Are Toddlers Free at Disney World? A Guide to Toddler Freebies
Children under 3 years old can visit Disney World for free, but there are some important details parents should know about what’s included and what isn’t. Here’s what you need to know about bringing your toddler to Disney World.
What if My Toddler Turns 3 While at Disney?
Children under the age of 3 do not need a ticket to enter any of Disney World’s four theme parks or two water parks. This age-based policy applies until your child’s third birthday. However, if your child will turn three during your stay but after your first vacation day, they will be considered a Guest of Mickey and continue to have free admission for the rest of the trip.
Do I Need to Bring Proof of Age for my Toddler?
Disney operates on an honor system and therefore you don’t need to bring any documents to prove your child is under 3. Cast members may ask you to confirm their age when entering, dining or using Lightning Lanes, but you can keep their birth certificates at home.
Adding your Toddler to your My Disney Experience App
Even though they do not have tickets, you will still be able to include them in your party in your My Disney Experience app. Here are the steps to follow to add them:
- Open your MDE app
- Click “My Profile” then “Family & Friends List”
- Click “Add a Guest” and enter their name and age
Lightning Lane Passes for Toddlers
For rides using Lightning Lane Passes, children under 3 will be allowed to accompany you at no additional charge. If your toddler is close to turning 3, a cast member may ask you to confirm their age, but no documentation is needed. This ensures your whole family can enjoy attractions together using these services.
Disney World Lightning Lane: Complete Guide with Toddler Tips
Magic Bands for Toddlers
Toddlers don’t require Magic Bands since they don’t have park tickets to link. However, many parents choose to purchase them for convenience and as a fun souvenir. The newest MagicBands have fun interactive features. If you do decide to get one, you can link it to a parent’s account to utilize these features.
Kids Magic Bands: Do Your Kids Really Need One at Disney World?
Do Toddlers Eat Free at Disney?
There are a couple of things to know when it comes to dining with a toddler under 3.
When making restaurant reservations, you should always include children under 3 in your party count to ensure proper seating, even when they don’t need a paid spot. This helps the restaurant prepare appropriately for your party size.
For buffets and family-style restaurants (also called all-you-care-to-eat locations), special rules apply. Children under 3 can eat free from a parent’s plate. They can have their own actual plate but for the sake of cost it’ll be considered the parent’s plate. If for any reason you would prefer they have their own plate, you’ll need to pay for a child’s meal.
When Do You Start Paying for a Child at Disney?
If your child has turned or will turn 3 before your visit, they’ll need their own paid admission for the following:
- Theme park tickets
- Lightning Lane Passes
- Dining at buffet and family-style restaurants
- Special events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
- Character meals and dinner shows
Planning your trip just before your child’s third birthday can help you maximize the free admission benefits while still enjoying all that Disney World has to offer.
