Is two too young for Disney World? One parent shares what it’s really like visiting with a toddler, including costs, pacing, and why it’s worth it.

When you have a toddler, taking them anywhere can feel like a challenge. Even a quick trip to the grocery store can turn into a full meltdown, so the idea of bringing them somewhere as busy and overstimulating as Disney World might seem like a bad idea.

I used to think the same thing. Before having a kid, I would have confidently said I’d never bring a toddler to Disney. But now, after visiting multiple times with my under-three-year-old, I can honestly say I have no regrets.

Bringing a Toddler to Disney World

Now, I should state a caveat right off the bat – I’m a Florida resident and Passholder, meaning I’m a three to four-hour drive to the theme parks versus a full flight and week-long vacation. If I fell into the latter category my answer may be much different. But, from my experience, going with a kid who’s two or under can make for an incredibly fun Disney World experience. These are a few of my big reasons why.

Under Three is Free

Let’s get the biggest reason out of the way right out the gate – the ticket situation. At Disney World, you don’t need a ticket until you’re three years old, making entry free for those two and under (with a ticketed adult, obviously). That cuts out a major expense, especially if you’re only traveling with kids who require no ticket for entry.

Along with ticket pricing, kids under three eat free at buffets. Meals with prix-fixe menus or a la carte allow you to choose between your toddler sharing food from your plate or ordering their own meal at a cost. For me, I’ve found that, despite their high adult pricing, buffets have been the best option for this time period. Once we hit three and need to start paying, I may feel a bit differently. But for now, I’ve loved getting to partake in character dining buffets, where she gets the chance to meet her favorite characters at a cost that only applies to the adults’ meals.

A More Leisurely Pace

While a toddler’s world is typically nonstop go-go-go, I’ve actually found it’s been a more leisurely pace than adult-only Disney trips I’ve taken. When I’ve gone with my husband or friends, we typically try to get as much as we can done throughout the day. When bringing my toddler, we aren’t trying to do as many things.

Typically, we’ll go on a ride or two (more often than not, one ride, multiple times) and then take a break back at the hotel for a nap and pool time. Then, if she’s feeling up for it, we go back. It requires less planning, a slower pace, and a little more time to relax (well, minus the inevitable tiredness and tantrums).

Experience vs. Attractions

I’m more of a ride girl, so pre-kid, I cannot remember the last time I waited in line to meet a character. Now, that’s what we spend most of our time doing. As an adult, sure, I love getting to meet Mickey and friends or snap a pic with the princesses. But that simply doesn’t compare to getting to experience my daughter’s joy at getting to meet the characters she’s watched on screen.

While I thought I’d miss getting to do all the rides while in the parks, I’ve actually found that going with her has given me a completely difference experience that I had been missing out on, and one that I wouldn’t have enjoyed nearly as much before she was born.

Enjoying the Resort

One of the biggest perks to bringing my toddler to Disney World? Actually getting to enjoy the resort hotels. While we had always stayed off-site before she was born, we’ve opted for hotels closer to the parks in the handful of times we’ve gone for short weekend trips. And at every hotel, we’ve actually done more than just spend time there sleeping each night – we’ve gotten to enjoy the amenities!

Because each day has involved a midday break, we’ve gotten to enjoy the pools, splash pads, quick-service restaurants, and pool bars that we had never previously made time for. What we’ve found is that she enjoys the hotel experience just as much as being in the theme parks.

Disney World With a Toddler FAQ

Is Disney World free for 2-year-olds?

Yes, children under age 3 get free park admission.

What can a 2-year-old do at Disney World?

Toddlers can enjoy rides with no height requirement, character meet-and-greets, playgrounds, and splash pads.

Is Disney World worth it with a toddler?

For many families, yes, especially if you plan for a slower pace and take advantage of resort time.