We recently took an unforgettable trip to Walt Disney World as part of Disney’s Creator Days. Disney hosted us for several days, showing highlights across the parks—rides, shows and experiences that made the visit especially memorable for our whole family. It felt especially nostalgic for Jeff and me since we both grew up visiting Walt Disney World on the East Coast.
Below I’ve compiled our favorite moments and practical advice for visiting Walt Disney World with toddlers. Many tips will help families of any size, as well as solo travelers or couples. I focused on what worked best for our family and what helped make the trip smoother and more enjoyable.
We also put together a short video of our trip that’s been so fun to watch—great for reliving special moments.
What Age Should My Kids Be?
My view is simple: go when you can. Disney is magical for all ages. While some families wait until kids are old enough to remember the trip, toddlers experience pure wonder in a unique way, and children under three enter free, which can make the trip more economical. We started taking Arlo at one year old and he loved it—his first visit was actually at two months old.
If you plan to bring an infant, babywearing is a great strategy. We carried Arlo on many rides and it worked well. Also take advantage of the Baby Care Centers in each park for feedings, diaper changes and quiet time.
Where Should I Stay?
Disney resorts span value to deluxe options, and I’ve had great stays across the board. Growing up, we often stayed at the All-Star value resorts—fun, themed rooms with convenient dining and arcades. More recently, Disney’s Art of Animation is a lively value option with themed pools and family-friendly atmosphere.
On this trip we stayed at Animal Kingdom Lodge, a deluxe resort. It’s beautiful and unique—some rooms overlook animals like zebras, which Arlo adored. There are multiple dining options, including buffets that make meals easy with little ones.
My recommendation: choose what fits your budget and priorities. Value resorts deliver Disney magic and convenience, while deluxe properties add extra amenities and immersive experiences. Both can make for a wonderful family vacation.
Start Here: Lower Your Expectations
My top tip before any planning: lower your expectations. Visiting Disney with toddlers is a different experience than visiting as adults or with older kids. It’s still magical—often more so—but the pace and priorities change. Pick two to three must-do activities per day and let the rest unfold naturally. Enjoy smaller moments: street performers, fountains, characters from afar, and spontaneous discoveries. Prioritize experiencing the magic over checking off every attraction.
Download the Disney World App
The Disney World app is essential, especially with toddlers. It shows current wait times and allows you to plan on the fly. Our toddler’s patience maxes out around 20–30 minutes in line, so we use the app to prioritize short waits and schedule FastPass selections for longer attractions. Early park entry and parade times can also be ideal for hitting rides with shorter lines—always check the app first.
Take Advantage of FastPass+ Ahead of Time
FastPass+ is a valuable perk included with ticket purchases. You can reserve up to three FastPasses per day—30 days in advance for general ticket holders, or 60 days if you’re staying at a Disney Resort. A FastPass gives you a one-hour arrival window to use a much shorter line, which is a huge time-saver with little ones. Grab your FastPasses as soon as your reservation window opens to secure the most popular attractions.
Which Park Is Best for Toddlers?
Ideally you’d spend four full days to explore each park properly, but if you must prioritize, Magic Kingdom is the best for toddlers. Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios follow closely—Hollywood Studios is a top pick if your child loves Toy Story. On our trip we enjoyed an evening at Animal Kingdom, half days at Epcot and Hollywood Studios, and nearly a full day at Magic Kingdom, which felt just right.
Use Rider Switch or Single Rider Lines for The “Big Kid” Rides
Rider Switch is a helpful option for families when one or more adults want to enjoy larger attractions that toddlers can’t ride. One adult rides while the other stays with the child, then they switch without the second adult waiting the full line again. Many attractions qualify—ask a Cast Member for details at the ride entrance. If only one adult wants to ride, look for single rider lines where available; these let you board faster by filling open seats.
Our Animal Kingdom Tips + Faves
We had one evening at Animal Kingdom and enjoyed several highlights. Here are favorites we experienced and a couple we missed but would recommend.
Rides
- Pandora: The Na’vi River Journey is visually stunning with lights and colors that toddlers enjoy. Avatar Flight of Passage is intense and emotional—adults rave about it, though it’s not toddler-friendly.
- Kilimanjaro Safaris: Classic and perfect for animal-loving toddlers—seeing giraffes, zebras and elephants is always a hit.
- Triceratop Spin: A dinosaur-themed spinning ride similar to Dumbo, which many little ones adore.
Shows
- Festival of the Lion King: A 30-minute, high-energy show with color, singing and dancing—great for short attention spans.
- Finding Nemo – The Musical: A popular, family-friendly stage show with multiple daily performances—perfect for toddlers who love the film.
Our Epcot Tips + Faves
Epcot often feels like an adult park, but it has plenty for toddlers. We enjoyed attractions and experiences that suited our little one and gave us a relaxed pace for the day.
Rides
- The Seas with Nemo & Friends: A gentle ride that ends in a large aquarium—kids love the combination of storytelling and live sea life.
- Frozen Ever After: A Norway-based boat ride that features beloved music and characters; it has a few small drops but is generally toddler-friendly.
- Spaceship Earth: A slow-moving, educational ride inside Epcot’s iconic sphere—suitable for most ages though it’s dark in places.
Shows + Entertainment
- Kidcot Fun Stops: Coloring stations around the World Showcase let kids collect and decorate while parents stroll through the countries.
- Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival: A short 3D film program that’s relaxing and entertaining for little ones.
- Splash Pad: A great spot for toddlers to cool down and play found near Mission: SPACE.
