Letโs be real…not all amusement parks are made with toddlers in mind.
If your little one canโt ride half the rides, canโt be let loose, and gets overwhelmed by crowds, whatโs the point?
Thatโs why we set out to find the best amusement park for toddlers…places where the rides are gentle, the fun is nonstop, and you wonโt spend the whole day saying, โSorry, youโre too little for that.โ
Many of these spots arenโt just toddler-friendly; theyโre historic amusement parks that have been delighting families for generations.
Where Classic Amusement Parks Meet Toddler Fun
Some amusement parks stand the test of time for a reason. These classic parks offer the perfect mix of toddler-friendly rides and old-school charm.
Dutch Wonderland
Because every great toddler day starts with a castle.
๐2249 Lincoln Hwy E., Lancaster, PA 17602
๐ Dutch Wonderland
If your kid is all about castles, dinosaurs, and friendly dragons, Dutch Wonderland is the kind of amusement park that feels straight out of their imagination.
This Lancaster, PA gem was built in 1963 with young kids in mind, offering more than 22 rides for little ones, a splash area, and plenty of unique and fun entertainment.
Itโs not about big thrills at Dutch Wonderland…itโs about pint-sized adventures, where little ones can ride, play, and explore to their heartโs content.
Why Toddlers Love Dutch Wonderland
- 22+ rides for kids under 42 inches, with many requiring just 30 inches or no minimum at all.
- Dukeโs Lagoon:ย A small but fun water play area (open Memorial Day to Labor Day) with free life jackets.
- Live shows galore! High-dive shows, Daniel Tiger stage performances, bubble dance parties, and fairy tale story times.
- Dinosaur fun: A prehistoric path with giant dinos and a dig site where kids can uncover fossils.
- Meet & Greets: Walk-around characters like the dragon mascot, princess, and prince and even Daniel Tiger.
What to Know About Dutch Wonderland
- When to Go: April through December, with a special Dutch Winter Wonderland event at Christmastime.
- Ticket Prices: Prices range from $39.99-$75.99, with online discounts available. Kids under 2 are free.
- No Fast Passes: But rides move quickly, so waits arenโt usually long.
- Parking: $22 for general, $27 for preferred.
- Food: No outside food allowed. Sit-down options include Mill Stream Eatery and Merlinโs Pizza & Pasta Buffet.
- Stroller Rentals: $15 for a single, $31 for a double.
- Nearby Bonus: Try a stay at the Cartoon Network Hotel next door for park perks like sneak previews, discounts, and extra fun.
Need a fun place to eat nearby where the kids can keep the fun going?
Youโre going to love these places to eat in Lancaster with playgrounds and games.
And, while you’re in Lancaster, donโt miss Cherry Crest Adventure Farm for a full day of hands-on family fun.
Pros & Cons of Dutch Wonderland
Pros:
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Tailor-made for little kids, with tons of rides they can actually go on.
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Plenty of entertainment beyond rides, like diving shows, Daniel Tiger and dino adventures.
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Lots of shade and seating throughout the park.
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The train and monorail allow kids to explore without walking.
Cons:
โ Not much for older kids…only two thrill rides.
โ Food options arenโt especially allergy-friendly, and outside food isnโt allowed.
โ No Fast Pass option (but lines are usually reasonable).
Canobie Lake Park
Rides, views, and room to roam = solid family win.
๐85 N. Policy St., Salem, NH 03079
๐ Canobie Lake Park
Open since 1902, Canobie Lake Park is a true New England classic, blending vintage charm with plenty of fun for little ones.
With more than 30 rides for kids under 42 inches and a newer water park, Castaway Island, thereโs plenty to keep toddlers entertained while older siblings get their thrills.
Free parking, fun food options (including Dole Whip flights!), and nostalgic rides make this a great spot for families looking for a mix of old-school amusement park magic and modern fun.
Why Toddlers Love Canobie Lake Park
- 30+ rides for kids under 42 inches, including classics like antique cars, the Canobie Express train, and the Caterpillar ride.
- Castaway Island Water Park:ย Open June through August, featuring slides, a tidal river, and splash areas. (Bring towels!)
- Vintage amusement park vibes:ย A cool mix of old-school charm and modern attractions.
- Lots of arcade games:ย Fun, but set a budget because those quarters add up fast!
What to Know About Canobie Lake Park
- When to Go: Mid-May through mid-September; the water park is open June through August.
- Ticket Prices: Ticket range between $48 – $59 depending on the day. Kids 3 and under are free.
- Parking: Free!
- Food:
- No outside food allowed (except small snacks).
- A surprising variety of options, including Dole Whip flights (mango, watermelon, lemon, and cherry!).
- Allergy-friendly options available (check their online guide).
