Downtown Disney Anaheim With Kids: Insider Tips from a Local Mom

I grew up in Anaheim and spent most of my life here—except for those 4 college years in Berkeley, CA. Downtown Disney was one of my favorite hangout spots back then, and honestly, it’s even better now that I have kids.

Fun fact: I actually worked at Build-A-Bear in Downtown Disney during high school (though that store isn’t there anymore!).

Visiting Downtown Disney with kids feels different, but in the best way. It’s a place where you can soak in the Disney magic without the chaos of the parks—and there’s plenty to keep little ones entertained.

If you’re planning a trip or just looking for a fun family day out, I’m here to share everything you need to know about exploring Downtown Disney with kids.

What is Downtown Disney?

Downtown Disney is the free shopping, dining, and entertainment district right outside Disneyland. As a local, I love it because it’s super family-friendly—plenty of bathrooms, stroller parking, and space for kids to run—plus it’s always clean and way less hectic than the parks.

You’ll find big-name shops like World of Disney and the LEGO Store, kid-friendly restaurants, and even live music. It’s our go-to for a quick outing with the kids or when we’re showing visitors a bit of Disney magic without buying park tickets.

What to Do in Downtown Disney Anaheim With Kids

1. Lego Store at Downtown Disney

The Lego Store is a total favorite for families visiting Downtown Disney with kids—especially if you have toddlers or preschoolers.

• There’s a Build Your Own Mini Figurine station where kids (and adults!) can create their own little Lego character for $9.99. Just a heads-up: those mini pieces can be a choking hazard for babies and young toddlers, so if they’re still putting items in their mouth, take them to the Duplo section instead.
• For the little ones, there’s a Duplo section with bigger, chunkier bricks that are perfect for toddlers and safer since they’re too big to swallow.
• We usually pop in, let our kids build whatever they want for free in the Duplo area, then sneak out before they ask for anything. (Mom win!)
• The store also has tons of cool Lego creator sets, trendy themes like Harry Potter and Star Wars, and giant Lego models of Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin that always wow the kids.

2. Browsing Toys at World of Disney Store

This is my go-to stop every time I visit Downtown Disney with my kids—even if we mostly just window shop.

• The store is packed with all the Disney merchandise favorites: mugs, ornaments, stuffed animals, ears, shirts, jackets, sweaters, backpacks, and costumes.
• The only tricky part? Your kids will want to grab everything. I’ve learned to say, “You’re just holding this toy while we’re in the store, and when we leave, we’ll put it back.” It works… usually.
• It’s a great place to soak up the Disney vibe and maybe pick up a souvenir if you’re feeling generous.

Other toy stores that kids might like: Star Wars Trading Post, Avengers Reserve, Disney Dress Shop.

3. Check out Art at WonderGround Gallery

The WonderGround Gallery is a fun little stop that’s perfect for a quick break with the kids.

• I love pointing out different Disney characters to my little ones—they get so excited when they recognize their favorites!
• It’s also a blast for me to see the characters styled in unexpected ways, like Minnie Mouse as a hipster or in gothic fashion. Totally quirky and fun!
• It’s a nice spot to slow down a bit and enjoy some colorful, creative Disney art without the usual hustle and bustle.

4. Outdoor Fun + Live Music

The grassy area between Parkside Cafe and Din Tai Fung is one of the best spots for kids to burn off energy while parents catch a breather.

• Kids can run around, roll down the small hills, and dance when live music is playing.
• Local bands and performers often play kid-friendly tunes on the stage nearby, creating an instant dance party.
• Keep an eye out for street performers and magicians wandering the area—they add extra magic without long lines or crowds.
• Tip: Check times and days for the live shows here.

5. Bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes

Splitsville is a perfect combo of bowling and food, keeping kids entertained and parents happy.

• Outside seating lets kids play giant Connect 4 while you sneak bites between rounds of “eat your food!”
• Inside option allows you to bowl and dine at the same time—a lifesaver for families trying to keep everyone occupied.
• The menu has plenty of kid-friendly options alongside adult favorites, so nobody leaves hungry or bored.

Best Restaurants at Downtown Disney Anaheim (family-friendly guide)

I’ve been to Downtown Disney dozens of times—both with kids and without. As a local mom, I know the best spots to eat that keep little ones happy and parents sane. Here’s my go-to list of the best restaurants at Downtown Disney for families like yours.

Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant: Splitsville Luxury Lanes

If your kids have energy to burn (and let’s be real—when don’t they?), Splitsville is a total win for both food and fun.

