Congratulations! You’ve decided to take your baby on their first magical trip to Disney. The excitement, the adorable photo ops, the baby-sized Mickey ears—it’s all too cute to resist! But let’s be real: planning a Disney trip with a baby in tow requires some next-level strategy. Don’t worry, though. With a little prep (and a lot of snacks), you can make this trip as magical as it is manageable.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to planning baby’s first Disney adventure—because someone needs to be in charge, and it won’t be your baby.
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1. Timing Is Everything
First things first: when you go to Disney matters. You might be dreaming of holiday lights or the perfect summer day, but for your sanity, avoid peak crowds. Think off-season, like mid-week in the fall or spring, when the parks are less packed, and the weather isn’t scorching.
Your baby’s age matters too. Babies under 2 get free admission (yay!), but consider whether your little one is past the newborn phase and able to handle a day of sensory overload.
Pro Tip: Get to the parks early when the crowds are thin and your baby is at their happiest (i.e., pre-nap meltdown). Early entry is the best way to do this to stay ON PROPERTY and get Early Entry, and hour before the park opens to the public.
2. Stay On-Site (If Possible)
While there are budget-friendly off-site options, staying at a Disney resort can save your sanity AND (possibly) money. Why? LOCATION and CONVIENECE.88 You can quickly head back to the hotel for nap time without an hour-long shuttle ride (because no one wants to deal with a tired, cranky baby on a bus). Plus, the on-site perks—like ea87Irly park access and transportation—are lifesavers!
Pro Tip: Most Disney Hotels offer cribs, bedrails, and infant sleepers. Some Disney hotels can get a bit noisy during the days and hours after the parks have closed. We found that sound machines are our best friends!
3. Pack Like You’re Moving In
You’re probably used to packing everything but the kitchen sink for a regular day out with your baby, but for Disney? You’ll need to Marie Kondo your diaper bag. Bring essentials like extra clothes, diapers, wipes, snacks, formula/breastmilk, and sunscreen. But don’t go overboard—Disney parks have Baby Care Centers with changing tables, feeding areas, and emergency supplies.
Pro Tip: Bring your own stroller if possible. Disney does have strollers you can rent, but you'll save money and baby is comfortable at home in their own stroller.
4. Plan Your Day Around Naps
This one’s a game-changer. If your baby is still napping, plan your park schedule around their sleep. Rope-drop the park in the morning for a few hours of rides and fun, then retreat to the hotel for a nap. You can return to the park refreshed and ready for more magic in the afternoon.
Pro Tip: If your baby will nap in a stroller, use that time to check out more laid-back attractions, like It’s a Small World or Carousel of Progress. It’s the perfect moment for a snack or coffee break, too.
5. Go Easy on the Rides
You’re probably not here for the roller coasters (unless you have a really adventurous baby), but there are plenty of baby-friendly attractions! Disney has tons of rides without height requirements, like Dumbo the Flying Elephant, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, and Peter Pan’s Flight. Babies can also enjoy live shows and parades, which are a sensory delight.
Pro Tip: Use Disney’s Rider Switch program if you want to sneak in a few adult rides. One parent can stay with the baby while the other rides, then switch without waiting in line again!
6. Feed Like a Pro
Whether you’re nursing, formula-feeding, or have a toddler munching on solid foods, Disney makes it easy to feed your baby. Baby Care Centers offer private nursing rooms, high chairs, and microwaves. Many quick-service restaurants will also provide hot water for bottles. You can also bring your own snacks and meals for your baby into the parks—no need to rely on Mickey-shaped pretzels (as tempting as they are).
Pro Tip: Keep snacks easily accessible, and consider packing some fruit pouches or finger foods to avoid baby hunger meltdowns.
7. Expect Meltdowns—And Plan for Them
No matter how well you plan, babies can be unpredictable. The excitement, noise, and crowds may lead to overstimulation (and yes, some tears). Keep an eye out for signs that your little one needs a break. The Baby Care Centers are great spots to cool off, calm down, and reset. My favorite cool down ride is Carousel of Progress, 20min in the A/C and a song that'll stick for your entire vacation.
Pro Tip: Don’t pack your day with too many activities. A few hours in the park might be all your baby can handle. And that’s okay!
8. Capture the Moments (But Don’t Stress)
You’ll want to document your baby’s first trip, but don’t let it take over the experience. Yes, the photo of your baby with Mickey is a must-have, but don’t stress about snapping every magical moment. Some of the best memories are the ones you simply live in.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of Disney’s PhotoPass service so you can get in the picture and have a few professional-quality photos to treasure forever.
Final Thoughts
Taking your baby to Disney for the first time is a magical, unforgettable experience—but it’s also a lot of work! By planning ahead, packing smart, and keeping your expectations flexible, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. And even though your baby might not remember every moment, you’ll cherish the joy of sharing this special adventure with them.
Ready to plan your trip? Don’t forget the snacks!
Hold on! Before I forget...here's some essentials to add to your Disney shopping list:
Travel wet bags for you know accidents
Portable Diaper pail, to keep your hotel room fresh
Pinch guards for those little fingers and heavy hotel doors
Stroller fans, for obvious reasons
Universal Stroller Caddy, for plenty of extra Storage
Stainless steel Water Bottle, to keep drinks cold
Portable Charger
Portable Mickey Fan
Family cooling towel Pack
Crossbody Park Bag
Stroller Rain Cover
Inflatable Booster Seat
Digital Camera for Children
LCD Drawing Tablet ( for the plane, long lines, etc.)
Silicone Straws (no one wants soggy paper straws)
Silicone Bib (Easy to clean in bathroom or with wipes)
Disposable Placemats (easy cleanup and better than heavy porcelain plates for your littles)
Water Shoes (Magic Kingdom and Disney Springs have a Splash Pad and hot pavement on little feet is a BIG N.O.)
Shaded Pool Float
Baby Harness
The MOST important Autograph Books (This is a four pack, especially good for those with multiple kids or you know for the adults too)
Getting ready for Disney? Drop your Favorite Park in the Comments!
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