Your Guide to Visiting Disneyland While Pregnant
Growing up, I spent countless days at Disney parks with my family, learning how to navigate the parks with different needs and preferences. While I don’t have personal experience with pregnancy, I understand the unique concerns that can come up when planning a Disney trip during such a special time. In fact, this blog post was inspired by a past client, who was expecting and asked me, 'Are there any perks for pregnant visitors at Disneyland?'
Disneyland is a magical place for everyone, including expectant mothers! With a bit of planning, you can enjoy your trip while staying safe and comfortable. Here’s how to make the most of your Disneyland adventure while pregnant.
The Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Disneyland while pregnant is during cooler months with lower crowd levels. Check crowd calendars and aim for weekdays in spring or fall to minimize stress and standing time. If you’ve already planned your trip for busier times, take advantage of Lightning Lane options to skip long lines and reduce your time on your feet.
Planning Your Attractions
Disneyland offers plenty of attractions that are suitable for expectant mothers, but it's important to be mindful of safety considerations. The Disneyland app is your best friend here!
Open the app and tap the location icon.
Use the "Filter" feature, scroll down to "Physical Consideration," and select "Expectant Mothers Advisory."
Apply the filter, and you’ll see a list of rides to avoid.
For additional clarity, here are some attractions you’ll want to skip:
Disneyland Park
Space Mountain
Matterhorn Bobsleds
Indiana Jones Adventure
Disney California Adventure
Incredicoaster
Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout!
Radiator Springs Racers
If you're unsure, Cast Members are always happy to help. Meanwhile, enjoy gentler attractions like "It’s a Small World," "Pirates of the Caribbean," and "The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure."
Comfort and Rest During Your Visit
Staying comfortable is key when visiting Disneyland while pregnant.
Hydration: Bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day. Quick-service dining locations offer free cups of ice water, and there are water refilling stations across the resort.
Baby Care Centers: These centers, located in each park, are a haven for expectant mothers. Escape the heat, rest your feet, and enjoy a calm, air-conditioned space.
Breaks and Footwear: Invest in sturdy walking shoes and consider bringing a second pair like sandals for swollen feet later in the day. Plan for breaks in shaded, quiet areas to recharge.
Trimester-Specific Tips
Your Disneyland experience will vary depending on which trimester you’re in:
First Trimester: Morning sickness might make certain foods or spinning rides challenging. Stick to calm attractions and find foods that sit well with you.
Second Trimester: This is often the most comfortable time for travel. Take advantage of your energy and mobility to explore the parks but remember to stay hydrated and rest often.
Third Trimester: Focus on rides with accessible safety restraints and avoid attractions that require tricky boarding. Choose shady spots to rest and wear your most comfortable shoes.
Pregnancy Cravings: Where to Eat
Disneyland is a foodie paradise, even for pregnancy cravings! Here are some must-try options:
Sweet Treats: Dole Whips, Gibson Girl ice cream cones, or Salt & Straw in Downtown Disney.
Savory Snacks: Iconic turkey legs, pickles, and freshly popped popcorn.
Festivals: Visit Disney California Adventure during food festivals like Lunar New Year or the Festival of Holidays for unique flavors and plenty of opportunities to relax and snack.
These dining spots also offer the perfect excuse to sit down and soak up the magical ambiance.
Packing for the Parks
Packing smart will make your day more comfortable:
Wear loose, breathable layers to adjust to temperature changes.
Use a small backpack for essentials like snacks, water, and sunscreen, and consider renting a locker for extra items.
Leave heavy shoulder bags at home to avoid unnecessary strain.
Visiting Disneyland while pregnant may require a bit more planning, but it can still be a joyful, memorable experience. With the right preparation, you'll be able to enjoy the sights, sounds, and snacks of the parks while taking care of yourself and your little Mouseketeer-to-be. After all, there’s nothing more magical than starting your Disney journey with your growing family!
Hello, my name is Matthew and I hope you enjoyed this blog post. I am a travel planner specializing in Disney destinations and I would love the opportunity to work with you in planning your next magical adventure.
Ready to get started? Request a free quote!