A practical guide to renting strollers and wheelchairs from external providers in California.
Estimated read time: 25 minutes
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Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure offer strollers, wheelchairs, and ECVs (mobility scooters) for rent at the entrance plaza, but these official rentals come with notable limitations. The park strollers are sturdy plastic models with no padding or recline, which can be less comfortable for a child over a long day. They cost around $18 per day for a single stroller or $36 for a double (prices as of 2025) - a rate that adds up quickly for a multi-day visit. Manual wheelchairs cost about $15 per day, and ECV scooters run about $60 per day plus tax. These Disneyland rentals cannot be reserved ahead of time, so on busy days you'll need to arrive early to secure one before they run out.
A major drawback is that Disneyland's rental equipment must remain inside the parks and Downtown Disney. Official rented strollers and wheelchairs cannot be taken into the resort hotels, on parking trams, or outside the security perimeter. In practice, this means you have to return the stroller or ECV when you exit the park, and you can't use it to go back to your hotel or to the car park. There is no overnight or off-property use - you'll start from scratch each morning. If you park-hop between Disneyland Park and California Adventure on the same day, you can get a replacement stroller at the next park by showing your receipt, but it might not be the exact same stroller you had before. For wheelchairs and scooters, you're also confined to on-site use; Disneyland rentals can't leave the security gates, so they won't help for getting to and from a nearby hotel.
These rules make the in-park rentals a limited solution. Parents often find it inconvenient to wake a sleeping child to hand back a stroller at day's end, only to carry the child to the hotel. Likewise, a guest with mobility issues might rent a Disney wheelchair for the day but then have nothing to use at the hotel or around Anaheim after hours. In short, Disneyland's own rentals are fine for inside the parks, but their higher daily cost, basic design, and on-property restrictions lead many visitors to consider outside rental companies for more flexibility.
Using an external stroller or wheelchair rental service can significantly improve comfort and convenience during your trip. Independent rental companies in Anaheim offer modern strollers with padded seats, full recline, sun canopies and storage, which are a big upgrade from Disney's plastic strollers. For example, popular models like the City Mini have ventilated reclining seats, suspension for a smoother ride, and large sunshades, making it easier for little ones to nap and stay cool during a long day. External providers often include handy accessories too - parents report getting cup holders or organiser caddies with their rental, which Disney's strollers don't provide. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters from outside companies also tend to be more comfortable, with features like padded or breathable mesh seats and higher weight capacities, accommodating a wider range of users.
Cost savings are another big benefit. If you need a stroller or scooter for multiple days, outside rentals usually work out cheaper than paying Disney's daily rates. Many companies offer multi-day or weekly packages that lower the per-day cost. For instance, one Disneyland-approved vendor advertises single strollers "as low as $12 per day" for longer hires - a notable drop from the $18 in-park price. Electric scooters can be rented externally for around $25 a day or less on a week-long plan, which is far more economical than the ~$60 plus tax per day at Disneyland. The longer your stay, the more you save by using an outside supplier.
Perhaps the greatest advantage is full-trip usability. When you rent from an outside company, the stroller or wheelchair is yours to use wherever and whenever you need it - not just inside the theme parks. You can roll your rented stroller right out of Disneyland at closing time and back to your hotel, or use it for a stroll around the Downtown Disney shops in the evening. You won't have to wake a child who fell asleep in the stroller on the walk back, because you can simply keep the stroller with you until you're safely at your hotel room. Likewise, a guest with limited mobility can have their wheelchair or scooter at the hotel, in the parks, and everywhere in between for the entire trip. This seamless use across the parks, hotels, and surrounding areas is a huge convenience compared to the park-only restriction of Disney rentals.
