A visit to Disney World is an exciting adventure for the whole family, and dining is no exception.

With a wide array of restaurants and food options, Disney World offers a culinary journey that will satisfy the taste buds of both kids and adults.

When dining with kids, it’s essential to choose restaurants that not only serve delicious meals but also cater to the needs and preferences of young palates.

Let’s explore some of the best family-friendly dining destinations at Disney World, ensuring that your dining experiences are enjoyable and memorable for everyone.

Book your next magical family adventure through our friends at Get Away Today! They are truly the Disney experts and can make planning your trip a breeze for both Disneyland and Disney World. You can browse their website or call 1-855-GET-AWAY. Make sure you tell them Magical Family Travel Guide sent you or use the code MFTG for $10 off a Southern California

Disney World Family Friendly Restaurants

Be Our Guest Restaurant (Magic Kingdom)

Step into the enchanted world of Beauty and the Beast at the Be Our Guest Restaurant. This immersive dining experience takes place in the Beast’s castle and offers a menu that caters to both adult and children’s tastes. Little ones can indulge in kid-friendly favorites like macaroni and cheese or grilled cheese, while adults can savor French-inspired dishes. Don’t forget to try the “Grey Stuff” for a delightful dessert.

‘Ohana (Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort)

Located at the Polynesian Village Resort, ‘Ohana offers a family-style dining experience with a Polynesian flair. The all-you-care-to-enjoy feast includes grilled meats, tasty sides, and a delicious bread pudding dessert. Kids will love the interactive atmosphere, character appearances, and the chance to participate in coconut races and hula hoop contests.

Tusker House Restaurant (Disney’s Animal Kingdom)

Embark on a flavorful journey at Tusker House Restaurant, located in the heart of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This buffet-style dining experience features an extensive selection of African and American dishes. Kids will enjoy meeting favorite Disney characters while savoring kid-friendly options like chicken nuggets, mac and cheese, and fruit skewers.

We did a character breakfast at the Tusker House. It was a lot of fun! Great service and absolutely delicious food. Character dining is expensive, but it’s one of our

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant (Disney’s Hollywood Studios)

Step back in time and enjoy a unique dining experience at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant. Sit in classic cars and watch retro sci-fi clips on the big screen while dining on American comfort food. Kids will love the immersive setting and menu options like burgers, chicken tenders, and milkshakes.

Chef Mickey’s (Disney’s Contemporary Resort)

Join Mickey and his friends for a lively buffet at Chef Mickey’s. Located in Disney’s Contemporary Resort, this character dining experience allows kids to meet beloved Disney characters while enjoying a delicious meal. The buffet offers a variety of options, including kid-friendly favorites like Mickey-shaped waffles, pancakes, and chicken nuggets.

Garden Grill Restaurant (Epcot)

For a unique dining experience that combines delicious food with a rotating view, head to the Garden Grill Restaurant in Epcot’s Future World. This family-style restaurant revolves slowly, providing views of the Living with the Land attraction. Kids can enjoy dishes like turkey, mac and cheese, and harvest-inspired desserts, all while meeting Chip ‘n’ Dale and other Disney characters.

Fast Food Restaurants Near Disney World

When it comes to fast food options near Disney World, there are several chain restaurants and quick-service dining options available.

Here are some popular fast-food restaurants located in close proximity to the Disney World resort:

McDonald’s

Located on World Center Drive, there is a McDonald’s restaurant that offers familiar fast food favorites such as burgers, chicken sandwiches, and salads. It is a convenient option for a quick and affordable meal.

Chick-fil-A

Just outside the Disney World property, on Palm Parkway, you can find a Chick-fil-A restaurant. Known for its chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and waffle fries, Chick-fil-A provides a tasty and family-friendly fast food experience.

Five Guys

Situated on State Road 535, Five Guys is a popular fast-casual burger chain known for its customizable burgers, hot dogs, and fresh-cut fries. This restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and delicious fast food options for families.

Panda Express

Located on International Drive, Panda Express serves fast and flavorful Chinese-American cuisine. Their menu includes dishes like orange chicken, Beijing beef, and fried rice, providing a quick and satisfying meal option.

Panera Bread

On Daryl Carter Parkway, you can find a Panera Bread restaurant, known for its fresh and wholesome menu. From soups and salads to sandwiches and bakery items, Panera Bread offers a variety of fast-casual options for a quick bite.

Subway

There are multiple Subway locations near Disney World, including one on Vineland Avenue. Subway specializes in made-to-order sandwiches, wraps, and salads, allowing guests to customize their meals to their preferences.

These fast-food restaurants offer convenient and familiar options for a quick meal when visiting Disney World.

All in all, Disney World offers a fantastic array of dining options that cater to the needs and preferences of families with kids.

From immersive themed experiences to character dining and diverse cuisines, there is something for everyone.

These family-friendly restaurants, including Be Our Guest Restaurant, ‘Ohana, Tusker House Restaurant, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, Chef Mickey’s, and Garden Grill Restaurant, ensure that your dining experiences are not only delicious but also filled with magical moments.

So, embark on a culinary adventure with your family, create lasting memories, and let the joy of good food and Disney magic fill your time at Disney World.

More Articles You May Enjoy:

• Can You Bring Food Into Disneyland? + Best Places to Eat
• Festival of Holidays at California Adventure: A Non-Foodie’s Perspective
• Disneyland Dining on a Budget for Families

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Is Disney World Open On Christmas Day?

The answer is yes! Disney World will be open on December 25th and there are plenty of activities available for visitors. In this blog post, we’ll provide all the information you need to know about what’s open and closed on Christmas at Disney World.

Are all Disney Theme Parks Open On Christmas Day?

First, let’s talk about theme parks. All four Disney World theme parks – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom – will be open on Christmas Day from 9 am to 8 pm.

All Disney Parks are open 365 days a year! Including holidays.

Guests can enjoy attractions and shows throughout the parks during those hours.

Book your next magical family adventure through our friends at Get Away Today! They are truly the Disney experts and can make planning your trip a breeze for both Disneyland and Disney World. You can browse their website or call 1-855-GET-AWAY. Make sure you tell them Magical Family Travel Guide sent you or use the code MFTG for $10 off a Southern California

Are restaurants open on Christmas Day?

Not all restaurants will be available on Christmas Day, however.

Select quick-service restaurant locations will be open, as well as select table-service restaurants in all four parks.

Guests can make reservations for these restaurants ahead of time to ensure their spot.

Tips for Christmas at Disneyland

Many of the tips for a successful Christmas trip are the same ones we’d recommend for ANY busy time of year at Disneyland – but they are always worth reiterating!

Use Mobile Ordering

Download the Disneyland app to take advantage of mobile ordering at select quick-service restaurants. This will help you avoid long lines and enjoy your time in the parks more!

Take Advantage of Genie+

Disney Genie+ is definitely a necessity during peak season at Disneyland! Unless you really love standing in lines, having a holiday Disney Genie+ strategy can greatly limit the amount of time you spend waiting in line.

Arrive Early

Arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of your day! This will almost assuredly give you a couple hours of lower crowds. You should definitely rope drop some of the most popular rides as well.

Make Reservations Early

This is important for both park reservations and for restaurant reservations. I suspect that as soon as these disappear, it will be difficult to grab one. They are both available 60 days before Thanksgiving!

Stay Close By

Stay as close as you can to the park! It will make it easier to get to the parks early, take a break midday, and just take advantage of Disney magic for longer. There are quite a few affordable hotels nearby, so grab one while you ca.

Consider Staying On Site

If you are staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel, you have the opportunity to enter the parks an hour early each morning of your stay. This is a great way to get some extra rides in before the parks get too busy later in the day.

