We visited Disneyland with our 2.5-year-old twins and quickly learned that Disneyland with toddlers is completely different than visiting as adults.
Between stroller naps, snack breaks, height requirements, and toddler meltdowns, having a plan makes all the difference.
Whether you’re visiting Disneyland with a 3-year-old, preschooler, or multiple toddlers like us, this guide covers the rides, food, packing list, itinerary, and tips that helped make our trip magical.
Where We Stayed: Close Enough to Disneyland Without the Chaos
For our trip, we booked a suite at the Residence Inn about 15 minutes from Disneyland.
As much as I love the idea of staying on Disney property, this ended up being the perfect fit for our family.
We had a king bed for my partner and me, while the twins slept on the pull-out couch in the separate living area. Having that extra space made a huge difference once the kids went to bed. Instead of tiptoeing around a dark hotel room at 8 p.m., we actually had somewhere to relax and unwind.
One of my favorite features was the full-size refrigerator. We stocked it with fruit, milk, yogurt, drinks, and plenty of snacks for the kids. It made mornings easier and helped us save money throughout the trip.
The complimentary breakfast was another huge win.
Before heading to Disneyland in the morning, we filled up on eggs, sausage, pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, and fruit. Basically everything a toddler could possibly want before a busy day at the parks.
For families visiting Disneyland with toddlers or preschoolers, I honestly think staying just off Disney property is worth considering. It was significantly cheaper than many Disney-area hotels, much quieter at the end of the day, and still close enough that getting to the parks was easy.
If you’re traveling with little kids, don’t underestimate the value of extra space, a full kitchen, and a calmer environment after a long day of Disney magic.
Related: If hotel sleep feels impossible when traveling with little kids, check out my post on Hotel Sleeping Tips With Kids.
Where to Park at Disneyland
If you’re staying off of Disneyland property- chances are you’re going to have to park your car for the day.
After doing it a couple of times, my recommendation is: park at the Mickey & Friends or Pixar Pals parking structures.
Both structures connect to the Disneyland tram, which takes you directly toward the park entrance. When you’re pushing a stroller, carrying backpacks, and trying to convince a toddler that yes, we really are going to see Mickey Mouse, the tram ride feels like part of the experience.
As of 2026, standard parking costs $40 per vehicle for the day. Preferred parking is available for a higher fee, but I don’t think it’s necessary for most families.
My biggest tip is to arrive early. Not only will you get through security faster, but you’ll also have an easier time navigating the parking structure before the crowds arrive.
Some Disneyland regulars prefer the Toy Story Parking Area because it can be less congested and uses shuttle buses instead of the tram. However, for a first-time visit with toddlers, I found Mickey & Friends and Pixar Pals to be the easiest and most straightforward option.
No matter which lot you choose, take a picture of your parking section and level before heading to the parks. Trust me. After a full day at Disneyland, every parking garage starts to look exactly the same.
Is Disneyland Worth It With Toddlers?
Before our trip, I heard the same thing over and over again.
“They won’t remember it.”
Maybe they won’t remember every detail. But I will.
I’ll remember watching them ride Dumbo for the first time. I’ll remember their excitement when they spotted characters walking through the park. I’ll remember seeing Disneyland through their eyes.
Disneyland is surprisingly toddler-friendly. There are dozens of rides with no height requirements, plenty of places to explore, and enough snacks to keep everyone happy.
If you’re on the fence about taking a toddler to Disneyland, my vote is yes.
Disneyland Rides for Toddlers by Height
One of the questions I searched most before our trip was what rides toddlers can actually ride at Disneyland.
Thankfully, there are a lot more options than I expected.
Disneyland Rides With No Height Requirement
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- It’s a Small World
- Casey Jr. Circus Train
- King Arthur Carrousel
- Mad Tea Party
- Disneyland Railroad
- Jungle Cruise
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
- Storybook Land Canal Boats
- Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
32-Inch Height Requirement
- Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
- Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters
35-Inch Height Requirement
- Gadget’s Go Coaster
40-Inch Height Requirement
- Soarin’ Around the World
- Autopia
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
My twins were around 38 inches tall during our visit, which opened up more rides than I expected.
What to Pack for Disneyland With Toddlers
Here’s what we actually used during our trip:
Essentials
- Stroller
- Portable fan
- Sunscreen
- Portable charger
- Refillable water bottles
- Wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Change of clothes
Snacks
- Goldfish
- Pretzels
- Fruit snacks
- Applesauce pouches
- Granola bars
- Sandwiches
One thing many parents don’t realize is that Disneyland allows outside food and snacks.
We packed plenty of toddler snacks and saved a lot of money in the process.
Before any family trip, I usually stock up at Costco. You can see some of our favorites in my post about Best Costco Snacks for Toddlers.
Best Food Options for Toddlers at Disneyland
Some of our favorite family-friendly food spots included:
Disneyland Park
- Tiana’s Palace
- Plaza Inn
- Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe
Disney California Adventure
- Flo’s V8 Cafe
- Pym Test Kitchen
- Smokejumpers Grill
My kids aren’t picky eaters at all, so we never have an issue with food when out or traveling. But- it’s DISNEY! You’re going to find* something* your kids can eat (I promise!)
Frequently Asked Questions About Disneyland With Toddlers
Is Disneyland free for toddlers?
Children under age 3 can enter Disneyland without a park ticket.
Can you bring snacks into Disneyland?
Yes. Disneyland allows guests to bring their own snacks and food into the parks.
What rides can a 3-year-old ride at Disneyland?
Many Fantasyland rides have no height requirement, including Dumbo, Peter Pan’s Flight, and It’s a Small World.
Do toddlers need a stroller at Disneyland?
In my opinion, yes. Even great walkers get tired after a full day at Disneyland.
Is one day enough for Disneyland with toddlers?
Yes. You won’t see everything, but you can absolutely have a wonderful trip.
What is the best age to take a child to Disneyland?
I think ages 3 to 5 are the sweet spot. They’re old enough to enjoy the rides and characters while still believing in all the Disney magic.
Do you have plans to take your toddler(s) to Disneyland? Or are you a pro and think I’ve left something out? Let me know in the comments!
