Magic Kingdom Rides For Young Kids & Toddlers | Guide

We are a Disney family through and through, but it sure can be an overwhelming experience to plan a sometimes once-in-a-lifetime trip, not knowing how your little kids will react. What will they love? How will the lines be? Will transportation be a nightmare? Is it worth it when you have younger kids? I am screaming YES, it is! 

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This guide will focus on the best Magic Kingdom rides for young kids, the top-notch, can’t miss experiences, the ways to get around long-lines when possible, the most fun resort options and more. In the end, you will hopefully have the confidence to know that Walt Disney World is worth it no matter what afe your kids are! 

It is an enchanting experience with tons of fun rides, magical character meet-and-greets, and attractions that spark wonder in every corner. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best experiences for little ones in Magic Kingdom and beyond, plus a few tips and tricks to make the day smooth and memorable for everyone. 

The Best Age for Disney World Theme Parks

The truth is that every age is the best age for different reasons. My biggest tip is to not wait until your kids are some magical age to go on your first trip. We have traveled to Disney parks with a 10 month old, 2 year old, 5 year old and beyond. Each Disney trip is special for specific experiences. However, I want to focus on ages 4-6 for this guide. 

This age is magical because your kids are likely starting to recognize more of the characters, are ready to explore some of the park outside of the stroller, and can start riding more of the rides- if they are ready 🙂 

Best Magic Kingdom Rides for Young Kids

1. Peter Pan’s Flight
   • This gentle, whimsical ride takes kids on an adventure over London and into Neverland on “flying” ships.
   • Tip: This is a classic, so lines can be long. Try to score a Lightning Lane reservation or head here right at park opening.
2. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
   • Ride through Hundred Acre Wood with Pooh and friends. This colorful, storybook-style ride is perfect for young children.
   • Tip: Let your little one play in the interactive queue area to burn off energy while waiting!
3. Dumbo the Flying Elephant
   • An absolute must for young kids, this ride lets children “fly” on their own Dumbo elephant.
   • Tip: Don’t miss the play area in the queue, where kids can play in an air-conditioned tent while waiting their turn. We often visit this ride just for the play area and skip the ride. 
4. Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid
   • Join Ariel and her friends on a colorful under-the-sea journey with fun music and charming animatronics.
   • Tip: If your child loves “The Little Mermaid,” consider stopping by Ariel’s Grotto next door for a meet-and-greet.
5. It’s a Small World
   • This beloved classic is a gentle boat ride through scenes filled with dolls from around the world singing the iconic “It’s a Small World” song.
   • Tip: It’s a great spot to rest if your little one needs some calm time; the slow pace and cheerful music can be a nice reset.
6. Tomorrowland Speedway
   • Kids can feel like they’re driving on a real race track, making it a favorite for young ones craving independence.
   • Tip: Keep in mind that children must be 32 inches to ride, and a parent can accompany them if they want a little help steering.
7. The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
   • Similar to Dumbo, this ride lets kids soar on their own magic carpet. They can control the carpet’s height, making it interactive and fun.
   • Tip: Watch out for the “spitting” camels that spray water – they’re fun but can be surprising.
8. Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
   • This classic, beautifully decorated carousel lets kids feel like princes and princesses as they ride a magical horse.
   • Tip: Ride early in the day if possible, as this central attraction can draw crowds. 
9. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
   • Join Buzz Lightyear on an intergalactic adventure where kids can help defeat the evil Emperor Zurg by shooting laser targets.
   • Tip: It’s interactive, which kids love, but be prepared for some competition as they aim to rack up points. 
10. Jungle Cruise
    • A gentle boat ride through rivers “around the world” with a funny cast member narrating the journey. It’s filled with fun, animatronic animals and jungle scenes.
    • Tip: This is a great option for kids who love animals and silly jokes. The lines can be long, so consider using a Lightning Lane. 
11. Mad Tea Party
    •  The famous spinning teacups let kids and parents twirl together as much or as little as they want.
    • Tip: If your child is sensitive to spinning, go easy on the wheel, or opt to skip this one. It’s also a good choice in the early morning or evening when lines are shorter. 
12. Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
    • This slow-moving train ride gives a tour around Tomorrowland from an elevated track. It’s a nice, relaxing ride with no height requirement.
    • Tip: Perfect for resting tired legs or cooling down while still enjoying a ride! Kids love spotting things from above. 
13. Astro Orbiter
    • Similar to Dumbo and the Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Astro Orbiter lets kids fly their own rocket in a circular motion.
    • Tip: Located high above Tomorrowland, this ride gives great views of the park but has a height restriction of 32 inches. It’s a good evening ride to see the park lights! 
14. Liberty Square Riverboat
    • Climb aboard the Liberty Belle for a scenic and slow-moving paddleboat ride along the Rivers of America. Kids will love the big boat and the chance to spot wildlife and animatronic scenes along the riverbank.
    • Tip: This is a calm, lengthy ride perfect for resting or enjoying the scenic views and cooling off in the shade. Keep an eye out for all the animals you may find. 
15. Raft to Tom Sawyer Island
    • A unique experience where a small raft ferries families to Tom Sawyer Island, a play area with forts, caves, and paths to explore.
    • Tip: Kids can burn off some energy while you relax, but be prepared to supervise closely, as it’s a very interactive play space. 
16. Walt Disney World Railroad
    • This vintage-style steam train circles the entire park, offering an easy way to get around while enjoying views of the park.
    • Tip: Great for relaxing between lands or giving young ones a chance to experience a train ride with no height restriction. You can hop off at another land or continue riding roundtrip. 
17. Haunted Mansion
    • This dark ride takes guests through a spooky mansion filled with “999 happy haunts.” It’s a slow-moving, eerie, but ultimately whimsical experience that many kids find thrilling.
    • Tip: Consider your child’s tolerance for dark rides with spooky themes. Talk up the “silly ghosts” ahead of time to make it less intimidating.
18. Pirates of the Caribbean
    • Sail through pirate-infested waters on a boat ride filled with animatronics, music, and lighthearted pirate scenes. It’s dark but not scary for most kids, and it’s a true Disney classic.
    • Tip: There’s a small drop early on, so prepare your child if they’re not used to unexpected motions in the dark.
19. Carousel of Progress
    • This rotating theater show tells the story of technological progress over the years, with animatronic characters in different time periods. It’s educational and entertaining.
    • Tip: A great choice for a midday break; kids can rest in air-conditioned comfort. The rotation and animatronics tend to hold young ones’ interest.
20. The Barnstormer
    • A junior roller coaster featuring Goofy as the pilot of a fun, high-flying adventure. This short, mild coaster is a great introduction to thrill rides.
    • Tip: With a 35-inch height requirement, it’s designed for young kids. It’s a good first roller coaster for 5-year-olds who are testing out bigger rides.

