Is Disneyland an appropriate travel destination when expecting a baby? Not all amusement parks are a good idea during pregnancy but Disneyland has lots to do, even for expectant mothers. Keep reading for the tips to know before you go, including vacation advice from early pregnancy to the third trimester. Get the free printable list of rides and attractions that are most ideal in this ultimate guide of what to do when pregnant at Disneyland!
Mom Rewritten uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the links in these posts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see the Privacy Policy and Disclosures tab.
This article first published on September 25, 2014 and has been updated and republished with a new date.
Pregnant at Disneyland
You can have a magical time at Disneyland, even while pregnant! If you think you’ll be relegated to sitting on the bench, waiting for your family, you’re wrong. But what exactly can you do on a Disneyland vacation while pregnant? If this is your first time at Disneyland, you might not be aware of the attractions that are baby bump appropriate.
This is my personal experience of traveling while pregnant to Disneyland. I’ve been to Disneyland three times while pregnant, once with each of my children.
The first time I was 34 weeks along (around 7 1/2 months). The second time I was pregnant 12 weeks (around 3 months). The last baby (twelve years between the first and the last), I was 35 weeks!
Each visit offered its own unique challenges. When you know what to expect when you’re expecting at the Happiest Place on Earth, you’re sure to have a great experience. There is plenty to do, see, eat and enjoy even while pregnant at Disneyland!
This article will outline exactly what a pregnant person can do and what they should skip. There are also lots of tested tips on self-care, dining, suggestions on what to wear and non-ride entertainment to get off your feet.
What Disneyland Rides Are Safe During Pregnancy?
On a trip to Disneyland (while I was 35 weeks pregnant), there was another pregnant mama vacationing with her family. However instead of standing in line, she was waiting at the exit for them.
We struck up a conversation and I let her know that she could safely go on just about any ride in Disneyland, save for just a few. She was so happy to hear since she’d already spent most of the day waiting outside the rides for her family!
In general, the rides without height restrictions are usually acceptable for pregnant ladies to enjoy. Keep reading for the free printable ride checklist itinerary!
Rides to Avoid at Disneyland When Pregnant
There are only a few rides at the Disneyland Resort parks that offer ride restrictions for expectant moms. These include mostly vigorous thrill rides, rides with sudden drops, and/or rides that may be jerky or jarring to the body.
Do not ignore those warnings, even while still in the first trimester. The sharp stops and G-force pressure of certain rides can injure your delicate cargo. It’s just not worth the risk. Signs posted outside each attraction will have a Disneyland expectant mothers advisory and will detail if pregnant moms should skip.
Disneyland Rides with Expectant Mother Warnings
Disneyland Park rides that pregnant women should not ride:
- Autopia
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Chip ‘n’ Dale’s GADGETCoaster
- Indiana Jones Adventure
- Matterhorn Bobsleds
- Splash Mountain
- Star Tours – The Adventure Continues
- Space Mountain
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
- Rise of the Resistance
Disney California Adventure park rides that expectant moms should not ride:
- Goofy’s Sky School
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission BREAKOUT!
- Incredicoaster
- Radiator Springs Racers
- Grizzly River Run
These Rides Might Be Awkward for Pregnancy
Even if a ride or attraction is okay for expectant moms, you might find that navigating your 8-month pregnant belly into some of these might be a challenge.
Consider giving these Disneyland park attractions a pass if your mobility is challenged.
Fantasyland Dark Rides – In Fantasyland, there are many dark rides that are just fine for expectant moms. However several have small vehicles that may prove challenging to get into. The single lap bar makes things even more awkward. Consider passing on Snow White’s Enchanted Wish, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride and Pinocchio’s Daring Journey.
Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage– A smooth ride that is safe for expectant moms. However you’ll have to climb down and up a steep spiral staircase and sit in a narrow flip-down chair in a tight space.
Casey Jr. Circus Train – If riding this Fantasyland attraction, opt for an open car instead of a caged vehicle.
Storybook Land Canal Boats – Another Fantasyland ride, this ride requires stepping down into a rocking boat. Skip if you have difficulty balancing or with deep steps up and down.
Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes – A pregnant lady may have challenges getting in and out of the canoe. There’s a certain amount of exertion required to paddle the oar. Plus you’ll be un-shaded and it gets hot out there on the water.
Astro Orbitor – This Tomorrowland classic is safe to ride. However, the high sides and low seats are tough to get in and out of without help.
