Toddlers at Magic Kingdom Complete Disney World Guide

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Ready to take on Disney with toddlers at Magic Kingdom? Here's the Walt Disney World guide, including what attractions are best, where to eat, and what to pack with you for the day when visiting with toddlers at Magic Kingdom. These are my tried-and-true best tips for Walt Disney World with toddlers!

Toddlers at Magic Kingdom

Toddlers can be a fickle bunch. A toddler's emotions can go up and down quicker than a roller coaster! One moment, little ones are happily clapping along with Mickey during a meet 'n greet. The next second, they're screaming in Pluto's face when Mom tries to snap a photo.

Is Walt Disney World Good for Toddlers?

You might be wondering if it's a good idea to take a toddler to Disney parks. Is there anything for a one-year-old or two-year-old at Disney World?

Is a trip to Magic Kingdom a good idea with your little one? When you break it down, there are plenty of reasons not to take toddlers to Disney.

I'm for taking kids of all ages to Disney theme parks! I'm giving you the practical advice you'll need.

I have taken babies, toddlers, tweens, and teens to Disney parks over the years. These are the insider Disney tips for little kids, all in one complete guide! These toddler travel tips will make a Magic Kingdom vacation more enjoyable for the whole family.

Which Disney Theme Park is Best for Toddlers?

I've been traveling to Disney parks all my life, including my very first visit to Disneyland when I was just one year old. My family has been taking children to the parks for years. I even traveled with my baby alone to Disney World!

Why is Magic Kingdom the best park for toddlers?

Of all the Walt Disney World parks, Magic Kingdom is tailor-made for toddlers. There is really so much that little ones can enjoy here, including shows, attractions, and dining.

Even babies can go on many of the rides at Magic Kingdom. So, you know that there are things toddlers will love too! Many of the rides in Magic Kingdom do not have height restrictions, so toddlers can join their parents in the fun.

I think taking toddlers to Disney parks is a wonderful idea. I'll break down why Magic Kingdom, in particular, is the perfect toddler vacation spot. This article will cover toddler-friendly rides, best dining locations for little kids, and what not to miss inside of Magic Kingdom!

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Get Toddlers Prepared for the Trip

As noted, toddlers can be unpredictable. That being said, there is quite a bit you can do pre-trip to get them ready for Disney.

Get familiar with Disney lore

Read Disney-themed books and watch age-appropriate Disney films or Disney Junior programs. This can get toddlers familiar with some of the characters. I have this post with Disney-themed book suggestions for toddlers.

Measure your child's height

Compare that measurement to the Disney rides your toddler will be tall enough for during your vacation. This list of Magic Kingdom rides that do not have a height requirement will be safe for everyone!

Watch YouTube videos

Before your vacation, watch YouTube videos of the rides you think toddlers will want to go on. Young children will be less stressed out or worried if they have an idea of what to expect ahead of time.

Countdown the days

Create a countdown calendar that will count down the days until your vacation.

Decide upon a vacation wardrobe

Choose some Disney outfits for kids that feature their favorite characters. Comfort in the weather and the ability to change a quick diaper should be considered!

Read more about picking the best Disney vacation clothes for children.

Make a toddler vacation "wish list"

Find out from your toddler what their top three "must-do" things are for the trip. Does your child want to meet a certain princess? Or do they really want to try a churro? Put those things at the top of your vacation list and make sure they happen!

Magic Kingdom with Toddlers - Questions and Answers

Does my toddler need a theme park ticket?

Children who not yet reached their third birthday have complimentary admission to Disney World theme parks. Once your toddler turns three, you'll need to purchase a child's ticket.

Is Lightning Lane worth the purchase if my toddler can't go on thrill rides?

At Magic Kingdom in particular, there are lots of non-thrill rides that toddlers can do within the Lightning Lane system. It's definitely worth the purchase to avoid skipping the lines.

Should my toddler have a MagicBand?

If your child has a theme park ticket (ie, they are 3 years old), they can use a MagicBand, if you wish.

If you choose not to have your 3+ year old child wear a Magic Band, you'll need to check them in for Lightning Lane attractions through your mobile device.

Does Lightning Lane Work with Toddlers at Magic Kingdom?

Use Lightning Lane wisely to skip the long lines on popular attractions. Focus on the most popular rides and book Lightning Lane early in the day for those.

You'll be able to purchase the Lighting Lane Multi Pass and book 3 attractions before your vacation. If you're a Disney Resort Hotel guest, you can buy and book 7 days ahead. Non-resort hotel visitors can do this 3 days in advance.

Consider choosing one Lightning Lane immediately, while rope-dropping another popular attraction. In between those rides, visit nearby attractions to fill time.

