A Complete Guide to Being Pregnant at Disney World and Disneyland

EPCOT in the Summer

I used to avoid the Disney parks during pregnancy like the plague. I never wanted to feel round and tired, especially since my pregnancies came with their own set of challenges. For me, the idea of navigating the parks while pregnant felt completely daunting. Ironically, I found out I was pregnant shortly after returning from Disneyland Paris. Suddenly, the exhaustion made so much more sense.

My sister, however, had a very different experience. She visited Disneyland while pregnant in her first trimester, when she could barely keep her eyes open, and then tackled Disney World toward the end of her second trimester when she was big and round. She is truly a champ.

Now that we’ve both navigated the parks during pregnancy, I have even more insight to offer. There are so many ways to make a Disney trip easier, more comfortable, and still magical while you’re pregnant.

Visiting the Disney parks while pregnant can absolutely be an enchanting experience, filled with joy, wonder, and a little sprinkle of pixie dust. While the thrill of roller coasters may have to wait, there is still plenty of magic to soak in. This guide will help you make the most of your time across all four Walt Disney World theme parks, while keeping both you and your little one safe, comfortable, and happy.

The Best Time to Travel Pregnant

When planning a trip to Disney while pregnant, timing really does matter if you want a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. In general, the best times to travel are during the shoulder seasons, specifically late January through mid-February and mid-September through mid-November. These windows tend to have lighter crowds and more manageable weather, which makes a huge difference when you are navigating long park days while pregnant.

Visiting during these periods usually means shorter wait times for attractions, less time standing in lines, and an overall calmer park experience. It is also easier to move at your own pace without feeling rushed or overstimulated. Avoiding peak travel seasons like summer, major holidays, and school breaks can help you skip the extra fatigue that comes with packed parks and extreme heat.

That said, is this what we did? Absolutely not. We went in August, when it was brutally hot. Like, so hot my sister could have sweat her way through an entire park day. The upside was that she looked cute doing it and was able to rock a sports bra and shorts once it got unbearable. Sometimes you do what you have to do.

From a pregnancy standpoint, the second trimester is often considered the most comfortable time to travel. Many people experience less nausea and more energy during this phase, which can make long days at Disney much more manageable. If you have flexibility, planning your trip around this stage can lead to a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

In our case, my sister was in her first trimester during the summer and technically felt better once she hit her second trimester. Even so, we still found ourselves tackling the August and September heat at Walt Disney World. It was not ideal, but it was doable with extra breaks, hydration, and realistic expectations.

At the end of the day, choosing the right time to visit can absolutely enhance your Disney experience while pregnant. Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures go a long way. But sometimes there is no perfect option, and you make the trip work anyway. And honestly, that can still be pretty magical.

General Tips for Pregnant Guests:

Stay Hydrated:
Bring a refillable water bottle and drink fluids consistently throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty. Disney has water fountains, and most snack locations will give you free cups of ice water if you ask. Electrolytes can be helpful, especially in warmer months, but always check with your doctor first because needs can vary during pregnancy. Popular options that many pregnant travelers discuss with their doctors include electrolyte mixes made with minimal ingredients and no artificial sweeteners, such as Ultima Replenisher or Nuun Sport (original formula). Again, always consult your healthcare provider before using any supplement during pregnancy.

Sleeping on a Bench at DCA

Take Breaks:
Disney parks are huge, and it’s easy to tire quickly when you’re pregnant. Take advantage of air conditioned shows, indoor rides, lounges, and quiet seating areas to rest throughout the day. My sister was found napping on benches at Disneyland more than once, and we took true midday breaks at both parks every single day. If the group wanted to keep going, she still left to take an afternoon nap. Rest isn’t a luxury when you’re pregnant—it’s necessary.

Wear Comfortable Clothing and Shoes:

Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics and shoes with real support. Pregnancy changes how your body carries weight, which can lead to foot, back, and hip pain much faster than usual.

Here are some shoe brands that are known for comfort and support and that lots of pregnant travelers recommend:
• New Balance (look for models with extra cushioning like the 990 or 1080)
• Hoka One One (models like the Bondi or Clifton are great for all-day walking)
• Brooks (Glycerin or Ghost are cushioned and supportive)
• Asics (Gel-Nimbus is another soft, supportive option)

Slip-on options or shoes with adjustable straps can also help accommodate swelling as the day goes on.

Consult with Your Doctor:
If you’re unsure about rides, activities, or supplements like electrolytes, it’s always best to talk with your healthcare provider before your trip. They can give you guidance based on your individual pregnancy and any concerns you have. This is especially important if you are in your third trimester or have any specific health conditions.