• The food is solid—nothing fancy, but definitely hits the spot.
• We love sitting outside so the kids can run around and play the giant Connect 4 while we sneak bites between rounds of “eat your food!”
• Indoor option: You can just dine, or go for the full bowling + food combo—perfect for keeping everyone fed and entertained.
• Bonus: The menu has something for everyone, from picky eaters to grown-up favorites. No one leaves hungry or bored.

Best Budget-Friendly Restaurant: Earl of Sandwich

Looking for a quick, affordable meal that doesn’t scream “theme park food”? Earl of Sandwich is your go-to.

• My top picks: the Chipotle Chicken Sandwich (spicy but not too much for little taste buds) and the Tomato Basil Soup—comfort food done right.
• It’s fast, easy, and perfect for when you need to refuel without breaking the bank.
• Plus, you can grab your food and keep moving—because toddlers don’t do “sit still” very well.

Best Sit-Down Restaurant for Foodies (When You Have Time): Din Tai Fung

Okay, this one takes patience—waits can easily stretch over an hour—but when I have the time, it’s absolutely worth it.

Tips for Waitlist at Din Tai Fung in Downtown Disney

• Put yourself on the waitlist first (Yelp waitlist works great if your group is 4 or less).
• Walk around Downtown Disney while you wait—expect about an hour or more.
• If you’re more than 4 people, you have to sign up for the waitlist in person
• Try to avoid peak lunch and dinner times to shorten your wait.
• There’s stroller parking on side of the restaurant

For Beer Lovers: Ballast Point or Parkside Cafe

If you’re looking to unwind with a cold one while the kids keep themselves entertained, these two spots are solid choices.

Parkside Cafe

Parkside Cafe offers a lovely view of the grassy play area, so you can sip your beer while keeping an eye on the little runners—plus, there’s usually another adult nearby for added peace of mind. Drinks come quickly, and the view is a nice bonus.

Ballast Point

Ballast Point features a great selection of craft beers and a laid-back vibe, perfect for parents craving a breather. It’s ideal for serious beer lovers, but keep in mind it often comes with a wait.

Snacks and Desserts to Keep Everyone Happy

Sometimes, you just need a quick treat to keep the peace. Here are some of the best options:

Salt & Straw Ice Cream

Offers unique flavors that even picky eaters might surprise you by loving. The line may look long but it moves fast! I’m not a dessert person usually, but this ice cream is really good. They also let you try samples when you get to the front of the line.

Pro-tip: If you don’t want to wait in line, you can go through the exit, grab a pint of ice-cream from the fridge, and pay for it at the cash register and share it with your family. Faster and more cost-efficient.

Churro Stands

A must-try classic—my go-to is always the cinnamon churro. Never disappoints! My 4-year old, 2-year old, and I all love it.

Wetzel’s Pretzels

A classic choice—warm, salty, and perfect for little hands.

Beignets Expressed

Light, fluffy, and dusted with powdered sugar, these beignets are the perfect sweet treat. Think of them as a lighter, slightly crispier version of a donut—delicious for both kids and adults.

Dole Whip at Tangaroa Terrace

For a tropical treat, walk over to Tangaroa Terrace at the Disneyland Hotel and grab a classic Dole Whip. It’s refreshing, dairy-free, and a favorite for a reason. The walk is short and worth it—especially on a warm day!

Other Noteworthy Restaurant Options

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are a few more family-friendly spots worth checking out:

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes

• American Food like burgers, fries, milkshakes
• What to order: Mexico City Burger, Black Truffle Burger, fries, kids’ burger, kids’ chicken tenders

Naples Ristorante e Bar

• Italian food, most known for their woodfired pizzas
• What to order: Margherita pizza, Hot Honey Sopressata pizza (spicy)

Jazz Kitchen Express

• Southern-inspired comfort food with bold flavors.
• What to order: Seafood jambalaya, gumbo, and beignets

Downtown Disney Anaheim: What Parents Should Know

How much is the entrance fee at Downtown Disney?

Downtown Disney is an outdoor shopping area, and entrance is totally FREE…but parking costs $10 with validation (3 hours if you spent $20+ at a shop and 5 hours if you go to a sit-down restaurant).

What to expect at security check at Downtown Disney?

• Everyone goes through a metal detector
  • Remove any bags, phones, keys, or metal items before walking through the metal detector
• Bags, backpacks, and purses get manually inspected
• Strollers go through the middle — no need to fold, but if it’s packed with stuff, give yourself a little extra time
• It usually moves quickly, but it helps to be prepared, so you’re not juggling everything last minute!
• The rules for what is and isn’t allowed is the same for both the 2 Anaheim theme parks and Downtown Disney. More details about what is not allowed at Downtown Disney in FAQ section.