Finally, external rentals offer delivery and pick-up services that make the process easy. Most companies will drop off the stroller or scooter at your hotel (or a location you choose) and collect it at the end of your stay. If you're staying at an official Disneyland Resort hotel, note that Disney has a preferred vendor (ScooterBug) that is allowed to leave rentals with the bell desk for you. This means you don't even have to be present - the item can be waiting at the hotel when you arrive. If you use a different company and are at a Disney-owned hotel, you may need to meet the delivery person in the lobby due to Disney's policy. At many nearby non-Disney hotels, however, outside companies can leave the stroller with the front desk or concierge for you to pick up at your convenience (check with your hotel on their policy). Either way, having the rental delivered to your accommodation saves you from lugging your own stroller through an airport or from having to line up at the Disneyland rental counter each morning. It's a relief to simply start each day with your stroller or wheelchair ready to go.
Renting a stroller or wheelchair from an outside provider is a straightforward process you can arrange in advance. Start by choosing a reputable rental company that serves the Disneyland Anaheim area. Some well-known examples include Cloud of Goods, ScooterBug, City Stroller Rentals, and One Stop Mobility, among others. It's a good idea to read recent reviews or get recommendations from other travellers, but in general these companies cater to Disney visitors and understand the park rules (like the size limits: strollers must be under 31" x 52" to enter the parks).
Booking is typically done online via the company's website or by phone. You'll select the type of stroller, wheelchair or ECV you need and the exact dates of your rental (usually you can rent for a single day up to several weeks). It's wise to book well ahead of your trip, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability. Unlike Disney's rentals, external companies do allow advance reservations, so you can secure the equipment you want for the length of your stay. During booking, you'll provide your hotel name and check-in date for delivery. Most companies do free delivery to hotels near Disneyland or include it in the price. If you're staying in a vacation rental or somewhere further away, you might arrange a meet-up or pay a delivery fee, but for the Disneyland Resort area hotels it's often straightforward.
On arrival day, the company will deliver the stroller or scooter to your hotel - either to the front desk/bell services or via a personal hand-off. In many cases (especially with Disney's preferred partner) the item can be waiting for you at the hotel even if you arrive late. For example, families have reported checking into their Anaheim hotel and finding the rented stroller already there, tagged with their name and ready to use. If a meet-up is required, the rental company might coordinate a time to meet you in the lobby or outside the hotel. Delivery often happens on your arrival date (some companies can even deliver the evening before your first park day if arranged).
Once you have the stroller or wheelchair, you keep it with you for the entire rental period. You can use it across Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, Downtown Disney, and outside the resort as needed. Do note that personal and rented strollers are allowed in the parks and Downtown Disney, but you still can't take any stroller onto the parking trams (you'll fold it and stow it) and you shouldn't bring strollers into restaurant queues or onto rides. The same common-sense rules apply to outside rentals as to your own stroller - for example, you must park them in designated stroller parking areas at attractions, and you cannot leave ECVs or wheelchairs unattended in pathways. But beyond the park rules, there's no limitation on where you can go with an outside rental. You are free to push it right to your hotel room, onto Anaheim sidewalks, or anywhere your travels take you.
At the end of your trip, returning the rental is usually hassle-free. The company will pick up the stroller or wheelchair from your hotel at the arranged time. Many visitors simply leave the stroller with bell services on the final day and head off to the airport, and the rental company retrieves it later (if allowed by the hotel). Others meet a representative for a quick hand-off when they're finished. For instance, with some services you can just leave the stroller in the lobby at checkout and that's the end of it. Be sure to follow the provider's instructions - you might need to text or call to confirm you're done. It's also courteous to wipe out any major crumbs or dirt before returning equipment. Overall, the process is very convenient: book online, have it delivered, enjoy your trip, and then leave it for pickup. This door-to-door service is a major reason so many Disney-goers opt for external rentals.
Visiting Disneyland with small children means preparing for the local climate and lots of walking. Anaheim, California has a warm, sunny climate for much of the year, so plan accordingly for your little ones' comfort:
By planning for the Anaheim climate - using sun protection, staying hydrated, allowing for naps, and preparing for weather changes - you'll keep your young travellers much more comfortable. A well-rested, shaded, and hydrated child is a happier child, which in turn makes your Disneyland day far more enjoyable.
