Disneyland Tips for Infants and Toddlers

So, it turns out that Randi and I were at Disneyland at the same time, but had no idea! Like Randi and her family, we are big Disney fanatics and I have been my entire life. I'm that person who sings along at the parade, dances like she's a character, and looks like an adult who's forgotten she's an adult. Anyway, since Randi already touched base on what it's like doing Disneyland with a toddler (which, by the way, is just about the same as how our experiences have been), I decided to share some tips to make the trip a lot easier.

I thought about going into what to pack, but I think that list can vary a lot by your baby's age and other factors so I'm going to go ahead and skip that. The first thing I want to mention is the Baby Care Center. There is one in both parks at the Disneyland Resort. In Disneyland, it is located at the end of Main Street on the right if you are looking at the castle tucked away just before the first aid center. The California Adventure location is at the start of the Pacific Wharf, closer to Cars Land. If you need to pump, they have a space for you. If you need to breastfeed and prefer to have some privacy, they have a space for you. They also have toddler potties (super cute, b-t-dubs), high chairs, changing tables, and a small play area. For parents who may have forgotten something, they have bottles, wipes, diapers...I think even food, but I haven't forgotten those things so I'm not entirely sure on the full extent of their inventory. 

My next tip is to do your research! Go to the Disneyland website and see what rides and attractions are available to you. The website does a great job of explaining what every attraction has to offer. If you make a plan before you get to the park, you'll be able to get more done and enjoy your time. You'll also probably save your legs and feet from exhaustion by mapping everything out. Of course, keep in mind that infants and toddlers have their own agenda, so be flexible and don't stress! Disneyland is meant to be "The Happiest Place in Earth!"

Now, there are those rides that our little ones obviously cannot ride, but that doesn't mean you can't! Consider bringing the grandparents along. If they choose to pass, however, have no fear. There are plenty of rides that offer a "parent-swap" option so that both parents can ride without having to spend forever in a line...twice! There are also single rider options. I would suggest using that option first because the chances are pretty good that both of you will get on the ride faster than if you waited in line as a family and then did the parent-swap.

My last tip is about the characters. Depending on the age of your little one, they may or may not be comfortable with the characters. Also, they may be fine one trip and the next be completely not okay with it, so just keep that in mind. There are character sightings throughout the day throughout both parks. At opening of both parks, there are usually a good handful of characters in the Main Street and Buena Vista Street areas, for Disneyland and California Adventure, respectively. Keep in mind there will be lines. You can also meet Minnie and Mickey in their houses located in Mickey's Toon Town in Disneyland. Again, there will be a wait. If you have the luxury, I recommend a character breakfast. Goofy's Kitchen located in The Disneyland Hotel has the best selection of characters. There are several other locations in the resort that offer character dining also, though.

Anyway, I hope this information has helped you! If you have any other questions, please ask! I love talking Disney!