A Magical Day at Magic Kingdom with Toddlers

There’s no place like Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, and when you’re traveling with toddlers, it can feel like stepping into a dream. From meeting beloved characters to enjoying gentle, family-friendly rides, Magic Kingdom offers a perfect blend of fun and enchantment for the littlest Disney fans. While the park may seem overwhelming at first, with a little planning and preparation, you’ll have an unforgettable experience that your toddler will cherish. 

Best Time to Visit Magic Kingdom with Toddlers

Choosing the right time to visit Magic Kingdom can make a huge difference in your experience. Since Magic Kingdom tends to be busiest during holidays and school vacation periods, consider visiting during the off-peak months like January, February, or September. The parks will be less crowded, and wait times for rides will be shorter.

Also, keep in mind Florida’s hot weather. During the summer, temperatures can soar, so if you’re visiting then, be sure to take breaks, drink plenty of water, and find shady spots to cool off.

Plan for a Relaxed Pace

Magic Kingdom is vast, and even though toddlers have endless energy, a day of constant activity can be overwhelming. Focus on one area at a time and keep your itinerary flexible. Prioritize your toddler’s favorite attractions, but make sure to leave time for rest and snacks. 

With toddlers, it’s also crucial to plan for naps. If your little one still takes a nap during the day, consider returning to your hotel in the afternoon for a break. Many families find that starting their day early, leaving the park for a break, and returning in the evening works well for everyone.

Toddler-Friendly Rides You Won’t Want to Miss

Magic Kingdom is full of rides that toddlers will love! Here are some of the most toddler-friendly attractions to enjoy:

It’s a Small World: This classic boat ride features colorful, singing children from around the world. Its gentle pace and cheerful music make it perfect for toddlers.

  

Dumbo the Flying Elephant: A must-see for toddlers! They can fly their own Dumbo in this fun, spinning ride. It's especially exciting when they get to control how high or low their elephant goes.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: A calm ride through the Hundred Acre Wood, where toddlers can meet Pooh, Tigger, and their friends while enjoying soft music and whimsical scenes.

Mickey’s PhilharMagic: This 3D show is entertaining for the whole family. It’s filled with beloved Disney characters and has a lighthearted storyline that will captivate your toddler.

Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid: This slow-moving ride takes you under the sea to experience the story of *The Little Mermaid*. With its bright colors and catchy tunes, it's a hit with young kids.

Prince Charming Regal Carrousel: A gentle, classic carousel ride where your toddler can choose a horse to ride while enjoying the park's beautiful views.

The Jungle Cruise: For toddlers who enjoy a bit of adventure, this gentle boat ride takes you through exotic jungles with a humorous tour guide.

Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room: A relaxing, indoor show where singing birds, flowers, and tikis put on a delightful performance. It’s a perfect way to cool off and sit down for a while.

Character Meet-and-Greets

Meeting Disney characters is a magical experience, especially for toddlers who adore the iconic Disney crew. Magic Kingdom is the place to meet many of your toddler’s favorite characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Cinderella. You can find character meet-and-greets scattered around the park, but be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for the times and locations of where to find them. And, don't forget your AUTOGRAPH BOOK. All characters will sign autographs during meet-and-greets!

A character dining experience, like the Cinderella’s Royal Table, is also a great way to meet multiple princesses in one sitting, while enjoying a meal in the heart of Cinderella Castle. Book these dining experiences in advance in the app!

Stroller Tips for Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom is huge, and toddlers will tire out quickly, so having a stroller is a must. You can bring your own, or rent one at the park. Disney strollers are comfortable and spacious, but if you have a toddler who still naps during the day, having a stroller they’re familiar with can make a big difference. Tip: Tie something on your stroller so you can easily identify it in a sea of other strollers. I used a red scarf!

Consider renting a double stroller if you have two toddlers. It’ll make moving around the park much easier and ensure that your toddlers have a comfy spot to rest when they need it.

Tip: Disney has stroller size restrictions, so before bringing your own make sure it’s Disney-approved here.

Eating at Magic Kingdom

Toddlers can get cranky when they're hungry, and the excitement of Magic Kingdom can work up quite an appetite. Make sure to pack some easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars, crackers, and fruit for quick energy boosts. 