Guests can get another Lightning Lane as soon as they have used one. You'll be able to hold as many as 3 Lightning Lane passes at a time.

The Lightning Lane strategy can work well, but it really depends upon your personal touring style as well as your toddler's personality. If your child is napping, snacking, or not in the mood, this can throw off a streamlined plan. Just try to remain flexible.

Rather than outright cancelling the Lightning Lane, amend it instead. You may be able to amend selections and times, depending upon availability.

Theme Park Magical Mornings with Toddlers

Arrive Before Magic Kingdom Park Opening

If your toddler is an early bird, I'd recommend getting to Magic Kingdom at park opening. This is also known as "rope drop".

Arriving early will allow you to experience many of the rides in Fantasyland with less of a wait. If you arrive midday, expect to find longer queues and long waits, not to mention warmer weather.

Prep the night before

Preparing for a theme park day the evening before can really streamline the morning. Bagging outfits together can be a convenient time-saver.

Pack a diaper, complete outfit, and accessories in a single zip-close bag when packing for the trip. Simply take out the bags the night before your Magic Kingdom day. Set one bag out for your toddler to wear in the morning. Pack one or two additional outfit bags into the diaper bag or backpack to change into, if needed.

Eat a healthy breakfast

Start the day with a quick breakfast snack in the hotel room. Foods like fresh-cut fruit, a granola bar, or even dry cereal are great. Avoiding sugary snacks will get toddlers on the right side of the bed in the morning.

Best Rides for Toddlers at Magic Kingdom

The Magic Kingdom theme park has the most toddler-friendly attractions and rides. Many visitors to Walt Disney World book two days of their vacation at Magic Kingdom, especially when traveling with little kids.

Most popular rides at Magic Kingdom for toddlers

I've noted the height restrictions for each ride and which attractions offer Lightning Lane.

When pre-booking Lightning Lane ahead of the trip, guests can choose one attraction from the Tier One group. The other two LL come from the other group. I've referenced the Tier One group in this section.

• Barnstormer (35" height requirement) - Lightning Lane
• Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin (all heights) - Lightning Lane
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant (all heights) - Lightning Lane

• "it's a small world" (all heights) - Lightning Lane
• Jungle Cruise (all heights) - Lightning Lane - TIER ONE
• Mad Tea Party (all heights) - Lightning Lane

• Magic Carpets of Aladdin (all heights) - Lightning Lane
• Main Street Vehicles (all heights)
• Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (all heights) - Lightning Lane
• Peter Pan's Flight (all heights) - Lightning Lane - TIER ONE
• Prince Charming Regal Carrousel (all heights)

• Tomorrowland Speedway (32" height requirement) - Lightning Lane
• PeopleMover (all heights)
• Under the Sea - Journey of the Little Mermaid (all heights) - Lightning Lane
• Walt Disney World Railroad (all heights)

Have a Magic Kingdom Itinerary

Fantasyland first

Not sure what to do first? Once you're inside Magic Kingdom, immediately hit Fantasyland!

Rides like Peter Pan's Flight, "it's a small world", Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant are toddler favorites.

Stay in one area until completed

It can be easier with toddlers to focus on one land at a time. This minimizes walking and moving, then parking the stroller in different locations.

Work in Entertainment

Magic Kingdom is more than just rides. Use the My Disney Experience app ahead of your trip to view entertainment options. Work in the shows, parades, and character greetings into your toddler's Magic Kingdom itinerary.

Let Toddlers Think They're in Control

Allow your little one to get out of the stroller once in a while and walk independently. I used a toddler backpack with a strap while waiting in the queues at Disney World theme parks.

A backpack with a tether like this one is perfect. Toddlers can hold a snack, sippy cup, and a toy inside. The strap can loop around your wrist so that your child never gets too far away from you.

Disney parks put toddlers in control of the fun. Some rides let small children take control. And everyone knows that toddlers like to take the reins!

If your toddler likes to push buttons, turn knobs, and take charge of the wheel, check out these Magic Kingdom attractions.

• Astro Orbitor
• Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
• Dumbo's Flying Elephant

• Mad Tea Party
• The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
• Tomorrowland Speedway (32" or taller)

Looking to entertain toddlers and kids while waiting in queues? - Check out these tips and tricks for waiting in line at Disney!

Have a Well-Stocked Toddler Bag

Every great Disney day begins with a well-stocked bag. Consider choosing a backpack instead of a diaper bag. You'll be able to wear the backpack in the queue and remain hands-free.

READ for more Disney parks diaper bag packing tips!

Need more storage space?

