Donald’s Duck Pond is a fun and interactive water play area located in Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland Park. Originally opened as Donald’s Boat in 1993, this area was reimagined and reopened as Donald’s Duck Pond in March 2023 as part of the major renovation of Mickey’s Toontown. In this review we’ll go over the ride details, history, attractions, and fun tips to make your visit to Donald’s Duck Pond and Toontown more enjoyable!
Ride Details
Average Wait Time: No waiting required! This is an open water play area!
Height Requirement: No height requirement to board this play area! It’s designed for kids ages 2-8. Kids under 7 should be accompanied by an adult.
Genie+ and Lightning Lane: Genie+ and Lightning Lane are not needed for this attraction.
Single Rider: No single rider.
Disability Access Service (DAS): This is an open play area, so wheelchairs and EVC’s can easily access it.
Location: Donald’s Duck Pond is located in Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland.
History
Donald’s Boat first opened in 1993 when Mickey’s Toontown was added to Disneyland. It was themed as Donald Duck’s houseboat, named the Miss Daisy after Daisy Duck. Guests used to be able to walk through the boat and climb up to the top deck. When Mickey’s Toontown closed for a year-long renovation starting in March 2022, Donald’s Boat was reimagined into the new Donald’s Duck Pond play area. The reimagined Donald’s Duck Pond opened along with the rest of the new Mickey’s Toontown on March 8, 2023. The design is inspired by the Duckburg harbor where Donald keeps his boat in the DuckTales cartoons and comics. Donald’s boat is now flooded and guests can spot Huey, Dewey, Louie, and Webby through the portholes.
Attractions
The main feature of Donald’s Duck Pond is the play area surrounding Donald’s flooded boat. There are rocking rides shaped like ducks, lily pads that spin around, balance beams, and bubble jets. Kids can climb and play while parents relax on the benches. The hull of Donald’s boat has a series of portholes that guests can interact with. Spinning wheels and pulling levers triggers fun effects inside the portholes, like bubbles and gold coins rising up. Huey, Dewey, Louie, and Webby appear swimming inside thanks to special effects. There will eventually be fountains and splash pads on the pond side for cooling off on hot days. This feature has been delayed and is not yet open as of October 2023.
Tips for Visiting
- Donald’s Duck Pond is designed for kids ages 2-8. Older kids may get bored quickly.
- Be prepared to get wet! Kids can play in the bubble jets and splash in the pond area. Bring a change of clothes or towels.
- Take turns watching any kids who can’t swim or may slip. The pond is only a few inches deep but little ones can topple in.
- Visit in the morning or late afternoon when it’s not too hot. The playground is mostly shaded but can get warm midday.
- Make sure kids wear shoes they can get wet. Water shoes work best.
- Check the park map or app for when Donald’s Duck Pond closes to clean and service the area. It’s typically open from park open to park close.
- No food or drinks are allowed in the play area.
Accessibility
Donald’s Duck Pond was designed with accessibility in mind:
- The playground surface is padded rubber flooring that accommodates wheelchairs and mobility devices.
- Ramps lead up to the boat instead of stairs.
- The porthole games can be played at a lower level for kids in wheelchairs.
- The rocking rides and lily pads have high backs to support kids who need it.
- Park maps indicate accessible areas and features. Ask a cast member about accommodations.
Nearby Restaurants and Rides
Restaurants:
- Cafe Daisy – Counter service diner located right next to Donald’s Duck Pond. Great for burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and milkshakes.
- Good Boy! Grocers – Roadside fruit stand in Mickey’s Toontown selling healthy snacks & drinks.
- Pluto’s Dog House – Hot dogs & chips located in front of Space Mountain.
Rides:
- Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin: This is one of the signature attractions in Toontown. Hop into a spinning cab and help Roger Rabbit navigate through chaotic scenes and situations in this fun and interactive dark ride.
- GADGETcoaster: A kid-friendly roller coaster inspired by Gadget from “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers.” It’s a great option for little ones who want a taste of coaster thrills.
- Mickey’s House and Meet Mickey: Visit Mickey Mouse in his charming house, explore his interactive living room, and have the opportunity to meet and take photos with the iconic character himself.
- Minnie’s House: Like Mickey’s House, Minnie’s House is open for exploration. You can tour her house and even greet Minnie Mouse when she’s available for meet-and-greets.
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway: A fun track-less ride that takes you on an incredible adventure.
Tips for Riding with Small Kids
Donald’s Duck Pond is perfect for kids ages 2-6. Here are some tips to make sure you have a great experience:
- Come at non-peak times like early morning or dinnertime to avoid crowds.
- Take turns supervising active play elements with another adult.
- Have kids wear water shoes or secure sandals they can get wet.
- Bring a towel or change of clothes in case kids get soaked.
- Let toddlers play on the padded areas away from the water features.
- Go on the rides together – rocking ducks, spinning lily pads, etc.
- Help little ones reach the porthole games on Donald’s boat.
- Visit when kids need a break from rides. Donald’s Duck Pond is very low key.
- Check height requirements for nearby Chip ‘n Dale’s GADGETcoaster. Many kids love doing both.
Tips for Visiting with Older Kids
If you’re visiting Donald’s Duck Pond with older kids, here are some tips to keep them engaged:
- Challenge them to try every porthole game on Donald’s boat and report back on their favorites.
- Time them racing across the balance beams or spinning all the lily pads.
- Let them help supervise younger siblings on the playground.
- Head over to Chip ‘n Dale’s GADGETcoaster or Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway for even more fun after they play.
- Visit earlier in the day before older kids get bored. It’s great for ages 6-8.
- Use it as a meeting spot while splitting up to do different rides.
- Play I Spy or 20 Questions while they play to keep them entertained.
- Visit Mickey’s House or Minnie’s House to take fun family photos by the Toontown entrance.
Best Times to Visit
To avoid long lines and crowds, visit Donald’s Duck Pond during:
- Early morning right after park opening
- Late afternoon before dinner time
- Parade or show times when crowds gather on Main Street
- Bad weather days with light rain when fewer guests visit
The area will be busiest on peak days like weekends and holidays. Check out our crowd calendar for the best days to visit. Early morning and evenings are generally less busy in Toontown.
Conclusion
Donald’s Duck Pond is a whimsical and engaging new addition to Disneyland’s Mickey’s Toontown that offers interactive fun for guests of all ages. With its playful theming centered around a flooded boat and mischievous ducks, simple hands-on activities, and location in a splash pad area, it provides a unique experience not found in other Disneyland attractions. The short wait times, lack of height restrictions, and recommendations to visit during less crowded hours make it easily accessible. Donald’s Duck Pond brings a spirit of lighthearted adventure and imagination to Mickey’s Toontown that complements the land’s purpose of letting guests’ inner child come out to play. This inventive attraction strengthens Disneyland’s offerings for families and fans eager to quack up and delight in Disney magic.
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