Flying elephants, giant teacups, costumed characters making the rounds—for more than 60 years, this magical world of make-believe is still the happiest place on earth. Here are some tips for making the most of it with a younger child—or children—in tow.
Fantasyland
Fantasyland, with all the low-thrill classics—including Peter Pan’s Flight and It’s a Small World—is the go-to spot for the 5-or-younger set. Lines tend to build quickly, so it pays to tackle this land first thing in the morning.
Many Fantasyland rides are dark rides with brief moments of dim lighting or mild motion, so it can help to preview ride descriptions in advance if your child is sensitive to darkness or loud sounds.
Mickey’s Toontown
When you’re ready to move on, skip over to Mickey's Toontown to blow off steam. Designed with younger guests in mind, Toontown reopened in 2023 with widened pathways, grassy play areas, and accessible attractions. Little ones will have a blast at this land, where interactivity is the name of the game and visitors can roam and explore at their own pace. Drop by to take a tour of Mickey and Minnie’s homes, where anything goes—from climbing on Mickey’s furniture to snooping in Minnie’s fridge—and splash at Donald’s Duck Pond or make a racket in the sound garden at Goofy’s How-to-Play Yard.
The main attraction here, though, is Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, where what begins as a relaxing train ride suddenly goes haywire amidst ever-changing animated surroundings. Using trackless ride technology, the experience whisks guests through vibrant cartoon scenes filled with surprise twists, catchy music, and playful visual effects, making riders feel as though they’ve stepped directly into a classic Mickey short.
How the Disneyland App Can Help
You can always count on this Anaheim park to logistics manageable for families. With the official Disneyland App, you can check real-time wait times, locate nearby dining, and view entertainment schedules. The app also provides access to Lightning Lane reservations, and mobile food ordering at many quick-service restaurants, which can reduce time spent waiting in line with hungry kids.
For practical needs, the Baby Care Center at the end of Main Street, U.S.A. offers private nursing areas, changing tables, high chairs, microwaves, and toddler-sized toilets. Stroller rentals are available just inside the park entrance, and Rider Switch allows adults to take turns on attractions with height requirements without waiting twice.