Taking a toddler to Disneyland might seem like a daunting task, but let me tell you—it can also be one of the most magical and rewarding experiences as a dad. A few years ago, I decided to tackle Disneyland with my two-year-old daughter, and while it wasn’t without its challenges, the smiles and laughter made every moment worth it. Along the way, I learned a few tips that made the day a lot smoother. If you're planning your own Disneyland adventure with a toddler, here’s what worked for me.
1. Timing is Everything
First things first—timing is key. Toddlers can tire out quickly, so I planned our visit around her natural schedule. We arrived at the park right when it opened, which not only allowed us to enjoy shorter lines but also synced with her morning burst of energy. By the afternoon, when she usually naps, we took a break. Either head back to your hotel if you’re staying nearby or find a quieter spot in the park to relax. Trust me, a well-rested toddler is a happy toddler.
2. Pack Smart, Pack Light
I can’t stress this enough: bring only what you truly need. I packed a small backpack with essentials like diapers, wipes, snacks, a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Pro tip: pack snacks your toddler actually loves. Disneyland snacks are tempting, but when my daughter got cranky in line, her favorite crackers worked like magic. Also, don’t forget a lightweight stroller. We brought an umbrella stroller that was easy to navigate through crowds and fold up for rides.
3. Start with Toddler-Friendly Rides
Disneyland is packed with rides, but not all of them are toddler-friendly. I did some research beforehand and made a list of rides she’d enjoy. We started with Dumbo the Flying Elephant, It’s a Small World, and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. They were slow-moving, colorful, and perfect for her age. The bonus? These rides often have shorter lines. Watching her face light up on Dumbo was worth every second of planning.
4. Embrace Character Meet-and-Greets
One of the highlights of our trip was meeting Mickey Mouse. My daughter was absolutely starstruck. But here’s the thing—character encounters can be overwhelming for toddlers. I made sure to let her approach at her own pace. Some toddlers might be shy or even scared, and that’s okay. The cast members do a great job of making kids feel comfortable.
5. Know When to Call It a Day
You might be tempted to squeeze every last drop out of your Disneyland visit, but with a toddler, less is more. By mid-afternoon, I could tell my daughter was getting tired and overstimulated. Instead of pushing through to see the fireworks, we decided to leave early. It wasn’t easy to walk away, but it saved us both from a meltdown. Remember, it’s about quality, not quantity.
6. Use the Disneyland App
The Disneyland app was a lifesaver. It helped me check wait times for rides, find the nearest restroom, and even order food ahead of time. With a toddler in tow, the less time you spend wandering aimlessly, the better.
7. Make Time for the Parades
If your toddler loves music and dancing, don’t miss the parades. We found a spot about 30 minutes before the parade started, and it was worth the wait. The characters, music, and floats were mesmerizing for my daughter, and honestly, I loved it just as much as she did.
8. Stay Flexible
The most important tip I can give is to stay flexible. Things won’t always go according to plan, and that’s okay. Toddlers are unpredictable, and sometimes you just have to roll with the punches. Whether it’s taking an unexpected snack break or skipping a ride you were excited about, the day is ultimately about creating happy memories.
Taking a toddler to Disneyland as a dad is an adventure you’ll never forget. Sure, there may be tantrums, spills, and missed naps, but there will also be laughter, wide-eyed wonder, and moments that make it all worthwhile. So pack your patience, embrace the magic, and get ready for a day you’ll cherish forever. Disneyland with a toddler isn’t just about the rides or the characters—it’s about seeing the world through their eyes. And trust me, there’s nothing more magical than that.