Thrill Rides for Older Kids

We started getting into the bigger thrill rides when my daughter was nearing 6 years old, but we still kept it pretty minimal until she was a bit older. These rides have height requirements and are a bit scarier unless your child enjoys the thrill! 

1. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
   • This family-friendly coaster is perfect for little thrill-seekers. It’s a smooth, scenic rollercoaster through the dwarfs’ gem-filled mine, with animatronic scenes along the way. 
   • Tip: This ride has a 38-inch height requirement, so check your child’s height in advance. Use Lightning Lane or plan to ride early, as it’s one of the park’s most popular attractions. Look for Snow White at the end! 
   • This is my daughters favorite ride! But she didn’t love it until she was nearly 6 years old. 
2. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
   • Known as the “wildest ride in the wilderness,” this mine train roller coaster offers gentle thrills and exciting twists. It’s fast-paced but not overly intense.
   • Tip: The height requirement is 40 inches, so make sure your child meets it. This ride is usually a hit with adventurous 5-year-olds who enjoy a faster pace. 
3. Space Mountain
   • This indoor roller coaster rockets guests through outer space in near darkness, making it one of Disney’s most thrilling rides.
   • Tip: This is a big thrill ride with a 44-inch height requirement, so it may not be suitable for most 5-year-olds. For kids who meet the height requirement and love fast rides, it can be a big milestone!
4. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure(virtual queue or lightning lane only)
   • This ride is a reimagining of Splash Mountain and features Princess Tiana and friends on a journey through the bayou, with new scenes and music inspired by The Princess and the Frog.
   • Tip: If your child is adventurous and meets the height restrictions, this will be a can’t-miss experience for fans of Princess Tiana.
5. Tron Lightcycle / Run
   • Climb onto motorcycle-style vehicles designed to mimic the Lightcycles from the movies.
   • Tip: The height requirement is 48 inches, and it may not be suitable for all 5-year-olds due to the fast moving roller coasters, but it’s thrilling for kids who meet it!

Quick Overview and Tips for Each Ride

• Thrill Factor: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Space Mountain, Tron, and Barnstormer are the best choices for thrill-seeking 5-year-olds. Space Mountain is better for older kids or brave 5 year olds who meet the height requirement.
• Dark and Spooky: Haunted Mansion, Peter Pan Pirates of the Caribbean might seem spooky, so set expectations. Highlight the fun, silly elements and remind kids that it’s all pretend.
• Educational and Relaxing: Carousel of Progress and the PeopleMover are great choices for rest and educational value, especially when combined with Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor.
• Splash Factor: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will be the perfect blend of excitement and Disney magic for 5-year-olds once it opens.

