By: Val Paxton

People often say “We want to go to Walt Disney World, but we will wait until our kids are older.” Or they ask, “what’s the best age to take your kids to Walt Disney World?” While it can be challenging to travel to some destinations with little ones (and all their stuff!) There are several reasons why Walt Disney World is perfect for families with young children, including babies and toddlers.

Less stuff to pack

Once you arrive at your Disney resort, transportation is provided to parks and Disney Springs. Whether it’s a bus, boat, monorail, or Skyliner, you don’t need to stress about lugging around car seats or renting a vehicle for your trip. If you’re flying to Orlando, as part of my Disney planning services, I can help arrange transportation to your Disney resort, reserve a stroller, and even a crib or bed rails for your room. Disney resorts also provide life jackets at their pools and splash areas. This cuts down on packing and stress!

Attractions for everyone

The whole family can enjoy the majority of attractions at Walt Disney World. More often than not, you’ll find rides with no height or age requirements, so everyone can ride together! Beyond the rides, there are more magical experiences, like shows, parades, night-time spectaculars, and character meet-and-greets. Baby’s first picture with Mickey is definitely frame worthy!

Rider Swap

If there is an attraction that your little one isn’t tall enough or interested in riding, be sure to utilize Rider Swap! This lets one parent ride with an older child, then that child can ride again with the second parent and use the lightning lane for quicker access. Just set this up with a cast member at the attraction entrance when you see a Rider Swap sign!

Baby Care Centers

There are locations in every park that provide spaces specifically for parents and little ones. These include quiet rooms with gliders or rocking chairs, which can be the perfect place to nurse, pump, or soothe a sleepy baby. There are restrooms and changing rooms with diaper changing tables. Plus, a feeding area with a kitchenette and highchairs.  If you need more diapers, wipes, or medicine, you’ll also find those items at the baby care centers, so no worries if you run low at the park!

Under three is free!

The best perk of all, is that kids under three are free at Walt Disney World! You do not need to purchase park tickets for any child under the age of three, including special events. When my little guy was two, we snuck in another trip to take advantage of this, and he enjoyed tagging along with us at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party! 

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So when someone asks “why take them if they won’t remember it?” Don’t listen to that nonsense! As parents, you’ll remember it forever. Their first ride, their first Mickey ice cream bar, their first hug from their favorite character, you will remember the magic! And as a bonus tip, add the Memory Maker to your Walt Disney World package, so you can always have photos of those magical moments. Take those toddlers to Disney!