Disney posts ride warnings on most attractions—pay attention to them. Even if it looks tame, risk levels and intensity can impact you differently when you’re pregnant. When in doubt, skip the ride and choose something more relaxing instead.

Bring Snacks:
Carry easy to eat snacks like nuts, fruit, crackers, granola bars, or protein bites to keep your energy up and help manage nausea or blood sugar dips. Pregnancy hunger can hit fast, and having snacks on hand prevents that “I can’t do another step” meltdown.

Wear Compression Socks:

Compression socks can help reduce swelling in your feet and legs, especially after long periods of walking or standing. Look for pregnancy-friendly compression options—typically labeled as maternity compression socks or with gentle graduated compression (15-20 mmHg is common, but your doctor can advise what’s best for you). Some popular and comfortable brands include:
• Pregnancy (Blanqi) Support Socks
• Sockwell Circulator Compression Socks
• Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks
• SRC Recovery Compression Socks

Make sure they are comfortable and fit well, since too-tight socks can cause their own issues.

Rent a Scooter or Wheelchair:
If walking long distances is a concern, seriously consider renting a scooter or wheelchair for at least part of your trip. You don’t need a huge, bulky device to get around. Disney’s own scooters and wheelchairs are available, but many guests also love lightweight, portable options like Scootz scooters or similar compact mobility scooters. These are easy to maneuver and great for saving your legs and feet so you can enjoy the magic without overexerting yourself.

Using a scooter or wheelchair doesn’t mean you’re “giving up”—it means you’re being smart and kind to your body so you can stay in the parks longer and have a better overall experience.

Disney Park Pregnancy Tips By Trimester

Planning a trip to Disney while pregnant can be a magical experience, but it requires some extra preparation to ensure your comfort and safety.

Here are five tips for a successful Disney trip during each trimester of pregnancy:

First Trimester:

Morning Sickness at Disneyland

1. Pace yourself.

   The first trimester often comes with fatigue and morning sickness, so give yourself permission to slow down. Skip the strict schedules and go at a pace that feels manageable. Take breaks whenever you need them, especially in air-conditioned spaces like restaurants, shops, or shows.

2. Be proactive about morning sickness.

   If nausea is part of your experience, come prepared. Pack snacks that help settle your stomach, such as crackers or ginger chews, and consider nausea bands if they work for you. Staying hydrated throughout the day can also help reduce symptoms while you’re navigating the parks.

3. Be mindful with ride selection.

   Even if you don’t have a baby bump yet, it’s still important to choose rides carefully. Stick to slower, gentler attractions and avoid roller coasters or anything with jerky movements. Refer back to the pregnancy-friendly ride lists when planning your day.

4. Hydration is key.

   Dehydration can make nausea and fatigue worse during early pregnancy. Carry a refillable water bottle and take advantage of water stations or quick-service locations that offer free cups of water.

5. Prepare for weather changes.

   Florida and California weather can shift quickly, and your body may be more sensitive to temperature changes during the first trimester. Bring a light jacket for cooler moments, a portable fan for warm days, and wear supportive, comfortable shoes to help reduce foot strain.

Second Trimester:

1. Take advantage of the energy boost.

   The second trimester is often considered the “honeymoon” phase of pregnancy, with nausea easing and energy levels improving. This is a great time to explore more of the parks, just be mindful to build in rest between activities, especially as the day goes on.

2. Plan your park days strategically.

   Try to schedule more relaxing experiences, like shows or character meet-and-greets, for the afternoon or evening when your energy may start to dip. Use the earlier hours of the day for rides and attractions while you’re feeling your best.

3. Consider stroller or wheelchair rentals.

   As your belly grows, long park days can feel more tiring than expected. Renting a wheelchair or scooter can help you move comfortably through the parks without overexerting yourself, especially during full or multi-park days.

4. Prioritize bathroom breaks.

   With a growing baby putting pressure on your bladder, frequent restroom stops are part of the reality. Keep an eye on restrooms on the park map and use them when you pass by, even if it doesn’t feel urgent yet. It’s always better to go when you can.

5. Snack wisely.

   As your appetite increases, focus on snacks that provide steady energy without weighing you down. Fruits, protein bars, nuts, and yogurt are all great options. Disney also offers plenty of healthier snack choices throughout the parks, including fruit cups and easy-to-grab hydration options.