Additionally, some attractions and shows may be closed for maintenance or refurbishment on December 25th – it’s always a good idea to check the park schedule before you visit.

Plan ahead- the holidays are a popular time for patrons to attend the parks- make reservations accordingly to ensure you can see everything that you want to!

Be prepared for crowds- the park may be more crowded on Christmas.

So there you have it – Disney World is open on Christmas Day! With plenty of attractions and shows available, as well as a few select restaurants throughout the parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during their holiday visit to Disney World. Enjoy your magical day!

Here are other articles you may enjoy:

• 9 Best Thanksgiving Travel Spots
• How to Get to Disneyland Without a Car
• 20+ Hotels with a Shuttle Close to Disneyland

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Many parents and kids are wondering if they can find the loveable PJ Masks characters at Disney World.

With PJ Masks being on Disney Junior, it only makes sense to think you can have fun character encounter with them during your trip.

Unfortunately, it’s a little more complicated than that! Here’s what we know.

Are PJ Masks at Disney World?

Unfortunately, there are no official PJ Masks character meet and greets at any of the Disney World parks.

This will likely come as a disappointment, especially since there are other Disney Junior favorites, such as Doc McStuffins, at the park. However, PJ Masks haven’t been spotted anywhere.

It’s possible they may pop up eventually at Disney Junior Live On Stage, as they are often swapping out characters. At this point, though, they haven’t been there.

Did Disney create PJ Masks?

The most likely reason you won’t ever see the PJ Masks crew at Disney World is that Disney actually didn’t create the PJ Masks show, despite having it on Disney Junior.

PJ Masks is based on the French book series, Les Pyjamasque. It was produced with  Frog Box, Entertainment One UK Limited, Walt Disney EMEA Productions Limited and TeamTO.

In 2019, Entertainment One was bought out by Hasbro. Because of this, Disney Junior is owned by Hasbro, even though it still is on Disney World.

Where can you see PJ Masks characters live?

If your child is a die-hard PJ Masks fan, never fear! There are still other potential opportunities to interact with these characters.

• PJ Masks Live
• Sea Life Orlando Aquarium – in 2021, there was a PJ Masks show that debuted for less than a month. While it hasn’t come back yet, it may come back in the future. Be sure to follow Sea Life Orlando Aquarium for updates!
• Leolandia – this “amusement park for kids” is located near Milan. This is obviously not an option for many, but they do have a PJ Mask Land – complete with the characters!

Where can I watch PJ Masks?

PJ Masks can be watched on Disney Junior – either on demand or on live TV. You can also purchase episodes.

Additionally, if you have access to Netflix, seasons 1-4 (as of June 2022) are available to stream.

What Disney Junior characters can you see at Disney World?

Even though you can’t see PJ Masks at Disney World, there are some other Disney Junior characters you can see and enjoy:

• Doc McStuffins
• Princess Sofia
• Mickey Mouse
• Minnie Mouse
• And other fun and surprise guests!

Your best bet for these characters are at Disney Junior Live! performances throughout the day at Disney World.

So, long story short – no, you aren’t like to see PJ Masks at Disney World, but there are still many other wonderful characters there! Let us know your favorite in the comments!

More Articles You May Enjoy:

• The Best Disney World Park for Toddlers (From a Toddler Mom)
• The Best Legoland Rides for Toddlers in Florida and California
• 20+ Airplane Snacks for Toddlers + Expert Tips for Success

The post Are PJ Masks at Disney World? appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

Where to Buy Disney Clothes

Visiting the Disney parks begs the age-old question, “But what will I wear?” For many, a t-shirt with their favorite character on it or a themed backpack will suffice, while others are much more invested in planning the perfect outfit for the occasion.

If you are getting ready for an upcoming Disney vacation and you want to make sure you have your favorite

So let’s take a look at clothing possibilities and where to find them.

Local Options

No matter where you live, most stores will have possibilities for buying Disney clothing that can be worn to the parks.

In recent years, there has been more Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars-branded clothing appearing in stores like Walmart and Target.

Meanwhile, check out your local stores for clothing that will bring a little more magic to your trip, without hurting your wallet. Most clothing items found at stores like Walmart and Target can be found for anywhere from $10-$30. I just picked up the sweatshirt you see above at a local Walmart for only $10. Trust me, they’re there. You just have to keep your eyes open.

Pro Tip – The Target and Walmart stores near Disney properties almost always have way more selection than you’ll find anywhere else. If you can hold off on buying a few things until you get to your trip, this can be a fun place to stop before you head to the parks.

Target

Target specifically has some stores with a “Disney Store” located inside with Disney merchandise and clothing.

Currently, there are only 25 locations across the U.S. with this shopping experience available. To find out if there is a participating Target near you, try the Disney Store Finder.

Another little tip is to keep an eye on the dollar section at Target. They don’t always carry the same products, but if you’re lucky, you’ll find some Disney items that you can bring with you. The other day these cute little hats were occupying the shelves just waiting to be claimed.

But remember, that the inventory between stores can vary. So if you find something that catches your eye, I would grab it while you can.

Walmart

Walmart always has a variety of Disney clothing, and they are often very affordable. They have tons of options for kids but also some really fun items for adults as well.

The inventory will obviously vary depending on the time of the year – if you are looking for something specific, you might want to head back frequently. During the holiday season, you can often find Christmas Disney-themed items for a great price.

I’ve seen everything from t-shirts and hoodies to pajamas and sweatpants. They tend to have a lot of classic Disney movies featured. If you have a little girl who wants to dress up as her favorite princess, they have a nice variety of princess costumes that don’t cost an arm and a leg.

I do feel like the items tend to be geared more toward females (especially female children), but there is bound to be something for everyone.

Kohls

Kohls’s is another great store where you can find Disney apparel. While many of their items seem a bit overpriced, if you can take advantage of a sale (especially when Kohls’s cash is involved), you can find some of the best deals around.

They have some really cute outfits for both males and females, and they tend to have a nice selection of newer Disney characters (for instance, I just noticed they have some fun Encanto shirts).

While socks aren’t the most visible thing you’ll see in your outfit, they have some great Disney-themed socks for children!

Ross and TJ Maxx

These discount retailers are great places to find fun Disney clothes for every age! They often get the overstock/unsold inventory from places like Walmart and Target, and you can often find a really good deal.

Old Navy

I feel like Old Navy stores aren’t as common as they used to be, and their selection isn’t as great as some stores. With that said, you can sometimes find some real gems, so if you have one nearby, it’s worth stopping by.

Hot Topic

Hot Topic often has Loungefly Bags, but they also have some very unique and fun outfits that you can buy. This is a great place to go for more adult-friendly outfits/costumes.

THey are an official Disney distributor so you know the items are going to be high-quality, so definitely take a good look to see what they have!

Thrift Stores and Garage Sales

Some of the best gems can be found second-hand. Frequent your thrift stores and, if it’s garage sale season, garage sales to see what you can find. Vintage is always fun!

The Disney Store

A slightly pricier option is to visit your local Disney Store if you have one in your area. Disney Stores are like an extension of Disney Parks. You can find some of the same merchandise and clothing, but oftentimes, it will differ. And inventory is changing quite frequently, so there are always more options. Disney Stores have toys, swimwear, clothing, spirit jerseys, shoes, backpacks, jewelry, and more, for both children and adults.

The Disney Store is a favorite of mine because you can usually find your favorite character or series somewhere in the store. I have purchased many t-shirts from the Disney Store because of their reasonable prices and variety. Adult t-shirts are usually around $12-$14, and children’s t-shirts are usually between $10-$12.