For meals, Magic Kingdom has several kid-friendly dining options. *The Crystal Palace* on Main St. USA, offers a character buffet with Winnie the Pooh and friends, which is a hit with young kids. Book character dining well in advance on the Disney app. For something more casual, *Casey’s Corner* offers hot dogs and fries, perfect for a quick bite. 

You can also take advantage of Disney's mobile ordering system, which allows you to order food in advance, skipping the lines and saving time.

Tip: Pack a cooler with water, snacks and lunch to save money. Eating at Disney can get expensive, but they allow you to bring a small cooler with food and drinks into the park. Make sure it fits in your stroller!

Rest Spots

A day in Magic Kingdom can be overwhelming for toddlers, so it’s important to find some quiet spots to rest. Look for shaded areas or indoor attractions where you can cool off and relax. The *Hall of Presidents* and *The Enchanted Tiki Room* are both air-conditioned spaces where you can take a break. 

Tip: if you plan on spending 12+ hours at the park to catch the fireworks at night it’s also a good idea to take a midday nap break at your hotel. If you’re staying at a Disney Resort, it's easy to return to your room for some downtime before heading back to the park later in the day. There are in and out privileges with your Disney parks tickets!

Parades and Shows

Magic Kingdom offers a variety of parades and live shows that your toddler will love. The *Festival of Fantasy Parade* features vibrant floats and beloved characters like Elsa, Anna, and Mickey. *Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire* is a fantastic stage show that brings characters like Rapunzel, Elsa, and Moana to life in front of Cinderella Castle. Check the app for daily parade times.

Be sure to find a good viewing spot early, as parades and shows can get crowded. Consider arriving 30 minutes before showtime to ensure a great view for your toddler.

Tip: If there is a noon show we suggest arriving at 11:30 and enjoying your lunch while you wait for the parade!

What to Pack for Disney with Toddlers

No matter how well you plan, toddlers can be unpredictable. Be prepared!

• Diapers
• Wipes
• Sunscreen
• Snacks
• Hat
• Change of clothes
• Sweater or jacket for evening 
• Disney approved stroller (I love the Ergobaby Metro+ for travelling, buy it here!)
• Stroller fan (for hotter months)
• Travel sound machine
• Refillable water bottle
• Disney outfit
• Comfy walking shoes
• Disney character autograph book - shop here!
• AirTags (put one on each child and one on your stroller). Buy AirTags here!

For more Disney essentials, click here.

Where to stay near Magic Kingdom

There are many options for accommodations near Disney World, but I do have some recommendations depending on your budget.

Staying at a Disney World Resort is obviously the most incredible experience. With access to the monorail, Disney transportation, ferries, etc.. staying at a Disney World Resort definitely has its advantages. It does come with a larger price tag though.

For our last Disney World vacation, we stayed just off property in the Celebration area at Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration and we had an incredible experience. Not only was this hotel BUDGET-FRIENDLY, it was also family-friendly and checked all of our boxes.

Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration has:

• Family suites with a full kitchen, 2 bathrooms, a living room and bedroom.
• Free shuttles to Disney Parks daily
• 2 outdoor pools, one that has a water slide
• Daily activities by the pool
• On-site restaurants and bars
• Delicious buffet breakfast ($)
• 12-minute drive to Magic Kingdom and Disney Springs

The Disney App: Your Ultimate Planning Tool

The My Disney Experience app (download here) is an essential tool for planning your day at Magic Kingdom, especially when traveling with toddlers. This app allows you to make park reservations, check wait times for rides, view character meet-and-greet schedules, and even order food ahead of time to skip the lines. The app also provides a map of the park, helping you navigate Magic Kingdom with ease and locate toddler-friendly attractions or rest areas. You can use the app to book Lightning Lanes for select attractions (if available), which can help reduce wait times for popular rides. With real-time updates, the My Disney Experience app ensures that you stay organized and make the most of your day in the park, allowing you to focus more on the fun and less on the logistics.

A day at Magic Kingdom with toddlers is an experience filled with magic, joy, and unforgettable moments. With a little planning and the right mindset, you can ensure that your toddler has an enchanting time while creating memories that will last a lifetime. From gentle rides and character encounters to snacks and rest breaks, Magic Kingdom has something for every toddler—and their parents too. So, grab your stroller, pack your bags, and get ready to experience the magic!

