Baby Rides at Disneyland:
Enjoy a Magical Time with Your Child
Disneyland is full of gentle, magical rides that are perfect for families with babies. From the classic charm of “It’s a Small World” to the excitement of “Dumbo the Flying Elephant,” there are plenty of attractions designed for even the youngest visitors. This guide will help you discover the best baby-friendly rides for a fun-filled day at the park.
ⓘ What to Know Before Bringing a Baby to Disneyland
When you bring a baby to Disneyland, there are a few things to keep in mind to make for a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. From ride restrictions to helpful services, here’s what you need to know before you go.
Age and Height Requirements
One of the best things about Disneyland is that many of the attractions are designed for families and several have no height requirement, so they are perfect for the littlest of visitors. Always check the height requirements in advance, especially if you’re planning to go on the faster rides as some have height restrictions for safety.
Rider Switch Program
Disneyland’s Rider Switch program is a godsend for families with babies. This program allows parents or guardians to take turns riding attractions without having to wait in line twice. Here’s how it works: one parent rides while the other waits with the baby, and when the first parent is done the second parent can ride without waiting again. This way everyone gets to ride the attractions that aren’t suitable for babies and the baby is safe and happy.
Stroller Accessibility
Disneyland is stroller-friendly with wide paths and stroller parking areas near most attractions. You can bring your own comfortable, foldable stroller as it will make it easier to get around the park. Disneyland also rents strollers.
Stroller parking is located outside many of the popular rides, restaurants and show venues. Families can also rent strollers at the park entrance if needed. Having a stroller provides a place for babies to nap and storage for essentials throughout the day.
Baby Care Centers
Disneyland has Baby Care Centers in both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. These centers are a quiet and clean space for parents to change diapers, feed or take a break with their babies. Each center has changing tables, high chairs, private nursing areas and a small shop for baby essentials like diapers, wipes and formula. A much needed break for parents and babies during a busy day at the park.
Best Baby Rides at Disneyland Park
“It’s a Small World”
“It’s a Small World” is a classic Disneyland ride, a slow boat ride through colorful scenes with animatronic dolls from around the world. The ride is set to the famous “It’s a Small World” song, which is played in multiple languages.
This is a great ride for babies because it’s so calm and slow. The gentle motion of the boat, combined with all the bright colors and visuals, is a great sensory experience. There are no height restrictions, so you can ride with your baby.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
Dumbo, the Flying Elephant, is a classic Disneyland ride where you board an elephant-themed vehicle that goes up in the air, and you control the height with a lever. The ride is a smooth circle.
Dumbo’s up-and-down motion is not too fast or jerky, so it’s a great ride for the littlest visitors. You can hold your baby while riding, so they’ll feel secure and comfortable. The whimsical theme and colorful surroundings are fun for babies.
King Arthur Carrousel
The King Arthur Carrousel is a beautiful, classic merry-go-round in Fantasyland. You can ride horses that go up and down or sit on stationary benches and carriages.
This slow, circular ride is flexible for families. You can ride with your baby on a stationary bench or, if you’re comfortable, on one of the gentle moving horses. The music and lights add to the ride’s charm, so it’s a calm and fun ride for babies.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
This indoor, dark ride takes you through the Hundred Acre Wood with Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, and Piglet. Riders move through scenes with bright colors, whimsical animation, and fun music.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh is a slow ride perfect for babies. Its visual stimulation and beloved characters make it engaging. The gentle motion and upbeat atmosphere are fun for the littlest Disneyland visitors.
Peter Pan’s Flight
Peter Pan’s Flight is a slow-moving dark ride that takes you on a magical journey over London and Neverland in a pirate ship. The ride goes over glowing cityscapes and whimsical scenes from Peter Pan.
Babies can enjoy the smooth floating sensation, and the colorful scenes are fun to look at. You can hold your little one during the ride, so it’s a great family ride with no height restrictions.
Casey Jr. Circus Train
Casey Jr. Circus Train is a slow-moving train ride that takes you on a tour of Storybook Land through miniature landscapes, tiny castles, and homes from Disney movies.
The slow speed and colorful scenery make it great for babies, and the open-air boat offers a fun view for little ones. It’s a short and gentle ride with no height restrictions, perfect for the whole family.
Jungle Cruise
The Jungle Cruise is a boat ride through a jungle river with animatronic animals and humorous scenes narrated by a skipper. The slow-moving boat floats past elephants, tigers, and hippos in a calm and controlled environment.
Babies will enjoy the visual stimulation of the lush surroundings and the gentle ride. The relaxed pace and fun storytelling make it a great choice for parents and their little ones to enjoy together.
Disneyland Railroad
The Disneyland Railroad is a classic slow-moving steam train that circles the park, with scenic views and several stops at Tomorrowland and Main Street, U.S.A.
This is great for babies because of the slow and steady pace and open-air seating. It’s also stroller-friendly, so it’s a great option for families looking for a break or to get to different areas of the park while keeping babies entertained.
Tips for a Smooth Experience with Babies at Disneyland
- Bring a Carrier: Use a baby carrier to navigate crowded areas easily and keep your hands free while enjoying rides.
- Timing Is Key: Visit during nap times or less crowded hours (early morning or late evening) for shorter lines and a more relaxed pace.
- Plan Breaks: Take regular breaks for feedings, naps, and diaper changes at quiet spots or Disneyland’s Baby Care Centers.
- Stay Hydrated and Cool: Bring refillable water bottles, use hydration stations, and find shaded areas or indoor attractions during hot days.
- Use the Disneyland App: Check wait times, locate baby-friendly services, and use mobile food ordering to save time.
Enjoy Magical Moments with Your Baby at Disneyland
Visiting Disneyland with a baby can be a joyful experience when you plan ahead. With our baby-friendly practices, and safe and slow rides babies can enjoy, you and your child can experience the magic Disneyland brings.