Can’t-Miss Magic Kingdom Attractions and Shows

1. Mickey’s PhilharMagic
   • This 3D show features Mickey, Donald, and scenes from beloved Disney movies like “Aladdin” and “The Little Mermaid.”
   • Tip: The theater is air-conditioned, so it’s a good break from the Florida heat and offers some seated relaxation.
2. Enchanted Tales with Belle
   • Kids can participate in an interactive storytelling experience with Belle, where they can even play parts in the story.
   • Tip: Check the times for this experience in the app as it can fill up fast; it’s a lovely, intimate encounter with a princess.
3. The Festival of Fantasy Parade
   • Featuring Mickey, Minnie, and favorite Disney characters on floats, this parade is mesmerizing for little ones.
   • Tip: Secure a spot early along Main Street for a clear view, or plan to watch from Frontierland, where it tends to be less crowded.
4. Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station
   • A perfect place for a cool-down! Kids can splash around and enjoy the water features on a hot day.
   • Tip: Bring a change of clothes or a towel if you plan to let them play here; they’ll likely get soaked!
5. Meet Mickey and Minnie at Town Square Theater
   • Meeting Mickey and Minnie is a rite of passage, and the Town Square Theater offers a delightful and air-conditioned spot to do so.
   • Tip: Book a Lightning Lane or make this a priority stop early in the day, as meeting Mickey and Minnie is always a popular activity. You will always meet Mickey, but Minnie may or may not pop in during your encounter. 
6. Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor
   • This interactive comedy show with characters from Monsters, Inc. invites guests to laugh along and sometimes participate. It’s light-hearted and fun for all ages.
   • Tip: Perfect for a cool-down break; little ones get a kick out of the monster humor and may even be featured on the big screen!
7. Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire
   • An exciting stage show featuring beloved Disney characters, including Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy, as well as several popular Disney princesses like Tiana, Rapunzel, and Anna and Elsa. Each princess’s segment is themed to their movie, with music, dancing, and some fun, interactive moments with the audience.
   • Times: Shows typically run several times throughout the day, but it’s best to check the My Disney Experience app or park schedule for exact showtimes. 
8. Princess Fairytale Hall
   • Location: Fantasyland, just behind Cinderella Castle.
   • Princess Fairytale Hall offers the chance to meet some of the most popular Disney princesses up close. You’ll find two separate lines, each offering a different pair of princesses. Typically, Cinderella and a visiting princess (often Elena of Avalor) are on one side, and Rapunzel and another visiting princess (often Tiana) are on the other.
   • Tip: Use Lightning Lane for this attraction if meeting princesses is a top priority, as it can have long waits. Little ones will love the chance to interact with their favorite characters in this beautifully themed setting.

Interactive Experience in Magic Kingdom

A Pirate’s Adventure: Treasures of the Seven Seas in Magic Kingdom

One of our favorite FREE activities in all of the Disney parks is the Pirate’s Adventure.

Where You’ll Find It: Adventureland, near the entrance to Pirates of the Caribbean
Best For: Pirate-loving kids, families who want a fun, interactive experience, and anyone who enjoys scavenger hunts

A Pirate’s Adventure: Treasures of the Seven Seas is an interactive, self-guided treasure hunt that takes guests on an adventure through Adventureland. Led by clues from Captain Jack Sparrow, participants embark on various missions to find hidden treasures and unlock magical effects, uncovering secrets and surprises along the way

The adventure is divided into five different missions, each with a unique storyline. Completing each mission brings you closer to becoming an honorary member of Captain Jack’s crew, and finishing them all comes with some extra bragging rights (and maybe even a special reward)!

How It Works

1. Sign Up: Head to The Crow’s Nest (a small building near Pirates of the Caribbean) to sign up. There, you’ll receive a special pirate map and instructions for your mission.
2. Choose a Mission: There are five missions, each taking about 15-20 minutes to complete. You can do as many or as few as you like, and each mission explores different areas of Adventureland.
3. Follow Clues and Complete Tasks: Use your map and follow the clues to find hidden symbols, treasure chests, and other interactive elements in Adventureland. When you’re close to a hidden spot, you may trigger effects like water splashes, moving objects, or even sound and lighting effects that bring the story to life.
4. Complete All Five Missions: For extra adventurers, completing all five missions unlocks a special reward!