Want to extend your trip to Florida? Think about visiting Florida's Gulf Coast and exploring 30A. Learn more about 30A here!

Travel Guide: Florida's 30A beach towns

30A, otherwise known as Florida's Emerald Coast, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Florida. With a white sandy beach and turquoise water, it truly feels like you're in the Caribbean. Just a quick drive from Georgia or Alabama, 30A has been a hot vacation spot for southerners for years, and now it's gaining popularity internationally.

Why do we love 30A? It doesn't feel like the rest of Florida. It's really maintained a cottage-like vibe, it screams old money and is super duper clean. We go in the off season when it's not too busy, and the beach is stunning, the weather is just right and restaurants aren't hard to get into.

Top Beach Towns in 30A

Seaside is best know as the town from The Truman Show. It was founded by a couple, Robert and Daryl Davis, and is one of the most special places I have ever encountered. From its perfectly planned out streets, to the massive epicentre which brings the whole town together, it is truly the most perfect town in America, and it has the branding to prove it. Shop Seaside gear at one of their several shops; from sweaters to coffee table books, they sell it all! (And yes I have a few different things, I am a huge fan!)

Alys Beach is one of the newer beach towns along 30A, with much of the town still under construction. I can only describe it as having a very Greek Islands vibe. The architecture is unlike anything else you'll see in Florida. Modern lines, plenty of outdoor spaces and something I really love about Alys Beach is that each home must have something to offer those wandering by. For example a sitting area out front, a water fixture or water fountain. It has helped to create a very aesthetic town, and makes it feel very welcoming.

Rosemary Beach is probably the best known beach town along 30A. It's pretty busy, but very lovely. It has some really nice shops and restaurants, and a wonderful little grass courtyard where B loves to play. We always get takeout and eat it in the courtyard on the benches.

Where to Stay in 30A

We love renting houses and you can easily rent a house using AirBNB and VRBO. As a family a house allows us to get more than one bedroom and a full kitchen so we can make some meals ourselves. We love to stay in Seagrove as it is central and a little more affordable. But there are a lot of really nice hotels in the area that are perfect for couples or families.

Watercolor Inn & Resort.

Vibe: Family-friendly, resort-style

Highlights: Situated just steps from the beach, WaterColor Inn is a beautiful resort offering beachfront accommodations, a massive pool, and access to golf and bike trails. It’s part of the larger WaterColor community, with easy access to restaurants, shops, and art galleries in Seaside, a neighboring town.

Why Stay: Excellent for families and those who want a mix of outdoor activities, luxury amenities, and a laid-back atmosphere.

The Lodge 30A.

Vibe: Cozy, nature-centric

Highlights: This boutique lodge offers a more intimate stay with a focus on eco-friendly, sustainable design. The Lodge 30A is nestled in a natural setting, with a focus on personal service and charm. Guests can enjoy beautifully appointed rooms, a saltwater pool, and a prime location near the beach.

Why Stay: A great option for nature lovers and those who appreciate a smaller, more personalized hotel experience.

The Pearl.

Vibe: Upscale boutique

Highlights: The Pearl Hotel is a luxurious, adults-only hotel in Rosemary Beach, offering a mix of modern amenities and old-world charm. The hotel boasts an elegant rooftop bar with panoramic views, a beautiful pool area, and a full-service spa. Its proximity to the beach makes it a great spot for relaxation with high-end service.

Why Stay: Ideal for couples seeking a quiet, sophisticated retreat with access to fine dining and boutique shops.

The Court Hotel.

Vibe: Coastal elegance

Highlights: The Court Hotel is just steps away from Seaside’s iconic white sand beaches, vibrant town square, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and galleries. You’re always close to the action, yet the hotel offers a peaceful retreat from the crowds.

Why Stay:  Its convenient location means you can walk to the beach or wander around the charming town square with ease. With its blend of upscale accommodations and intimate, coastal vibe, it’s the perfect choice for those looking to experience the beauty and character of Seaside, Florida, in comfort and style.

Where to Eat along 30A

After all the fun and adventure, you're bound to work up an appetite. Fortunately, 30A is home to a wide variety of restaurants, from casual seafood joints to upscale dining spots. Here are some of the best places to grab a bite.

