Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – How to Do Star Wars Land with Preschoolers & Toddlers

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Anyone planning a visit to Disneyland or Walt Disney World will be anxious for a visit to a galaxy far far away; namely the newly opened Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. As the mom of a just-turned-three year old, I had to wonder if a visit to Batuu with a little one would be worth the time? Is there anything to do in this Star Wars Land with kids? Fortunately I have been able to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge on multiple visits and have experienced almost everything this new area at Disneyland has to offer. From souvenirs to dining, entertainment and rides, this is my guide to taking on Disney’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with preschoolers and toddlers.

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Fitting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge into Your Day

If traveling to Disneyland with toddlers or preschoolers, how will you fit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge into your day while still making sure that little ones can experience the rest of the park? True, your toddlers and preschoolers may not be tall enough to experience the rides in Star Wars Land. However, there are still things in this new 14-acre Land that young Guests will be able to experience and enjoy. Keep reading to find out what preschoolers and toddlers can do in the Black Spire Outpost on the Planet Batuu.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Attractions

Batuu is host to a ride, several dining locations and many shops but are any of them toddler or preschool appropriate?

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

The minimum height requirement for this ride is 38″ tall. That eliminates many toddlers and some preschoolers from riding this attraction. Tall kid? Keep reading and I’ll tell you my thoughts on whether they should ride.

Also FASTPASS and MaxPass will not be utilized, at least initially, for this ride. That could result in a very long time to wait in line for stand-by even if you’re planning to use Rider Switch.

An alternate to using Rider Switch is to have adults and kids that meet the height requirement use the Single Rider line. Each guest in Single Rider will be seated separately in different ride vehicles and cannot request to be seated together. Therefore use of Single Rider only works for adults or families with older children who can be separated from their parents. Read more about Disneyland height requirements.

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

The second ride in Galaxy’s Edge, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance opened in January 2020. The height requirement is 40″, which may eliminate many preschoolers from riding. The trackless ride is a 20+ minute experience that’s full of unexpected turns. Given that it’s being touted as intense, it’s unlikely that this ride will be appropriate for toddlers or preschoolers.

Should a Preschooler Ride Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run?

My 2 year old son was tall for his age. He would have been able to reach the height requirement for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. But is the ride too intense for toddlers? What about preschoolers? After riding this attraction several times (including with my 3 year old daughter), these are my thoughts.

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is a realistic adventure that combines motion simulator, on-screen action that’s similar to a video game with interactive features. Each of the 6 people that are in the cockpit are assigned a “job” (two of each) – pilot (left and right), gunner and engineer.

Of these three positions, the best spot for a preschooler would be as a gunner. There is too much responsibility for the pilot and the gears are very sensitive. It is called out over the speaker to each pilot what they need to be doing during the ride (as in, “Left pilot, push the button”, etc).

The engineer position has quite a bit of activity, with multiple buttons lighting up that need to be pushed. It’s also in the back of the cockpit and children may have difficulty seeing the screen.

The gunner position is the easiest for a preschooler to navigate. There is one button that lights up brightly when it needs to be pushed repeatedly and another large button to push only a few times when it lights. Jobs are assigned via a labeled card while in queue but it’s appropriate to switch with your child to make sure they are given the gunner position.

Something to Keep in Mind About Smugglers Run with Kids

One additional note: Inside the cockpit are 6 individual chairs (three on each side with an aisle in the middle). Since the seats are separated you’ll be sitting apart from your child. I know that when my kids have been young, they’ve at least been comforted on intense rides by sitting close to me or even holding my hand. Preschoolers won’t be able to do this with you on this ride since everyone is buckled in separate chairs. You’ll need to know your kid and figure out ahead of time if this would be a problem.

For more touring tips and strategies for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge check out my friend Leslie’s post on Trips with Tykes.

My Experience Taking My Preschooler on the Millennium Falcon

During our last trip, my 3.5 year old daughter was tall enough to ride. She was given the gunner position and her uncle and I were in pilot. Other guests were seated in the engineer positions. When we entered the cockpit, the Cast Member told me that my daughter needed to be seated in front of me. He had my daughter sit in the front left pilot position and I was behind her, as gunner.

As you can see by her expression, she was not thrilled with this seating arrangement. In fact, she cried loudly through most of the ride. She refused to touch the buttons. Fortunately I was able to lean forward a bit in my seat behind her to touch her arms for reassurance. Knowing how poorly this went down with my daughter, I would only choose to sit next to her in the gunner or engineer position in the future.