Pregnant Women Can Ride – But Will You Want To?
This article includes a list of the Disney approved safe rides that expectant mothers can go in within the California theme park. But just because you can, there’s still good reason to skip.
That first trimester can be a doozy with morning sickness. Throw in a few too many spins on the Mad Tea Party and you might be feeling extra nauseated. If you’re feeling nauseous, check out this post about dealing with motion sickness at Disney. Then consider sitting out the following attractions that are known to trigger nausea:
- Astro Orbitor
- Mad Tea Party
- Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
- Pixar Pal-A-Round
- Silly Symphony Swings
Keep Up the Healthy Eating While Pregnant at Disneyland
Naturally you’ll want to indulge in all the fun Disneyland treats during your vacation! And so long as your doctor doesn’t have you on a restricted diet (like for gestational diabetes) you should still be able to treat yourself occasionally. These are some suggestions on dining at Disneyland while pregnant.
- Keep a limit on greasier food to help with indigestion and heartburn that can be common in the first and third trimesters.
- Continue to eat plenty of fruits and veggies during your trip. Request an extra side in restaurants to ensure you’re getting your share of fiber.
- Limit your sodium intake and stay well hydrated to reduce swelling in your feet and legs.
- Disneyland permits guests to pack their own food and water inside the park. Pack your own snacks to make sure you are getting the healthy and nutritious food you (and your baby) need.
- Drink plenty of water, especially when the weather is warm. Bring in your own filled water bottles or refillable water bottle. There are water refill stations located around the theme parks.
- Don’t forget to pack your prenatal vitamins!
READ MORE: For more ideas on eating healthy at Disneyland parks, see this post on How to Eat Healthfully at Disneyland.
What to Bring if You’re Pregnant at Disney?
In addition to packing your usual Disney Parks day bag, there are separate items to bring that you might not have considered.
I’ve compiled a list of expectant mom must-haves. Check out this post about what pregnant moms should pack for a Disney vacation. READ MORE: Pregnant at Disney Packing List Printable.
Book a Nearby Hotel
The long trudge back to the parking lot or hotel can do anyone in, let alone exhausted pregnant people in their second trimester! When booking your hotel, consider making accommodations within close walking distance.
If you plan to return to the hotel mid-day for a nap or swim break, you’ll want to ensure the room is nearby. These are the hotels that are the closest walking distance to Disneyland’s front gate.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa – The premier hotel at the Disneyland Resort, this hotel has a private entrance and exit into the Disney California Adventure theme park.
Disneyland Hotel – Classic hotel at the end of Downtown Disney. A short walk to the Monorail, which transports ticketed guests into Disneyland park.
Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance – The highlight of this hotel is access to the rooftop waterpark, included in the cost of the hotel room.
Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel – Just a short walk to the bus circle and guests of this hotel can catch the complimentary shuttle bus.
My travel partners at Get Away Today offer both discounted Disneyland tickets and Anaheim-area hotels to fit any budget! Many hotels include exclusive discounts like free parking, complimentary breakfast or even free nights, just for booking through Get Away Today.
Disneyland tickets purchased now are good through December 31st, 2024. Purchase your multi-day tickets through Get Away Today now.
When you’re ready to book your Disneyland vacation, my friends at Get Away Today are ready to help! Mention code REWRITTEN to receive an extra discount off your SoCal vacation package of two or more days.
Maternity Clothes for Disneyland
There’s no reason to abandon the idea of wearing cute Disney-inspired outfits on your vacation! There are plenty of adorable Disney themed maternity items. This is also a great time to try Disney Bounding with the clothing you already own. These are additional tips for dressing at Disneyland:
Keep It Simple with a T-Shirt
Wear a basic pair of your comfiest maternity pants or shorts each day, then switch out with a fun Disney themed t-shirt.
Dress in Layers
Pregnant mamas tend to fluctuate temperature throughout the day. Dress in layers so if you get hot or chilled you can add or remove layers as needed.
Pack Lightly
Ditch the heavy purse and pack light with a small backpack or tote that you can put on and take off easily. Or consider renting a locker to store your items until you need them.
Best Shoes for Disney
Don’t forget your feet! It’s ideal to bring several pairs into the parks to switch out during the day. Wear comfortable shoes and then switch to the second pair if you are prone to swelling feet.
I like to start off with tennis shoes and switch over to well-cushioned sandals in the evening. Read more about the best shoes for Disney.