- Extras:
- Stroller rentals: $10 for a single, $14 for a double or a wagon.
- Lockers: Standard ($10), large ($15), jumbo ($20)… locker rentals are cashless.
- Nursing room near the main entrance (key required from guest services).
Pros & Cons of Canobie Lake Park
Pros:
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30+ toddler-friendly rides, plus a water park included in admission.
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Vintage, nostalgic New England amusement park vibes.
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Free parking (rare for an amusement park!).
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Great food variety beyond the usual amusement park basics.
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Fun for the whole family, with rides for toddlers and older kids.
Cons:
โ Water park lockers are cashless, so bring a card.
โ Arcade games are everywhere…be ready to set spending rules.
โ No outside food allowed, but you can bring small snacks.
Planning more New Hampshire stops?
These quirky restaurants in unusual locations add a fun twist to any family road trip.
The Best Toddler-Friendly Amusement Parks with a Storybook Twist
For kids who love fairy tales and make-believe, these parks bring the magic with themed rides, storybook settings, and characters straight from the pages.
Story Land
One simple slide. Endless toddler giggles.
๐850 New Hampshire Route 16, Glen, NH 03838
๐ Story Land
Story Land is the kind of place that feels like walking into the pages of a favorite childhood book.
With more than 20 rides made for toddlers, interactive play areas, and plenty of nostalgic charm, itโs an old-school amusement park built for little ones to explore.
Add in a farm-themed water play area, free pet kennels, and roaming characters like Cinderella and Duke the Dragon, and youโve got all the makings of a classic New England family adventure.
Why Toddlers Love Story Land
- Over 20 rides and attractions perfect for little ones, plus playground-style interactive areas.
- Moo Lagoon:ย A farm-themed water play area with slides and splash zones (bring towels!).
- Dino Tram & Buccaneer Pirate Ship:ย A dinosaur safari ride and a Jungle Cruise-style pirate adventure.
- Dig-M-Deeper Play Area:ย Kids can โoperateโ an excavator and scoop up fun.
- Meet & Greet Magic:ย Walk-around characters like Cinderella, Duke the Dragon, and Daniel Tiger.
What to Know About Story Land
When to Go: May through October, with special fall events in September and October.
Ticket Prices: Any day ticket: $59.99 per person.
Date-specific ticket: $37.49-$49.99 (summer pricing).
Kids under 3 are free
($3-$4 online processing fee per person)
Parking: General parking is FREE; preferred parking is $10.
Water Park: Moo Lagoon is included in admission but can get chaotic when older kids take over.
Food: No sit-down restaurants, just classic grab-and-go amusement park food.
Extras:
Free pet kennels (26 shaded, self-serve pet spaces).
Stroller rentals: $11.50/day for a double stroller.
Lockers at Moo Lagoon: $8 (standard), $10 (jumbo).
The park is cashless…be prepared to pay by card or mobile.
Pros & Cons of Story Land
Pros:
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Over 20 toddler-friendly rides, play areas, and meet-and-greets.
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Nostalgic, storybook atmosphere…feels like classic New England.
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Free pet kennels and affordable stroller rentals.
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Water play area included in admission.
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Lots of shade throughout the park.
Cons:
โ Moo Lagoon can get chaotic with older kids running around.
โ Food options are limited to quick-service stands.
โ Cashless park, youโll need a card or mobile payment.
โ Tickets have a processing fee per person.
Storybook Land
Gentle thrill. Big win. Zero height drama.
๐6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
๐ Storybook Land
If you love the charm of old-school roadside attractions and the magic of classic fairy tales, Storybook Land is a perfect pick for little ones.
Open since 1955 and still family-owned, this whimsical 20-acre park is filled with story-themed rides, interactive play areas, and a charming train ride.
With its relaxed, nostalgic feel, itโs the kind of place that makes you feel like youโve stepped back in time…where fairy tales come to life and little imaginations run wild.
Why Toddlers Love Storybook Land
16+ rides for kids under 42 inches, plus themed play areas like an Enchanted Forest, mazes, and tunnels.
Storybook Seaport Water Play Area:ย A splash zone (no pools, just sprays and slides) thatโs perfect for cooling off. Open late JuneโLabor Day.
Classic Attractions: Like the Jack & Jill Slide, Pirate Cove, and Dinosaur Garden.
The Storybook Train: A gentle ride that circles the entire park.
What to Know About Storybook Land
When to Go: April through December. Closed on Tuesdays. Halloween and holiday events are extra festive.
Ticket Prices: Online: $38.99 per person.
At the gate: $41.99 per person.
Kids under 2 are free.
Parking: FREE!
Food:
You can bring your own picnic lunch (shaded areas available, including the Little Jack Hornerโs Picnic Grove).
Allergy-friendly optionsย (ingredient lists available upon request).
