Complete Guide to California Adventure with a Toddler
You might be drawn to California Adventure for their most popular rides such as the Little Mermaid Ariel’s Undersea Adventure ride and the ones in Cars Land, but before you head out, be sure to learn everything you can about California Adventure with a toddler so that you are prepared.
Overly prepared, preferably.
This guide covers it all. From what to pack with smaller children, the best rides for young children, and my best tips for visiting California Adventure with the whole family.
Let’s dive in.
Complete Guide to California Adventure with a Toddler
My Personal Experience Visiting California Adventure with a Toddler
This year Connor’s 3rd birthday turned out to be one for the books. I know he may not remember it fully, but we will and honestly, it was the best day. We initially were just going to do a half day at California Adventures to time his nap accordingly, but in the end, that nap never happened. Anyway, back to the start of the day.
We got there bright and early at 8 am for our reservation at The Disneyland Resort’s Character Breakfast at Storyteller’s Cafe since it was such a special occasion. If you haven’t done a character dining experience, it’s so cute. The restaurant is a sit-down buffet and the characters like Mickey himself come to your table to take pictures. Connor met almost everyone while eating and he was sooooo incredibly excited, not scared of them at all!
After breakfast, we went straight to the park and made a B-line to Cars Land. We did not bring the stroller this time, because low and behold we forgot we switched the stroller to the other car. Big fail on our part, oh well we couldn’t do anything about that now. The line for Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree wasn’t long so we went straight to that and Connor about lost his mind squealing from whirling around in the tractors. It was a lot of fun and perfect for a 3-year-old. So much so that we rode it 5x.
With no stroller, Connor ran everywhere which was fine, it just meant that he’d be tired and probably no nap. So what we ended up doing was toughing out the entire day with an overstimulated toddler. Which wasn’t the worst thing, we rode some slow rides like the merry-go-round and the Red Trolley Car about 8x through which was soothing. We had many snacks and meals to break up the day. He was a trooper and so were we because it is exhausting, yet so fun.
My best takeaway from surviving a full day at California Adventure with a 3-year-old is this: Keep food and snacks flowing. Stay hydrated! For some reason, it was hard to find refillable water stations. And of course, do not forget your stroller.
What to Pack for California Adventure with a Little One
Shop all of my must-haves from my Amazon Storefront
Pullover sweatshirts are essential and how cute is this vintage print? It can get windy and cold if you stay into the evening, especially if you get wet so a warm layer like this sweatshirt needs to be packed.
A Mickey printed tee is a must, this cute one is under $10
Instead of taking a backpack, I like to be hands-free for so many reasons. This fanny pack is under $100 and fits all of your valuables so you don’t have to worry.
Mickey ears headband, because why not add a lil accessory to your family photos this one is under $10 and stays put!
Cars-branded shoe charms for toddler clogs are the cutest thing to dress up plain Crocs. And if you know me by now, I stand by Crocs because they stay on little feet comfortably!
Pack a sneaker because the park is massive. These kid’s Nikes are a favorite of ours and they are under $60.
A splurge, but it’s such a good print, and 100% cotton to breathe is important. This tee is also on sale currently.
Personalized toddler bucket hat with ears, how cute is this? What’s more, is that you get great sun protection as well.
Portable chargers are key and I highly recommend this pack of two because with all the picture-taking your battery will be depleted quickly
Ponchos, you wouldn’t think to pack this but it’s very easy to get splashed abruptly depending on where you are if not paying attention. Great to have on hand.
Silicone snack bags that can be thrown in a backpack or stroller. Snacks and food are expensive at the park so I suggest packing items beforehand so you aren’t waiting while hangry.
Apple air tags are great in general for crowded venues just attach them to your stroller and you can always find it in the massive stroller parking zones
Hand sanitizer goes without saying, but I like these ones because they are so thin they just fit into any pocket and don’t take up any room.
Mini personal fans may seem a little extra but on a very hot day, it’s great to cool yourself down in lines or when the weather just becomes too much to handle (add this one to a stroller just for baby so they stay comfy during naps)
The best travel stroller ever made, the GB-Qbit is my favorite one to get in and out of the tram easily and quickly. It can carry up to 55lbs and fits under a plane seat so while it is pricier, you’ll get a lot of use out it if you travel frequently.
Best Rides for Toddlers in California Adventure
Connor’s favorite ride by far at California Adventures is in Cars Land and that is Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree which is simply a tractor ride that whips and whirls around to Mater singing and laughing. It’s a lot of fun and one of the first rides Connor ever went on, we love it.
Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters in Cars Land is a dance-and-spin ride that is a little gentler than Mater’s Junkyard but still very cute and fun for a toddler. The height limit is 32”.
Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind ride at the Pixar Pier is a spinning flying ride with no height limit full of color and outdoors so you and your toddler get to see a different point of view of the pier.
Jessie’s Critter Carousel at Pixar Pier is a beautiful merry-go-round ideal for toddlers who don’t like to wait in lines. Typically there is no line here and on nights when they do the World of Color show, this carousel will close early.
Little Mermaid is a gentle, slow, yet dark ride full of wonderful color and music which is perfect for toddlers.
Other Can't-Miss Rides for Toddlers at Disney California Adventure:
Toy Story Midway Mania
Radiator Springs Racers
The Ferris Wheel
Grizzly Peak
Disneyland Railroad
Turtle Talk
Peter Pan’s Flight
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
Adventures of Winnie
Must Visit Spots:
Hollywood Land
Finding Nemo
Bug’s Land
Paradise Gardens Park
Sorcerer’s Workshop
Disney Junior Dance Party
Best Tips for Visiting California Adventure with a Toddler for the First Time
I’ve learned a few things over the year and a half of being a Disney mom, so here are my top takeaways when visiting the park:
Prepare the Snacks: Bring more snacks than you could ever imagine. One, it’s to save money, but also when you are waiting in line with a hungry cranky toddler, you best keep them happy. And if your child is like mine, then there always has to be multiple varieties of snacks on hand at all times. Here are a few of our favorites that keep the peace and energy sustained.
MadeGood Strawberry Granola Minis
Check Height Requirements: Before heading out, ensure you're aware of height restrictions for rides, especially for the little ones. Knowing this in advance helps plan the day better.
Add More Fun to the Trip: Make the experience more enjoyable for your toddler by incorporating their favorite characters into the itinerary. Whether it's a meet-and-greet or catching a show, these moments create lasting memories.
Visit Notable Spots: Make sure to make a stop at Pixar Pier, World of Color, and Buena Vista Street.
Prepare Your Ride List: Before you go, jot down your toddler's favorite rides. This helps in navigating the park efficiently, ensuring you hit all the highlights without missing out.
Don’t Forget Noise-Canceling Headphones: Bring noise-canceling headphones to shield your toddler from loud sounds. It ensures a more comfortable experience, especially during parades or fireworks.
Bring Entertainment for Long Wait Times: Long wait times are inevitable, so be prepared with activities to keep your toddler entertained. Snacks, small toys, or even a favorite storybook can make the wait more bearable.
Utilize the Baby Care Center: Take advantage of the Baby Care Center for a convenient and comfortable space to attend to your toddler's needs. It's equipped with changing tables, feeding areas, and a quiet spot to take a break.
Keep all of these things in mind for your upcoming trip to California Adventure with a toddler and you will surely have a great time at the world’s happiest place!