The basket under the stroller is great for storage space. If you require additional space, rent a locker for the entire day.

Magic Kingdom lockers are near the entrance to the park (right-hand side). Keep some supplies with you, then store extras in the locker. You'll have in & out locker privileges throughout the day.

These are a few of the essentials you should consider packing with you. For more packing tips, see this free printable packing list for Disney with kids.

• Snacks
• Sipper cup
• Disposable bibs

• Hat
• Sunscreen that's appropriate for toddlers
• Diaper supplies (changing pad, diapers, wipes)

• Change of clothes
• Wet bag (for storing wet or soiled clothing)

Is the Baby Care Center Good for Toddlers Too?

Each of the four Disney World theme parks has a designated Baby Care Center. These locations offer helpful amenities for parents of babies and toddlers.

Expect to find a private nursing room, diaper changing rooms, a feeding room with highchairs, and a kitchen with microwave and sink access.

Forgot or ran out of supplies? The Baby Care Center has a stocked shop offering formula, baby food, diapers, wipes, sunscreen, and over-the-counter medications for purchase.

I personally ran out of baby wipes on my last day during a trip with my toddler. The Baby Care Center shop came through for me!

Magic Kingdom Shows to Make Toddlers Smile

Most toddlers will enjoy a day that's well-balanced with rides, shows, play, and rest. Instead of rushing around the park, tackling all of the rides, make sure to schedule in some downtime.

Plan time before and after some of the shows to allow for a nap, free play, or a snack.

• Country Bear Musical Jamboree
• Enchanted Tales with Belle
• Mickey's PhilharMagic - Lightning Lane

• Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor - Lightning Lane
• Walt Disney's Enchanted Tiki Room
• Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade
• Mickey's Magical Friendship Faire

What's Magic Kingdom Rider Switch?

Your toddler isn’t tall enough to go on the thrill rides, but everyone else in the family wants to go? Every Disney park offers a complimentary Rider Switch program for groups with young kids who don’t meet the height restriction. This service has also been referred to as a ride swap or a “stroller pass”.

Using the Rider Switch option will allow all who want to, the chance to ride select attractions. It also eliminates families from having to wait in line twice. Rider Switch can be used in conjunction with Lightning Lane Multi Pass.

Not all attractions offer the rider swap program, but these are the attractions that do:

Magic Kingdom Rider Switch

• The Barnstormer
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
• Space Mountain
• Splash Mountain
• Tomorrowland Speedway

How Magic Kingdom Rider Switch Works

• Entire group approaches the Cast Member at the entrance of the ride and tells them they’d like to use Rider Switch program.
• Cast Member will either scan the ticket in the My Disney Experience app on your phone and assign the group a Rider Switch pass. 

• At least one adult will stay behind with the child(ren) that are not riding.
• First group will walk through the regular queue and go on the ride. If they have a Lightning Lane reservation for the attraction, they will use that line instead.
• Group will meet up after the ride. Adults will trade places. Second group (up to three people) will redeem Rider Switch to the Cast Member located at either the exit or Lightning Lane entrance to ride.

Full Bellies Make for Happier Toddlers at Magic Kingdom

A grumble in a toddler's tummy will make them turn from beauty to beast! Here are some dining tips to keep toddler bellies full and happy.

Children under 3 eat for free (sort of)

You are welcome to share your meal with your toddler at no additional charge. You can also prepare them a plate at any buffet meal without cost if the child is 2 years old or under.

However, if you order your toddler their own plate from the regular menu, this will cost you. If you order a meal from the kids' menu, you will need to pay for it.

Look for the Mickey Check

Kid's Mickey Check meals meet Disney nutrition guidelines as a healthier meal. These dishes limit calories, saturated fat, sodium, and sugar.

Pack your own snacks

Don't think you have to rely only on the snacks sold in the park. Pack in your toddler's favorites! Guests are allowed to bring snacks into the parks.

Best toddler treats in the park

There are snack locations and carts all over Magic Kingdom with savory and sweet treats for toddlers. Soft pretzels, pickles, and Dole Whip are great choices.

Be sure to balance out snacks with fresh fruits, veggies, and lean proteins to avoid a mid-day crash!

Where to Eat with Your Toddler at Magic Kingdom

This section on dining will break down some of the dining options inside Magic Kingdom with a focus on what works best for young children.

Seating - Quick service dining spots often have both indoor and outdoor seating. For hot afternoons, taking a break inside to soak up air conditioning is a great idea.

Strollers - Strollers are generally not permitted inside indoor restaurants, for space issues. Restaurants will have parking areas outside for strollers.

