Hi, there!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Kate. We're glad you stopped by!
The only thing I love more than a Walt Disney World Resort vacation is a new baby. I'm just thrilled to hear you're expecting BOTH! It's my pleasure to help you plan a visit for your soon-to-be party of five.
Since your new baby will be well under the age of 3 when you arrive at the Walt Disney World Resort, there's really not much you need to do in terms of adjusting your existing reservation. When your little one makes an appearance and you've recovered, simply call the Reservation line at (407) 939-1936 to add your new addition to your reservation. A friendly Cast Member just needs a name and a birthdate and you'll be all set! No matter what Disney Resort hotel room you booked, you'll be accommodated as a party of four plus one infant. While you're on the phone with the Reservation line, be sure to request a
complimentary crib for your stay!
Traveling with an infant in tow isn't always easy, but thankfully the Walt Disney World Resort makes it a breeze. Here are my best tips for visiting the theme parks with a baby:
- Take a stroller with you. The strollers that are available to rent at the theme parks are not well suited for a baby who isn't sitting up independently, so you'll want to have a stroller on hand that's comfortable for your tiny prince or princess. Just be sure that the stroller you take meets the size guidelines.
- Before leaving your Disney Resort hotel in the morning, pack a well-stocked diaper bag. Pack diapers, wipes, extra clothes, a few Ziploc bags, hand sanitizer, and anything else your baby might need to be happy and comfortable. Don't forget to pack a changing pad too! The changing tables in the public restrooms do not have disposable changing pads available. I learned this lesson the hard way!
- When my family of four made the adjustment to a family of five, I was worried about how we would split up for attractions. It was all for naught! Parties of five can easily be seated together on attractions featuring bench seating or two rows. On attractions with single-seat ride vehicles, my family is perfectly accommodated as one group of two and one group of three! Your baby is welcome to sit on your lap for family-friendly attractions, but you may also use a baby carrier to free your hands.
- For attractions your little one is just too little for, use Disney's Rider Switch. With this family-friendly service, you can take turns experiencing popular thrill attractions without experiencing multiple wait times!
- Take frequent breaks at the Baby Care Center. There's a conveniently located Baby Care Center in each of the four theme parks, and it's the perfect place for a quiet feeding or diaper change. My babies were always the most comfortable getting changed at the Baby Care Center because the changing tables are plush in contrast to the changing tables in the public restrooms!
- It will be quite warm when you visit in September. To keep your baby nice and cool, attach a small, battery-operated fan to the stroller!
I hope this was helpful, Kate. Please let me know if you have any other questions about your Walt Disney World Resort vacation!
Ashley