1. Blackbear Coffee

If you’re in need of a morning pick-me-up, Blackbear Coffee in Santa Rosa Beach is a must-visit. This cozy, laid-back café offers expertly brewed coffee, specialty lattes, and refreshing iced drinks. Whether you're grabbing a quick cup of coffee before hitting the beach or sitting down to enjoy the cozy atmosphere, Blackbear is the perfect place to start your day. Don’t miss their house-made pastries and breakfast sandwiches—they’re the perfect complement to your coffee.

2. Buddy’s Seafood

For the freshest seafood along 30A, you can’t go wrong with Buddy’s Seafood. Located in Santa Rosa Beach, this no-frills spot offers some of the best local fish, shrimp, and oysters. If you’re in the mood for a seafood boil, Buddy’s has you covered, or you can pick up fresh, prepared seafood to take home. This local institution is a favorite for its laid-back vibe and unbeatable quality.

3. Raw and Juicy

For something light, fresh, and downright delicious, Raw and Juicy is the place to go. With two locations in Alys Beach and Grayson Beach, this health-conscious café offers smoothies, fresh juices, bowls, and a variety of plant-based dishes. It’s a great option for those looking to refuel after a bike ride or a morning at the beach.

4. Great Southern Café

Located in Seaside, Great Southern Café is a local favorite for both breakfast and dinner. Known for its southern-inspired comfort food, Great Southern Café offers dishes like shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and fried green tomatoes. For a truly unique experience, try their signature dish, the Bang Bang Shrimp—it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re starting your day with a hearty breakfast or winding down with dinner, this is a must-visit spot along 30A.

5. Bud and Alley’s

For a classic 30A dining experience, head to Bud and Alley’s in Seaside. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning Gulf views, this iconic restaurant is perfect for enjoying fresh seafood and great cocktails. The outdoor rooftop bar offers a breathtaking view of the Gulf, making it an ideal spot to watch the sunset while sipping on a craft cocktail.

6. Coastside 30A

If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, Coastside 30A in Watersound is a perfect choice. This modern seafood restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients. With dishes like seared tuna, grilled octopus, and their signature seafood tower, it’s an ideal place for a romantic dinner or a special celebration. The chic ambiance, combined with the stunning coastal views, makes Coastside a standout along 30A.

Things to do in 30A

Here are some of the must-do activities when visiting this hidden gem on the Florida Panhandle.

1. Explore Grayton Beach State Park

One of the top highlights along 30A is Grayton Beach State Park—a stunning natural preserve that offers some of the best outdoor experiences in the region. This state park is a haven for nature lovers, featuring coastal dunes, wetlands, and a variety of wildlife.

• Hiking and biking: Grayton Beach has several trails that are perfect for both hiking and biking. The Western Lake Trail takes you through pristine forests and leads to Western Lake, a serene, freshwater lake where you might spot herons, egrets, and other local wildlife. The park also offers bike rentals if you’d like to explore the area on two wheels.

• Swimming and relaxing on the beach: The park has access to a quiet, uncrowded beach where you can soak in the sun, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on the sand. The beach here is much less commercialized, giving you a sense of tranquility and seclusion.

• Kayaking and paddleboarding: For those who want to get on the water, kayaking or paddleboarding on Western Lake is a great way to explore the area. The lake’s calm waters are perfect for a peaceful paddle, and you might even spot some dolphins or sea turtles along the way.

2. Have a beach bonfire

Nothing says "vacation" like a relaxing evening by the beach with a cozy bonfire. Many of the 30A beaches allow for beach bonfires (with a permit), making it a perfect activity to enjoy with friends or family. Imagine watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico, then gathering around a fire as the sky turns dark.

• Bonfire Packages: Local companies offer bonfire packages that include everything you need for a fun, hassle-free experience—firewood, chairs, s’mores kits, and even a grill for cooking dinner over the flames. It’s a great way to spend the evening after a day in the sun and to enjoy the cool coastal breeze.

• Stargazing: Once the fire burns down and the sky is completely dark, the stargazing is incredible. With minimal light pollution along this stretch of coastline, you’ll be able to see countless stars, constellations, and if you're lucky, a shooting star or two.

  

3. Cruise around in a golf cart

One of the most charming aspects of 30A is how laid-back the communities are. Many of the towns along the route, including Seagrove, Blue Mountain Beach and Grayton Beach, allow visitors to rent golf carts to explore the area in style. (Note: some towns (Alys Beach and Rosemary Beach) have strict no golf cart rules so do your research before booking to ensure the area you are staying in is golf cart-friendly!)

