Welcome, Priscilla, to planDisney! Like the song says, "it’s a small world after all," and we love helping families make big Disney memories with their littlest travelers. Let’s jump into your question!
Bringing your toddler to the Most Magical Place on Earth can be such a special experience. There is so much to see and do, and you'll be talking all about it for a lifetime. The first time they light up when they see Mickey. The first time they experience "it's a small world." The way they look back at you with eyes of wonder, as if they are saying, "Is this really real?" As the famous song reminds us, "there is just one moon and one golden sun," and moments like these can make the world feel a little smaller and a little more magical. The pictures on Main Street, U.S.A., with Cinderella Castle in the background. All of those major firsts will hold a special place in your heart for years to come.
Guests under the age of 3 are currently considered Guests of Mickey Mouse, which means their theme park admission is free at this time. These little ones can also share from their parents' plates at sit-down restaurants and buffets at no additional charge. Of course, if you order something special just for them, you would pay for that item.
But let's get to the heart of your question: some tips and tricks to help make this the most magical time ever...
- While all the theme parks across the resort are perfect for toddlers, Magic Kingdom Park is the quintessential experience with the most attractions. Start here. You won't regret it.
- Try to stick to your child's routines when at the resort. Meaning, if they need a nap in the middle of the day at home, try to build one into your park day. Schedule a sit-down meal during nap time, or take the monorail to the nearby Disney's Contemporary Resort for a quieter break near the convention area. In Magic Kingdom Park itself, Storybook Circus has a shaded seating area near Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station and Pete’s Silly Sideshow that can be a great place for a midday break.
- I mentioned meals, but let's get specific. The Crystal Palace buffet is a great option for character dining with Winnie the Pooh and friends. For a quick-service meal, Columbia Harbour House is a favorite of mine, and the upstairs seating during off-peak times can be a great spot for air conditioning and a nap for your little one.
- Magic Kingdom is an amazing place for family-friendly, all-height attractions. From "it's a small world" to "Jungle Cruise" to "Peter Pan's Flight," there's so much to choose from that the whole family can enjoy!
- For shorter wait times at attractions, be sure to look into Lightning Lane Multi Pass. You can reserve up to 3 attractions ahead of time, and for each attraction you ride with the service, you can reserve another (subject to availability). Guests staying at a Disney Resorts Collection Hotel can reserve these experiences up to 7 days in advance of their arrival at 7 a.m. EST. All other Guests can do so 3 days in advance of their ticket at the same time.
- While some characters can be spotted walking around, most have designated meeting areas, which helps keep things simple, organized, and most of the time, air-conditioned! Use your My Disney Experience mobile app to track these special experiences down.
Priscilla, it really is a small world when experiences are shared with the people you love most. If you have any other questions,
I'm happy to help!Wishing you a small world full of magic,
Matt