Disneyland Resort is very accommodating to guests with limited mobility, but it helps to know a few tips before you go. The terrain across Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure is generally flat and smooth, with paved walkways and curb cuts throughout, so getting around in a wheelchair or mobility scooter is manageable. Both parks were designed with accessibility in mind, and there are only a few sloped areas or rough surfaces (for example, the bridge entry to Adventureland has a slight incline, and some older queue areas have stairs but alternative routes are provided). Overall, you won't encounter steep hills. Just be cautious on inclines or ramps like those at the Disneyland Railroad station or the parking structures - use the elevators and ramps, and engage wheelchair brakes when needed to avoid rolling.
Queues and rides: Most attractions at Disneyland have accessible queues or alternative entrances for wheelchair and ECV users. Disney California Adventure is newer and almost all its ride queues are ADA-compliant, meaning you can stay in your wheelchair through the regular line in most cases. Disneyland Park (being older) has a few attractions where wheelchairs cannot go through the standard queue (for example, some Fantasyland rides like Peter Pan's Flight or Alice in Wonderland have narrow or stair-filled queues). In those cases, a Cast Member will direct you to enter via the exit or a special entrance, or they will issue a return time so you can come back and board without waiting in the physical line. If you are in an ECV (scooter), sometimes you'll be asked to transfer to a manual wheelchair for the queue or for the ride vehicle, if the scooter is too large for the queue. Cast Members will assist with storing your scooter and providing a wheelchair if needed. Ask for a stroller-as-wheelchair tag if you have a child with a disability who is more comfortable remaining in a stroller; this tag allows you to treat a stroller like a wheelchair in accessible areas and certain queues. For shows and parades, there are designated viewing areas for guests in wheelchairs - arrive a bit early to secure a spot.
Transportation and hotels: Getting to the park entrance with a wheelchair or scooter is usually straightforward. If you're staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel (Disney's Grand Californian, Disneyland Hotel, or Paradise Pier Hotel), all of them are within walking/rolling distance to the parks. In fact, the Grand Californian has a private entrance directly into California Adventure, and Disneyland Hotel/Paradise Pier are about a 10-15 minute walk to the main gates via Downtown Disney. These paths are fully accessible. If you're at an off-site hotel in the area, many are within a short roll or walk as well - for example, the Harbor Boulevard hotels opposite Disneyland's entrance (like the Tropicana, Camelot, Best Western, etc.) are just across the street. There are pedestrian crosswalks with signals and curb ramps, so crossing with a wheelchair is safe. Just give yourself a few extra minutes and mind the traffic when crossing busy Harbor Blvd.
For those staying farther out, the Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) shuttle buses serve many hotels and are wheelchair accessible with ramps or lifts. You can drive your ECV or push your wheelchair right onto these buses - the driver will secure the wheelchair/scooter in the designated area. Disneyland's own parking shuttles are also accessible: if you park in the Toy Story lot, the shuttle buses have wheelchair lifts and spaces; if you use the Mickey & Friends parking structure, there are accessible trams and an elevator (or you can roll the long paved route to the entrance if you prefer not to use the tram). Let the transportation staff know if you need the ramp, and they will assist you. All Disneyland Resort buses (including hotel shuttles and parking lot buses) will require ECV riders to transfer to a seat if possible and have the device securely strapped in for the ride. If you ever find a shuttle or tram is too crowded or difficult with a mobility device, you can opt to take a taxi or rideshare which can drop you right at the guest drop-off area on Harbor Boulevard, very close to the entrance - some larger taxis can accommodate folded wheelchairs, or you can request a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.
In the parks: Disneyland provides plenty of benches and rest areas if someone needs a break from using a manual wheelchair. If you're pushing a loved one, take turns if possible and remember to hydrate and rest yourself - pushing a wheelchair all day can be a workout. For ECV users, keep an eye on your battery charge. Start each day with a full charge (charge it overnight at your hotel room; ask for a ground-floor room or one near an elevator if possible, to make bringing the ECV inside easier). Most rented ECVs have enough battery life for a full day in the parks, but if you spend many hours or forget to charge, you could run low. There are a few outlets around the parks (for instance, near benches or in restaurant seating areas) where you might top up the charge mid-day if absolutely needed - carrying the charger in your scooter basket can be good insurance. But generally, a well-charged scooter in good condition should last the day.
