Visiting California Adventure at the Disneyland Resort in California with your little ones can be a fascinating experience.
There are many rides and activities for babies and toddlers at California Adventure.
However, some rides have height limitations, so babies or toddlers may be unable to ride them.
California Adventure has several rides and activities that are great for babies or toddlers (1 to 3 years old).
- The best rides for toddlers and babies are Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!, Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind, Jessie’s Critter Carousel, and The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure.
- Some rides like Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree have height restrictions, so they may not be suitable for babies or children aged one or two.
- Other than rides, there are also fun, interactive activities that young children can enjoy at California Adventure.
This article lists the many rides suitable for babies and toddlers (1 to 3 years old). You’ll also find some rides with restrictions and a small list of activity recommendations.
Best Rides for Babies and Toddlers at California Adventure
Here are the best rides children under four years old can enjoy:
Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
This ride in Hollywood Land takes you through the Monstropolis where Mike and Sulley are seen trying to take Boo back home.
It’s a fun ride for children, and there are no height restrictions. If your kid loves Monsters, Inc., they’ll love this ride too.
You will sit in a taxi that takes you through the fun presentation.
Pixar Pal-A-Round
The Pixar Pal-A-Round is a big Ferris wheel open to everyone, including toddlers. The Ferris wheel has both stationary and rocking free-mounted cars.
For families with babies and toddlers, it’s best to sit in stationary cars and not rocking ones as those can be frightening for children.
Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind
The Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind is based on the memory movers from the movie Inside Out. It’s a fun and safe ride for children of all ages, located in the Pixar Pier.
It’s a colorful ride with each mover in a different vibrant color to mimic Riley’s different emotions!
Jessie’s Critter Carousel
Babies and toddlers would absolutely love this Toy Story-themed carousel.
It features the Cowgirl Jessie at the entrance and the carousel itself is made of different Toy Story characters.
Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters
This ride has a height restriction of 32 inches, so babies or children under 2 years old may not be able to ride it.
But if your toddler meets the height requirements, this car ride is a must-try. It’s located in Cars Land with other similar rides.
This one is safe for young kids as it just involves sitting in cars that line dance to music.
The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
Located in Paradise Gardens Park, The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure takes you underwater in a clam-shaped vehicle.
This is a magical experience that takes you through Ariel’s grotto and Ursula’s lair. With lots of special effects, both adults and children can enjoy this experience with narration for those who haven’t seen the movie.
Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
This spinning ride has a minimum height requirement of 32 inches, so not all toddlers may be able to ride it.
However, it’s a fun one where riders sit in trailers that are pulled in circles.
Mickey’s PhilharMagic
This is not a ride but a theatrical experience that toddlers may enjoy. It’s a 12-minute 3D movie that features Donald Duck.
Consider it a nice distraction for your toddler if they start getting fussy. It’s located in Hollywood Land.
On some nights, some of the rides like Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind and Jessie’s Critter Carousel close early because of the World of Color performance.
Best Activities for Babies and Toddlers at California Adventure
Besides rides for children, there are several activities and immersive experiences at California Adventure, including:
- Meet Anna & Elsa (Frozen)
- Sorcerer’s Workshop
- Turtle Talk with Crush
- Paint the Night Parade
- Disney Junior Dance Party
Conclusion
Disney California Adventure can be a thrilling experience for babies and toddlers.
Although the park has more options for children over five years and adults, there are some fun rides and activities little ones can take part in.
Height limitations begin at 32 inches, so if your child is shorter than that, they can only go on rides with no height restrictions.
Some of the best rides for toddlers include the Ferris wheel, carousel, and undersea voyage designed with special effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which One Has More Rides for Toddlers: Disneyland Park or California Adventure?
Disneyland Park has more rides and activities for toddlers and children as compared with California Adventure.
Many of the rides in California Adventure have height restrictions, which means toddlers can’t ride them.
Even for rides without age or height restrictions, some may be too loud or dark for babies and toddlers.
What Can a 1-Year-Old Do at California Adventure?
California Adventure has several rides and activities appropriate for a one-year-old.
They can ride Jessie’s Critter Carousel, Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind, Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!, and The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Adventure.
They can also enjoy Turtle Talk with Crush and Mickey’s PhilarMagic.
Is California Adventure Good for Babies?
California Adventure has baby-friendly activities and rides like Jessie’s Critter Carousel and Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
You can also take your baby on a Ferris wheel ride (fixed cars) called Pixar Pal-A-Round.
Although babies may be too young to interact in some activities like Turtle Talk with Crush or Toy Story Midway Mania, they’ll enjoy seeing the characters up close.