Parking at Downtown Disney in Anaheim, CA

Where to park for Downtown Disney

Location: Simba Lot (off Disneyland Drive, between West Katella Ave & Pixar Place Hotel)

How much is parking at Downtown Disney?

Tips for Parking at Downtown Disney

• Bring your parking ticket with you to validate and snap a photo of it just in case—can save you from a surprise $66 charge 😅
• Pay at the exit gate, so your validation covers your full stay (paying at the kiosk can start the clock early)
• If just popping in for a quick stop (no dining), consider parking at Anaheim GardenWalk
  • Parking cost at Anaheim Gardenwalk: free for the first hour, then $4/hour (max $30)
  • Factor in the ~16-minute walk from Anaheim Gardenwalk to Downtown Disney though, especially if you’re taking strollers and little ones

Tips for Visiting Downtown Disney With Toddlers and Little Kids

Where to Stay in Anaheim With Kids

Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground

• Distance: Just an 8–10 minute walk to both Disneyland and Downtown Disney—close enough to pop back for a midday nap or swim, then return for more park fun.
• Why it’s great for families: The on-site Castaway Cove water playground is perfect for toddlers—complete with slides, splash zones, and a wading pool that keeps little ones entertained and parents happy.
• Perks: Renovated family rooms, kitchenettes (mini-fridge + microwave), Netflix-enabled TVs, free Wi-Fi, and a relaxing garden-style pool.
• Price Range: Typically $130–$300 per night, with some deals starting as low as $117, depending on room type and season.

How to Get Around Anaheim With Kids

Around Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center, you can walk or hop on the shuttle. But the best food and family-friendly spots in Orange County? Totally spread out. With kids, driving is hands-down the easiest. Technically, there’s public transit, but no local families I know actually use it.

Here are the options for families:

🚗 Drive or Rent a Car (Most Flexible)

Best for: Families planning to explore all of Orange County, including beaches, LA, or attractions outside Anaheim.

• Most flexible way to get around
• Keep car seats in the car – no need to haul them around while you explore
• Parking:
  • Usually free in most of Orange County
  • Paid at most major attractions and hotels (e.g., Disneyland, California Adventure, Downtown Disney, Anaheim GardenWalk, Anaheim Convention Center)
• Brings freedom to travel on your own schedule

🚖 Rideshares (Uber & Lyft)

• Widely available throughout Anaheim and Orange County.
• Disneyland has designated pick-up/drop-off zones, making it smooth for quick trips or airport transfers.
• Con: You’ll need to bring your own car seats if traveling with young kids.

🚌 ART Shuttle (Anaheim Resort Transportation)

Best for: families staying in the Anaheim Resort area who plan to stay mostly nearby.

• Connects Disneyland, hotels, Anaheim Convention Center, Anahein GardenWalk, and more.
• Cost: $6 one-way adult, $12 day pass adult
  • Kids under 3 ride free
• Stroller-friendly:
  • Bring your stroller onboard without folding in most cases
  • Dedicated stroller space near doors
  • Drivers often assist with loading/unloading

🚶 Walking

Best for: Families staying in the Anaheim Resort Area and planning to stay nearby.

• Many hotels are within a 10–20 minute walk to Disneyland, Downtown Disney, Anaheim Gardenwalk, and the Anaheim Convention Center
• Stroller-friendly paths throughout the Anaheim Resort area
• Safe and convenient—no parking hassles
• Bonus: it’s free and you get exercise!

🚌 Public Transportation (OC Bus)

Best for: Families traveling on a tight budget and not bringing small kids.

• Cost: $2 one-way, $5 day pass
  • Reduced fares for youth, seniors, and people with disabilities
  • Free for children 5 and under when accompanied by a paying customer.
  • For OC locals: kids ages 6-18 can get a Youth Ride Free pass through most Orange County K-12 schools (but allow up to 14 days for it to be processed)
• Passes available in the OC Bus app
• Less convenient for families:
  • Long routes
  • Often require transfers
  • Strollers must be folded

FAQ about Downtown Disney With Kids

What are the open hours for Downtown Disney?

Downtown Disney is open from 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM every day.

Just keep in mind:

• Individual restaurants and shops may open later or close earlier, so double-check if there’s a specific place you want to visit.

Where can I rent strollers and scooters?

• If you rent a stroller from the parks, you have to return it before leaving the property—so you can’t take it back to your hotel.
• I always recommend renting from an outside company if you’re not bringing your own. One I trust is D&R Mobility.i
  • They rent both strollers and scooters.
  • They deliver and pick up at most Anaheim hotels.
  • Bonus: they’re located just across the street from Disneyland’s entrance, super convenient!