Third Trimester:

1. Consider Shorter Park Days
   In your third trimester, fatigue can set in quickly and sometimes without much warning. Instead of pushing through a full open to close park day, consider breaking your day into chunks. Head to the parks in the morning when temperatures are cooler and energy levels are higher, then return to your hotel in the afternoon for a nap, a shower, or some quiet poolside time. If you feel up to it, you can always head back out in the evening for shows, fireworks, or nighttime parades. Giving yourself permission to slow down can completely change how you feel on the trip.

2. Opt for Relaxing Experiences
   This is the perfect season of life to lean into the slower side of Disney. Focus on shows, parades, and character experiences rather than trying to do every ride. Air conditioned attractions where you can sit and rest are a win, especially in the third trimester. Great options include The Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom or The American Adventure at EPCOT. These experiences still feel magical but give your body a much needed break.

3. Wear Maternity Support Gear
   As your bump grows, the extra weight can put real strain on your back, hips, and legs. I had a belly that shot straight forward, and walking without a support brace was honestly painful. Wearing a maternity support belt helped lift the weight of my belly and made walking far more manageable. Compression socks can also help with swelling and leg fatigue, especially on long park days. These small supports can make a big difference in how long you can comfortably stay in the parks.

4. Stay Cool and Comfortable
   Heat can be much harder to tolerate in the third trimester, so staying cool should be a top priority. Plan your day around indoor attractions, shaded walkways, and frequent rest stops. Dress in light, breathable clothing and do not be afraid to prioritize comfort over cute. Portable fans and cooling towels are lifesavers, especially during warmer months, and can help regulate your body temperature when the heat starts to feel overwhelming.

5. Know Where First Aid Stations Are
   Before your trip, take a few minutes to note where the first aid stations are located in each park. If you start feeling overheated, lightheaded, or just off, these stations are a great resource. Disney first aid can offer water, assistance with discomfort, and a quiet place to sit and rest. Knowing where they are ahead of time adds peace of mind and makes it easier to listen to your body when you need a break.

Bonus Tips for All Trimesters

Listen to your body. No matter which trimester you’re in, your body will tell you what it needs. If you’re feeling tired, take a break. If you’re overheated, step into the air conditioning, grab water, and slow things down. Disney days don’t have to be rushed to be magical.

Plan dining reservations ahead of time. Pregnancy often means eating more frequently, and having sit-down meals built into your day can make a huge difference. Advance dining reservations ensure you have access to air-conditioned spaces, comfortable seating, and reliable meal times when you need them most.

Take advantage of Disney’s Baby Care Centers. Every park has a Baby Care Center with quiet spaces, restrooms, and nursing areas. Even if you don’t have a baby yet, these centers are a hidden gem when you need a calm break from the heat, crowds, or noise.

With a little extra planning and a focus on comfort, a Disney trip can still feel magical at any stage of pregnancy. Go at your pace, honor what your body needs, and let the magic meet you where you are.

What Can I Ride at Disney Pregnant?

A general rule of thumb is that if an infant can ride an attraction, then a pregnant person usually can too. That said, there were still some rides we personally chose to skip because of small drops or movement, depending on how we were feeling that day. I’ve even seen pregnant guests who are comfortable riding coasters, so it really comes down to your own comfort level and what feels right for your body. During my sister’s Disney World trip, she decided to skip attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean because of the minor drops, and that choice was completely personal. At the end of the day, the best decision is the one that helps you feel calm, confident, and at ease.

Walt Disney World Rides for Pregnant Guests

This list will evolve as Disney adds new rides and areas to the parks, and I’ll do my best to keep it updated. In the meantime, you can always rely on the general rule I mentioned earlier. Here’s the current list of attractions you can enjoy while pregnant:

Magic Kingdom:

1. The Haunted Mansion
   Best for resting – Slow-moving, continuously loading dark ride with a calm pace and plenty of sitting.

2. It’s a Small World
   Best for resting – Gentle boat ride, no drops, and a long runtime that gives your feet a break.

3. Pirates of the Caribbean
   Best for resting – Mostly slow-moving boat ride, but note the small drops at the beginning.

4. Jungle Cruise
   Lightning Lane recommended – Boat ride itself is easy, but standby waits can be long, especially during peak seasons.

5. Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
   Best for resting – Rotating theater, air conditioning, and one of the best true rest breaks in the park.

6. Dumbo the Flying Elephant
   Lightning Lane recommended – Gentle ride, but the standby line can be long and standing-heavy.

7. Peter Pan’s Flight
   Lightning Lane recommended – Very gentle ride, but the standby wait is notoriously long and uncomfortable.