Finally, be mindful of crowds and etiquette: Disneyland can get busy, so driving a mobility scooter requires attention. Go at a safe speed (tortoise mode is fine - there's no rush), especially in dense crowds during parades or exiting at closing time. Use a horn or bell if provided, or a polite "excuse me," if you need to alert people, but usually navigating slowly and predictably is the best approach. For wheelchair users, crowds can also be challenging - don't hesitate to ask a companion or a Cast Member for help if you need assistance getting through a tight spot. The parks are very used to accommodating wheelchairs, so almost all areas (restaurants, shops, restrooms - look for the larger companion restrooms if needed) will have space or staff ready to help. With an external rental wheelchair or scooter, you have the freedom to use it outside the parks too: Downtown Disney is fully accessible, and you can easily roll from your hotel into the parks each day. This continuous mobility support, combined with Disneyland's generally excellent accessibility services, will help ensure guests with limited mobility can enjoy the visit with minimal hassle.
Selecting the appropriate stroller or mobility device is crucial for a smooth trip. Here are some considerations based on age, size, and your trip plans.
For strollers (infants to young children): If you have a baby or toddler, you'll want a stroller that is comfortable and supports naps. Look for full recline capability (so an infant can lie flat or a toddler can snooze comfortably) and a good sun canopy for shade. Many families prefer a stroller with a storage basket to hold diaper bags, snacks, and souvenirs. If your child is under ~5 years old or not a strong walker, a stroller is highly recommended. Even older children (5-7) might appreciate a stroller by evening time - consider their stamina and the length of your days. As a general rule, children 5 and under will benefit greatly from having a stroller available in Disneyland. For ages 6 to 8, it depends on the child's endurance - some 6- or 7-year-olds can handle walking with breaks, but others will be happier having wheels to ride in when tired. By around 8 or 9 years old, most kids won't need a stroller all day, but you might still use one to transport bags or in case they unexpectedly tire out. You know your child best, so plan accordingly.
If you have two young children, decide between a double stroller or two singles. A double stroller (tandem or side-by-side) is convenient to manage since one adult can push both kids at once, and you only have one unit to keep track of. Rental doubles are designed to fit within Disney's size limits and often have features like near-flat recline for each seat and independent canopies. For example, the City Mini Double is a popular choice that comfortably holds two kiddos and folds easily for transport. The trade-off is that a double can be bulkier to navigate in crowds and through doorways, though the ones allowed at Disney are generally slim enough. Alternatively, if you have two adults and perhaps kids of different ages, two single strollers could work - this gives flexibility if the group splits up. However, managing two strollers in packed areas or on shuttles is a bit more hassle. If your kids are small enough, a double stroller is usually the most convenient for a Disneyland trip. Remember, wagon-style strollers are not permitted at Disney, so you must have a traditional pushchair.
Also consider the type of stroller that fits your itinerary. If you plan to use resort buses or shuttles (like ART), you'll need to fold the stroller to board. So a model that has an easy fold mechanism is a plus - many rentals like the City Mini have one-handed quick fold features. If you have an infant, some companies offer travel system strollers that can accommodate a car seat or bassinet attachment, which could be useful if you need an infant car seat for travel and want it to click into the stroller. For most park purposes, though, a standard lightweight stroller with a reclining seat will do great. Ensure the stroller's weight capacity and size are appropriate for your child - for instance, standard rentals often hold up to ~22 kg (50 lbs) per seat. If you have a larger child or one with special needs, ask about special needs strollers or adaptive pushchairs. Some companies provide oversized "pushchair-style" wheelchairs (sometimes called adaptive strollers) for older kids or those above the typical weight limit. These may require documentation for park entry if they exceed normal size rules, but they are available for those who need them.