Is Downtown Disney fun for kids?

Heck yes! My kids love it here—and honestly, it’s a chill way for me to let them explore without committing to a park day.

Here are our favorite kid-friendly spots:

• LEGO Store – They can build for free and play with displays. Mine stay busy here for at least 30 minutes.
• World of Disney Store – Endless Disney merch. My kids love spotting characters they recognize.
• WonderGround Gallery – Cool Disney art that introduces characters in creative ways.
• Open grassy area by the stage near Parkside Café – My little ones love to run around, dance to music, and roll down the small grassy hills.
• Splitsville – Great for families whether you want to bowl or just hang out. There’s food, a giant Connect 4 outside, and space for kids to run around while you relax.
• Live music – Super fun and energizing. You can check show times here by filtering for Downtown Disney District.

Where is Downtown Disney parking?

Parking is at the Simba Lot, located on Disneyland Drive between West Katella Avenue and Pixar Place Hotel.

How much does Downtown Disney parking cost?

• $10 with validation
  • Valid for 3 hours when you make a purchase at most shops.
  • 5 hours if you dine at a sit-down restaurant.
• Without validation, it’s more expensive, so keep that in mind!

Is Downtown Disney free to enter?

Yes! No ticket needed—you can walk in for free any day.

The only cost is:

• Parking, which is $10 with validation (up to 3 hours with shop purchase of $20+ or 5 hours at a dine-in restaurant)
• Plus whatever food, snacks, or shopping you choose to do.

Is there free Wi-Fi at Downtown Disney?

Yup! Just hop on the “Disney-Guest” network on your phone or tablet. No password needed, and it’s super easy to connect.

What can you not bring into Downtown Disney?

Same rules as Disneyland and California Adventure apply here.

Prohibited items include (but not limited to):

• No wagons, even the stroller-style ones
• No selfie sticks
• No glass bottles, except baby food jars
• No alcoholic drinks from outside

Outside food and snacks are okay, but keep it light (small soft coolers work best)

If you’re bringing your own food:

• There’s a complimentary Picnic Area outside Disneyland’s main entrance.
• You can rent a locker nearby (up to 18″ x 25″ x 37″)—but they’re not refrigerated.

Get the full list of prohibited items here →

Can I bring my own food into Downtown Disney?

Absolutely! Here’s what you need to know:

• Snacks, sandwiches, and drinks (not in glass) are fine to bring.
• No alcohol allowed.
• I recommend small soft coolers with ice packs for perishable items.
• For bigger meals in coolers, use the Picnic Area outside the entrance of Disneyland and store your items in a locker, if needed.

Does Downtown Disney have live music?

Yes! It’s one of our favorite parts.

• Performances are on select days and times.
• Check the official Disneyland calendar and filter for “Downtown Disney District” to see what’s happening: Live entertainment schedule →

Where are the bathrooms at Downtown Disney?

Here are some of the main bathroom locations that are easy to access with kids:

• Near Din Tai Fung – By the open grass area, close to the live music stage.
• Inside the Grand Californian Hotel – Accessible directly from Downtown Disney; use the entrance near Sephora. The restrooms are on the ground floor.
• Earl of Sandwich – There are restrooms on the left side, near the outdoor dining area.
• Near Wetzel’s Pretzels – Convenient spot if you’re grabbing a snack.
• Next to the LEGO Store – On the right-hand side when facing the store entrance.

Can you see fireworks from Downtown Disney?

You can! While you won’t hear the music like inside Disneyland, you can catch a great view of the fireworks.

Best spots:

• Esplanade – the open area between Disneyland and California Adventure entrances
• Near the LEGO Store

Just know that buildings or trees might partially block your view depending on where you stand.

What time do fireworks start?

• Fireworks usually start around 9:30 PM at Disneyland.
• You can see them from Downtown Disney (without the music), weather permitting.
• If it’s too windy or rainy, the show may be canceled last-minute.

Final Thoughts: Visiting Downtown Disney with Kids

Even as a local, I still love coming here. My kids get so excited, and it’s one of my go-to spots for bringing out-of-town guests.

Downtown Disney is vibrant, full of life, and packed with that signature Disney magic—without the cost or hassle of spending a whole day at the parks.

You can shop, grab a bite, watch live music, or just let the kids run around and burn off energy.

It’s one of those spots that works for a quick outing or a few hours of fun, and no matter how many times I visit, it always feels special.