Online Options

For those who don’t live close to the stores listed above or enjoy the convenience of shopping online before your trip to the Happiest Place on Earth – there are even more options!

Pro-tip – before you do any online shopping, make sure you signup for Rakuten. Many online stores offer you cashback for purchases!

One option is the online website of all the brick-and-mortar stores listed above, including:

• Target.com
• Walmart.com
• Kohls.com
• OldNavy.com
• Hot Topic

You can visit these websites as well and see what you can have shipped to your home or local store. However, online purchasing will sometimes have minimum purchase limits, so just be aware when you are making your purchases.

Etsy

There are many people who are so talented and create/sell Disneywear. While there are various places you can find these items, Etsy is my favorite. You can find t-shirts (especially matching ones) or more extravagant outfits/costumes.

ShopDisney

The Disney Store and the Disney parks also have an online platform called ShopDisney. Here you can find the latest clothing, toys, accessories, and home goods found in the Disney parks.

This is a fantastic option that my family has personally taken advantage of on a few occasions. Living far away from the parks, you don’t have the ability to drive down and shop for all the fun new items. ShopDisney gives you a chance to bring a little of that Disney magic into your home, no matter where you live.

Amazon

I mean, doesn’t Amazon have everything? While you definitely want to pay attention to the sizing and reviews for different items, as well as what the materials are made of, you can find some really great items on here.

I would keep in mind that sometimes there are items on Amazon that you can find elsewhere for less expensive, so always make sure to price match!

Disney Parks

Finally, there is the option of going shopping on Disney property. Some people enjoy visiting Downtown Disney or Disney Springs a day or two before their park visit because World of Disney and other shops will carry the products you can find in the parks.

There are also stores throughout the park that you can visit and find different clothing items.

In this stores, you can find a variety of attire for all ages, including:

• T-Shirts
• Sweaters
• Hoodies
• Hats
• Mouse Ears

I have even seen some guests wear normal t-shirts into the parks and one of their first stops, when they enter the parks, is one of the clothing shops like the Emporium, where they will pick out their favorite outfit, purchase it, and change into it before enjoying the rest of their magical day.

Make Your Own

Feeling crafty? You can totally make your own Disney attire at home using SVG files you can buy on Etsy or design yourself using Canva and use a Cricut or Silhouette machine to add the decals to your favorite shirts, hats, and hoodies. If you are looking for more of a Disney-bounding type outfit, you can make items for these at home and with supplies from the craft store as well.

Many people LOVE to make their own personalized Disney outfits for their trips. This is a great way to have an outfit or costume that no one else is wearing!

There are lots of options to find the perfect thing to wear to the parks to complete your magical visit to the Happiest Place on Earth. Just remember to keep your eyes open for your favorite characters and enjoy your visit!

More Articles You May Enjoy:

• What to Wear to Disneyland in January: Your Complete Guide
• 6+ BEST Toddler Shoes for Disney World and Disneyland Vacations

The post The Best Places to Buy Disney Clothes for Your Disney Vacation appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

It goes without saying that Disney World is a HUGE place to visit – even as an adult. With a toddler, it can feel even bigger and more intimidating.

That doesn’t mean that it isn’t super magical with toddlers (we are big fans of going to Disney with children of all ages) – you just need to set up your expectations a little more.

At the end of the day, there are going to be a lot of rides and attractions that just aren’t suited for your toddler. Knowing where to find fun for them throughout your visit is essential – and while you can find this in every park, some of the parks are a better fit than others.

Book your next magical family adventure through our friends at Get Away Today! They are truly the Disney experts and can make planning your trip a breeze for both Disneyland and Disney World. You can browse their website or call 1-855-GET-AWAY. Make sure you tell them Magical Family Travel Guide sent you or use the code MFTG for $10 off a Southern California

Our Favorite Disney World Park for Toddlers

In our opinion, the best park for a toddler is Magic Kingdom.

Magic Kingdom is the most popular park in Disney World. It has so many things to do and so many great attractions for kids of all ages.

You can go on a boat ride with Winnie the Pooh and his friends, you can meet Cinderella and Snow White,  you can even fly through Neverland! There are many wonderful things to do in the Magic Kingdom.

If you have small kids, you can go to Fantasyland, they have many attractions there for children 3 years old and below. It is a very safe place for your kids because there are a lot of parents that accompany their toddlers. Make sure that you take a good camera with you so that you will be able to take some nice pictures of your kids having fun!

Why We Love Magic Kingdom for Toddlers

Some of the reasons we like Magic Kingdom for toddlers:

• There are TONS of rides and attractions they can enjoy
• It’s filled with popular Disney characters
• The whole family can ride on many of the rides together
• Lots of great toddler-friendly meal items

While you can find something for a toddler to do in all the parks, we definitely find that when we are in Magic Kingdom, our toddler is able to participate more than in some of the other parks.

The Best Rides and Attractions in Magic Kingdom for Toddlers

Here are the rides and attractions in Magic Kingdom that you should consider taking your toddler with you:

it’s a small world

This is always the FAVORITE ride for our toddlers when we go (and to be honest, mine, too!). They just get so captivated by the colors, the music, and the boat ride. Our son who is six still remembers how much he loved going on this the first time (that he could remember, at least) when he was two.

It is a longer ride, and it’s a great way to cool down and relax. I always head here when we need to decompress a little for the day!

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

This is a very popular ride because your kids can get to fly high up in the air like Dumbo, the famous elephant from the movie! Your toddlers will surely enjoy it and they will want to go back here again and again! This is one of those rides that we never miss.

There’s also a waiting area where your child can play as you wait for your turn!

Prince Charming Regal Carousel

Is there anything more magical than a carousel? This is one of our favorite rides to take our toddler on while we are in Magic Kingdom. It usually has a shorter wait, and your toddler can pick from an array of colorful horses. The up and down movement and the music make it even more charming.

 Mickey’s Philharmagic

This is a theater ride where 4D effects are used. It is narrated by Donald Duck, and there are appearances from traditional Disney characters like Mickey and Minnie, as well as newer characters like Miguel Coco. Your kids will surely love it because it is a 3D show which looks very fun and colorful!

Our toddler was singing and bouncing along throughout the entire presentation – it definitely kept his attention.

The Jungle Cruise

This is a boat ride through the jungle world of animals, your toddler can see real animals doing their own thing while you enjoy a relaxing boat ride. The jokes told by the captain might go over your toddler’s head, but they will keep the older members of your party laughing.

This was one of our son’s favorite rides last time we went.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

This is a play area where your kids will have so much fun. They can interact with their favorite characters from Winnie the Pooh and also play a lot of games! Your kids will love it!

I took our toddler on this one probably five times in a row one day, and he never tired of it.

Peter Pan’s Flight

Peter Pan’s Flight is a super popular ride. The line is always quite long, but it is pretty fun to fly throughout Peter Pan’s story! If you can stand the wait, it’s definitely one toddlers usually love.

Goofy’s Barnstormer

This is a roller coaster for kids that are only 36 inches tall or taller, your toddler can enjoy this ride together with you! Just make sure that you hold your toddler tight while riding this ride because it can get a little bit scary!

Walt Disney World Railroad

This is a train ride where you can see the whole park from above. Your kids will surely enjoy seeing all the Walt Disney World attractions while riding on the railroad with you! Our toddlers are big train fans, so this is a great ride.