For mobility devices (teens and adults): If a member of your party has mobility challenges, decide between a manual wheelchair and an ECV (electric scooter) based on their abilities. A manual wheelchair is best if the person either can self-propel for at least part of the day or if you have someone willing and able to push. Wheelchairs are simple, lighter to transport, and generally cheaper to rent. They have no battery to worry about and can navigate tighter spaces a bit more easily than scooters. If the person only needs assistance sporadically (can walk some but not all day), a wheelchair provides the flexibility to hop in and out. Keep in mind the weight capacity and seat width - standard wheelchairs from rentals often support around 113-159 kg (250-350 lbs). If the user is larger, ask for a heavy-duty or extra-wide wheelchair which many companies offer (these have wider seats and higher weight limits, e.g. 204 kg/450 lbs capacity).
An ECV (mobility scooter) is a great choice for those who cannot walk long distances or stand for extended periods, and who are comfortable operating a small vehicle. Scooters allow the person to travel independently without tiring out a companion from pushing. They are battery-powered and easy to drive, though it requires some hand strength and coordination to operate the throttle and steering. If the individual has never used one, don't worry - most people get the hang of it quickly, and rental companies can demonstrate how it works. Choose a scooter model that fits the person's needs: a three-wheel scooter might have a tighter turning radius (helpful in crowds), whereas a four-wheel scooter can feel more stable. Check the range per battery charge (most have ample range for a day, like 10-15 miles, which is more than you'll likely do on foot) and the weight capacity (commonly 136-204 kg, or 300-450 lbs, depending on model). If you plan to use the scooter beyond Disneyland (say, around the hotel or elsewhere in Anaheim), make sure it's a model that can handle any terrain you need - though nearly all tourist areas around Disneyland have smooth sidewalks and curb ramps.
One consideration: if you're staying off-site and your hotel shuttle is not wheelchair accessible or you don't have a car with a lift, a scooter might be tricky to transport daily. In such cases, a wheelchair could be easier (since you can fold it and put it in a car or taxi) unless you plan to just drive the scooter from the hotel to the park if it's close by. Some visitors staying nearby simply ride the ECV on the sidewalks to the park gates - which is fine to do as long as it's not too far and the route is safe.
Trip length and plans: For both strollers and mobility aids, factor in how many days and what kind of days you're doing. If you have multiple long park days, prioritize comfort and durability. A padded, high-quality stroller or a reliable scooter with a good battery is worth it when you have 3+ days of touring. If you have a more relaxed schedule with midday breaks, you might manage with a smaller stroller or just a wheelchair for portions of the day. But typically, err on the side of having the equipment whenever needed - fatigue can accumulate over a multi-day trip. Also consider any other outings: if you plan to go beyond Disney (like to the beach, Knott's Berry Farm, etc.), an outside rental allows you to take the stroller or wheelchair with you. Choose a model that's versatile for various environments (e.g. a stroller with decent wheels for a walk in a park, or a scooter that can handle a paved seaside path).
In summary, match the rental to the user: the child's age/weight and willingness to ride, or the adult's mobility level and independence. A good rental company will also help you choose - don't hesitate to explain your situation when booking. They can recommend a specific stroller model for twins vs. a tall toddler, or suggest an ECV vs. wheelchair after hearing your plans. The right equipment can make all the difference in keeping everyone comfortable and happy during your Disneyland adventure.
When you receive your rented stroller, wheelchair, or scooter, take a few minutes to inspect its condition and functionality. Reputable companies maintain their gear well (often cleaning and safety-checking each item before delivery), but it's still wise to double-check. Examine the stroller or wheelchair for any damage like cracks, tears, or loose parts, and test the moving parts: do the brakes on a stroller engage properly? Does the scooter accelerate and brake smoothly? Are the tires fully inflated or wheels rolling well? If you spot any issues, notify the rental company immediately - reputable providers will address problems quickly, either by advising you or swapping out the equipment if needed. Document anything major with a photo, just so you aren't blamed for pre-existing damage later. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with any accessories or adjustments: for instance, if a stroller comes with a rain cover or parent organizer, make sure you have those pieces; if a wheelchair has removable leg rests, ensure they're properly attached or learn how to remove them if not needed.