• Easy Transportation: Driving a golf cart along the streets of 30A is a fun and convenient way to get around. Since the area is so walkable, the golf cart allows you to zip from one neighborhood to another without worrying about finding parking or navigating through busy traffic. It’s a perfect way to explore all the cute boutiques, cafes, and art galleries that line the streets.

• Perfect for families: If you’re traveling with kids, renting a golf cart is a great way to keep them entertained and excited about getting around.

• Eco-friendly: Golf carts are a sustainable option, allowing you to enjoy the area while minimizing your carbon footprint. Plus, it’s much more fun than driving a regular car! We always book through Destin Paradise Rentals.

4. Shop in Seaside

Seaside, one of the most famous communities along 30A, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the area. Known for its picturesque pastel-coloured cottages and its vibrant, walkable town centre, Seaside is a perfect place to spend a day shopping, dining, and people-watching. Wander through the charming streets and browse the boutiques, art galleries, and unique shops. From coastal-inspired home decor to locally made jewelry, you're sure to find something special to take home.

5. Catch a Sunset at Rosemary Beach

For an unforgettable sunset experience, head to Rosemary Beach. Known for its charming architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning beach access, it’s the perfect place to end your day. Whether you're enjoying a cocktail at one of the town's chic restaurants or simply sitting on the sand, the sunsets here are mesmerizing.

• Scenic Walks: Take a leisurely walk along the beach or explore the pedestrian-friendly streets of Rosemary Beach. The town is made for strolling, with its white picket fences, lush landscaping, and quaint courtyards.

6. Take a Scenic Drive Along 30A

Sometimes, the best thing to do is simply take a drive. The entire stretch of 30A is filled with stunning coastal views, charming neighborhoods, and vibrant communities. Take your time and stop at the different towns and beaches along the way, each with its own personality and charm.

• Stop at the Scenic Overlooks: There are several scenic overlooks and points along 30A where you can pull over and take in the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you're catching a glimpse of the emerald waters or the stunning sunsets, these views are worth the stop.

7. Try Paddleboarding or Surfing

For the more adventurous, 30A’s pristine beaches offer excellent opportunities for water sports. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and surfing are two of the most popular activities here. You can rent boards and take lessons from local shops or simply head out on your own if you’re more experienced.

• Great for Beginners: The calm, clear waters make it a great place for beginners to learn paddleboarding or surfing. Plus, the beautiful surroundings and gentle waves make for an unforgettable experience.

FAQs

1. What is 30A?

30A is a scenic highway that runs for about 24 miles along the Gulf of Mexico in the Florida Panhandle. It is known for its beautiful beaches, charming coastal communities, and unique local culture. The highway connects several picturesque towns and beaches such as Santa Rosa Beach, Seaside, Grayton Beach, Alys Beach, and Rosemary Beach.

2. How do I get to 30A?

Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) – About 30 miles west of 30A.

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) – Located about 20 miles east of 30A. 

You can also drive to 30A, which is what we do every year!

3. What is the best time to visit 30A?

Off-season and when there are no spring or fall breaks. End of October through end of February are a great time to visit when it's less busy. However, the weather can be iffy. Halloween is our favourite time to go!

4. What is the weather like in 30A?

Spring (March–May): The weather is mild, and the beaches are less crowded, especially in early spring.

Summer (June–August): This is the peak season, with warm weather and a lively atmosphere. It’s perfect if you enjoy a bustling beach vibe but expect more crowds.

Fall (September–November): The weather remains warm, and the crowds thin out, making it a great time for a quieter vacation.

Winter (December–February): If you prefer peace and solitude, winter offers cooler temperatures but much fewer tourists.

5. Can you bike on 30A?

Absolutely! 30A is a bike-friendly destination with a 19-mile bike path that runs alongside the highway. The path connects several of the coastal towns and is perfect for exploring the area at a relaxed pace. Many vacation rentals offer bike rentals, or you can find bike shops along 30A.

6. Are pets allowed on 30A beaches?

Pet policies vary depending on the beach and town. Some beaches along 30A allow pets on leashes, while others may have restrictions during certain times of the year. It’s important to check specific beach regulations or with your accommodation before bringing your pet.