8. Mad Tea Party
   Short wait – Skip if spinning makes you uncomfortable, but you can control how much you spin.

9. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
   Best for resting – Slow-moving dark ride with minimal motion and a seated queue experience.

10. Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
    Best for resting – One of the most relaxing rides in the park with a long runtime and great airflow.

11. Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid
    Best for resting – Gentle clamshell ride, no drops, and usually a calmer queue.

12. Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
    Short wait – Mild movement, but standing can be tiring if you’re farther along.

13. Enchanted Tiki Room
    Best for resting – Indoor show, air-conditioned, and a great mental and physical reset.

14. Mickey’s PhilharMagic
    Best for resting – Seated 3D show, cool air, and a good break from walking.

15. The Hall of Presidents
    Best for resting – Long seated show with air conditioning and zero movement.

16. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
    Best for resting – Slow-moving ride vehicles with minimal motion, though the blasters can feel heavy late in pregnancy.

EPCOT:

1. Spaceship Earth
   Best for resting – Slow-moving ride with a long runtime.
   ⚠️ Includes backward motion at the end.

2. Living with the Land
   Best for resting – Gentle boat ride with no drops or sudden movements.

3. The Seas with Nemo & Friends
   Best for resting – Slow-moving ride vehicles and a calm atmosphere.

4. Journey into Imagination with Figment
   Best for resting – Gentle ride, but includes occasional loud sounds and sensory moments.

5. Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros
   Best for resting – Gentle boat ride with no drops.

6. Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival
   Best for resting – Indoor, air-conditioned theater with seated viewing.

7. Frozen Ever After
   Lightning Lane recommended – Mostly gentle boat ride.
   ⚠️ Includes a small backward drop near the end.

8. Turtle Talk with Crush
   Best for resting – Seated interactive show with no ride motion.

Disney's Hollywood Studios:

1. Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
   Best for resting – Seated show with a longer runtime, shade, and a chance to fully relax.

2. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
   Best for resting – Stadium seating, no movement, and a full break off your feet.

3. For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
   Best for resting – Indoor theater, air conditioning, and a long seated show.

4. Walt Disney Presents
   Best for resting – Slow walkthrough followed by a seated film, perfect if you need a calm reset.

5. Toy Story Mania!
   Lightning Lane recommended – The ride itself is seated, but the standby line is rarely short and can be uncomfortable if you’re pregnant.

6. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
   Lightning Lane recommended – A gentle ride, but waits are consistently long. Be mindful of the Daisy room if you’re sensitive to visuals.

7. Vacation Fun (Mickey Shorts Theater)
   Best for resting – Quick, fully seated indoor show that’s easy to fit into your day.

8. Alien Swirling Saucers
   Short wait – Usually a shorter queue compared to other attractions, but skip if spinning makes you uncomfortable.

9. Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After
   Best for resting – Seated stage show, air-conditioned, and a great mental break from walking.

10. The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure
    Best for resting – Indoor, seated theater show with a longer runtime and minimal sensory overload.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom:

1. Kilimanjaro Safaris
   Use caution – Outdoor safari ride with bumpy terrain.
   ⚠️ No drops or backward motion, but frequent jolts and uneven movement.

2. Na’vi River Journey
   Best for resting – Gentle boat ride with no drops or sudden motion.

3. Wildlife Express Train
   Best for resting – Calm train ride to Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
   ⚠️ Includes backward motion on the return trip.

4. Festival of the Lion King
   Best for resting – Broadway-style seated performance with air conditioning.

5. Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!
   Best for resting – Indoor theater show with seating and minimal movement.

6. Feathered Friends in Flight
   Best for resting – Live bird show with stadium-style seating.

7. The Animation Experience at Conservation Station
   Best for resting – Seated drawing class with minimal movement and a relaxed pace.

Disneyland Resort Rides for Pregnant Guests

Disneyland Park:

1. The Disneyland Railroad – A scenic train ride around the park.
   Best for resting – Smooth, seated ride around Disneyland.
   ⚠️ Includes backward travel on some sections as the train changes direction.

2. The Enchanted Tiki Room – Indoor bird show.
   Best for resting – Fully seated, air-conditioned show with no ride motion.

3. Jungle Cruise – Humorous, slow-moving boat ride.
   Best for resting – Gentle boat ride with minimal movement.

4. Mark Twain Riverboat – Peaceful riverboat cruise.
   Best for resting – Calm, scenic ride with plenty of seating.

5. Pirates of the Caribbean – Boat ride through pirate scenes.
   Best for resting – Mostly slow-moving, but includes small drops.
   ⚠️ Small drops.