Eating at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with Toddlers & Preschoolers

There are five locations inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to find food and snacks. None of the dining options  available in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge require Advance Dining Reservations (ADR). Oga’s Cantina does require reservations but this is mostly just for drinks. All are quick-service style and most offer Mobile Ordering (order food via the Disneyland app then click when you’re ready to pick up). This is a convenient time saver, especially for parents with hungry kiddos!

Food at Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge is touted as innovative and unique. But are the menu items in Star Wars Land too creative for toddler taste buds? Is there anything here that will appease a preschooler? Which location is the best Star Wars Land restaurant for toddlers or preschoolers? Click through this post about the best foods in Galaxy’s Edge around $15 from my friend Jessica at The Happiest Blog on Earth.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for Preschoolers & Toddlers – Kid’s Meals

If you’re looking for standard theme park fare, you won’t find it at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. There’s not a french fry to be found in this galaxy far far away. The kid’s menu is definitely on the more adventurous side. Two of the three items at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo are “Disney Check” healthier options. Based on these descriptions, would your preschooler try these dishes?

• Ithorian Garden Patty Bun (Disney Check) – bao bun with plant based patty, roasted carrots, Cutie orange and house dipping sauce
• A Taste of Takodana (Disney Check) – black bean hummus served with edible soil with nuts, chilled dipping vegetables, and multi-grain crisps
• Fried Endorian Tip-yip – crispy chicken served with macaroni & cheese and seasonal vegetables

All Star Wars kid’s meals at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo include a choice of small lowfat milk or small Dasani water. This location does offer mobile ordering and there is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Meals are served on metal trays with real plates.

Food Samplings at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

For research purposes, I ordered all three of the kid’s menu options. Of the three, the Tip-yip seems the most kid-friendly. It’s essentially a square “chicken nugget” served with mac and cheese alongside carrots and green beans. It was a bit bland for my tastes, but most kids would be fine with it. Though I can totally see some kids rejecting the uniqueness of the food shapes (square chicken, circular macaroni instead of elbows). And of course don’t call it Endorian Tip-yip or that will pretty much guarantee your kid won’t touch it!

I also ate A Taste of Takodana, which looks more like an adult crudites plate (note that grown-ups CAN order off the kid’s menu, even without a kid!). I enjoyed this vegetarian dish though it seems a bit sophisticated for kids. The hummus is oddly colored and has a bit of spicy kick.

The Ithorian Garden Patty Bun was tasty, with a creamy sauce to add. However my preschooler was having none of that action (as you can see from her expression!). She loves carrots and wouldn’t touch these. The only thing she ate was the orange!

Will Kids Prefer the Adult Dining Options?

Youngsters may enjoy sharing some of the food off the adult menu at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo. I’ve eaten here for breakfast, lunch and dinner and have some tips on what kids would like. The Mustafarian Cinnamon Roll is a sweet treat and on weekends, you’ll find this full breakfast platter on the menu. Sausage, egg bites and potatoes round it out.

Consider the cavatelli pasta that comes with the Braised Shaak Roast or the pitas from the Felucian Garden Spread. We tried several of the dishes and found that many were spicy, so proceed with caution.

The Yobshrimp Noodle Salad has a light dressing and is really light and tasty. Whether your seafood-eating kid will dine on it remains to be seen. The desserts are decidedly grown-up however still kid-friendly. The Oi-oi Puff is filled with creamy passion fruit mousse. The beautiful Batuu-bon with coffee custard was a hit!

Another Kid-Friendly Meal Option

Ronto Roasters, inside the Black Spire Outpost Marketplace offers an additional dining location, also offering mobile ordering. Through they do not offer a kid’s menu, if your toddler is a meat-eater, they might prefer these lunch options. You can’t miss the droid 8D-JB, turning the spit of meats in the courtyard. 

• Ronto Wrap – roasted pork and grilled sausage with peppercorn sauce and tangy slaw wrapped in pita
• Nuna Turkey Jerky – choice of sweet or spicy

I was able to try the Ronto wrap and found it very tasty, albeit an odd mix with two meats and greens. My preschooler would likely eat the meat separated from the bread and want the slaw on the side.

Some kids might enjoy the specialty beverages though one has caffeinated tea and another has a spicy kick.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for Toddlers & Preschoolers – Kid’s Snacks

The two snack locations both offer kid-friendly foods that toddlers and preschoolers will enjoy. However you aren’t going to find the traditional “grab and go” snacks you’ll see in the rest of the park (items like chilled pickles, chips, pretzels, churros are not to be found here). If you think your little one is going to need a hearty snack, best to get something before you head into Star Wars Land. 

