Toddler Tickets and Reservations at Walt Disney World

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be a bit daunting with all of the information available out there. Here are a few answers to some frequently asked questions about toddler tickets and reservations.

Does my Toddler need a Park Ticket?

Children ages 3 and over require a children’s ticket to the parks (up to age 10).

Children under 3, and those turning 3 while on your trip, are not required to have a ticket. You still have the option to order a MagicBand if you would like them to have one, but no park ticket will need to be linked. Magic Bands have interactive features that little ones may enjoy.

Do I need to make a Park Reservation for my Toddler?

Disney no longer requires park reservations to be made unless you are an annual passholder. If you are an annual passholder, your toddler can be added to your party but does not require a ticket and therefore does not need a park reservation.

Does my Toddler need a Magic Band?

Disney MagicBands are used to enter the parks.

As mentioned above, each family member included on your hotel reservation has the option to purchase a Magic Band. You can order them to be shipped ahead of time or pick them up at the hotel. For toddlers under three, this band does not need to be linked to a park ticket, but it will open the hotel door.

If you are staying off property and are ordering bands for your park tickets, only family members old enough to need tickets would need a MagicBand. Children under 3 do not need tickets and therefore do not need their own magic bands.

Alternatives to the Disney MagicBands include the Key to the World card, similar to a key card from a hotel, or Disney’s MagicMobile option which allows you to store your room key and tickets to your phone or Apple Watch. For more information about MagicBands, check out MagicBands: Everything You Need to Know

Tip: You can find a selection of available MagicBand+ designs on DisneyStore.com!

Do Toddlers Need Lightning Lane Reservations for Disney Rides?

Children under 3 are not required to have Lightning Lane passes and reservations. As long as they meet height requirements, your toddlers may join you on the ride with your reservation. Children 3 and over require their own park admission and must have their own Lightning Lane passes.

Does my Toddler need a Dining Reservation?

It is important to include all members of your party in your dining reservations, including children in high chairs. For family style dining, children under 3 may eat from an adult’s plate at no charge. You would still want to include them on your reservation to ensure you are sat at a proper table to accommodate your whole party.

Do Toddlers eat Free at Walt Disney World?

As stated above, children under 3 can share from a family members plate for free at family style and buffet restaurants. For quick service and table service dining, you may also opt to share your meal with your toddler, or you can order their own meal. Most restaurants on Disney property have kids meal options that will appeal to even the pickiest toddlers.

Note, if you order a meal for your child under 3, you will have to pay for that meal.

If you have additional questions regarding ticketing and reservations for toddlers please leave them in the comments. I would love to include as much information as possible for families planning their magical vacation!