Okay, fellow Disney-loving parents, let’s talk about the unsung hero of a Disneyland trip with small children: the shuttle from the Toy Story parking lot. If you’ve ever imagined navigating theme park crowds with a double stroller, a wiggly 6-year-old, and a curious 2-year-old—all dressed in their royal best—you know the struggle is real.
But fear not! The Toy Story shuttle is your carriage to the ball, and with a little planning, you can totally conquer it. My recent trip involved yours truly, my spirited 6-year-old (who was convinced she was Rapunzel on a field trip), and my adorable but unpredictable 2-year-old (our resident Tinker Bell).
Parking Like a Pro at Toy Story
The Toy Story lot is a lifesaver. It’s generally less chaotic than the Mickey & Friends structure, and the shuttle experience is much smoother when you’re managing “royal” gear.
- Follow the Signs: Look for the Toy Story Parking Area off Harbor Blvd.
- The “Find My Car” Hack: Take a photo of your row number! Between the 6-year-old’s wand-waving and the 2-year-old’s nap schedule, your brain will be fried by 9:00 PM.
- Head to the Shuttle Stop: Look for the designated shuttle stops marked with signs.
The Security Check: Clear Your Carriage!
One of the best-kept secrets of the Toy Story lot is that security screening often happens right there at the lot before you board the bus (usually in the mornings until early afternoon). This means when you get off the bus, you’re already in the “secure zone” and can head straight to the gates!
What you need to know for the check:
- The Metal Detector: You’ll walk through a metal detector. Pro tip: If you have a metal water bottle or a heavy stroller frame, let the Cast Member know.
- Bag Inspection: Every bag in your stroller will be checked. This is why I recommend the “bus bag” strategy mentioned below!
- The “Final Say”: Disney security has the final word on what enters. If you’re unsure about an item, it’s safer to leave it in the car.
Crucial Rule: Strollers cannot be larger than 31″ (79 cm) wide and 52″ (132 cm) long. Also, wagons (including stroller wagons like the Wonderfold) are strictly prohibited.
What’s Allowed (and What’s Banned)
Before you pack the diaper bag, check this “Royal Proclamation” of items:
| Bring These! (Allowed) | Leave in the Tower! (Banned) |
| Snacks & Juice Boxes (Life-savers!) | Glass Containers (Except baby food jars) |
| Plastic Tiaras & Wands | Selfie Sticks & Tripods over 6ft |
| Coolers (Soft-sided, 6-pack size) | Loose Ice (Use reusable ice packs instead) |
| Sunscreen & Mini Fans | Wagons (Of any kind) |
| Costumes (For the kids!) | Alcohol or Marijuana |
The Great Stroller Fold & Load
When the shuttle arrives, it’s time for the “Stroller Shuffle.”
- The Fold is Mandatory: You must fold your stroller before boarding. Practice this at home!
- Empty the Basket: Do this before the bus arrives. Put snacks and bubble wands into one large “bus bag” so you aren’t chasing loose items under seats.
- The “Safety Circle”: I tell my 6-year-old to hold onto my belt loop. I usually wear the 2-year-old in a carrier to keep my hands free for the “Great Fold.”
Finding Your Spot on the Carriage
Once the stroller is stowed in the racks near the doors, it’s time to find seats. My 2-year-old Tinker Bell is a lap-sitter extraordinaire, which helps save space. The ride is only about 5 minutes—just enough time to apply that last bit of sunscreen before the magic begins!
For more information including prices and discounts check out the Disneyland parking link:
