Disneyland Vs Disney World: The Pros and Cons when Traveling with Kids

You're ready to book your Disney vacation, but you're torn between which park to visit. Well, I've got you, friend!

First off, think of the age of your fellow Mouseketeers in your travel party. Is everyone an adult? Do we have anyone under the age of 4 in the group? What about the weather? Can you withstand the Florida sunshine? 

Here are my kid-friendly traveling tips for Disneyland vs. Disney World: 

1. Kid-Friendly Rides

I will say that Disney has something for everybody, there are kid-friendly rides located at both Disney World and Disneyland for kids of all ages. I was especially impressed with how many thrill rides kids can enjoy. Now, there are of course height requirements on all the rides, but I believe that Disneyland is more geared towards younger park-goers than adults. Disneyland still has Walt's childlike sense of wonder imprinted all over that park, there are so many classic rides for kids of all ages to enjoy but in particular the younger Disney kids. While some have more of a quirkier theme than others (i.e.: Mr. Toad's Wild Ride lol) I highly recommend parents of younger children to venture out to this park as their beginning Disney adventure park. Disney World rides are also amazing for you and your little ones to enjoy, but there is something that makes Disneyland seem so much bigger to a child than it is to an adult. 

Verdict: This is a tricky one. Both parks offer great options for kids, but Disneyland feels just a little more magical to a kid. If you are traveling without kids, Disney World is the better option. Check out why you should stay on property at a Disney World hotel

Mickey's Runaway Railway at Hollywood Studios Florida

2. Mobility with Kids 

Disney World is a lot to tackle with several little ones. Think about it, 4 parks and Disney Springs. Most of the parks have several football fields worth of walking space, landscaping, and scenery. Which means a lot of walking for both adults and kids. While this is fabulous if you want to ensure that your kiddos are tuckered out at the end of the night, this can be a hassle when planning what to bring with you to a Disney Parks resort. While strollers are available to rent at the parks, in addition, several additional options to purchase a stroller rather than bring your own and pray TSA does not break it (this happened to us with my niece's stroller). Disneyland is comprised of two parks that are conveniently located right across from one another. This can be a bonus when small travelers are concerned. The best part is it's super easy to gain access from your Disneyland resort hotel to the parks. So, nap time becomes a breeze in between a fun-filled morning and a FANTASMIC evening of fireworks! I've touched more on this in a previous blog post. Learn more about the perks of staying at a Disneyland hotel

Verdict: Young kids (under 6 years old) will enjoy a Disneyland trip. It's easier to navigate with children. Adult fans or older kids will enjoy the variety of options Disney World's four theme parks (plus 2 water parks) offer. 

My older brother and my niece (Morning Coffee and Cake Pop to start the day!)

3. Character Meet and Greet Accessibility: 

At Disneyland, I loved that characters pop out at the drop of a hat. They walk and interact with the guests in ways you won't see at Disney World. Magic moments happen when the kids run up to them and get escorted to the meet and greet location. There's a good chance of seeing characters as you roam the park or head back to the resort. 

Compare the character meet and greet to Disney World: Disney World has set times and designated areas to always meet your favorite princess, hero, or villain. You can plan to spend time in the meet and greet line and then hit the rides. It can be hard to get a dedicated photo op at Disneyland with how the characters move around the park. When I was at Disneyland, it took literally seconds for the line to fill up for a character and a cast member stopped me in my tracks and say the line was full. 

Verdict: For fun and spontaneity, Disneyland character sightings can't be beaten. If you want a more dedicated and structured time for a photo opportunity, Disney World is the better bet. 

Meeting Miguel at Disneyland 

4. Weather 

This girl was once a huge Disney World fan and didn't want to hear of anything different. But when I landed in California at Santa Ana's John Wayne Airport back in June; that was it! I ended up falling madly in love with the weather lol. Florida's sunshine can quickly turn into storm clouds during the summer months as rain can be a big factor during hurricane season.

However, don't let that stop you from enjoying a Walt Disney World Vacation. You simply need to time your vacation right to experience Florida during the cooler months. December, January, February even March is delightful. If you are going to a Disneyland Park during the summer, I recommend bringing a light jacket or spirit jersey for the evening. It gets quite chilly in the mornings and evenings. 

Verdict: Disneyland in California has less temperamental weather during the summer months. If you can plan a Disney World vacation in the Fall or Winter, you'll have a cooler time. 

If you're still unsure about which park to choose, you can always email me or reach out for a quote today! 

Sporting a Portable A/C during July last summer of 2021!

Keep these tips and expert advice in mind when deciding which Disney Park to experience on your next vacation! 
Need help planning? Learn why you should consider using a Disney Travel Specialist.