6. It’s a Small World – Classic gentle boat ride.
   Best for resting – Smooth, slow, and relaxing.

7. Haunted Mansion – Slow-moving, spooky dark ride.
   Best for resting – Continuous motion with no drops, though visually dark.

8. Peter Pan’s Flight – Gentle flying dark ride.
   Lightning Lane recommended – Very gentle ride, but standby waits are often long.

9. Alice in Wonderland – Mild dark ride through Wonderland.
   Best for resting – Smooth ride with no drops.

10. Snow White’s Enchanted Wish – Mild dark ride retelling Snow White’s story.
    Best for resting – Slow-moving and story-driven.

11. Pinocchio’s Daring Journey – Dark ride based on Pinocchio.
    Best for resting – Gentle ride with minimal movement.

12. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh – Gentle ride through the Hundred Acre Wood.
    Best for resting – Calm, seated dark ride.

13. Dumbo the Flying Elephant – Classic flying spinner.
    Lightning Lane recommended – Gentle ride, but the standby line can be long and standing-heavy.

14. Mad Tea Party – Spinning teacups.
    Short wait – Spin lightly or not at all depending on comfort level.

15. King Arthur Carrousel – Traditional carousel ride.
    Best for resting – Gentle rotational motion.

16. Casey Jr. Circus Train – Gentle ride through miniature scenes from Dumbo.
    Best for resting – Slow, outdoor train ride.

17. Storybook Land Canal Boats – Boat ride through miniature Disney scenes.
    Best for resting – Calm, scenic boat ride with no drops.

18. Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage – Underwater submarine experience.
    Best for resting – Slow-moving ride, but be mindful of enclosed space.

19. Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters – Slow-moving interactive shooting game.
    Best for resting – Seated ride with gentle rotation.

20. Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln – Historical presentation.
    Best for resting – Long, seated indoor show with no ride motion.

Disney California Adventure Park:

1. The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
   Best for resting – Slow-moving dark ride with no drops or sudden motion.

2. Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
   Best for resting – Gentle, continuous dark ride through Monstropolis.

3. Turtle Talk with Crush
   Best for resting – Seated, air-conditioned interactive show with no ride motion.

4. Disney Animation Building
   Best for resting – Air-conditioned walkthrough experience with plenty of opportunities to sit.

5. Redwood Creek Challenge Trail
   Use caution – Outdoor walking area.
   ⚠️ Stick to walking paths only and avoid uneven or climbing elements.

6. Pixar Pal-A-Round
   Short wait – Ferris wheel experience.
   ⚠️ Choose stationary gondolas only; swinging gondolas are not recommended.

7. Soarin’ Around the World
   Lightning Lane recommended – Gentle, immersive flight experience.
   ⚠️ Lifted seating and forward motion; no drops, but check comfort level and doctor guidance.

8. Toy Story Midway Mania!
   Lightning Lane recommended – Seated ride, but standby waits are often long and tiring.

9. Mickey’s PhilharMagic
   Best for resting – Indoor, seated 3D musical show with air conditioning.

10. Golden Zephyr
    Short wait – Very mild spinning ride.
    ⚠️ Includes circular spinning motion; skip if spinning causes discomfort.

11. Jessie’s Critter Carousel
    Short wait – Gentle carousel ride with minimal movement.

While visiting Disney parks pregnant may require some adjustments, it doesn't mean you can't experience the magic to the fullest. Embrace the opportunity to explore attractions, shows, and dining experiences that cater to your current needs. Remember to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and most importantly, cherish the precious moments of magic with your little one, even before they arrive. As Walt Disney himself once said, "Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever." Wishing you a magical journey filled with unforgettable memories!

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Planning a trip to Walt Disney World? You're in the right place! At Well Hello Magic, we have tons of helpful resources to make your Disney vacation as magical and stress-free as possible. Whether you're looking for advice on the best time to visit Disney, tips on finding the perfect character meal, or learning how to skip the lines with Lightning Lane, we've got you covered.

As a therapist by trade and a mom of four, I use my expertise in understanding personalities to help you discover your "Disney Enneagram"—a fun way to tailor your Disney vacation planning to suit your family's needs or large group dynamics, ensuring everyone enjoys the magic in their own unique way. With my firsthand experience navigating Disney with babies and toddlers, I'll share all my best tips to make your trip smooth and fun for everyone. Plus, check out some of our family's favorite rides at Magic Kingdom—there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Make sure to explore our blog for even more Disney planning guides and insider tips!

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