The Milk Stand sells only Blue Milk and Green Milk and mobile ordering is available. This is a brightly colored frozen beverage that kids will likely love. This “milk” is actually plant-based (coconut and rice milk) and has a thick, creamy consistency that’s still kind of like a slushy. The Blue Milk tastes a bit like a Sweetart candy and the Green Milk has more a fruity flavor.

*NEW FOR 2020* The Toydaria Swirl is a colorful mix of green milk swirled with lime seasoning and mango jelly.

Kat Saka’s Kettle offers what’s called the Outpost Mix. This is a colorful popcorn blend with a mix of sweet and spicy. I found the popcorn to be kid-friendly without any overpowering flavors.

Kat Saka’s Kettle is also where you’ll find the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge specialty bottled beverages. Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, and Dasani water come in bottles unique to Star Wars Land (and for this, there’s a limit of three total per guest, per transaction). My preschooler doesn’t drink soda and couldn’t care less about the designs, but the round bottles are just perfectly sized for tiny hands!

Are Kids Allowed in Oga’s Cantina?

Drinking at Disneyland? Yes, it’s a thing now that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is open! For the first time, alcoholic drinks are being sold to the public inside Disneyland park. This is a hot location as proven by the long queue outside to get in. But you can totally bring your toddler or preschooler inside. There’s just a few things you need to know and I’m answering the top questions.

• Each guest has a two alcoholic drink maximum.
• Time inside the Cantina is limited to 45 minutes. Not sure how the staff is actually monitoring this.
• All alcoholic drinks must stay inside the Cantina.

How Do You Get Into Oga’s Cantina?

This family-friendly bar is absolutely one of the hot spots inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Advance Dining Reservations are taken for Oga’s Cantina and walk-up is generally not available. You’ll want to book it as soon as you’re able. If you wait to make the reservation, the late evening hour reservations are often all that will be left. My daughter fell asleep just before our 9:30 pm reservation this summer. Unfortunately we were only able to acquire stand-up at a table so we took turns holding her as she slept.

More Oga’s Cantina Q & A

Can You Bring a Stroller Inside Oga’s Cantina?

There was a couple in front of me with a baby sleeping in a stroller. While they were able to keep the baby in the stroller in line, they had to wake and remove their infant at the front of the line. Stroller parking is across the walkway.

What Can Kids Do Inside Oga’s Cantina?

Guests may recognize DJ R-3X (also known as REX). He’s the Starspeeder 3000 pilot droid first seen in Star Tours. He’s now the cantina DJ and can been seen here spinning the tunes and chatting it up. The lively dance music inside the Cantina definitely adds to the boisterous atmosphere. REX is on the left side of the Cantina so try to sit on that side if you can. He’s a great diversion and kids will like watching him in action.

What’s on the Oga’s Cantina Menu for Kids?

While the grown ups indulge in a boozy Fuzzy Tauntaun or Bespin Fizz, there are still some special non-alcoholic drinks here that little ones might enjoy. Non-alcoholic drinks run around $6 each.

The Cliff Dweller is a souvenir cup and drink that’s appropriate for older kids. Take note that the mug itself is extremely heavy! (Note that prices have increased since this photo was taken!)

• Hyperdrive (Punch It!) – Powerade Mountain Berry Blast, white cranberry juice, black cherry purée, and Sprite
• Jabba Juice – Simply Orange with pineapple, kiwi, cantaloupe, and blueberry popping pearls
• Blue Bantha – Blue Milk served chilled with bantha-inspired vanilla-butter sugar cookie
• Blurrgfire – lemonade, pomegranate juice, and habanero-lime
• Carbon Freeze – Powerade Lemon Lime, wild strawberry, blueberry, and green apple popping pears

There are also two “provisions” and a snack item. The most kid-friendly is called Oga’s Obsession. It’s touted as a blend of lemonade, cotton candy flavor, and blueberry popping pearls with a bursting dried fruit mixture. It’s served in a science-style petri dish and looks like the texture of Jell-O. This is definitely a fun kid’s choice!

The snack is a crispy mix of Batuu Bits to nibble on! The only other food-type item on the menu at Oga’s is the Happabore Sampler with cured meats, cheese and crackers.

Bottom Line – Should You Take Kids Into Oga’s Cantina?

For parents wanting the full Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge experience, going into Oga’s Cantina is a must! The atmosphere is fun, there’s much to look at and the drinks are unique. However the Cantina is also cramped and seating is extremely limited. The bar is all stand-up so expect not to get a seat inside. So here are my thoughts about bringing kids in Oga’s Cantina.

Babies – Since strollers aren’t allowed, you’ll definitely want a front carrier to hold your infant. Being hands-free so you can hold your drink will be necessary. It’s a bit noisy inside but nothing too overwhelming for babies.

