Tips for Visiting Disney While Pregnant

A Walt Disney World Resort trip can be a lot for many adults on a good day. But visiting the theme parks when pregnant? That’s a whole other experience altogether.

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Even if a pregnant woman sat with her feet up all day, she still participates in the 24-hour-a-day, 7-days-a-week process of growing and carrying a child.

While everybody responds to pregnancy differently, traveling to a Disney Park while expecting can be exhausting. However, that doesn’t mean you’re doomed to have a bad time on a Disney vacation as a mom-to-be. Whether you’ve had your Disney trip planned far in advance, want to visit your happy place while you have a bun in the oven, or just can’t let down your other child, you can still enjoy a Disney trip in any trimester.

All it takes is some extra planning and these expert tips and tricks!

Stay On Disney Property

Naps are everything when pregnant, and it’s much easier to catch some shuteye at a nearby Resort with direct transportation to a Disney theme Park. Any hotels along the monorail line, such as The Contemporary and The Grand Floridian, are a quick stop from the Magic Kingdom that won’t require waiting for a bus or much more additional walking.

EPCOT is also considered an ideal place to spend the day while pregnant due to its many dining options, lack of intense attractions, and plenty of opportunities to sit, relax, and get out of the sun. Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, Disney’s Boardwalk Resort, and the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin are all a short walk from the EPCOT’s World Showcase entrance.

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Plan to Skip Certain Attractions

While this advice may seem obvious, it is worth mentioning. Although many Disney World attractions are suitable for any age and health condition, a handful of thrill rides in each Park are not. Pregnant women should skip certain rides, such as Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom, DINOSAUR and Expedition Everest in Animal Kingdom, Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT, and the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Hollywood Studios.

These attractions (and others) spell out pregnancy restrictions online and in the ride queues. In addition, other rides may technically be okay for moms-to-be, like Frozen Ever After. But such attractions may still have a few drops, quick turns, or sudden stops.

And, of course, it’s always best to seek professional medical advice before your Disney vacation.

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Bring Snacks

While sweet churros, salty popcorn, and a pretzel with cheese can be everything a pregnant woman wants, your stomach might not always agree. Walt Disney World allows outside food at each theme Park, and having crackers or your favorite snacks from home on hand can be crucial if hunger or nausea strikes. It’s also a good idea to bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated—especially if you’re in Orlando during the summer months.

Consider a Wheelchair or Electric Scooter

If pregnancy and a trip to Disney World have one thing in common, it’s that no one can predict how well or unwell they may feel while experiencing it. For some individuals, the second and third trimesters can be rough on the feet and ankles, if not the body as a whole. In some instances, it may be worth it to rent a wheelchair or electric scooter while touring the Park. Most, if not all, attractions will be just as accessible, and it makes the journey between Disney World rides and shows much more manageable.

 

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Take Advantage of Genie+

Unfortunately, long lines are a fact of life at Disney (especially at the Magic Kingdom). Although some may want to avoid paying extra money to use Genie+ and hop on the Lightning Lane, it is a great way to expedite the waiting process for attractions and shows. And anything you can do to reduce time standing in line or stressful queues will be worth it. Using Genie+ as often as possible also allows you to spend more time relaxing in the Park and take breaks between the various rides, shows, and walking around.

Traveling to Disney World when pregnant is similar to traveling there any other time of the year: planning makes all the difference. With a little extra effort, you can still enjoy most of the parks and attractions while you’re busy growing a baby. Just remember that there’s no shame in slowing down the usual Disney pace – and your comfort and happiness should be the most critical aspects of your trip!

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