Greetings, Karen, and a warm welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! We’re so happy you’re hEAR!
As the mom of three Mouseketeers (ages 3, 6, and 8) I’ve been bringing my children to the
Disneyland Resort since they were just a few months old. Personally, I believe that 11-months-old is a great age for a first visit to the Happiest Place on Earth! Not only are there plenty of family-friendly
attractions to choose from, but there are also plenty of entertaining shows, parades, and nighttime spectaculars to keep your little one happy. Currently, there are 64 attractions that appear on the
Attractions page once you filter it to
“Any Height” under the “Height” drop-down. My children’s favorite attractions at this age were “it’s a small world”, Jungle Cruise, Disneyland Railroad, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Casey Jr. Circus Train, and The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure. Luckily, most attractions without minimum height requirements should allow lap-sitting. Just keep in mind that on attractions with lap bars, your son will be required to fit under the bar on your lap. If you happen to be wearing your son in a baby carrier, you may be asked to flip him to a forward-facing position on some attractions with a lap bar.
Be sure to allow plenty of time for taking breaks and enjoying entertainment, too! My children have adored the
Disney Junior Dance Party! in Hollywood Land since they were babies. Little ones are encouraged to boogie down to familiar Disney Junior songs while watching a lively stage show. Also, be sure to catch the all-new
“Magic Happens” Parade, debuting in
Disneyland Park on February 28!
I highly recommend getting familiar with the
Baby Care Centers, too – they’re the perfect spot to nurse, feed, or change your Mouseketeer. In Disneyland Park, you’ll find the Center located at the end of Main Street, U.S.A., and in
Disney California Adventure Park, you’ll find the Center located on Pacific Wharf, just behind Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop. If you forget to pack any baby necessities, don't fret! The Centers have handy vending machines with all the baby essentials.
If you choose not to bring your own stroller, you can rent one from
Stroller Rentals, located to the right of the Disneyland Park Main Entrance. The single, jogging-style strollers will help you and your little one easily navigate both theme parks.
Last but not least, don’t forget to ask for a complimentary “1st Visit!” button at City Hall in Disneyland Park, or Chamber of Commerce in Disney California Adventure Park. Cast Members and Characters will love congratulating your little one on his milestone first visit!
Please stop by with any additional planning questions, Karen… I’m all EARs!
Kristin