Best Food for Toddlers in Magic Kingdom

• Casey’s Corner
• Popcorn Refills – I know not everyone feels comfortable feeding younger children popcorn. But if you can watch them carefully, the refillable popcorn bucket is so worth getting. The line for popcorn is usually short, and it can help to ward off some of those food-induced tantrums.
• Churros – This is a favorite of almost everyone at Disney World – toddlers included. They can hold and it them pretty easily.
• Pretzels
• Most Quick Service Restaurants serve kids meals. The offerings may vary, but in general, you’ll find some of these options – there’s usually 1-2 sides and a child-friendly drink included. We usually try to pick at least one fruit/vegetable side if it’s offered. We have found that most have an option for a Danimals Yogurt.
  • Mac and Cheese
  • Chicken Tenders
  • Hamburger/Cheeseburger
  • Pasta
  • Pizza
  • Hot Dog or Corn Dug
  • Smuckers Uncrustables
• Pecos Bills has a great kids meal that a lot of children really enjoy – especially if you want something a little different

Runner Up – Animal Kingdom

If we had to pick another park that we loved for toddlers, Animal Kingdom would definitely take the second-place spot. There are many things we LOVE about Animal Kingdom, and honestly, it’s one of Disney World’s most underrated parks.

While there aren’t a TON of rides for toddlers here, there are so many fun walking paths, animal attractions, and even a really large slide and sandpit area. Even when others were going on rides like Avatar: Flight of Passage, the person who stayed behind with our toddler wasn’t left twiddling their thumbs.

Here are a few things we really enjoy in Animal Kingdom:

• TriceraTop Spin – this is basically Dumbo but with Triceratops. Still super fun!
• Na’vi River Journey – This is a slow paced boat right with lots of colors. Our son loved it!
• Kilimanjaro Safari – we love the Safari! This one tends to get long rides pretty quickly, so it might be one to get a Disney Genie+ pass for right away.
• Maharaja Jungle trek
• Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail – This is a fun path to walk on and find lots of fun animals!
• Celebration of the Festival of the Lion King – this had just reopened the last time we went, and it was a favorite for everyone. Our toddler was captivated the whole time (though I recommend trying to have them sit in the front row if you can manage. The seats don’t have backs, and our son kept kicking the person in front of us).
• Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch – Our son really enjoyed the train ride, and there were some fun things to once we got to Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Our son loved the “Affection Section”, which was a petting zoo.
• it’s tough to be a bug – I put this one with the caveat that it doest have some scary/surprising parts that not all toddlers will enjoy.
• The Boneyard – this is the slide/giant sand pit. My toddler could have spent the entire day here during our last trip!
• Animals – there are animals all over the park! It definitely feels like part amusement park/part zoo.

We hope that this helps you plan your Disney World trip with your toddler a little more easily! Let us know if you agree with our opinion!

More Travel Articles You May Enjoy:

The post The Best Disney World Park for Toddlers (From a Toddler Mom) appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

How will you keep the baby happy while still enjoying all of the attractions? What if there was a way to carry your child safely without having to lug around a stroller.

We’ve put together this guide of the 6 best carriers for Walt Disney World so that you can enjoy the rides without having to worry about lugging around an unhappy child who’s too tired to enjoy it all. They are all certain to be a comfortable carrier for newborns, older babies, and even toddlers.

Ergobaby Omni 360

We are big fans of the Ergobaby carrier in our house – we have an Ergobaby Adapt that we’ve taken with us on all our Disney trips. The Ergobaby Omni 360 is one of their top-rated carriers, and it’s our top recommendation.

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Features:

The Omni 360 is a multiple-position carrier, making it suitable for infants and toddlers alike.

Adjustable from both the top and bottom, this carrier will ensure that your child can be worn in a comfortable position no matter what stage they are at! It offers an ergonomic design, making it a great choice for babies.

In addition to the adjustable ‘instructions’, there are also four different ways to carry your child.

The Ergobaby Omni 360 is considered to be one of the most comfortable carriers on the market, with features like a padded waistband and lumbar support. The shoulder straps are particularly comfortable as well.

This carrier can also be used for breastfeeding discreetly. This is not something you’ll find in many other baby carriers!

There’s even sufficient storage space for a diaper bag or purse, and an integrated sun hood for shade.

Why We Love it:

The Omni 360 is suitable for newborns through toddlers, meaning that it will be your go-to carrier all the way from birth to preschool.

This carrier offers maximum comfort and support, whether you are carrying on your front or back.

It is versatile enough to use with four different carry positions including a front inward, hip carry, back carry, and front-outward carry – this is something you won’t find in many other carriers.

Cost:

List Price: $119

Moby Wrap Baby Carrier

The Moby Wrap is often referred to as the ‘original baby wrap’, and it’s still one of the best carriers on the market.

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Features:

This carrier is perfect for newborns and babies up to 35 lbs. (16 kg). The fabric is stretchy and supportive and will ensure your child feels safe and secure at all times.

The Moby Wrap is very versatile, and it allows you to carry your baby in several different positions.

You can use it with the traditional front inward position, but also with both back carry positions (back inward and back outward).

Another unique feature of this carrier that you won’t find in many other baby carriers is the ability to breastfeed discreetly.

Moby has actually done a collaboration with Disney, and they have some super cute Disney-themed wraps – you check them out here.

Why We Love it:

The Moby Wrap is suitable for newborns through carrying up to 35 lbs / 16 kg, making it a great investment if you’re planning on having more than one child. It’s also perfect for moms who are breastfeeding but still want the ease of babywearing!

The versatility of this baby wrap means that it is suitable from birth for around 9 months, as your baby can be carried both on the front and back.

It is simple to put on and take off and requires no special skills – making it a great carrier option for those who may not have much experience with babywearing.

Cost:

Between $44.99

Boba Wrap Baby Carrier

The Boba Wrap is another great baby carrier for Disney World. It’s not as versatile as the Moby, but it’s still a great option.

Features:

The wrap used in this carrier is stretchy and supportive, making this an excellent choice if you are looking for something that will feel secure around your little one.

Like many other baby carriers, this carrier is designed to help you carry your child discreetly for breastfeeding.

The Boba Wrap can be used with three different carry positions, making it suitable for babies small through to toddlers, with the minimum weight being as low as 7 lbs and the maximum 45 lbs.

Why We Love it:

We love that this baby carrier is suitable from birth (with the use of additional head support) through to three years old!

It is comfortable and supportive, meaning that you won’t suffer sore shoulders or back after wearing your baby for extended periods.

Cost:

List Price: $49.99

Lillebaby Complete All Seasons Baby

The Complete All Seasons is LÍLLÉbaby’s baby carrier for bigger toddlers and preschoolers, and it’s one of our best baby carriers for Disney World.

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Features:

Suitable from birth through to 36 months (3 years) or 45 lbs., this baby carrier is ideal if you want something that will last a long time.

There are six different positions that can be used with this carrier, making it suitable for a range of activities including front inward, hip carry, back carry as well as front outward-facing. If you’re going to Disney World and will need to wear your child for extended periods of time, the Complete All Seasons is a great option as it is very supportive and ergonomically designed to ensure that you and your child are comfortable. The adjustable straps are particularly helpful.

This baby carrier has soft and breathable fabrics, making it a great option for hot Disney World days. It also has reflective details so you can keep your little one safe at all times.

Why We Love it:

We love the versatility of this baby carrier. It can be used with a range of different carry positions and it’s suitable from birth to preschool.

The six-position design and the high back design give you great support and reduce strain on your shoulders, which is particularly helpful for extended periods of wearing.

The breathable fabrics also mean that this would be a good option if you are planning to do a lot of walking, as well as in a warmer climate like Orlando is.

Cost:

List Price: $119.99

Infantino Flip 4-in-1 Light & Airy Convertible Carrier

The Flip 4-in-1 is another excellent baby carrier for Disney World. It’s super easy to use, and comfortable for both you and your little one. It is one of the least expensive carriers on our list, but it doesn’t lack in quality – it has over 43,000 reviews on Amazon, most of which are 5-star.

