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Florida Theme Parks for Toddlers: Best Attractions & Tips

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Florida is known for its sunshine and beaches, but if you’re planning a family vacation with toddlers, Central Florida’s theme parks are the ultimate destination for fun and excitement!

There are plenty of spots near Orlando where you and your little ones can enjoy unforgettable fun. From exciting rides to engaging shows and adorable animal encounters, there’s something for the whole family to love!

After all, a happy toddler means a happy family, right?

Top Picks for Toddler-Friendly Theme Parks in Florida

1. Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, FL)

Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park
Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park

When you think about which Disney theme park is best for toddlers, it’s got to be Magic Kingdom Park. It’s a must-visit, offering endless enchantment and memory-making moments.

Start your day in Fantasyland, where little ones can explore fun rides like “it’s a small world”, Peter Pan’s Flight, and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Our toddler also loves The Haunted Mansion (Liberty Square), Jungle Cruise (Adventureland), and Country Bear Musical Jamboree (Frontierland).

Beyond the rides, toddlers will love meeting their favorite Disney characters and watching the magical parades and castle performances.

Let your little adventurer roam freely on Tom Sawyer Island. They’ll love exploring, burn off energy, and enjoy a bit of independence. With any luck, they’ll tire out and be ready for a nap—giving you the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy attractions like The Hall of Presidents or our family’s favorite, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress.

Pro Tip: Grab a spot on Main Street, U.S.A. early for the parades, and bring noise-canceling headphones for toddlers sensitive to loud sounds during the fireworks.

Height Requirements: Magic Kingdom Park has over 20 attractions with no height requirements, including Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, and Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room. Additional rides with a requirement under 3.5’ include Tomorrowland Speedway (32’’), The Barnstormer (35’’), Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (38”), Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (40”), and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (40”).

2. Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando (Orlando, FL)

Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando
Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando offers an exciting mix of marine life encounters, gentle rides, and engaging shows to captivate your toddlers. 

In Sesame Street Land, you’ll step into the world of Sesame Street, where little ones can ring Bert and Ernie’s doorbell, knock on Oscar’s trash can, or dance alongside a colorful, music-filled parade with Elmo and Big Bird. With gentle rides like Elmo’s Choo Choo Train and the Sunny Day Carousel, plus an exciting splash pad and fun-filled play zone, this area is a toddler’s dream come true.

Don’t Miss: The rest of the park! Beyond Sesame Street Land, SeaWorld Orlando has plenty for tots, including family shows, flamingo paddle boats, and up-close animal encounters, like feeding sea lions or meeting dolphins! The mix of rides, marine experiences, and shows will ensure everyone has a great time!

Height Requirements: Most attractions in Sesame Street Land have no height requirement, although an adult must accompany children below certain heights. For Super Grover’s Box Car Derby, kids must be at least 38 inches tall.

3. Seuss Landing at Universal Islands of Adventure (Orlando, FL)

Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure
Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure

Enter the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss at Seuss Landing in Universal Islands of Adventure, where bright colors, quirky designs, and fun rides await. Toddlers will giggle through One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish and enjoy a gentle spin on The Cat in the Hat.

For free play and exploration, the If I Ran the Zoo area offers slides, water features, and interactive play zones filled with Seussian creatures, including Mr. Gump’s famous seven hump Wump. It’s the perfect space for little ones to let their imaginations run wild, and it’s one of my little guy’s favorites!

Pro Tip: Stop by for storytime with Dr. Seuss characters during Oh! The Stories You’ll Hear—it’s an engaging break for little legs, and parents will enjoy the nostalgia of these classic tales.

Height Requirements: To ride The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride and The Cat in the Hat, children must be at least 36 inches tall. If your child meets this height requirement, they can also enjoy Skull Island: Reign of Kong and Flight of the Hippogriff while visiting Universal Islands of Adventure.

4. DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios Florida (Orlando, FL)

Trolls Trollercoaster at Universal Studios Florida
Trolls Trollercoaster at Universal Studios Florida

Recently opened and perfect for younger kids, DreamWorks Land immerses toddlers in their favorite animated worlds. With many opportunities for character meet-and-greets, it’s a can’t-miss destination for families with little ones.

Toddlers can dance with Trolls during a high-energy party or explore Shrek’s swamp with sensory-friendly play zones. Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp offers interactive games perfect for little adventurers.

The vibrant atmosphere and playful activities ensure kids stay entertained while parents enjoy the immersive settings. And by immersive settings, I mean a “Shrek-zel” – a Shrek-shaped pretzel with green cheese for dipping. You won’t regret it!

Must-Try Treat: The whimsical Troll Ice Cream, topped with edible glitter and sprinkles, is a hit with toddlers and parents.