Toddlers & Preschoolers – With the small quarters and limited seating, I’d say you’ll really have to know your kid and decide whether Oga’s Cantina is a good fit for your family. After standing in line for an hour and then standing again inside, toddlers and preschoolers may have a short fuse. If you have a boisterous or wandering kid who won’t stand next to you at the bar, you’ll likely have to skip.

Kids – Ages 5+ will probably enjoy Oga’s Cantina. The child next to me was 9 years old and tall enough to see over the bar, allowing him to see all the action (creatures and drink making, in particular). I’ve also been with my 7 year old and he enjoyed the fun drinks and atmosphere.

Souvenirs at Star Wars Land for Toddlers and Preschoolers?

If there’s one thing inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, it’s a plethora of merchandise and shopping locations. And while a good number of what’s for sale is geared towards collectors, there are some kid-worthy gifts here as well. I’ve listed the shops and details on what you’ll find for preschoolers and toddlers inside each.

Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities

Higher end home decor and jewelry as well as some “Padawan” sized lightsabers that are perfect for preschoolers.

Black Spire Outfitters

Robes, belts and loose garments including sizes for preschoolers.

First Order Cargo

All Stormtrooper and “Dark Side” outfits including some sized for younger kids.

Most Kid-Friendly Souvenirs

Creature Stall

Several cuddly plush are sold her as well as an interactive character that kids would love to take home.

Kowakian Monkey-Lizard – A cackling creature can sit on the shoulder; comes in a variety of different colors.
Porg – Small bird-like creature chirps and flaps its wings. Cute and kid-friendly.
Loth-cat – Feline creature, alternately temperamental and friendly, a hunter with sharp teeth.

Toydarian Toymaker is the most fitting shop for toddlers and preschoolers at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. This stall offers handcrafted toys and collectibles, many in wood. The plush are definitely popular with the little ones! There are sturdy games and unique pieces. Just pay attention to the age recommendations, as some are 3+.

Collector’s Souvenirs

It’s unlikely that you’ll be purchasing your toddler or preschool expensive Star Wars souvenirs but here are the details in case visiting one of these two shops is in your plans.

Inside Savi’s Workshop guests can create their own custom hand-built Lightsabers. These one-of-a-kind Lightsabers have a steep cost that starts around $200 with additional components adding on to the price.

Guests who visit Droid Depot at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will be able to choose from either a BB-series or R-series astromech. Droid parts will be delivered via conveyor belt, where guests can grab to construct their personal droid. Only two guests in each party will be permitted inside to build a single droid. Keep this in mind if you have a toddler or preschooler with you.

Play Disney Parks App

The Play Disney Parks App is a clever way to experience the parks with games, trivia and music. The app is a great way to pass time while waiting in line. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the first Disney park land designed to fully integrate with the Play Disney Parks mobile app. Mobile devices become a “Datapad” where guests can collect points by doing various tasks.

I’m not big with handing over my smart phone to my preschooler (and certainly not a toddler who might toss it on a whim!) However the Play Disney Parks app has a few things that older preschoolers would enjoy so I’d definitely add the app and play around with it if you have the time.

*NEW FOR 2020* Bina’s Guide to the Creatures of Batuu

I first found out about this new kid-friendly activity from my friend Dusty at MiceChat. Grab one of the complimentary guidebooks at any marketplace stall. Kids can go on a hunt for the creatures of Batuu (including a loth cat or womp rat). Cast members will stamp each activity book and when completed, kids receive a special sticker. It’s a simple activity, but one that will resonate with younger kids.

Potentially Scary Things for Preschoolers in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

The vibe on Batuu is edgy. Creatures and droids are found everywhere – some inside the shops or wandering around in the land. Stormtroopers and First Order officials march around and talk to guests. It was slightly uncomfortable for me so how will experiencing Galaxy’s Edge with toddlers be There are definitely things inside Star Wars Land that may frighten your toddler or preschooler.

Chewbacca, Rey, Resistance spy Vi Moradi and Stormstroopers are characters available to meet with guests. While the Stormtroopers may scare your child with their weapons, even Chewbacca’s large presence might be frightening (he was too much for my kid!)

A few other things to watch out for:

• Stop for a drink at the water fountain in the Black Spire Outpost marketplace and watch for the eye of a dianoga (a slimy, tentacled carnivore) to pop out of the water tank.
• Some of the souvenir dolls sold in the Creature Stall are scary looking with frightening teeth and eyes. My daughter saw one look, screamed and ran out!
• Taxidermic creatures inside Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities can be a bit creepy, including a Womp Rat and Profrogg.