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Features:

We love that this carrier can be used from birth (with the additional head support) through to the toddler years (45 lbs.). That makes it a really great value-for-money baby carrier.

It is also suitable to use on the front, on your back, and on the hip, making it really versatile. For example, you can use it on your front when breastfeeding or soothe a fussy baby, while still getting some work done by wearing them on your back while opening doors or chasing after your toddler.

This carrier has a breathable mesh fabric, making it great for hot days at Disney World. It also comes with an infant insert if your little one is not yet big enough for the carrier without the additional support.

Why We Love it:

We love that this baby carrier can be used with infants right up to preschoolers. That makes it a fantastic value-for-money baby carrier.

It’s also easy to use, comfortable for parents and babies, and lightweight so you won’t feel weighed down when wearing your little one in the hot Disney World sun.

Cost:

List Price is $39.99

Tula Baby Carrier Coast Explore

If you’re going to Disney World and would like a carrier that is suitable for use from birth, the Tula Coast Explore baby carrier is another great option.

No products found.

Features:

This is an all-in-one baby carrier which means you don’t need to purchase any additional pieces as it has everything you need in one carrier. The Tula Coast Explore baby carrier can be used from birth (with the purchase of a separate newborn insert) through to 3 years old or 45 lbs.

It has multiple ergonomic, front, and back carrying positions that will ensure that you and your baby are comfortable at all times. If your little one needs a nap while out and about, you can also use the carrier to support them in a semi-reclined position.

Why We Love it:

We love that this baby carrier is suitable for newborns through to preschoolers, making it an excellent value for money option. It’s so versatile and ideal if you want one carrier that does everything!

It also has an ultra-soft and breathable mesh lining to make sure you and your little one stay cool when the weather heats up. The head support is also removable, meaning that it can also be used once your baby has outgrown wearing them in an upright position (which is typically at around 6 months).

Cost:

List Price: $159

Should you use a baby carrier or stroller at Disney World?

In our experience, if you have a younger baby between 0-6 months old, we recommend using a carrier instead of a stroller. This is because it can be challenging to push a stroller in Disney World’s crowded walkways and queues.

You also run the risk of your little one falling asleep when in the stroller and then waking up when you put them down to change their position, or worse – waking up and being upset because they are in an unfamiliar environment. This can be very stressful for both you and your baby!

You may also want to consider using a carrier even if your little one is older than 6 months old. Carrying them through the parks will help keep them from getting tired and cranky from being in a stroller for too long.

If you have an older child who is capable of walking or riding a scooter at Disney World, you can still bring a carrier along to use in the queues when necessary.

A carrier will definitely come in handy if your child gets tired while walking around Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom. This is because you can hop in a carrier with your little one while your older child continues walking for another 20 minutes or so before wanting to be carried themselves!

Can you wear your baby at Disney World?

If you want to wear your baby while visiting Disney World, then you’re in luck. You can wear them at all the parks. There are no rules against wearing a baby in the parks, hooray!

Can you wear a baby on rides at Disney World

There are many rides that you can wear a baby on at Disney World – slower moving ones, such as it’s a small world and the Jungle Cruise, are especially carrier-friendly. However, sometimes a cast member may request that you remove them on rides that are jerkier.

The Best Type of Carrier for Disney World

There are many different types of carriers available on the market today. And while some may be suitable for wearing at Disney World, others definitely are not!

We think that the best types of carriers are either wrap carriers (especially for smaller babies) and soft structured carriers. I like the soft-sided carriers due to them having a little bit extra support. Backpack carriers, like ones you might take hiking, can be a bit more cumbersome.

We would also not recommend using a ring sling wrap, either. While they are wonderful for newborns, they can prove a bit difficult to use once your baby gets bigger. Woven wraps might be a bit warm for

Pros of Babywearing at Disney World

There are many benefits of wearing your baby at Disney World. Here are some of the main ones:

• You can take weight off your feet and arms by wearing them in a carrier – especially with heavy toddlers that want to be held. This is great if you have small children who tire easily, or for those times when you want to take a rest but don’t want to put your child in a stroller.
• You can have both hands free to do things like push a stroller, hold an older child’s hand and take photos on your phone/camera. Plus this allows you to fully participate in the fun activities throughout the parks!
• Babies who are worn cry less – and it’s always a good idea to limit crying as much as possible!
• Some children may have an easier time having nap time on the go, rather than having to run back to the hotel room. This is great because you can then avoid the trouble of finding a place for them to sleep, or having them sit in a stroller while everyone else does rides.
• Having your baby in a carrier can make long days during a Disney vacation with a young child a little bit easier.
• If you are taking taking advantage of Disney transportation, it can be simpler to have your baby in a carrier rather than a stroller that you have to fold up

Cons of Babywearing at Disney World

There are a few downsides to babywearing at Disney World. Here is what you need to keep in mind:

• You will have an added expense as you’ll likely need to purchase a carrier if you don’t already own one. However, there is really no way around this since carriers can be expensive and you can’t carry a child around for an entire day without one!
• You need to make sure that your carrier is comfortable. If you are not used to wearing it, do some trial runs at home before you go to the parks so you’ll know how it feels and if it’s something that will wear you out during a whole day of walking around.
• You need to make sure that your carrier is safe and secure before attaching the baby to you. Never try wearing a carrier for the first time with your baby in it while at Disney World! And never use an older model carrier, no matter how much you may love it.
• If you wear your baby and they fall asleep, it can be harder to leave them with someone else while you go on a ride. If they are asleep in a stroller, this will be easier.
• You don’t have an easy place to put your child’s sippy cup like you would with a stroller

If you’re heading to Disney World with your little one, don’t leave home without one of these best baby carriers for Disney World!

All of our top picks are great options that will make sure that your child is comfortable and you are supported during those long walks at the Happiest Place on earth.

More Posts You Might Enjoy:

• 6+ BEST Toddler Shoes for Disney World and Disneyland Vacations
• The Best Legoland Rides for Toddlers in Florida and California
• 20+ Airplane Snacks for Toddlers + Expert Tips for Success
• The Best Rides for Toddlers at Disney World + Disneyland

The post The Top 6 Best Baby Carriers for Disney World appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

We all know that the weather in Florida can be unpredictable at times. Chances are, there WILL be rain in the forecast – and if you forgot your ponchos at home, you might find yourself scrambling to find one in desperation.

Fortunately, rain ponchos can be purchased in the parks and at resorts. While we recommend checking out our guide to the best rain ponchos for Disney World and purchasing them before we go – we know how easy it is to forget items like this! Here are some of the locations you can look for rain ponchos at.

Resort Gift Shops

You can most certainly find ponchos available at all the resort gift shops (unless they are out of stock).

We stayed at the Pop Century resort, and they kept them behind the counter. I suspect they are items that might be shoplifted easily, so it makes sense for them to be there. They sold adult and child-sized ponchos – adorned with Mickey Mouse.

Park Gift Shops

Pretty much any gift shop in the Disney World Parks are going to have ponchos (unless, again, they have run out).

If you are having trouble finding a gift shop, just open the Disney World app and search “poncho” and you should be able to find a location near you that typically has them in stock.

You can also go to the Disney Parks website and search for ponchos or gift shops there.

How much do Disney World ponchos cost?

As with everything at Disney World, you are going to pay a premium price for the ponchos. While the prices may vary depending on where you buy them and time of year, they are usually between $9-12.

Keep in mind that even if they cost you a pretty penny, they are reusable and high-quality, so you know you’ll be able to use them over and over again.

