We used to live 20 miles (1 hour travel time no matter what time of day) from DL and have had passes at various times. We took our DD there for her 1st b-day and she had a lot of fun. She loves Pirates and that was the highlight of her day. We even at the Blue Bayou restaurant!
I think we had passes then, but can't remember

. She went quite often, so I'm sure we had passes at some point - probably around 2 years old though! I know we had passes when my DS was 3 months old. We took him often before we moved.
Here's what they can do at the parks:
Check out the decorations during various times of the year
Enjoy the parades
Ride all the rides in fantasy land (except Matterhorn) -- especially Small World
Ride autopia
Eat junk food
Explore Tom Sawyers Island
Traverse the wild on the Jungle Cruise
Climb Tarzan's treehouse (may take awhile, mine like steps)
Visit the pirates and the ghosts (if you child doesn't scare easily) in NO square.
So, there are lots of things to do. Plus, the passes allow you into DCA. Now that Crush is there, I'd go into the park just for that!
It is nice to just go for a couple of hours and know that you can come back when you want (except black out days)
There are things to do for 13 month olds, and definitely visit the baby center! It is the best! The facility is fantastic (air-conditioned/heated), the ladies are nice, and it is a great place to take of your child!!!
Good Luck!