay?
If at all possible, considering staying at one of the three Disneyland Resort Hotels, the Disneyland Hotel, Disney’s Grand Californian Resort & Spa or the newly refurbished Paradise Pier, now Pixar themed! Staying with Disney will give you close access to the parks, allowing you to hop to your hotel room in a matter of minutes for naps or just a break from the day. Disney’s Grand Californian actually includes an entrance right from the hotel into the Disney California Adventure park!
Tiki Room Travel Tips for Enjoying Disneyland with Toddlers
- Plan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with the potential scary elements of rides (Snow White’s Scary Adventures, Pinocchio’s Daring Journey, Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, etc.) to ensure a seamless experience for your little ones.
- Use Rider Swap: If you have older children who want to experience attractions that your toddlers can’t, take advantage of the Rider Swap service. This allows one parent to wait with the baby or toddler while the other enjoys the attraction with the older child, and then you can switch places without waiting in line again.
- Stroller-Friendly: Disneyland is stroller-friendly, so bring a stroller for your little one to rest in between rides. Just be sure to follow Disneylands’s stroller size guidelines.
- Snack and Rest Areas: There are plenty of places to grab a snack and take a break in Disneyland. Enjoy a leisurely snack or meal while your little ones rest.
- Stay Hydrated: Remember to stay hydrated, especially in the California sun. Bring water bottles or use the water fountains available throughout the park.
- Plan for Nap time: If your little one still naps, plan to take a break during nap time. If you think you may need to take a break for a nap, arrive at the parks as early as you can, those first few hours are gold! Taking a break will also allow older kids to enjoy the parks later into the evening.
- Baby Care Center: Disneyland offers Baby Care Centers with private nursing rooms and changing tables for your convenience, as well as baby supplies like bottles, pacifiers and first aid products. There are also usually a few friendly cast members available to help.
- Stay Flexible: Lastly, stay flexible with your plans. If your little one needs a break, take it. Disneyland is about creating magical memories, and that includes catering to your child’s needs.
If you are planning a trip with toddlers in tow to Disneyland, Walt Disney World or a Disney Cruise, ask our Tiki Room Travel agents for help. We have been there, done that, and are happy to share our experiences with you.
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