Find them Offsite

If you aren’t in a rush to get a poncho but you arrived on your trip without one, one of the best things you could do is just head over to a local Walmart or Target. They almost always have ponchos in stock, and there are some locations. The Dollar Tree might also have some in stock, but because they are so inexpensive, they tend to be grabbed up quickly.

You might want to consider buying multiples of them and keep them in your car and/or large bag, so it’s easy for other members of your group to grab one too without having to look around the house or hotel room for theirs.

Keep in mind that if it’s raining, you might have a hard time finding them. Make an effort to pick some up BEFORE the rain begins!

Have fun and stay dry! And please share your experiences with buying Disney World ponchos with us in the comments below.

More Articles You Might Enjoy:

• 6+ BEST Toddler Shoes for Disney World and Disneyland Vacations
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• Myth versus Fact: Can you wear Flip Flops to Disneyland and Disney World?

The post Where Can You Buy Rain Ponchos at Disney World? Your Complete Guide appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

It can be a daunting task to find the perfect shoes for toddlers to wear at Disney World. With so many options available, it can be hard to know which ones will be the most comfortable and practical for a day of walking around the theme park. To help make things a little bit easier, we’ve put together a list of the five best toddler shoes for Disney World.

We all know that Disneyland and Disney World with a Toddler can be a little bit daunting. If you have a toddler like ours, you’ll find yourself with a child who is wanting to walk half the day and be in the stroller the other half of the time.

You may also enjoy: The Best Disney World Park for Toddlers (From a Toddler Mom)

The importance of the right shoes for these trips cannot be understated – even for a toddler. You want something supportive and sturdy – as well as protective – as they trounce through the parks. The last thing you want is a toddler complaining of hurt feet during your Disney vacation.

While there are many types of shoes that should work just fine, here is a list of the best shoes that would be fantastic options for little feet in the Disney Parks.

Stride Rite

We are huge fans of Stride Rite shoes for our kids – we had a great pair of sandals that have lasted through three children (until we lost one of the shoes at Legoland this year. Long story). I really think they are some of the best kid’s shoe brands around. They offer very high-quality shoes for toddlers.

You can buy them on their website, Amazon, and various places in the store.

Stride Rite has a lot of different shoe options – from sandals to traditional tennis shoes – and they are just built really sturdily. I feel like they change the names of their shoes pretty frequently, but here is a couple that would be great for the parks:

KEEN Child Sandal

As I looked at different reviews, over and over I came across KEEN sandals being a top recommendation. They have a great reputation for making comfortable sandals for all ages. These are definitely worth the extra cost and many believe they are the best choice for toddlers.

If you want a shoe that’s easy to slip on (like a sandal) but doesn’t risk your little one’s toes being smashed by the wheels of the stroller or other people who aren’t paying attention, this is a great brand.

They have various brands, but the KEEN Unisex-Child Seacamp Ii CNX Sandal seems to have the best reviews. It has different colors and has sizes for children 1-8.

Crocs Bump It Clog

The Crocs Bump It Clog is another great option for toddlers who want shoes that are both comfortable and stylish. Okay, maybe stylish isn’t the right word. But I often think that Crocs are a great brand of shoes to have at the parks.

These clogs are especially good for young children, as they have a ‘bump it’ system that allows you to adjust the straps so they fit your child. This ensures that the shoe will stay securely on their foot without hurting or cutting off the circulation.

These can be a nice pair of shoes to pull out for tired feet at the end of the day. It can be a good idea to have a couple different shoes to switch off between.

Native Jefferson slip-ons

The Native Jefferson slip-ons are another great option for toddlers who want a stylish and comfortable shoe. These shoes are made with a suede upper and a rubber sole, which makes them durable and long lasting. Plus, they come in a variety of cute colors so your child will look stylish as well as comfortable.

They are also “water friendly” and fast drying, which is essential when you are in Florida. They also boast of a rubber sole, are slip on, and easy to clean.

Under Armour Unisex Infant Assert 9 Alternate Closure Running Shoe

If you’re looking for athletic shoes that provide excellent support and comfort, the Under Armour Unisex Infant Assert Running Shoes are a great option. These shoes are made with a breathable mesh upper and a rubber sole, which makes them perfect for running around on hot days. Under Armour is known for its quality products – they are a bit more than I usually would spend on a toddler, but they do seem like they’d hold up quite well.

TSUKIHOSHI Racer

This is a classic sneaker available in a variety of bright and fun colors, which makes for cute comfortable shoes. It has a wide toe box (so perfect for those of us who have kids with chubby feet), and they are slip resistant.

I also love that these are washer friendly, so they can easily be cleaned up and appear to be waterproof. They are also really easy to get on and off, and they have a velcro strap to help keep the shoes on. They have a heal stabilizer, which seemed interesting to me! These are very comfortable walking shoes.

Converse Chuck Taylor Low Top Sneaker

Is there anything more classic than Converse Chuck Taylor shoes? I think not – and toddlers look adorable in them.

But in the park, we need something functional as well, and these are definitely an excellent choice for little kids. They are made of lightweight, breathable canvas and are super easy to slip on and off. They also have a supportive, rubber sole which is a must for the parks!

Additional Tips:

Here are a few additional tips for making life a little bit easier with your child’s shoes and walking in the park:

Break Them In

Never wear a brand new pair of shoes to Disneyland and Disney World – TRUST me. Even if your toddler isn’t walking a ton, just walking a little ways in shoes you aren’t used to can be miserable. Make sure you have your toddler regularly wear their shoes for at least a few weeks before your trip for maximum comfort.

Make sure they are waterproof

Disney World is known for its rainy days and sudden rainstorms, and trust me, you don’t want to be caught in one of these with the wrong shoes. When we went last year, we were caught in a massive storm where we were wading through about 6″ of water. Let’s just say, we didn’t go home with all the shoes we came with. Even going on certain water rides – like Splash Mountain – make it necessary to have shoes that are water-resistant. Make sure the shoes you get (for everyone!) are waterproof and water-resistant.

Comfortable socks are important

Sometimes your socks can make a world of difference when it comes to your shoes, especially with toddlers. Make sure you bring along some socks that make walking more comfortable.

Protect the toes!

While it might be tempting to throw on some flip flops or open-toed sandals – the Disney parks are PACKED. I get my feet trampled on all the time and having open-toed sandals put you at great risk for that. Make sure your child has closed-toe shoes!

Finding the best option for your toddler at the Disney theme parks doesn’t have to be hard. We hope that you’ve found some good tips for the type of shoe that will leave your toddler with happy feet after the long hours of walking in the Disney World Parks.

More Posts You Might Enjoy:

• The Best Legoland Rides for Toddlers in Florida and California
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• The Best Places to Buy Disney Clothes for Your Disney Vacation

The post 6+ BEST Toddler Shoes for Disney World and Disneyland Vacations appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

Going to Disneyland with a toddler and other young children is a different experience than when you go as a teenager or with other adults. It can be SO magical – but it’s important to manage your expectations a little bit.

As my mom put it, you have to realize the trip isn’t just about you. It’s about making sure everyone has a good time – your toddler included.

Fortunately, Disneyland was built with families in mind. I love this quote that is underneath the Walt Disney statue in the center of Disneyland:

I think most of all, what I want Disneyland to be is a happy place . . . where parents and children can have fun, together.

And I really believe that’s what Disney World and Disneyland are! However, there are rides your toddler won’t be able to go on (or won’t want to!)

So, if you are about to head to the parks with your toddler, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into the best rides for Toddlers at Disney World and Disneyland.

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Factors to Keep in Mind

Sound level

Some children are more sensitive to loud noises than others. For instance, our five-year-old hates anything loud, but noises don’t even faze our two-year-old.

Some rides might not be scary, but they might be really loud, making it unpleasant. Some of the older rides that may seem harmless can be really loud! I do think noise-canceling earmuffs can be a good investment.