Missions Available

1. Heads You Lose: Track down a map and avoid falling into the clutches of Captain Barbossa.
2. Blackbeard: Discover secrets from the legendary Blackbeard as you hunt down his treasures.
3. The King’s Ransom: Help Captain Jack retrieve a valuable gem before it falls into enemy hands.
4. The Guardian’s Curse: Break a curse that has turned an ancient treasure into a haunting mystery.
5. A Fowl Shortcut: Retrieve Jack’s beloved pirate parrot, hidden among Adventureland’s treasures.

Tips for A Pirate’s Adventure

• Timing: This is a great activity for the afternoon, especially when lines are long for other attractions. It’s also perfect for a midday break from rides.
• Break It Up: Each mission is relatively short, so you can choose to do them all at once or space them out over the day.
• Great for Young Kids: The interactive elements are low-key but thrilling, and younger children love the excitement of following clues and discovering the surprises hidden around Adventureland.
• Look for Hidden Effects: Some clues trigger effects, such as water splashes or animatronics, which make the adventure even more immersive. Encourage kids to look carefully and stay alert for these magical moments!

For pirate-loving kids, this experience is like stepping into a real pirate adventure! It’s hands-on, allowing children to take on the role of a treasure-hunting pirate in search of gold and secrets, with maps in hand and the excitement of discovery at each turn. This experience is the perfect blend of story, exploration, and a little bit of magic, making it a unique part of any Magic Kingdom visit.

Tips and Tricks for a Magical Day with Younger Kids

1. Plan for Breaks: Kids can get overstimulated, especially with the excitement and the crowds. Plan for a mid-day break, whether it’s enjoying a slow-paced ride or having a quiet snack at one of the shaded seating areas.
2. Stay Hydrated and Pack Snacks: Bring reusable water bottles (many free refill stations are available) and pack snacks. Little ones might get hungry waiting in lines, and a snack can often help keep them occupied.
3. Use Rider Switch When Needed: For families with older siblings who want to try a thrill ride, Rider Switch allows one parent to wait with the younger child while the other rides, and then they can switch without waiting in line again.
4. Dress Comfortably and Consider a Stroller: Even if your child doesn’t usually need one, strollers can be lifesavers. Disney’s Magic Kingdom requires a lot of walking, and a stroller gives them a place to rest between attractions. We have used one up to 7 years old! 
5. Consider Lightning Lane Multi Pass for Shorter Waits. It can be especially valuable for the top rides, helping you manage waits for attractions that little ones love, like Peter Pan’s Flight and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. If you opt to purchase LLMP, I highly recommend buying magic bands as well! 
6. Bring Some “Pixie Dust” Surprises: To keep the magic going during waits, bring small Disney-themed surprises, like stickers or glow sticks. These small surprises can help pass the time and keep their excitement high.
7. Ride During the Parade or Fireworks for Shorter Lines: While everyone else is watching the parade or fireworks, some of the most popular rides have shorter lines. This can be a great time to fit in an extra ride or two without long waits.
8. Capture the Moments: Take lots of photos, but also make sure to put your phone away for stretches and just soak in the moment. Magic Kingdom is filled with magical sights, and those memories are often best savored in real-time. I highly recommend purchasing Memory Maker for the Disney PhotoPass in advance and taking photos together all over the park! 
9. Let Your Kids Dress Up: Many young guests love to dress as their favorite princesses or character, so feel free to bring or buy a princess dress or character outfit for extra magic. Just remember to pack comfortable shoes!
10. Character Autographs: Don’t forget autograph books if your child wants a keepsake from the princesses. Characters are often happy to sign books, and it can be a fun activity during the wait.
11. Cosider Rope Drop: We are a major rope drop family! Which means, arriving to the park as soon as they open and let down the “rope”. Parks are much less busy during the first few hours of the day- so take advantage and avoid long lines while you can! 
12. Stay in A Walt Disney World Resort: The added benefits of staying onsite outweigh the money you could save staying elsewhere. The free transportation, additional time in the parks due to early entry and extended hours and more are well worth it. 

In conclusion, Magic Kingdom truly stands out as a haven for young kids, offering a delightful array of rides and attractions that spark joy and imagination. From the whimsical adventures of It’s a Small World to the enchanting experiences of Dumbo the Flying Elephant, there’s something for every little one to enjoy.

The park’s attention to creating family-friendly experiences ensures that your visit will be filled with laughter, wonder, and unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags and get ready for a magical day—Magic Kingdom rides for young kids and endless core memories are waiting to welcome your family with open arms!