How Can a Pregnant Woman Relax and Rest at Disneyland?
When I visited Disneyland in the later months of my pregnancy, I did a bit more resting in the shade with my feet on a bench instead of standing in queues. There are plenty of outdoor places you can rest your swollen feet and still enjoy the Parks.
- Find a shady spot and a bench to yourself. Consider bringing a small pillow to set at your back or to sit on to make yourself more comfortable.
- A grand circle tour on the Disneyland Railroad offers almost 20 minutes of rest and fresh air along with a relaxing tour around Disneyland Park.
- The Tale of the Lion King show offers bench seating in the shade and a live musical stage show.
- Rest on a bench on the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail while the kids tackle the ropes and rock climb.
- Stake out a great seat on the parade route ahead of time and save places for your family to join you later.
- Pull up a chair and enjoy the cool air that blows across the waters of the Rivers of America on the Mark Twain Riverboat.
Best Air-Conditioned Attractions for Expecting Mothers
Keep rested inside by finding attractions that combine sitting along with cool air.
- The Disneyland Story presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln – Soak in a little history inside the comfortable theater that rarely has a wait.
- Enchanted Tiki Room – Whimsical indoor show with cushioned benches. Grab a Dole Whip at the Tiki Juice Bar outside. You can bring a snack into the show!
- It’s a Small World – The looping music is worth 15-minutes inside this cool and relaxing boat ride. You might want to ride it twice!
- Disney Junior – Live on Stage! – If you have little ones, get there early for the show. There are benches across the back of the theater reserved for guests that need them. Otherwise you’ll have to sit on the carpet.
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic – Cushy theater chairs and air conditioning, this 4D show is a can’t miss.
- Indoor Dining – Plenty of full-service restaurants have both outdoor and indoor dining that gives you both a break and a healthy meal. Book advance dining reservations before your trip. No ADR? Use the tips in this article about how to eat at Disneyland without reservations.
Bathroom Breaks at Disneyland
If little miss or mister is frequently doing the hot-diggety-dog dance on your bladder, consider reviewing the Disneyland app map online before your trip. You’ll be able to see where restrooms are before you need them.
On the app, click the navigation button, then the drop down to find restroom locations. If you can’t find the restroom using the app, ask a Cast Member.
Always take a potty break before getting on a ride (you don’t want to get stuck when the urge strikes!).
Other Things to Do at Disneyland While Pregnant
Once you’ve done the rides, what other things are there to do at Disneyland when pregnant? Greeting with favorite characters at the meet ‘n greets, shopping on Main Street USA, and watching parades are popular Disneyland pastimes.
Nighttime spectaculars like fireworks, World of Color and Fantasmic! often have long wait times leading up to the shows. This means standing on your feet while waiting for the presentation to begin. Consider booking a special dining or dessert package to minimize wait time and ensure a viewing area during the show. Check the Disneyland website for reservation details.
NEED MORE? Check out this additional list of overlooked and hidden gems in this article about other things to do at Disneyland.
Prenatal Care on a Disneyland Trip
Now is not the time to push your vacation to the limits. You might want to take full advantage of the pre-baby vacation but it’s more important to listen to your body.
Pregnancy can be very hard and with exhaustion and discomfort already at the max, there is no need to exacerbate any issues. These are a few self-care suggestions:
Take Breaks
Before you hit full exhaustion, go back to your hotel room for a refreshing swim or to take a nap.
Get Enough Sleep
Ensure you’re getting plenty of sleep, even if that means going to bed while everyone else in your group is still up late watching the fireworks.
Rent a Scooter
If you are truly miserable and can’t walk, consider renting a wheelchair or motorized scooter in the Park to minimize the amount of time you are on your feet.
Seek Medical Care
Disneyland and Disney California Adventure park each have their own First Aid, separate from the Baby Care Center. Take a break inside the First Aid station if you feel uncomfortable or in pain. The First Aid staff can help you out and offer a place to lay down for a while.
Pregnancy Disneyland Ride Itinerary – FREE PRINTABLE
Grab this free printable to make planning your vacation easier if you’re pregnant at Disneyland. Print it out and take it with you on the trip, then checkmark off the attractions as you experience them!
This printable is for your own personal use and is not to be distributed without my written consent.
These are the rides that Disney notes are acceptable for expecting mothers. For personal medical advice, check with your doctor before riding.
FREE PRINTABLE – CLICK HERE: Pregnancy Disneyland Rides