Drops

Disneyland is a land of drops! Many rides have small drops. I don’t think most of the rides on this list will have scary drops, but if your child is nervous about them at all, a small drop can result in big drama.

Dark Rides

Many rides are quite dark (not content-wise, but they are literally lacking light). If your child is afraid of the dark, sticking to the brightly lit rides can be a better idea.

Long lines

My kids actually do quite well when it comes to lines, but there are some rides with lines that I can’t even tolerate! It’s a good idea to learn about what rides tend to have the longest lines so you can plan those toward the earlier hours of your day or during times when rides might not be as busy – especially if it’s a must-ride for your kiddos.

Rides with Height Restrictions

First, let’s talk about the rides with height requirements of 40″ or taller.

It’s a good idea to know about these beforehand so you don’t hype up a ride, only to tell your kid they can’t ride them!

Many of these don’t even make my list of best rides for kids, but it’s good to be aware!

Disney world

• The Barnstormer – 36”
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – 40”
• Seven Dwarves Mine Train – 38”
• Space Mountain – 44”
• Splash Mountain – 40”
• Tomorrow Speedway – 32”
• Mission: Space – 40”
• Test Track – 40”
• Alien Swirling Saucers – 32”
• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run – 38”
• Rock ‘n Roller coaster – 48”
• Slinky Dog Dash – 38”
• Star Tours – 40”
• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance – 40”
• Twilight Zone – 40”
• Avatar Flight of Passage – 44”
• DINOSAUR – 40”
• Expedition Everest – 44”
• Kali River Rapids – 40”
• Primeval Whirl – 48”

Disneyland/California Adventure

• Indiana Jones – 46″
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – 40″
• Matterhorn Bobsleds – 40″
• Autotopia – 54″ to drive alone (32″ to ride at all)
• Space Mountain – 40″
• Splash Mountain – 40″
• Star Tours – 40″
• Grizzly River Run – 42″
• Soarin’ Over The World – 40″
• Twilight Zone Tower of Terror – 40″
• Mission: Breakout! – 40″
• California Screamin’ 48″
• Goofy’s Sky School – 40″
• Silly Symphony Swings – 40″
• Radiator Springs Racers – 40″

Best Rides for Toddlers

There are a ton of rides for people under 40″, but to be honest, some of them are totally lame or scary. Our kids have been absolutely TERRIFIED of some of the “kiddie” rides, such as the Pinocchio’s Daring Adventure, Snow White’s Scary Adventures, and the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. They thought they were too loud, dark, and scary. So we avoided anything like that after the first few rides. Similar rides to those would be Alice in Wonderland and Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride.

You know your toddler best, though, so try and be aware of how you think they’ll respond.

Here are some rides and attractions that I think just about all toddlers enjoy at Disney World and Disneyland.

Also, you will see I don’t mention the live shows that they have in the various parks. If YOU think your child can sit through a 60-minute show, then, by all means, take them to these. But if your kids are like mine as toddlers, that’s a lot to ask – regardless of how engaging the show is!

In general, we tend to avoid rides with water, big drops, or lots of darkness/loud noises with toddlers, but again, you know your child best.

I have divided each list by park in Disneyland and Disney World.

Disney World

Magic Kingdom

• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin – dark and loud at times, though every toddler I’ve gone on this with has loved it
• Journey of the Little Mermaid
• magic carpets of Aladdin
• Casey Jr. Circus Train
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant – one of my personal favorites!
• Jungle Cruise
• Mad Tea Party
• The Many Adventures of Winnine the Pooh – this one can be surprisingly scary for some kids, but it’s overall a very fun ride for youngsters
• Peter Pan’s Flight – typically has long lines all day long. Jump on this first if you don’t want to miss it!
• Prince Charming Regal Carousel
• Pirate’s of the Carribbean – this one is dark, has drops, and it can be a little scary, but it’s a ride the whole family can go on. My toddlers have typically done well on it.
• Tom Sawyer’s Island – not really a ride but great for exploring
• Swiss Family Robinson
• Walt Disney World Railroad
• Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress

Animal Kingdom

• Na’via River Journey
• Kilimanjaro Safaris
• Flying Dino
• it’s dough to be a bug – this is a fun show, though it does get a little bit intense at times
• Maharajah Jungle Trek
• TriceraTop Spin
• Wildlife Express Train
• Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail

Epcot

• Meet and Greet Anna and Elsa
• Beauty and the Beast Sing Along
• Frozen Ever After
• The Seas with Nemo and Friends
• Turtle Talk with Crush
• Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros – this can have a deceptively long line

Hollywood Studios

• Alien Swirling saucers
• For the First Time in Forever Sing a long
• Muppet Vision 3D
• Toy Story Mania
• Voyage of the Little Mermaid
• Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway 

Disneyland

• Disneyland Railroad
• Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
• Jungle Cruise
• Tarzan’s Tree House
• The Many Adventure’s of Winnie the Pooh
• Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island
• Goofy’s Playhouse
• Donald’s Boat
• Chip ‘n Dales Treehouse
• Minnie’s House
• Mickey’s House
• it’s a small world
• Peter Pan’s Flight
• Storybrook Land Canal Boats
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant
• Casey Jr. Circus Train
• King Arthur Carousel
• Mad Tea Party
• Buzz Lightyear Astroblasters
• Disneyland Monorail
• Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage – I hate this one and often feel chlostrophobic…but most kids love it 🙂

California Adventure

• Monster’s Inc. Mike and Sulley to the Rescue
• Turtle Talk with Crush
• Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree (32″)
• Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters (32″)
• Redwood Creek Challenge Trail
• Web Slingers: A Spider–Man Adventure
• Golden Zephyr
• The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
• Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind
• Toy Story Midway Mania!
• Pixar Pal-A-Round
• Jessie’s Critter Carousel

Shows and Entertainment

There are so many family-friendly shows and parades around the parks. They certainly know how to put on a good show!

One time, we happened to be walking around in California Adventure when their Pixar Parade started. I think it was around 5:00? This is a must-see. The streets weren’t crowded at all – our oldest was right up to the street and interacted a lot with the performers. They had characters from many Pixar movies that we love, and it was so fun to watch the kids. I think this is a great one that is not crowded.

I absolutely love the Disneyland parades. They are 100% worth staying late to watch. This one you really have to get there early to get a good seat. We showed up an hour early, and we could hardly see! It’s really magical, though, and I highly recommend seeing it one night.

Afterward, you can see the nightly fireworks, which are incredible. I do recommend getting some ear protection for your children, though. Our kids love these, but they don’t love the sound. There are some restaurants in California Adventure where you can get priority seating at this show if you eat there, so that’s something to consider, too, with younger kids since it can be hard to get a good seat.

I have never seen the World of Color in California Adventure, but I have heard it’s pretty amazing for all ages.

There are a lot of other types of entertainment in both parks. Here are a few we enjoyed or that we’ve heard are good for children:

Character Breakfast

I wasn’t sure if we wanted to do a character breakfast, but I’m so glad we splurged on it. It was one of the coolest experiences, and Jack LOVED it. We got an early reservation at 7:45 AM for the Surf’s Up! Mickey’s breakfast, but I was so glad we did. We got there before a lot of people, so our kids got more attention. You should have seen Jack’s face light up when the characters came to our table.

The breakfast was amazing, too! I couldn’t get enough of it. The banana’s foster french toast was to die for, and they had everything you could think of. I highly recommend doing one of these breakfasts. It’s a great way for the kids to see LOTS of characters at once, and then you don’t have to spend as much time in long lines in the park to see them!

