Looking for a list of the best Disneyland toddler-friendly rides? Going to the Happiest Place on Earth with your toddler? I used to think a child should be five or older to really enjoy Disneyland. But after several magical trips with our kids as toddlers, I’ve learned that Disneyland is absolutely toddler-friendly, and it’s one of the best places to visit with little ones.
We have visited Disneyland multiple times with toddlers and even had a birthday celebration for our four-year-old, and the magic was just as real as ever. If you’re considering going but unsure whether it’s worth it for a toddler, I say go! Kids under 3 get in for free, and there’s so much to do that even if they don’t remember everything, you will, and you’ll make memories to last a lifetime.
When to Go:
Off-peak times are still your best bet for minimal crowds and shorter wait times. Weekdays in:
- Mid-January to mid-February
- Mid-April to mid-May
- Mid-September to mid-November (excluding Halloween)
- First two weeks of December
If you’re planning a special occasion or holiday trip, just know it will be busier, but Disney’s mobile app and Genie+ can help you skip longer lines. Weekdays are always better than weekends, and early mornings are ideal.
What to Bring:
- A comfortable stroller (or rent one at the park)
- Hand sanitizer and wipes
- Healthy snacks and water
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and rain gear (depending on season)
- Small camera and extra battery or charger
- Extra socks and comfy shoes
- Diapers, wipes, and change of clothes
Also, the Baby Care Centers are lifesavers, offering quiet spots to change, nurse, or grab any baby/toddler essentials.
Updated List of Toddler-Friendly Rides at Disneyland (2025 Edition):
FANTASYLAND
- King Arthur Carrousel
- Casey Jr. Circus Train
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- Mad Tea Party
- Storybook Land Canal Boats
- “it’s a small world”
- Alice in Wonderland
- Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway (NEW toddler-friendly ride, whimsical and fun!)
Avoid: Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, Snow White’s Enchanted Wish, and Pinocchio’s Daring Journey if your toddler is sensitive to dark and loud environments.
MICKEY’S TOONTOWN (recently renovated)
- Goofy’s How-To-Play Yard
- Mickey’s House and Meet Mickey
- Minnie’s House
- Donald’s Duck Pond
CRITTER COUNTRY
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
ADVENTURELAND
- Jungle Cruise
FRONTIERLAND & NEW ORLEANS SQUARE
- Disneyland Railroad
- Mark Twain Riverboat
- Pirates of the Caribbean (use discretion – dark and loud)
TOMORROWLAND
- Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
- Disneyland Monorail
STAR WARS: GALAXY’S EDGE
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run (minimum height 38″, some toddlers may qualify and enjoy with help)
- Character encounters with Chewbacca, R2-D2, and stormtroopers are fun even for younger guests
- The land itself is immersive and great for stroller walks, exploring droids, and trying blue milk
Note: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance has a height requirement of 40″, so it’s best for older kids.
Updated Toddler-Friendly Rides at Disney California Adventure (2025 Edition):
PIXAR PIER
- Toy Story Midway Mania
- Jessie’s Critter Carousel
- Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind
PARADISE GARDENS PARK
- The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
- Golden Zephyr
- Jumpin’ Jellyfish (32″ height requirement)
CARS LAND
- Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters
- Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree (32″ height requirement)
AVENGERS CAMPUS
- No toddler-specific rides, but character encounters are fun for littles!
HOLLYWOOD LAND
- Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
- Turtle Talk with Crush
- Disney Junior Dance Party
General Tips:
- Introduce Disney characters before your trip so they feel familiar
- Visit Guest Services when you arrive for free celebration buttons
- Locate the Baby Care Center when you enter the park
- Download the Disneyland app and get Genie+ for shorter wait times
- Take breaks, go at your toddler’s pace, and don’t try to do it all
There’s truly something magical about seeing Disneyland through a toddler’s eyes. Whether it’s their first visit or one of many, it’s always worth it.
Need help planning your Disney trip? I’d love to help you create your own magical adventure!