Star Wars Land Bathrooms for Diaper Changes and Potty Training

If you need to make quick diaper changes or take your preschooler to the potty there are 2 bathrooms located in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. In addition to men and women’s rooms, there are also “companion bathrooms” where you can bring in several children. All bathrooms have diaper changing tables.

A Disneyland Itinerary That Includes Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

So your toddler or preschooler can’t go on any of the rides in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge but everyone else in the group wants to go! How can you create a Disneyland itinerary for toddlers and preschoolers that still fits in Star Wars Land?

Your best bet will be taking advantage of Extra Magic Hours and Magic Mornings. You’ll want to arrive at the security gates 45 minutes before these hours kick in so you can be some of the first at the front gate.

Extra Magic Hours and Magic Mornings will not include access to Star Wars Land. However Fantasyland will be open during that first opening hour. This would be the best game plan itinerary for fitting in Star Wars Land with toddlers and preschoolers:

• During your Extra Magic Hour or Magic Morning with a toddler or preschooler, do as much as you possibly can in Fantasyland first thing. You should be able to tackle Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Mad Tea Party, Storybook Boats, Casey Jr. Circus Train, Alice in Wonderland and the Carrousel.
• Line up for Peter Pan’s Flight can be 30+ minutes in the morning, so I’d recommend skipping this and returning to the area later in the day.
• About ten minutes before official park opening, take the kids through the shortcut from Fantasyland towards Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge by way of Frontierland. 

How Will the Rise of the Resistance Virtual Queue Factor In?

Upon Disneyland reopening in 2021, a “virtual queue” will be required for guests to ride Rise of the Resistance. The virtual boarding queue was also implemented at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Disney World. The first opportunity will be at 7 am, where guests can access the virtual boarding group before they enter the parks. The second chance to secure a Rise of the Resistance entry is at 12 pm, noon and can only be accessed by those who have scanned into the Disneyland park.

If riding this attraction is important to you, make sure you’re using the Disneyland app or My Disney Experience app. Set an alarm on your phone to remind you!

Reopening editor’s note – If you plan on taking kids to Disney parks when they reopen, click the article and read in more detail how both Disneyland and Disney World will be making changes.

Kid’s Outfit Ideas for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Dressing kids up for Disney trips is one of my favorite parts! I’ve been looking online at Star Wars outfit ideas for kids that are fun and comfortable. With all the concrete and minimal shade inside Star Wars Land, you’ll want to make sure kids aren’t overheated.

Drawing on the neutral olive, browns, gray and even pink tones on the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge cast member costumes, I found these unisex pieces on Primary.com. Slim tanks, shorts and cropped leggings are perfect for warm summer and fall weather. Consider layers like scarves and a vest for cooler temperatures.

Kids 13 and younger are also able to dress in costume, even while touring Batuu. Consider DisneyBound styles like Han Solo. I added texture to my daughter’s outfits with scarves from my own closet. Try reusing Halloween costumes, like a Jedi robe or a Stormtrooper. Keep in mind that masks are not permitted so leave them at home.

Naturally outfits for kids are available for sale in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. I spotted Star Wars themed tees for boys and girls as well as complete costumes so your child can dress up like their favorite character, whether it’s for the First Order or the Resistance!

Additional Tips for Exploring Galaxy’s Edge with Toddlers and Preschoolers

These are a few quick things to know before stepping into Star Wars Land with toddlers or preschoolers.

Should I bring a stroller into Galaxy’s Edge?

Yes, this 14-acre area is much more spread out than usual Disneyland areas. I highly recommend a stroller when touring with any child under 4 or any kids that still nap mid-day.

Is there a play area inside Star Wars Land?

No. While there are general spaces that kids can wander, there’s no designated playground or play area for kids. I’m hoping that something will be added to the land in the future where kids can play (similar to the play area in Toontown outside Goofy’s house).

Are there traditional Disneyland snacks inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge?

While you can find churro, popcorn, candy, pretzels, ice cream, a Popsicle and buttered popcorn just around every corner in the rest of Disneyland, you won’t find any of these things inside Galaxy’s Edge. I wouldn’t rule them out in the future but for now if you want a snack like that, hit up either Fantasyland or Frontierland first before heading into Star Wars Land.

What is there to do in Star Wars Land at Night?

One of the highlights of the evening is watching fireworks. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge offers a unique view of these pyrotechnics, albeit with a twist. The traditional music won’t be playing like it would if you watch from the it’s a small world mall or from Main Street U.S.A. The fireworks are also a little closer in proximity. Which means they are also louder than usual. But the view of the fireworks behind the spires of Batuu are pretty awesome!