Tips for Traveling with a Toddler in California Adventures

While California Adventures in the Disneyland Resort has a higher concentration of thrill rides than its sister park Disneyland, it still has plenty of attractions to keep its littlest visitors entertained. We just recently visited California Adventures in the Disneyland Resort with our 18 month old toddler. Here’s some of the attractions that we especially enjoyed.

Hollywood Pictures Backlot

Monster’s Inc. Mike and Sulley to the Rescue was a great ride for our toddler. Even though he hasn’t seen the movie, he loved the bright colorful monsters.

Disney’s Aladdin Musical Spectacular was a 45 minute long show. We weren’t sure if a toddler could make it through the whole show so we sat in back. Our little boy laughed and clapped at all of the special effects, music, and animals.

We loved Muppet Vision 3D, but our toddler refused to wear the glasses and wasn’t interested at all. This show is probably better for kids a little bit older. Playhouse Disney – Live on Stage is a much better choice. This 20-minute interactive show features kid’s favorite characters from Playhouse Disney.

A Bug’s Land

Our baby loved every part of A Bug’s Land, from the colorful bugs hiding in the bushes to the to the rides that were just his pace. His favorite though was the Princess Dot Puddle Park. Luckily he was happy watching the kids play in the water, because we didn’t have an extra set of clothes.

Paradise Pier

Our toddler loved watching the flashing lights and spinning rides at Paradise Pier. The S.S. Rustworthy was a fun place to run around and get wet.

There are a lot of options for kid-friendly food at Paradise Pier including pizza, burgers, fries, pasta, and chicken strips.

Golden State

There weren’t a lot of attractions in this area for toddlers. The Redwood Creek Challenge trail gives an opportunity for active kids to burn off some excess energy.

We found the road between Soaring Over California and Redwood Creek Challenge to be the best place to walk our toddler for a nap in his stroller. Distractions were minimal.

The greatest variety of dining options in one area are available at the Pacific Warf. Everything from clam chowder in a bread bowl, to tacos, to bruschetta are available here.

And Don’t Miss the Parades

The Block Party Bash is the most fun and interactive parade Disney has put on. Dance, sing, shout, laugh, and jump with the characters from the Disney/Pixar films. Make sure you stop at one of the three Party Zone for the best experience.

Finish off the night with the classic Electrical Parade which ends just before the park closes.