A sample half-day at Epcot that worked well for us: ride Nemo soon after park opening, explore the central fountains and splash pad, grab lunch in Mexico, do Frozen Ever After, then let Arlo nap in the stroller while we walked through World Showcase sampling foods and sights.
Our Hollywood Studios Tips + Faves
Hollywood Studios quickly became one of our favorites thanks to Toy Story Land and its lively shows. The land’s immersive design makes it magical for toddlers, especially if they love Toy Story.
Toy Story Land
Toy Story Land is exceptionally colorful and imaginative, designed to feel like a toy-sized world. Characters roam the area, and rides like Toy Story Mania are interactive and delightful for families.
- Toy Story Mania: A ride-game hybrid that’s fun for parents and kids—competitive and playful.
- Alien Swirling Saucers: A spinning ride reminiscent of classic attractions; energetic and fun for many toddlers, but skip if your child dislikes fast motion.
- Slinky Dog Dash: A family coaster that’s not toddler-appropriate, but it offers Rider Switch for families.
Shows
- Frozen Sing-Along: A hilarious, interactive sing-along that keeps toddlers engaged and entertained.
- Voyage of The Little Mermaid: A classic stage show with timeless effects and characters.
- Disney Junior Dance Party: Ideal for preschoolers who love Disney Junior—singing and dancing make it a toddler favorite.
- Beauty and the Beast: A beloved musical stage production; check weather since portions are outdoors.
Our Magic Kingdom Tips + Faves
Magic Kingdom is the quintessential park for little ones—many attractions are tailored to young visitors and offer timeless experiences. Pick a few favorites and enjoy the rest at your own pace.
Rides
- It’s A Small World: A classic boat ride toddlers adore.
- Dumbo: A perennial favorite for children; Aladdin’s Magic Carpets offers a similar experience unique to Disney World.
- Jungle Cruise: A playful, animal-themed boat tour that captivates kids.
- Mad Tea Party: Spinning teacups that kids can choose and enjoy.
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: A gentle, story-driven ride perfect for little ones.
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin: Interactive and fun for slightly older toddlers who can participate in the game.
- Peter Pan’s Flight: A hugely popular, magical flying ride—expect long lines but great payoff.
- Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid: A newer attraction that mirrors the charm of the Disneyland version.
- Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover: A relaxing, slow-moving ride through Tomorrowland—good for a calm break.
Shows + Parades
- Let The Magic Begin: A short castle opening show at rope drop—powerful and emotional in a few minutes.
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic: An entertaining indoor show with classic Disney musical numbers and special effects.
- Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party and Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade: Street parties and parades are signature Disney moments—plan to catch at least one if possible.
What To Bring
Being prepared makes a huge difference. Here are essentials we brought and found indispensable during long park days.
- Stroller: A roomy stroller with storage is invaluable for long days. It holds bags, snacks and souvenirs and provides comfortable naps. If possible, bring your most comfortable stroller rather than just a lightweight travel model.
- Snacks & Drinks: Bring favorites to avoid constant purchases. We typically buy one meal and a treat but pack snacks for the day.
- Blanket: A light blanket is useful for stroller naps, cooler evenings or sitting during parades.
- Small Bag or Fanny Pack: Keep valuables like wallets and phones with you while leaving the diaper bag on the stroller for rides.
- Sunscreen: Reapply often, especially in Florida sun.
- Hand Sanitizer & Wipes: Useful for cleaning hands before meals and wiping up messes.
- Change of Clothes: Always pack a full change for kids and an extra shirt for adults—spills and accidents happen.
- Umbrella: Florida often has brief showers—an umbrella is a good backup.
- Portable Phone Charger: The app, photos and navigation drain batteries quickly; a portable charger keeps devices usable all day.
- Safety Plan: With crowds, have a plan if you get separated. Disney will bring lost children to Baby Care Centers. Consider placing a contact number on a temporary tag or in a shirt label and take a picture of your child each morning to share with Cast Members if needed.
What To Eat
Food at Disney is a big topic, and there are many specialist guides. Our go-to treats are classic park favorites: Mickey pretzels, cake pops, Dole Whip, Jack-Jack’s Num Num Cookie, Mickey Ice Cream Bars and Mickey waffles for breakfast. Try what looks fun and keep a few familiar snacks on hand for picky toddlers.
What To Wear
Balance fun Disney gear with practical comfort. Below are practical wardrobe tips for kids and adults.
For Kids:
- Disney hat or ears: Cute and memorable for photos. Personalized embroidered ears make a great keepsake.
- Disney tee: Comfortable themed shirts help the whole family feel festive.
- Comfy pants or shorts: Easy movement and quick outfit changes keep kids happy.
- Full change of clothes: Pack an extra outfit daily for spills or rides that involve water.
For Adults:
- Ears or subtle Disney apparel: Fun to match the kids and easy to buy in the parks if you prefer browsing in person.
- Comfortable shoes: Plan for lots of walking—supportive sneakers are best.
- Pants or shorts with pockets: Convenient for carrying your phone and small items without always reaching into a bag.
- Layering pieces: Bring a light sweatshirt or jacket for cooler evenings or air-conditioned shows.
Photos and Video by Jeff Mindell for Studio DIY
If you read through all of this—thanks! I hope these tips help your family plan a smoother, more magical visit to Walt Disney World with toddlers. If you have favorite tips or experiences, feel free to share them so other families can benefit.
More Disney Tips
- How To Do Disneyland with a One Year Old
- My Tips For A Disney Cruise (with Toddlers!)
Our accommodations, park tickets and travel for this trip were provided by Walt Disney World. All opinions are my own.