Theme parks with toddlers? It can be done and even enjoyed with a little planning and a lot of flexibility. As a mom of three little ones under three, I’ve learned that overstimulation and over-tiredness can sneak up fast, especially at a park as exciting and full as Silverwood. Over time, we’ve found a rhythm that helps make our visits smoother, more fun, and meltdown-minimal.
One of the best ways to avoid frustration is to measure your kids before you go. I always check their height at home so I know exactly which rides are a good fit and which ones to skip entirely. That way, we’re not standing in front of Tremors with a toddler begging to ride something they aren’t tall enough for. If we never draw attention to it, it’s one less opportunity for disappointment.
Pro Tip: If your child is right on the edge of a height requirement, stop by the Information Center just past the train station. They’ll measure your child and give them a colored wristband for the day, so you can skip repeated height checks at each ride and keep things moving.
A stroller or wagon is a must, even if your toddler insists they want to walk. Silverwood involves a lot of ground to cover, and little legs wear out quickly. Plus, it becomes your mobile home base for bags, towels, snacks, and sleepy kids. If you have a baby or a napper, a clip-on fan and portable sound machine can make stroller naps much easier in the summer heat.
Plan your trip around your family’s natural rhythm. My girls still nap, so we often skip the early morning rush, eat lunch at home, and let them nap in the car on the way. If your toddler doesn’t nap anymore, arriving right at opening is ideal for cooler temps and happy, rested kids.
You don’t need to do it all! In fact, less is often more when it comes to toddlers. We focus on a few key areas like Critter Camp, Polliwog Park, Salmon Run, and the train ride. Setting a loose plan helps, but being ready to pivot based on how your kids are feeling is key. We often start at Boulder Beach and head straight for Salmon Run, which is perfect for toddlers to enjoy independently. We break things up with snack breaks or a lap in the lazy river, and once they start showing signs of overstimulation, we move on to the next activity.
Building intentional downtime into your day is a game-changer. Rapids Grill is a great spot for a quick bite with its grab-and-go style, making it easy to refuel without losing momentum. If renting a cabana is in the budget, I highly recommend choosing one in the Emerald Forest especially if you have a toddler. It offers shade, privacy, and a quiet place to rest, plus extras like Silverwood beach towels, lockers, a fridge, food and beverage service, and tube vouchers for the lazy river and the Rumble Falls waterslides for older kids.
After a few hours at Boulder Beach, we like to slow the pace with something calm, such as a train ride, a sit-down meal at Lindy’s, or a show like Marvin & Friends or catch a Confusium and Parrot FX show. Quiet corners such as Chrissy’s Quiet Garden, the Tiny Tree House area, or the shady spot outside the Victorian Coffee House are also perfect for recharging.
Once everyone’s rested, we’ll hit a few more rides usually starting with Critter Camp and then expanding to Country Carnival. We watch their energy closely and call it good before exhaustion sets in. You know your child’s signs best: rubbing eyes, zoning out, or getting whiny means it’s time to slow down. Grab a snack, change the pace, or head home on a high note. If you have a multi-day or season pass, consider leaving while everyone’s still in a good mood and before you hit that wall of overtired chaos.
Toddler-proofing your Silverwood trip isn’t about perfection! It’s about being intentional, tuning into your kids’ needs, and staying flexible. Yes, there will be snack crumbs, outfit changes, and maybe a few tears, but there will also be giggles in the lazy river and wide-eyed excitement on the Tiny Toot coaster. These are the moments we’re here for, and they’re worth every ounce of planning and pivoting.
Meet The Conductor
Hi, I’m Torri! I’m married to my high school sweetheart and mama to three little girls under three (twins plus baby sister), and life is perfectly imperfect. We live in Spokane, Washington, and you’ll usually find us out and about chasing new adventures— I share all the real-life moments, family outings, and unfiltered motherhood over on Instagram (@torrionpurpose).
One local adventure that we keep going back to again and again is Silverwood. It’s been a special part of my life since the early 2000s. I grew up going there as a kid, and now I’m soaking up the joy of creating new memories with my children in the same magical place I loved growing up.
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