High Chairs - All restaurants will offer the use of highchairs that slide up to the table. Bring these disposable peel & stick placemats for sanitary purposes.

Full-Service Dining at Magic Kingdom

Plan ahead by making Advanced Dining Reservations for any full-service meals you wish to eat in Magic Kingdom. Read more in this article about how to get the Disney World reservations for the meals you want!

These are the full-service table restaurants inside Magic Kingdom:

• Be Our Guest Restaurant
• Jungle Navigations Co., LTD Skipper's Canteen
• Liberty Tree Tavern
• Plaza Restaurant
• Tony's Town Square Restaurant

Tips for Table Service Restaurants with Toddlers at Magic Kingdom

When booking a full-service dining reservation, include your toddler in the group number. This will allow enough space for your child at the table.

Is the menu good for your toddler?

Research menus ahead of your trip before deciding what restaurants will work best for your family. While you might be hungry for the Layered Ratatouille at Be Our Guest restaurant, your toddler may be less than thrilled at the Chicken Brochette.

Make sure that what's on the menu will be something your toddler will actually eat.

Can your toddler sit through a longer restaurant experience?

Plan on a much longer dining time at full-service locations. If your toddler can't sit through a usual restaurant experience, table service might not be a good fit. If your toddler usually fusses because he's done and wants to leave, consider dining at a quick service restaurant instead.

When is the best time of day to eat at a restaurant with a toddler?

Schedule a full-service meal during a time period you know your child will be ready to take a break. My family personally likes to book table service reservations for summer afternoons, offering an indoor respite from Florida's daily rainstorms!

Quick-Service Dining at Magic Kingdom

Some of these quick service locations only serve adult-sized portions. That's acceptable if your toddler is okay with sharing your meal.

If you want your child to have a more well-rounded meal, try ordering off the kids' menu. These meals are usually more kid-friendly (like chicken nuggets, cheeseburgers, or macaroni and cheese). They also come with a side like French fries, squeezable applesauce, a clementine, and milk.

Look for the notation next to each location in the section below to know if that restaurant offers a kids' menu.

These are the quick-service meal locations inside Magic Kingdom (there are additional spots for just snacks & desserts):

• Casey's Corner
• Columbia Harbour House - kids' menu available
• Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe - kids' menu available
• The Friar's Nook - kids' menu available
• Golden Oak Outpost

• Lunching Pad
• Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe - kids' menu available
• Pinocchio Village Haus - kids' menu available
• Tortuga Tavern
• Westward Ho

Tips for Quick Service Restaurants with Toddlers at Magic Kingdom

Quick service meals are often delivered fast, making them great for when your toddler is hungry RIGHT NOW! Mobile Ordering is the best when taking toddlers to Disney!

How Disney World Mobile Ordering Works

Use the My Disney Experience app to order and pre-pay for quick service dining at many Disney World park locations.

Once you arrive at the restaurant, click the "I'm here, prepare my order" button. Your food will be ready in a flash! So awesome when you have a hungry toddler.

Divide up the adults when in a quick-service restaurant. One adult can grab a table and highchair for the toddler, and the other adult can pick up the food and condiments.

Character Dining with Toddlers at Magic Kingdom

Character dining is a fun way to blend character meet 'n greets with a hearty meal. These meals really are a complete experience.

These are the character meal locations inside Magic Kingdom

• Cinderella's Royal Table
• The Crystal Palace

Tips for Magic Kingdom Character Dining Experiences

Character dining reservations fill very quickly! Use MouseDining to score hard-to-get restaurant reservations. Upgrade the free account for additional features, including text messages when reservations become available.

Include everyone in your party in the group count when booking a character dining reservation. You won't be charged for any child 2 years old and under.

Crystal Palace vs. Cinderella's Royal Table

Toddlers may especially enjoy the buffet character dining in The Crystal Palace with Winnie the Pooh and friends. This restaurant has characters at all three meals, with breakfast being the lowest price.

Cinderella's Royal Table is definitely a more upscale experience (with a hefty price tag). While you can bring a toddler, you may feel more comfortable in the more raucous Crystal Palace.

Are toddlers nervous around characters?

Some toddlers are scared of characters, which means character dining meals may be too much exposure for them. If your toddler is afraid of characters (or you suspect they might be), avoid booking character dining or risk having them upset during the entire meal.

Things That Might Make Toddlers Scared

Even if your toddler is tall enough to ride the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, it doesn't mean they should. There are some rides at Magic Kingdom that don't have a height restriction. But these attractions may still be frightening for little ones. Even a seemingly tame dark ride, like Peter Pan's Flight, might scare your toddler.

Only you know your child and whether to push or step back. Be sure to read more on 5 Helpful Tips for Calming Scared and Anxious Kids at Disney.

These rides might be scary for toddlers at Magic Kingdom:

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (40" height requirement) - Lightning Lane
• Haunted Mansion (all heights) - Lightning Lane
• Pirates of the Caribbean (all heights) - Lightning Lane
• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (38" height requirement) - Single Pass Lightning Lane (not part of the Lightning Lane Multi Pass)

Magic Kingdom Places for Toddlers to Run and Play

Swiss Family Treehouse - Climb wooden stairs up 6 stories for an impressive view of Magic Kingdom.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant queue - Families can wait inside the air-conditioned tent, which features a playground for all ages.

Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station - This is a full-on spray station, ideal for hot days. Bring a swimsuit, towel, and waterproof, slip-resistant shoes. Or pack a separate outfit and a plastic bag for wet clothing.

Take your toddler out of the stroller and let them roam in these fun and safe environments. Naturally, you'll need to follow closely behind!

How to Handle Naps with Toddlers at Disney World

If your toddler is accustomed to napping, you might want to consider returning to the hotel midday. Aim to return to the room before nap time to ensure that she gets the rest she needs before the dreaded meltdown ensues!

Sleepy Kids (aka: Avoiding the Meltdown)

If your toddler can sleep despite the extra noise and excitement inside Magic Kingdom, start by winding things down a bit inside the park.

Enjoy a few mellow attractions like Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress, Under the Sea - Journey of the Little Mermaid, Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover, or Liberty Square Riverboat.

Strollers are a MUST at Disney Parks

Use a stroller, even if you think your toddler won't ride in one. Little legs get very tired from all the walking. It's great to have a shady place for children to rest or just eat a snack.

Then seek out a location where your toddler can rest in the shade of their stroller. I found a nook near Gaston's Tavern to be a great resting place that included a seat in the shade for me!

Where to Meet Characters at Magic Kingdom with Toddlers

Character locations are plentiful throughout Magic Kingdom. Find appearance times in the My Disney Experience app, then plan your itinerary accordingly.

• Mickey Mouse - Town Square Theatre - Lightning Lane
• Aladdin & Jasmine - Adventureland, near the Magic Carpets of Aladdin
• Disney Princesses - Princess Fairytale Hall - Two separate lines, 2 princesses in each group

• Donald, Daisy, Minnie Mouse and Goofy in circus attire - Pete's Silly Side Show
• Merida from Brave - Fairytale Garden
• Winnie the Pooh & Tigger - Thotful Spot, near the Winnie the Pooh ride entrance

In addition to these scheduled character greetings, you might find other characters throughout the theme parks.

Purchase Memory Maker

If you plan on taking lots of photos throughout your Walt Disney World vacation, consider pre-purchasing Memory Maker. Disney PhotoPass photographers are available at all the theme parks, as well as the Disney water parks.

All pictures taken are included for download. The cost is less when pre-purchased at least 3 days ahead of your visit. These are special pictures you'll cherish forever!

Character meet 'n greets used to be a great use of Lightning Lane with toddlers. However, meeting Mickey Mouse and some of the Disney Princesses is no longer a part of the Lightning Lane system.

Don't Forget the Little Things at Magic Kingdom

With a focus on the big shows and attractions inside Magic Kingdom, you might miss out on some of a toddler's favorite little things to discover. These small amusements make Disney magic happen for the entire family!

These little things might be your toddler's favorite too, so be sure to spend a bit of time checking them out.

Song & Dance

Toddlers love to sing and dance. See Casey's Corner Pianist playing or the Dapper Dans singing? Let your toddler get out of the stroller to dance and clap along.

Inexpensive Souvenirs

Pressed coins. What toddler doesn't love to turn the crank on the pressed coin machine and have a quirky souvenir to show everyone? Aim to collect several from around the park.

Entertainment is a Highlight

Make time for shows. Toddlers often need more time to just watch and absorb the entertainment, so make sure you're taking this into account before pushing the stroller away.

Avoid the Meltdown at Leaving Time

Have a gift ready to go. Save a souvenir to hand to your toddler when you leave the Park. Something small, like a race car or a bottle of bubbles, can help prevent a cranky kid meltdown at the end of the night.

This can be a great idea as something to entertain themselves on the bus back to the hotel. READ MORE: These are a few Disney souvenirs you can pre-purchase and have in the diaper bag!

Electrical Water Pageant

This show is a great way to get your toddler out of Magic Kingdom! This nightly water parade takes place on the Seven Seas Lagoon, just outside the theme park exit.

This post was originally published April 17th, 2017 and has been updated and republished with a new date.

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