We get asked this question a lot: Should we take a stroller to Disneyland if our kid doesn't usually need one in their everyday life?

The answer for us is a resounding YES. If your kid is under the age of 8 and doesn't look or feel absolutely ridiculous sitting in a stroller, take it or rent it. This doesn't mean they have to sit in it all day--in fact, we encourage kids to walk as much as they are willing and able because it makes it a lot easier when you transition them to a full-time walker in the parks. It also makes the stroller easier to push and if they are able to walk long stretches, you can park the stroller in stroller parking and venture further away from it without having to reload them into it between each ride.

Overall, taking a stroller to Disneyland can make your visit more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable for both you and your child. Obviously each kid is different, but I definitely can vouch for the fact that my "too cool for the stroller" 8 year old was sure glad to take his turn in it for a few minutes while we waited for the fireworks on our last trip. An average park day can add up to about 6-10 miles of walking, depending on what you do, and that can add up on little feet pretty quickly--even if they are usually energetic kids.

If you don't own a stroller, or the stroller you have is not great for several days in the parks, consider renting one. Our favorite place to rent a stroller from at the moment is One Stop Mobility just across the street from the parks. They have nice jogger strollers at very reasonable prices (think $75 dollars for a week long rental). They drop them at your hotel and pick them up when you are done, or if you are staying along Harbor Blvd you can pick it up and drop it off yourself.

If you aren't interested in renting a stroller from a third party, you can also rent one for the day once inside the park.  The stroller rental location is to the right of Disneyland in the Esplanade.  The park offers one-child or two-child stroller options, but they are more like carts that you push, and don't offer the same comfort as a traditional stroller.  They also can't be taken from Disney property, so that makes for a tough walk into the parks--and an even rougher walk home.  Keep that in mind when considering a rental from on property. 

Besides the above mentioned reasons, there are a few more great reasons to just spring for the stroller when visiting Disneyland: Taking a stroller to Disneyland can be a great idea for several reasons.

1. Comfort. Disneyland is a large theme park, and you'll likely spend hours on your feet, walking around, and standing in lines. A stroller can provide a comfortable place for your child to sit, rest and take a break from the walking. This is the most obvious reason to take a stroller, but again...even if your kid is over the "all day stroller" phase, read on.

2. Convenience. A stroller can be a convenient way to transport all the necessary items you'll need for a day in the park, such as snacks, water bottles, sunscreen, jackets and more. It can also be used to store any souvenirs or merchandise you may purchase during your visit (keep them well hidden). Lastly, it's a great place for everyone to be able to stash their half-finished drinks or snacks between attractions without feeling pressure to consume them too quickly or dump them so you can board.

3. Safety. Disneyland can get crowded, and it's easy for young children to get separated from their parents or caregivers. A stroller can keep your child close an safe while navigating through the park.

4. Naps. Young children may need a nap during the day, and a stroller provides a comfortable and familiar place for them to do so while allowing the rest of the family to continue enjoying the park.

So the moral of the story is, plan on the stroller!  You will NOT regret taking one, but you may regreat NOT taking one.  

Make sure you check out our Amazon Store and take a look at our lists for visiting Disneyland with Kids and Visiting Disneyland with Babies.  These lists have great stroller options, stroller accessories like fans, sippy cup attachments, stroller caddies, and more.

Don't have a trip booked to The Happiest Place on Earth? Consider booking through our partners at Get Away Today. They will get you the best prices, guaranteed, and you can even save a little extra at checkout with our special affiliate code JUSTOFFHARBOR10