Indoor dining is available at the Dining Depot.
Extras:
Highly shaded park…great for summer visits.
Photo Op Alert: The Birthday Cake Pavilion changes yearly to reflect the parkโs ageโfun for an annual tradition with kids!
Pros & Cons of Storybook Land
Pros:
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Perfect for toddlers-gentle rides, cute play areas, and an easy-to-walk layout.
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Unlimited rides included in one ticket price…no extra fees.
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Bring your own picnic- a major budget-saver.
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Nostalgic, beautifully maintained park with a whimsical storybook theme.
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Great seasonal events for Halloween and the holidays.
Cons:
โ Closed on Tuesdays- double-check the schedule before visiting.
โ Water play area is small- just sprays and slides, no pools.
โ No big thrill rides, so older kids may not find much to do.
The Best Amusement Park for Toddlers Who Love Characters
From stage shows to surprise hugs, the best amusement park for toddlers who love characters offers the perfect mix of rides, magic, and favorite faces.
Sesame Place
Just Big Bird casually strolling out front of Hooper’s Store… No big deal.
๐100 Sesame Rd., Langhorne, PA 19047
๐ Sesame Place
If your toddler loves Elmo, Big Bird, and the whole Sesame Street gang, Sesame Place is the amusement park for them!
With both a classic amusement park and a water park included in admission, thereโs plenty to keep tiny adventurers busy.
Just keep in mind…between tickets, parking, and extras, the costs can add up fast.
But, if skipping the lines means avoiding a mid-day meltdownโฆit might just be worth it.
Why Toddlers Sesame Place
- Over 16 rides for kids under 42 inches, many of which parents can ride too.
- A dedicated low-sensory room near Big Birdโs Rambling River for kids who need a quiet break.
- Character dining with Elmo & Friendsโair conditioning, a meal, and fun meet-and-greets all in one.
- A dry side Sesame Place AND a waterpark (free life jackets for little swimmers)
- Interactive Sesame Street-themed playgrounds like the 123 Playground and Monster Clubhouse.
What to Know About Sesame Place
When to Go: Weekdays in summer or during the shoulder seasons (April, May, or September) for fewer crowds.
Ticket Prices: Gate prices are $102.99 per person (kids under 2 are free),ย you can buy discounted tickets online.
Parking: $35-$40 depending on the day
Fast Pass Options: Unlimited Fast Pass: $49.99-$99.99 per person (go on each ride as many times as you want).
One-Time Fast Pass: $39.99-$79.99 per person (one ride per attraction).
Food: Limited food options, mostly basic and pricey, with allergy-friendly choices. No outside food allowed, but small snacks are permitted.
Extras: Locker rentals available for the waterpark but bring your own towels!
Pros & Cons of Sesame Place
Pros:
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Specifically designed for toddlers and younger kids.
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Low-sensory room & allergy-friendly dining.
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Character meet-and-greets and interactive parades.
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Stroller rentals available. ($35-$40/day)
Cons:
โ Expensive tickets, fast passes, and parkingย
โ Food options are basic and overpriced.
โ Can get very crowded, especially in summer.
โ Not a lot of shade
Where to Find the Best Christmas Amusement Parks for Families
Santa, twinkling lights, and holiday treatsโthese holiday-themed amusement parks make the season even more magical for little ones.
Santaโs Village
Santaโs sleigh? Not quite. But this comes close.
๐528 Presidential Hwy., Jefferson, NH 03583
๐ Santaโs Village
At Santaโs Village, Christmas magic isnโt just a season…itโs a way of life.
This festive, family-friendly park spreads holiday cheer from May through December, with over 19 rides designed just for little ones, a water park, and even real reindeer.
Add in free parking, free stroller rentals, and the rare perk of bringing your own food, and itโs a holiday win for families…no matter what time of year you visit.
Why Toddlers Love It Santaโs Village
- Over 19 rides for kids under 42 inches – only one ride in the park has a height requirement over 42 inches.
- Meet Santa, visit real reindeer, and complete a scavenger hunt to earn a special ring from the blacksmith.
- A dedicated sensory guide, universal changing tables, and two nursing rooms make it extra family-friendly.
- Free stroller rentals (first come, first serve for singles and doubles).
- Playground areas, Christmas-themed shops, and tons of festive fun beyond just the rides.
What to Know About Santaโs Village
When to Go: May through December, with peak crowds in summer and around Christmas.
Ticket Prices:ย Summer Prices: $48 per person.
Tickets are Date-specific and must be purchased in advance (no gate sales).
Kids under 4 are free.
Parking: Free!
Water Park: Open Memorial Day through Labor Day, but the water is not heated (so be prepared-itโs New Hampshire, after all!). Bring your own towels.
Food: Big perk- outside food is allowed!
