Toddler Things To Do Orlando: Ultimate Guide For Families

Are you wondering what fun activities exist for toddlers in Orlando? There are tons! From thrilling theme park experiences tailored for little ones to interactive museums and relaxing playgrounds, Orlando offers a diverse range of options to keep your toddler entertained. This guide provides a comprehensive list of toddler-friendly activities Orlando to help you plan an unforgettable toddler vacation Orlando.

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Planning Your Orlando Trip With a Toddler: What You Need To Know

Traveling with a toddler requires careful planning. Here’s what to consider:

• Timing: Consider your toddler’s nap schedule and plan accordingly. Mid-day breaks at the hotel or quieter attractions can be crucial.
• Packing: Pack essentials like snacks, drinks, sunscreen, hats, comfortable shoes, and a change of clothes. A stroller or carrier is highly recommended.
• Accommodation: Choose a hotel or vacation rental that offers amenities suitable for toddlers, such as a crib, high chair, and kid-friendly pool.
• Transportation: Consider renting a car for maximum flexibility or utilize ride-sharing services with appropriate car seats. Many hotels offer shuttle services to theme parks.
• Flexibility: Be prepared to adjust your itinerary based on your toddler’s needs and moods. Don’t try to cram too much into one day.

Orlando Theme Parks for Toddlers: Magic for Little Ones

Orlando is famous for its theme parks, and many offer fantastic experiences for toddlers. Here’s a breakdown of the best options:

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom is a classic choice for toddlers, offering a magical experience with gentle rides, character meet-and-greets, and captivating shows.

• Fantasyland: This area is perfect for toddlers, with rides like “It’s a Small World,” “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh,” and “Peter Pan’s Flight.”
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant: A classic ride with interactive queue areas that keep toddlers entertained while waiting.
• Festival of Fantasy Parade: A vibrant parade with beloved Disney characters that will delight toddlers.
• Character Meet-and-Greets: Opportunities to meet Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and other favorite characters.

Epcot

While often thought of for older kids and adults, Epcot offers surprising fun for toddlers, especially in the World Showcase and Future World.

• The Seas with Nemo & Friends: An interactive aquarium with a gentle ride and plenty of sea creatures to observe.
• Journey into Imagination with Figment: A whimsical ride that sparks creativity and imagination.
• World Showcase: Stroll around the World Showcase, enjoying the sights, sounds, and snacks from different countries.
• Frozen Ever After (Norway Pavilion): If your toddler loves Frozen, this boat ride is a must-do. Be prepared for potential wait times.

Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom offers a unique blend of animal encounters, gentle rides, and captivating shows that are perfect for toddlers.

• Kilimanjaro Safaris: A thrilling (but gentle) ride through a wildlife reserve, where you can spot animals in their natural habitats.
• TriceraTop Spin: A dinosaur-themed ride that’s similar to Dumbo the Flying Elephant.
• Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and You!: A musical stage show based on the popular Pixar film.
• Affection Section (Rafiki’s Planet Watch): A petting zoo where toddlers can interact with friendly animals.

Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure

While Universal Orlando is generally geared towards older children and adults, there are still some areas that are toddler-friendly.

• Seuss Landing (Islands of Adventure): A whimsical land with gentle rides, colorful characters, and interactive play areas.
• Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone (Universal Studios Florida): Features a variety of rides and attractions designed for younger children, including a play area.

Tips for Theme Parks with Toddlers

• Utilize Rider Switch: This allows one parent to ride while the other stays with the toddler, and then switch without having to wait in line again.
• Take Advantage of Baby Care Centers: These centers offer changing tables, nursing areas, and quiet spaces for toddlers to rest.
• Bring a Stroller or Carrier: Theme parks can be vast, so a stroller or carrier is essential for navigating the crowds and preventing toddler fatigue.
• Stay Hydrated: Keep your toddler hydrated throughout the day, especially in the Florida heat.
• Plan for Breaks: Schedule regular breaks for snacks, naps, and playtime away from the crowds.

Beyond Theme Parks: More Orlando Toddler Attractions

Orlando offers a wealth of Orlando toddler attractions beyond the theme parks. Here are some top picks:

Indoor Play Areas Orlando Toddlers Will Love

When the Florida heat or rain sets in, these indoor play areas offer a welcome escape:

• Crayola Experience Orlando: A colorful world of creativity where toddlers can explore interactive exhibits, create art, and play with crayons.
• Orlando Science Center: Features interactive exhibits that are perfect for young children, including a dedicated area for toddlers.
• Monkey Joe’s: An indoor playground with inflatable slides, jumps, and obstacle courses.
• WonderWorks Orlando: While geared toward older children, WonderWorks has some areas that are suitable for toddlers, such as the Imagination Lab.
• Peppa Pig Theme Park: This park is designed with younger children in mind and offers age-appropriate rides and play areas.

Orlando Playgrounds for Toddlers: Fun in the Sun

Orlando boasts numerous playgrounds that are perfect for toddlers to burn off energy:

• Lake Eola Park: A beautiful park in downtown Orlando with a playground, swan boats, and a scenic walking trail.
• Barnett Park: Offers multiple playgrounds, a splash pad, and plenty of green space for running and playing.
• Cranes Roost Park: Features a large playground, a walking trail, and a picturesque lake.
• Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake: Offers a playground, a fishing pier, and scenic nature trails.
• Winter Park’s Central Park: A great choice for a relaxing outing with a playground and open space for picnics.

Orlando Water Parks for Toddlers: Splish, Splash Fun!

