Traveling to Disneyland with 2 Under 2: What No One Tells You (But Should)

There’s something magical about experiencing Disneyland through the eyes of your children—especially when they’re little. But if you’re braving the happiest place on earth with two kids under two, chances are you’ve got questions (and maybe a little anxiety). Is it worth it? Will they remember it? How do you keep nap schedules intact when Mickey is calling?

Here’s the truth: it can be magical and memorable, with the right mindset and the right plan. From packing tips to nap hacks and navigating the parks, this guide shares everything I wish I had known before our first Disneyland adventure with two babies in tow.

1. Set Realistic Expectations

Let’s start here: your trip will not look like your pre-kid Disney days. And that’s okay. The beauty of going with littles is that everything is magical to them—even the monorail. The key is to slow down, embrace flexibility, and celebrate the small wins (like a full hour without a meltdown).

Top tip: One solid ride, a character sighting, and a churro break might be your entire day. And honestly? That’s enough.

2. What to Pack (and What to Leave Behind)

Packing for two under two can feel like moving across the country, but you don’t need to bring everything.

Must-Have Gear:

• Double stroller with a large canopy and full recline

• Clip-on fan for stroller naps and hot lines

• Insulated water bottles for everyone

• Portable sound machine for stroller naps

• Extra outfits (for everyone—you included)

• Soft structured baby carrier for rides and long lines

  
  

Skip:

• Too many toys or books

• Full-sized diaper bag (opt for a backpack with essentials)

• Anything that can’t be folded or clipped on

3. Stay On or Near the Property If You Can

Being within walking distance is a game-changer. You’ll want to be able to easily return for naps, outfit changes, or mid-day cool downs.

If budget allows, Disneyland Hotel or Grand Californian offer the easiest access. If you’re staying offsite, look for a hotel on Harbor Blvd that offers stroller-friendly walking paths.

4. Rope Drop Strategy for Littles

Getting to the park at opening (known as “rope drop”) is the way to maximize your time with little ones. Crowds are lower, it’s cooler, and your babies are usually the happiest and most alert.

Early Morning Ride Ideas:

• Dumbo the Flying Elephant

• Winnie the Pooh

• Alice in Wonderland

• Peter Pan’s Flight (hit this one early—it fills up fast!)

  
  

5. Naps in the Park Are Totally Doable

Forget about racing back to the hotel every day. If you have a good stroller and a portable sound machine, your baby can absolutely nap on the go.

Find shaded spots like:

• Behind the Disneyland Railroad in New Orleans Square

• Redwood Creek Challenge Trail in California Adventure

• Back corner of Galaxy’s Edge

Pro tip: Let one adult stay with the napping kid while the other takes the older baby on a ride or walk.

6. Baby Care Centers Are Lifesavers

Disney’s Baby Care Centers are clean, quiet, and fully equipped for feeding, changing, and nursing. They have microwaves, rocking chairs, changing tables, and even diapers and formula for sale.

Locations:

• Disneyland Park: End of Main Street, U.S.A.

• California Adventure: Next to Ghirardelli

7. Dining Tips With Toddlers

Mobile ordering is your best friend—especially when you’re holding a toddler and pushing a stroller.

Kid-Friendly Spots:

• Plaza Inn for character dining with Minnie (they offer early breakfast options too)

• Alien Pizza Planet: Pizza, pasta, and lots of seating

• Jolly Holiday Bakery: Easy snacks and great for a stroller pit stop

Bring your own snacks, sippy cups, and baby food—outside food is allowed and encouraged with littles.

8. Memory-Makers Worth the Splurge

Even if your kids won’t remember the trip, you will. And those memories? Worth every penny.

• Book PhotoPass or capture sweet photos yourself in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle

• Pick one souvenir per child (we love bubble wands or ears for photos)

• Grab a matching outfit set for one park day—it makes for adorable pictures and easy kid-spottinG

9. Nighttime Shows? Know Your Crew

Fireworks and nighttime parades are magical, but they start late and get crowded fast. If your little ones are overstimulated or melting down by 7 PM, don’t stress about missing them.

Instead, end your day on a quieter ride like It’s a Small World or grab a Dole Whip and enjoy the ambiance.

10. Final Thoughts: Go for the Experience, Not the Itinerary

You’ll likely forget how many rides you made it on. But you’ll remember the way your toddler squealed when they saw Mickey, or how your baby clapped at bubbles during the parade.

It’s not about doing it all—it’s about doing what matters most to you and your little crew.