Enchanted Tiki Room

This is a delightful animatronic show that takes place in an air-conditioned building. It’s great for all ages, and I think children can really enjoy it – especially if you grab a Dole Whip beforehand!

Hyperion Theater: 

This is where they have Broadway shows, such as Frozen. Definitely a must-watch for all ages, and it’s a great place to cool off!

Finding Characters

Children love seeing the characters. I think one of the best ways to see them (especially princesses) is by doing a character breakfast, as you can avoid long lines. However, you can definitely see them throughout the park.

We found that California Adventure had more characters just wandering around, and they often had fewer lines there. The Disney characters are dressed up in more “Hollywood” clothes, so classic characters are better to look for in Disneyland.

We found that the best time to get short lines was right after the character goes on break. It’s kind of annoying when you get there, and the character is going for a break, but if you wait for a few minutes for them to come back, you can get right to the front of the line.

I think the Disneyland app is an awesome app to download because it tells you where certain characters will be during the day. There always seem to be several characters right at the entrance of Disneyland.

There is a Princess area in Disneyland that is great if your child really wants to see the princesses. These lines can get REALLY long, but I recommend waiting in them if it’s important to your child!

Toon Town:

This is a great place for children in Disneyland, though it felt pretty crowded. I remember going here as a child with my mom because everyone else was going on Indiana Jones, and I loved it! They have all sorts of fun houses (like Minnie, Mickey’s, Chip and Dale’s Treehouse, etc.) as well as a few rides.

Main Street

Disneyland Main Street has a lot of fun things on it. You can see characters, get yummy treats like ice cream, and even get your child’s silhouette! They have a cinema that shows old Disney cartoons, which is a fun way to relax with tired or hot kids. There is a street trolley you can ride on to Fantasy land, and there is also a carriage! I recommend spending some time here.

Downtown Disney and Disney Springs

There’s a lot of yummy food!- I love Downtown Disney. It has shopping, restaurants, etc. Some of it might be a bit boring for kids, but a lego place is pretty cool.

Disney Experience App

It is free, so you need to download it! It gives you wait times, tells you how to get to places where you can find certain foods (we used that a lot!), tells you if a ride is closed (even just temporarily), first aid and height restrictions, and much more. If you get the photo pass, it is easier to add pictures throughout the day to your photo pass. It’s free, so you need to download it!

Rider Switch

Even if you spend most of the time wanting to go on rides with your children, I recommend making sure you can go on some “big kid” rides. Disneyland has a great Rider Switch program in place, where, if you have children that can’t go on ride, you are given a voucher (for Fast Pass rides) to go to the front of the line and ride again. With the non-Fast Pass rides, you are able to ask for a Rider Switch and do the same.

More Posts You Might Enjoy:

• The Best Age for Disneyland: The Ultimate Guide to Help You Decide
• Multigenerational Family Vacation to Disney – Tips for Success!
• First Time in Disney World: 5 Mistakes To Avoid Making

The post The Best Rides for Toddlers at Disney World + Disneyland appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

Walt Disney World can feel really overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time at Disney.

It actually functions pretty well like clockwork – after visiting many other theme parks, I always think about how much smoothly things run at a Disney Park.

However, a first time at Disney World can feel messy and chaotic if you don’t understand how to plan your trip to be as successful as possible. Without a proper framework in mind, your first visit can turn out less than magical.

And we don’t want that to happen! Here are a few of the most common mistakes we see people making during their first trip to Disney World.

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Not Anticipating Morning Crowds

One of the biggest mistakes it is easy to make with your first time at Disney World is forgetting to plan your mornings. You may arrive super excited and possibly tired.

Chances are you planned a full day at one of the Disney theme parks after the night of your check-in. However, if you aren’t careful you can lose those important morning hours, so fast and arrive far too late to enjoy a full day. The first couple of hours after park opening are essential for getting the most experiences crammed into a single day. There are fewer lines and you can easily take on three or four attractions before the crowds come.

If you don’t plan your mornings, you will likely run late and miss this opportunity. Make sure to account for travel time and try to make your morning routine flow as smoothly as possible so you can be out the door in record time. Make sure you have a plan for breakfast and stay aware of the time if you are dining at the hotel.

If you are only planning to visit each park once during your trip, it’s essential to include the mornings in your planning.

Not Using My Disney Experience to Research Parks

My Disney Experience is indispensable when planning a Walt Disney World vacation. It’s an excellent planning tool and it helps manage your whole itinerary including park tickets and reservations.

Unfortunately, a lot of guests who are planning for their first time at Disney World don’t think to use the maps in the app to their full advantage.

You don’t have to wait until you are there to start navigating the parks. Use the My Disney Experience app to learn the layout so you can plan better. Get a sense of where the parks and surrounding resorts are in relation to each other.

You can even keep tabs on wait times as the date of your booked vacation approaches. This is so useful in adjusting your plans to get the most out of your day by leveraging wait times at different hours.

Not Leaving Time to Explore

A Disney World vacation does not come cheap, so it’s tempting to cut down on the number of nights to avoid additional room rates.

Most guests enjoying their first time at Disney World think they only need four days because there are four parks. While you can certainly do this and still have a great time, you will miss out on some other attractions.

That’s a big mistake because not only are there tons of other attractions and recreational activities at Disney World, there are dozens of Disney resorts to visit and explore. It’s advisable to leave time to experience these, especially since you will need a break after two or more days of nonstop theme parks.

Overdoing it on Park Hopper Options

One way to get around a shorter stay at Walt Disney World is to use the park hopper options in your ticket package. This is a great way to visit all four parks if you have less time. However, the longer your stay, the less there is a need for this additional charge. Of course, that doesn’t stop the cost from going up for each additional day. You purchase the option for every ticket and you pay for the option so it costs you whether you park hop or not.

Even worse than overpaying for an option that you won’t need for most days of your stay is the Park Hopper Plus option which doubles down on the upcharge to include water parks. The problem is apparent to Disney World experts, but for the first time at Disney World, you may not realize there is little to no value in an option that allows you to visit two theme parks and one water park in one day. The solution? If you want to hop to a water park, just buy your ticket at the gate. It usually is cheaper than purchasing the park hopper plus pass.

Missing Out on Good Meals

Even many first-timers know by now that it’s important to make dining reservations for certain experiences. Signature dining, Fine dining, and Themed dining experiences are the hardest to book. What you may not know is that even though they don’t take reservations, quick-service restaurants can be difficult to get a table at. Especially at peak times. The way around this is to stagger your meal times against the crowd to increase your potential for more seating. Another solution is to use mobile order so you don’t have to wait in line.

It can be a bummer if you’ve had your heart set on a certain place to eat, only to realize reservations have been sold out for months or the quick service line is out the door. Research food ahead of time to ensure you know exactly how and where to get it! We also think this is important so you can make sure you don’t end up with some of the less delicious foods!

If you have missed out on reservations for a restaurant, be sure to check in the days leading up to for reservations that have popped up. These will occasionally pop up as people cancel reservations and you might be able to grab a coveted spot.

Above all, you should be well acquainted with the restaurants in the park and have a solid approach to mealtimes. Make sure you have snacks so you don’t have to wander around hungry.

Overall, a trip to Disney World is amazing but can be easily overwhelming to a newbie. By following a few of the tips above, you will surely have a trip that goes a little bit more smoothly. Be sure to share in the comments any mistakes you made during your first time at Disney World!

More Posts You Might Enjoy:

• The Best Age for Disneyland: The Ultimate Guide to Help You Decide
• Five Walt Disney World Secrets You Might Not Know
• Disneyland Transportation: Getting Around In AND Outside the Park

The post First Time in Disney World: 5 Mistakes To Avoid Making appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.