Orlando’s water parks offer dedicated areas for toddlers to safely enjoy the water:

• Blizzard Beach (Disney): Features Tike’s Peak, a water play area designed specifically for toddlers.
• Typhoon Lagoon (Disney): Offers Ketchakiddee Creek, a water play area with gentle slides and fountains.
• Legoland Florida Water Park: Features Duplo Splash Safari, a water play area designed for toddlers.
• Aquatica Orlando: Offers Kata’s Kookaburra Cove, a water play area with gentle slides and spray features.
• CoCo Key Water Resort: Smaller waterpark with areas that cater to smaller children.

Best Orlando Shows for Toddlers: Entertainment for Little Eyes

• Disney Junior Dance Party! (Hollywood Studios): An interactive dance party featuring Disney Junior characters.
• Festival of the Lion King (Animal Kingdom): A vibrant stage show with music, puppetry, and acrobatics.
• Turtle Talk with Crush (Epcot): An interactive show where toddlers can ask Crush, the sea turtle from Finding Nemo, questions.
• For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration (Hollywood Studios): A fun sing-along show based on the movie Frozen.

Cheap Toddler Activities Orlando: Fun on a Budget

You don’t have to spend a fortune to have fun with your toddler in Orlando. Here are some cheap toddler activities Orlando:

• Picnics in the Park: Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of Orlando’s many parks.
• Library Story Time: Many local libraries offer free story time sessions for toddlers.
• Mall Play Areas: Several malls in Orlando have free indoor play areas for young children.
• Splash Pads: Many community parks have free splash pads where toddlers can cool off.
• Farmers Markets: Visit a local farmers market and let your toddler explore the sights, smells, and tastes of fresh produce.

Free Toddler Activities Orlando: Making Memories Without Spending Money

Orlando offers several free toddler activities Orlando:

• Visiting Local Parks: Many parks have free playgrounds and green spaces for toddlers to explore.
• Attending Community Events: Check local event listings for free festivals, concerts, and other activities.
• Window Shopping: Stroll through Disney Springs or Universal CityWalk and enjoy the sights and sounds without spending any money.
• Taking a Nature Walk: Explore one of Orlando’s many nature trails and let your toddler discover the wonders of the natural world.

Accommodation Tips for Families with Toddlers

Choosing the right accommodation can significantly impact your toddler vacation Orlando. Consider these factors:

• Proximity to Attractions: Choose a hotel or vacation rental that is conveniently located near the attractions you plan to visit.
• Amenities: Look for accommodations that offer amenities such as a crib, high chair, kid-friendly pool, and on-site dining options.
• Space: Consider booking a suite or vacation rental with separate living and sleeping areas to provide more space for your family.
• Kitchen Facilities: Having access to a kitchen can be a lifesaver when traveling with a toddler, allowing you to prepare meals and snacks.
• Kid-Friendly Activities: Some hotels offer on-site activities and entertainment for children, such as kids’ clubs and movie nights.

Sample Toddler-Friendly Itineraries

Here are a couple of sample itineraries for a toddler vacation Orlando:

3-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Magic Kingdom (Fantasyland, Festival of Fantasy Parade, Character Meet-and-Greets).
• Day 2: Crayola Experience Orlando, Lake Eola Park.
• Day 3: Animal Kingdom (Kilimanjaro Safaris, Affection Section, Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and You!).

5-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Magic Kingdom (Fantasyland, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Festival of Fantasy Parade).
• Day 2: Epcot (The Seas with Nemo & Friends, Journey into Imagination with Figment, World Showcase).
• Day 3: Blizzard Beach (Tike’s Peak), Dinner at Disney Springs.
• Day 4: Legoland Florida (Duplo Land), Legoland Water Park (Duplo Splash Safari).
• Day 5: Orlando Science Center, Barnett Park.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Orlando Trip

• Plan Ahead: Research attractions and make reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants and shows.
• Download Theme Park Apps: These apps provide valuable information such as wait times, park maps, and show schedules.
• Take Advantage of Mobile Ordering: Order food in advance using the theme park apps to save time and avoid lines.
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: This will help you save money and keep your toddler satisfied between meals.
• Be Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your itinerary based on your toddler’s needs and moods.
• Most Importantly: HAVE FUN! Remember to relax and enjoy your time together as a family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the best age to take a toddler to Disney World?
  The best age to take a toddler to Disney World is generally between 2 and 4 years old. At this age, they are old enough to enjoy many of the rides and attractions but are still young enough to be easily entertained by the sights and sounds of the parks.
  

• Can I bring my own stroller into Orlando theme parks?
  Yes, you can bring your own stroller into Orlando theme parks. However, there are size restrictions, so be sure to check the park’s website for specific guidelines. Stroller rentals are also available at the parks.
  

• What is Rider Switch?
  Rider Switch (also known as Child Swap) is a service offered at many Orlando theme parks that allows one parent to ride a ride while the other stays with the toddler, and then switch without having to wait in line again.

• Where can I find changing tables and nursing areas in Orlando theme parks?
  All Orlando theme parks have baby care centers that offer changing tables, nursing areas, and quiet spaces for toddlers to rest.

• What are some good restaurants for toddlers in Orlando?
  Many restaurants in Orlando are kid-friendly and offer children’s menus. Some popular choices include:

  • Be Our Guest Restaurant (Magic Kingdom)
  • Chef Mickey’s (Contemporary Resort)
  • ‘Ohana (Polynesian Village Resort)
  • T-REX Cafe (Disney Springs)

• Are there any height restrictions for rides at Orlando theme parks?
  Yes, there are height restrictions for some rides at Orlando theme parks. Be sure to check the park’s website or app for specific height requirements.

This comprehensive guide provides you with the information you need to plan an unforgettable toddler vacation Orlando, filled with magical memories and fun-filled adventures. Enjoy your trip!