Dining options include amusement park staples with a slightly higher quality, plus lots of allergy-friendly and gluten-free choices.
Extras:
Dog-friendly! The park offers 36 free โcanine condosโ just outside the gates- individual shaded kennels in two sizes, so dogs can rest comfortably without seeing other pups.
Poolside cabanas: Available for rent in the summer ($169 per day, fits up to six people).
Birthday Bonus: If you submit a birthday celebration form at least 48 hours in advance, your child gets a custom sticker, a gift from Santa, and a birthday song at the Polar Theater.
Pros & Cons of Santaโs Village
Pros:
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All but 1 ride are designed for kids under 42″.
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Free parking and free stroller rentals.
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Bring-your-own-food policy is a game-changer for families.
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Extra toddler-friendly features like sensory guides, changing tables, and play areas.
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Free on-site dog boarding!
Cons:
โ Water park is not heated- New Hampshire water in June? Brrr.
โ No table-service dining, just quick-service options.
โ Tickets must be purchased in advance…no walk-ups.
Edaville
Too cold outside? Head indoors for some unique cranberry fun!
๐5 Pine St., Carver, MA 02330
๐ Edaville
If your holiday season isnโt complete without twinkling lights, festive music, and a magical train ride, Edaville delivers all the holiday charm.
Open only in November and December, this festive amusement park features 22+ rides just for little ones, an indoor play zone, and a classic steam train ride through scenic cranberry bogs.
Itโs small, charming, and feels like stepping straight into a Hallmark Christmas movie…hot cocoa and all.
Why Toddlers Love Edaville
- The Steam Train:ย The parkโs signature ride takes families on a 15-20 minute journey around Edaville, best experienced at night when the lights make it feel truly magical.
- 22+ rides for kids under 42 inches, though many require an adult to ride along.
- Indoor fun! A climbing structure with bathrooms nearby and Ellisโ Playhouse, featuring small rides, arcade games, and a ball pit.
- Compact layout:ย Everything is close together, making it easy to navigate with little legs.
- Festive atmosphere:ย Thousands of Christmas lights, holiday music, and a charming ย Dickens Village with cute shops.
What to Know About Edaville
When to Go: November and December are the only months itโs open. It gets crowded, but the week between Christmas and New Yearโs tends to be much quieter, with tickets sometimes discounted by half.
Ticket Prices: Festival of Lights Ticket Levels
Bronze: $12.95*, includes admission only.
Silver:ย $29.95*, includes admission and 1 train ride.ย ย
Gold: $45.95*, includes admission, 1 train ride and unlimited amusement rides.
Kids under 2 are free.
Parking: Free!
Food: Very limited…mostly snacks like popcorn and pretzels. Donโt come expecting a full meal.
No outside food or drink allowed.
Pros & Cons of Edaville
Pros:
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A Christmas wonderland with festive lights, music, and holiday magic.
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Classic steam train ride past cranberry bogs…especially magical at night.
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Lots of rides and play areas for younger kids.
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Small and easy to walk, great for little ones who tire quickly.
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Free parking!
Cons:
โ Only open two months a year…expect holiday crowds.
โ Food options are minimal, mostly snacks.
โ Many toddler rides require an adult to ride along.
Which Amusement Park for Toddlers is Right for Your Family?
โ๏ธ Love a little nostalgia? โ Canobie Lake Park (Vintage rides, a classic train, and even a Dole Whip flightโbecause history tastes better with dessert.)
โ๏ธ Want to step into a fairy tale? โ Story Land (Cinderella, a pirate captain, and a friendly dragon all waiting to welcome your little one.)
โ๏ธ Prefer classic nursery rhymes? โ Storybook Land (Think Jack & Jill, a giant birthday cake, and an Enchanted Forest straight out of storytime.)
โ๏ธ Have a kid who thinks Elmo is their best friend? โ Sesame Place (This is where hugs from Big Bird and splashes in a toddler-friendly water park make for the ultimate playdate.)
โ๏ธ Want a winter wonderlandโno matter the season? โ Santaโs Village (Snow, reindeer, and holiday cheer from May to December. Itโs Christmas magic on toddler time.)
โ๏ธ Love trains as much as your toddler does? โ Edaville (A scenic steam train through cranberry bogs plus rides and festive lightsโbecause everythingโs better on tracks.)
โ๏ธ Want classic amusement park fun with a modern twist? โ Dutch Wonderland (Castles, dinosaurs, and splash zones, all sized perfectly for pint-sized adventurers.)
โ๏ธ Looking for more family-friendly escapes? โ Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts in the Northeast (Because sometimes, the best adventures happen outside the park gates.)
No matter which amusement park you pick, one thingโs for sureโtoddlers may be small, but their sense of adventure is big.
Happy travelsโฆ
