Theme parks may typically be known for entertaining older children and adults but let us say that there are some really great family theme parks out there for little ones. In fact, we found 6 of the best theme parks for toddlers especially if they like Disney, LEGO, Sesame Street, or just plain fun. Each of these theme parks includes toddler-friendly attractions and many of them provide free admission to young toddlers.
Walt Disney World (Orlando, FL)
Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida may be the best theme park for toddlers overall as it’s filled with exciting Disney characters, rides, and magic. Per Disney, there are 144 toddler-appropriate things to do within the many parks— Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
This makes Walt Disney World the most toddler-friendly theme park on our list! You can bring a Disney-approved stroller (no larger than 31” wide and 52” long) or rent one while you’re there. If you need to make a pitstop, there are Baby Care Centers equipped for diaper-changing, feeding, etc.
- Admission: $109+, Children 3 and under are free
- Attractions to visit: Ketchakiddee Creek (Typhoon Lagoon), The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Under the Sea, Wildlife Express Train, Frozen Ever After, Toy Story Land
Disneyland (Anaheim, CA)
On the other side of the country sits the sister park to Walt Disney World, California’s Disneyland. This Disney resort includes 2 family theme parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Between these two parks, there are over 40 rides and attractions that your toddler can experience, some of which are also featured at Walt Disney World (ex: The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh). Character Dining is also a fun experience for toddlers. Breakfast can be shared with Minnie, Mickey, Goofy, or some favorite Disney princesses. Like the other large theme parks, there are Baby Care Centers here as well.
- Admission: $76+, Children 2 and under are free
- Attractions to visit: Disneyland Railroad, Chip ‘n Dale Treehouse, Jungle Cruise, Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!, Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough
Universal Orlando Resort (Orlando, FL)
Not far from Walt Disney World is another one of the best theme parks for toddlers— Universal Orlando Resort. This resort is actually made of up 3 family theme parks: Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. While there aren’t as many toddler-friendly rides and attractions here compared to the Disney resorts, there are many shows, like Dr. Seuss’ Oh! The Stories You’ll Hear!, and fun character encounters.
If your little one is a fan of Despicable Me, they will love sharing a breakfast buffet with some of the main Despicable Me characters on any Saturday morning. And, if you have a Harry Potter fan on your hands, they’ll be blown away by the totally immersive experience of Diagon Alley™ and Hogsmeade™ which are connected by the Hogwarts™ Express!
- Admission: $109+, Children 3 and under are free
- Attractions to visit: Hogwarts Express, Minion Mayhem, Tot Tiki Reef, The Cat in the Hat, Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster
Edaville Family Theme Park (Carver, MA)
At the Edaville Family Theme Park, almost every ride and attraction is toddler-friendly, so it’s obvious that Edaville should be deemed one of the best theme parks for toddlers. Children can jump on the Clown Train or take a ride on a real steam train on select days. During the Christmas season, toddlers will be dazzled by the Christmas Festival of Lights (don’t miss the Giant Santa) and can enjoy picking out a special gift (or trying a yummy treat) at Dickens Village. Your toddler can even host a birthday party at Edaville!
- Admission: $25 – $35, Children 2 and under are free
- Attractions to visit: Mini Carousel, Clown Train, Flying Turtles, Gas Station Ride, Cranberry Ball Crawl
Sesame Place (Langhorne, PA)
Sesame Place is the best theme park for toddlers who love Sesame Street and especially their beloved furry red friend, Elmo. Sesame Street-themed rides, slides, and more bring Sesame Street to life right in front of your toddler’s eyes. If your child needs a sensory break, check out the open play space, Slimey’s Square, designated for children 5 years and under.
Shows and dance parties are scheduled throughout the day for even more fun. On select dates, you and your toddler can grab a bite with popular Sesame Street characters. Finally, there is a large water play area with splash playgrounds that toddlers will love playing in.
- Admission: $29.99+, Children 23 months and under are free
- Attractions to visit: The Count’s Cruisers, Flyin’ Fish, Mini Monster Clubhouse, Snuffy’s Slides
Related articles:
- 7 Most Underrated Family Vacation Spots
- 8 National Parks Perfect for Little Kids
- Sesame Place: 15 Tips & Tricks for Making the Most Out of Your Visit!
Story Land (Glen, NH)
Story Land is one of the best theme parks for toddlers because it takes popular children’s stories and brings them to life! In fact, your child may feel like they’re really in a storybook themselves. Choose from 8 toddler-friendly attractions like Cinderella’s Castle (for princess lovers), Splash Battle, and Alice’s Tea Cups.
There are also 8 different shows to watch featuring favorite characters like Daniel Tiger, Cinderella, and more. Your toddler will love seeing each of them in “real life.” Another perk of Story Land is the Living Shores Aquarium so plan to make a stop before heading out for a well-rounded and fun trip!
- Admission: $29.99+, Children 2 and under are free
- Attractions to visit: Dutch Shoes, Splash Battle, Cinderella’s Castle, Los Bravos Silver Mine
LEGOLAND Parks
With 3 LEGOLAND Park locations in the U.S. (Winter Haven, FL, Goshen, NY, and Carlsbad, CA), LEGOLAND is by far the best theme park for toddlers who love LEGO. From the LEGO brick architecture to the multitude of LEGO-themed rides, shows, and events, what else can you ask for?
There’s a DUPLO water play area at the Florida resort, a Shiver Me Bricks play area at the New York resort and The LEGO Movie World at the California resort. In addition, there’s an incredible amount of LEGO activities, rides, and things to see so your toddler will be widely entertained. When you need to make a pit stop, LEGOLAND offers a comfortable Baby Care Center for diaper changing, nursing, and more.
- Admission: $84.99+, Children under 2 are free
- Attractions to visit: DUPLO Play, Ford Jr. Driving School, Technic Tot Spot, The Forestmen’s Hideout, LEGO Movie World
Now that you’re aware of the best theme parks for toddlers, it’s time to start planning! Before purchasing tickets, make sure to check height requirements for rides (even if the rides are in a “kiddie” area) so that you know your toddler won’t be left out. Planning ahead of time will allow you to make the most of your visit and don’t forget to look for handy Baby Care Centers when it’s time for a break.
What amusement park do you think is the best theme park for toddlers?