Before using the equipment, review the rental agreement or terms you agreed to. Important points to note usually include: the rental period and return arrangements, what happens in case of loss or theft, and your liability for any damage beyond normal wear and tear. Many companies offer an optional damage waiver or insurance at a small extra cost - this can cover accidental damage so you're not out-of-pocket for a broken wheel or a ripped canopy, for example. Consider if this add-on is worth it for peace of mind. Also clarify what to do if the equipment malfunctions during your trip. Is there a contact number for support? Good rental services have a phone line or text support if you encounter a problem in the parks (such as a scooter that won't start). They might troubleshoot or even send a replacement if possible. Knowing there's customer support can be reassuring.
Be clear on the cancellation policy as well. Life happens - if your trip is delayed or cancelled, or if you decide last-minute you don't need the stroller one day, what is the company's policy? Most have a cut-off (e.g. 24-48 hours before delivery) for a full refund on cancellation, but it can vary. If you need to extend the rental (perhaps you stay an extra day), contact them as soon as you know; they can often accommodate an extension with an additional fee.
During your use of the equipment, treat it kindly to avoid any damage fees. For strollers: do not overload them beyond the weight limit (that means both the child's weight and stuffing the basket with too many heavy items). Overloading can strain or even break the frame. Avoid hanging very heavy bags on the stroller handle, as this can tip it over or damage the handle. If you park the stroller, it's fine to leave things like ponchos or snacks in it, but don't leave valuables unattended - neither Disney nor the rental company will cover items stolen from a stroller. Minor scuffs or dirt from normal use are expected (parks are messy!), but try not to drag the stroller up stairs or force it in ways it's not meant to go. For wheelchairs and ECVs: drive cautiously, as collisions can damage the vehicle (and potentially injure people). Don't take an ECV through water deeper than a puddle or expose the electronics to heavy rain without protection. If the rental comes with a key (for an ECV), be careful not to lose it - often there's a spare key attached, but losing the keys might incur a fee.
One practical tip: label the rental with your name or a ribbon. Many strollers look alike, especially popular models. The rental company's name might be on it, but attaching a tag with your last name or a brightly coloured ribbon on the handle helps you spot it in the sea of stroller parking. It also deters any mix-ups; occasionally, someone might mistake your rented stroller for theirs if they're identical. In rare cases, theft can happen - a stroller could go missing. While this is uncommon at Disney, it's not impossible. Ask the rental company about their theft policy. Some may state that you are responsible for the cost of a replacement if a stroller or scooter is stolen and not recovered. Others might have insurance or a damage waiver that covers theft. It's good to know beforehand. To protect against theft, you can do things like using a lightweight stroller lock: for example, a bicycle cable lock through the wheels (not around a fixed object, but just locking the wheels together) to deter opportunists. If you use a lock, never lock a stroller to Disney property (rails, fences, etc., are a no-go and Cast Members will cut locks if needed), but locking the wheels to each other or to the frame can prevent someone from easily rolling it away. Always remove or hide any high-value items from the stroller when you leave it. For ECVs, take the key with you when you park it. These simple steps and a label with your name make it much less likely for your rental to wander off.
Finally, when your trip is over, follow the return instructions given by the company. Usually, this means leaving the equipment at a certain location (hotel bell desk or front desk) by a certain time. If you're meeting staff, be punctual out of courtesy. Before handing it over, do a quick sweep: check under the stroller seat or in the scooter basket for any personal items you might have left (souvenirs, water bottles, jackets, etc.). Remove any decorations or tags you added so the next customer doesn't get confused. If there is any new damage, it's often best to inform the company honestly - they might be lenient if it was a minor accident, especially if you opted for the damage waiver. Significant damage or loss will typically involve a fee as outlined in the contract.
By being diligent about equipment condition, understanding the rental agreement, and taking common-sense precautions, you can avoid unwanted charges and ensure a smooth rental experience. The goal of these companies is to make your Disneyland visit easier, and with the right preparation, an external stroller or wheelchair rental will do exactly that - giving you one less thing to worry about so you can focus on making magical memories with your family.
Guide Updated: 22 January 2026