Can’t Miss Attraction: While you’re there, be sure to catch the Animal Actors on Location! show just around the corner from DreamWorks Land. It’s one of the most entertaining family-friendly shows around!

Height Requirements: Trolls Trollercoaster requires riders to be at least 36 inches tall. Right outside of the Dreamworks area, children at least 34 inches tall can ride the classic E.T. Adventure.

5. EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, FL)

Spaceship Earth at EPCOT
Spaceship Earth at EPCOT

You might think EPCOT is for adults, but toddlers love rides and attractions like Frozen Ever After, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and the new water-splashing walk-through area, Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana. 

After exiting Spaceship Earth, families can explore Project Tomorrow: Inventing the Wonders of the Future, an interactive area filled with hands-on exhibits and activities that engage young minds. Over at ImageWorks, near the Journey Into Imagination with Figment ride, toddlers can unleash their creativity with engaging sensory and play experiences.

Little ones also love the SeaBase Aquarium, where they can watch colorful marine life up close and learn about ocean ecosystems in a fun, immersive environment.

The wide-open spaces make it easy for toddlers to roam and burn off energy. For parents, the international food options provide a chance to sample flavors from around the world while keeping the whole family happy.

Pro Tip: Visit during the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival for colorful displays and family-friendly activities, including Butterfly Landing, located near the Imagination Pavilion, with a variety of butterflies in different stages of their life cycle. It’s really awesome to see!

Height Requirements: You might be surprised to learn nearly every attraction at EPCOT has no height requirement. Some of my family’s favorites are Journey Into Imagination With Figment, Spaceship Earth, Living with the Land, and Turtle Talk With Crush.

Notable Mentions

  • KidsTown at the Orlando Science Center (Orlando, FL): A toddler-friendly haven with interactive exhibits like water play stations, building blocks, and a kid-sized town for imaginative play. 
  • Central Florida Zoo (Sanford, FL): A tranquil escape with a petting zoo and shaded paths.
  • ICON Park (Orlando, FL): Perfect for a stroller-friendly outing with fun attractions like The Wheel, SeaLife Orlando Aquarium, and the Museum of Illusions Orlando.
  • Crayola Experience Orlando (Orlando, FL): Unleash your toddler’s creativity with hands-on art projects in an endless rainbow of colors.

Keeping Theme Park Days Stress-Free With Little Ones

There’s something for toddlers at any theme park you visit. You might think because they won’t be riding the big coasters, they’ll be bored, but I’ve found that’s definitely not the case! Just being out and about, running around, and seeing all the fun and excitement is a blast for kids.

With a little planning, you can make things easier and avoid those dreaded toddler meltdowns. 

Here’s how to make your trips go smoothly:

  • Strollers: Bring your own, reserve online, or rent on-site. They’re lifesavers for tired toddlers (and carrying bags, cups, popcorn buckets, and more!).
  • Pack Smart: Bring plenty of snacks, sunscreen, and refillable water bottles. Don’t forget a change of clothes and swim diapers for splash areas.
  • Tickets: Kids under three get free entry to most parks—no ticket required!
  • Food Policy: Baby food and formula are normally allowed; check with Park Security with any questions.
  • Facilities: Most parks will have nursing facilities, family bathrooms, changing tables, and sometimes even quiet, low-stimulation areas if you or your child needs a break from the excitement. Find these areas on maps online or in the parks.
  • Travel Cribs/High Chairs: If staying on-site, most resorts will have complimentary travel cribs and possibly high chairs, but be sure to check with the hotel in advance.
  • Stay Cool: Florida’s heat is no joke! Dress toddlers in light clothing, apply sunscreen frequently, and make hydration a priority. Fun frozen treats like Dole Whip or Butterbeer can be a refreshing bonus, but water is key.
  • Consider Staying On-Site: If your budget allows, staying at a resort close to the parks is a game-changer. On-site accommodations often include perks like early park entry, shuttle service, and toddler-friendly amenities such as zero-entry pools and splash pads. Plus, midday breaks for naps or outfit changes are much more manageable.

Central Florida is bursting with options for family fun, and toddlers are sure to have a blast while visiting these parks. From thrilling rides at Magic Kingdom Park to marine encounters at SeaWorld Orlando, there’s something for everyone. So pack those snacks, grab your stroller, and get ready to create sunshine-filled memories with your little ones!


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About Kaylee Scherer

Kaylee Scherer is a word lover and game enthusiast with a passion for all things geeky—whether it’s Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, or a galaxy far, far away. A fan of classic TV, she enjoys shows like The Twilight Zone and M.A.S.H.—when she can tear herself away from a good book. A West Virginia native, she now lives in Florida with her wonderful husband and son, where they visit theme parks as often as they can. Universal, Disney, SeaWorld—count her in!