1. Introduction
Choosing the best Disneyland rides for your toddler can be challenging. Finding ones with no height restrictions is a good start, but it’s not the entire picture.
2. Understanding Toddler-Friendly Attractions
A ride like Mr. Toad may initially seem appealing, however, it can be overwhelming. Your two-year-old may experience distress as your driver takes you through unsettling scenes, complete with fire and chaos.
Similarly, the noisy cannon battle at the beginning of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride may prompt tears. Therefore, it’s vital to make informed choices for a delightful experience.
3. Recommended Rides for Toddlers
Below are carefully selected rides that guarantee a pleasant experience for young children. They avoid scary scenes and do not feature excessively loud noises. Moreover, they move gently.
Each ride is also scrutinized for seating; those marked with A2K indicate the ride vehicles can comfortably accommodate an adult and two children together.
Gentle Rides Toddlers Enjoy
- Astro Orbiter: Located in Tomorrowland, it resembles a space-age Dumbo ride, gently flying in circles with a bit more height.
- Casey Jr. Circus Train: A charming circus train ride in Fantasyland. Seating: A2K.
- Columbia Sailing Ship: A delightful tall ship ride on the Rivers of America in Frontierland, where children can enjoy pirate play. Open seating allows kids to move on deck.
- Disneyland Railroad: With stations at Main Street U.S.A., New Orleans Square, and Tomorrowland, this antique steam train circles the park. Ideal for groups of any size.
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant: A slow-moving ride that circles around. Typically manageable for most but may be dizzying for sensitive riders.
- it’s a small world: Although generally gentle, some children might find the singing dolls overwhelming. Ample seating for families is available near the Toontown entrance.
- Jungle Cruise: Children love the animatronic animals and the skipper’s jokes, making it a pleasant ride in Adventureland. Seating: A2K.
- King Arthur Carrousel: A beautiful carousel featuring galloping horses. Located in the heart of Fantasyland, children ride while adults can stay close.
- Main Street Vehicles: Exploring Main Street U.S.A. on a double-decker Omnibus or horse-drawn streetcar is a nostalgic experience with easy board and close seating.
- Mark Twain Riverboat: This charming riverboat sails around Tom Sawyer’s Island. While it may lack active features, children can explore the deck and even steer if lucky.
- Storybook Land Canal Boats: A serene boat ride through enchanting scenes. A2K seating available.
Having Fun While Walking or Sitting Still
There are attractions where children can walk through or sit while enjoying the scenery. Toontown is a fantastic space for toddlers to explore, featuring several play areas and interactive homes.
Children can enjoy exploring Chip ‘n Dale’s Treehouse, navigating Donald’s Boat, and playing at Goofy’s Playhouse where they can leap around.
One of Toontown’s main attractions is Mickey’s House, where kids often meet a character, though the lines can be long. Another favorite is Minnie’s House with its cozy decor.
Additional Attractions Across Disneyland
In addition to the above, families can enjoy:
- Enchanted Tiki Room: Located near Adventureland, it’s a cool spot to relax and enjoy singing birds, though it becomes a bit loud towards the end.
- Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln: Situated on Main Street U.S.A., this show may seem unexciting for kids, but it’s a comfortable sit-down opportunity.
- Pirates Lair on Tom Sawyer Island: A short boat trip leads to a charming island where kids can play pirate-themed games.
- Tarzan’s Treehouse: A fun exploration with fantastic views from the rope bridge, although some children may find climbing a bit daunting.
4. More Rides for the Little Ones
While these rides do permit children, they may include elements that could be inappropriate for younger riders.
- Alice in Wonderland is predominantly dark, but the ride is gentle and enjoyable with proper adult supervision.
- Autopia allows children to drive electric cars on a guided path, although they must be over 52 inches to take the wheel.
- Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters is an interactive ride where families can join in a space-themed adventure.
- Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes lets children paddle, though it may not engage all kids.
- Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage is an underwater adventure but may not suit children with claustrophobia.
- Gadget’s Go Coaster offers a mild roller coaster experience with a 35-inch height requirement.
- Haunted Mansion is gentle, yet it includes eerie sounds and ghostly themes that may unsettle some kids.
- Mad Tea Party features spinning teacups and may not be suitable for those prone to motion sickness.
- Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh includes dark areas and surprises that might be overwhelming for some children.
- Matterhorn Bobsleds features a fast indoor coaster experience with a height requirement of 35 inches.
- Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride likely exceeds some children’s comfort level due to its chaotic elements.
- Peter Pan’s Flight involves a gentle journey over London that remains a favorite among visitors.
- Pinocchio’s Daring Journey adheres closely to the tale, though it includes some anxiety-inducing moments.
- Pirates of the Caribbean encompasses dark sections with simulations of cannon battles that might alarm younger visitors.
- Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin offers a whimsical ride experience but can be loud and chaotic.
- Snow White’s Scary Adventures may live up to its name, featuring elements that can frighten young children.
