Best Disney Attractions for Kids (2025 Guide)

Disney World isn’t just for thrill-seekers—it’s truly magical for kids of all ages, from toddlers to 10-year-olds and beyond. Some parents worry about height restrictions or rides that might be too scary, but here’s the good news: dozens of Disney attractions have no height requirements, making them perfect for the youngest travelers. Add in colorful shows, parades, and character meet-and-greets, and there’s something at every park to make your child’s eyes light up.

In this guide, I’ll share the best Disney rides and attractions for kids in 2025, broken down by park. I’ll also cover bonus experiences at Disney Springs and the water parks, plus parent tips (including Genie+, rider swap, and midday breaks) to make your trip smooth and stress-free.

Magic Kingdom – Best Disney Rides for Kids

If you’re visiting Disney World with young kids, Magic Kingdom is usually the #1 priority. It has the most rides suitable for little ones, many of which are classics parents grew up with themselves. Nearly two dozen attractions here have no height requirement, meaning toddlers, preschoolers, and grade-schoolers can ride together.

Here are the best kid-friendly experiences at Magic Kingdom in 2025:

• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure – Opened in 2024, this reimagined ride replaced Splash Mountain with a musical journey featuring Princess Tiana. It has a gentle drop that’s thrilling but not too much for most kids.

• Dumbo the Flying Elephant – A timeless favorite where kids can “fly” high over Fantasyland. Plus, there’s a shaded indoor play area for waiting families.

• Peter Pan’s Flight – Fly in a pirate ship over London and Neverland. Lines get long, so consider Genie+ here.

• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh – A gentle ride through the Hundred Acre Wood with bouncing, swirling fun.

• Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid – Bright, musical, and perfect for kids who love Ariel and Sebastian.

• “it’s a small world” – A slow boat ride with colorful scenes and a song you’ll be humming all day.

• Mickey’s PhilharMagic – A 3D show with Donald Duck, great for an air-conditioned break.

• Festival of Fantasy Parade – A must-see afternoon parade with floats featuring Mickey, Disney princesses, and even a fire-breathing dragon.

• Enchanted Tales with Belle – An interactive storytelling attraction where kids help bring Beauty and the Beast to life. No height restriction.

• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin – Interactive fun where kids can help defeat Zurg by shooting targets.

• Jungle Cruise – Silly boat ride with skippers telling cheesy jokes and animatronic animals kids love.

💡 Magic Kingdom is home to some of the scariest rides in Disney World, too, like Haunted Mansion or Space Mountain. If you have sensitive little ones, stick with the gentler options above. See our Best Magic Kingdom Rides page for more insights.

Epcot – Best Disney Attractions for Kids

Epcot used to have a reputation as the “adult park,” but that’s changed dramatically with its recent transformation. The new World Celebration and CommuniCore Hall areas add even more family activities, and the park is filled with characters and interactive play zones.

Top attractions for kids at Epcot:

• Frozen Ever After – Journey to Arendelle with Elsa, Anna, and Olaf. Small drops, but mostly family-friendly.

• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure – A 4D trackless ride that shrinks you down to the size of a rat.

• The Seas with Nemo & Friends – Climb into a clam shell and follow Nemo under the sea.

• Turtle Talk with Crush – An interactive show where kids talk directly to Crush the turtle.

• Journey Into Imagination with Figment – Silly fun with a mischievous purple dragon.

• Kidcot Fun Stops – Craft and coloring stations in each of the countries of World Showcase.

• La Crêperie de Paris – Family-friendly dining right next to Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure.

Visit our Best Epcot Rides and Best Epcot Rides for Kids pages for more information.

👉 Parents will appreciate the wide selection of restaurants at Epcot, from Coral Reef to favorites in the World Showcase.

Hollywood Studios – Best Disney Rides for Kids

Hollywood Studios is known for thrills like Tower of Terror and Rise of the Resistance, but there’s still plenty for younger kids to enjoy. Focus on Toy Story Land, shows, and musical experiences here.

Best bets for families:

• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway – A colorful, wacky train ride inside a cartoon.

• Toy Story Mania! – A 3D midway game ride that’s interactive and fun for all ages.

• Alien Swirling Saucers – A spinning ride that’s gentler than the teacups.

• Disney Junior Play & Dance – A live show perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

• Frozen Sing-Along Celebration – Laughs, songs, and snow—it’s a fan favorite.

• Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage – Broadway-style musical (check schedule in case of event pauses).

• Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy – A short, fun Cars-themed show with impressive effects.

For more information, see our Best Hollywood Studios Rides article.

👉 Don’t forget to explore the dining! The Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land is one of the most family-friendly Hollywood Studios dining options.

Animal Kingdom – Best Disney Attractions for Kids

Animal Kingdom blends rides with live animals and shows, making it one of the best parks for curious kids.

Here’s what families shouldn’t miss:

• Kilimanjaro Safaris – A must-do, especially in the morning when animals are most active.

• Na’vi River Journey – A gentle, glowing boat ride through Pandora.

• Festival of the Lion King – Broadway-caliber singing, dancing, and acrobatics.

• TriceraTop Spin – A dino-themed spinning ride perfect for toddlers.

• Wilderness Explorers – A scavenger-hunt activity across the park that keeps kids engaged.

• Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail & Maharajah Jungle Trek – Walk through animal habitats with gorillas, tigers, and more.

• Feathered Friends in Flight – A live bird show with fun audience moments.

• Animation Experience at Conservation Station – Learn to draw Disney characters from real animators.

See our Best Animal Kingdom Rides page for more insights.

👉 For meals, families can choose from great Animal Kingdom dining spots like Flame Tree Barbecue or Satu’li Canteen.

Disney Springs + Water Parks (Bonus Fun)

Beyond the four theme parks, Disney Springs (free to enter) and the two water parks add extra magic for kids.

Disney Springs highlights:

• The LEGO Store – Build and play stations that kids never want to leave.

• T-Rex Café – A dinosaur-themed restaurant with animatronic dinos and meteor showers.

• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique – Princess and knight makeovers (book early—it fills fast).

• Aerophile Balloon Ride – A tethered balloon experience with stunning views.

Water Parks:

• Typhoon Lagoon – Kids love Ketchakiddee Creek and the lazy river.

• Blizzard Beach – Features a kid-friendly Ski Patrol play area.

👉 Disney’s water parks typically operate on alternating schedules, so check which one is open during your visit. Both are fantastic choices for cooling off.

Tips for Parents

Here are some practical tips to make your Disney vacation smoother with kids:

• Height Requirements: Over two dozen Magic Kingdom rides have no height restrictions, so toddlers aren’t left out. Always check Disney’s site or app before your trip.

• Genie+ & Lightning Lane: These save time on popular family rides like Peter Pan’s Flight, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Prices vary daily, so check the My Disney Experience app.

• Rider Swap: Ideal for families with kids who can’t or don’t want to ride. One adult waits with the child while the other rides, then you switch without re-queuing.

• Stroller Parking: Each attraction has designated stroller areas—label yours to avoid mix-ups.

• Accessibility: Disney offers Disability Access Service (DAS) for families with special needs.

• Midday Breaks: Take naps or swim during peak afternoon heat, then return refreshed in the evening.

• Transportation: Kids often love the monorail, Skyliner, or ferry rides just as much as the parks themselves.

FAQs

Which Disney park is best for toddlers in 2025?

Magic Kingdom. It has the most rides without height requirements and the most familiar characters.

What Disney rides don’t have height requirements?

Attractions like Dumbo, “it’s a small world,” Peter Pan’s Flight, Na’vi River Journey, and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway all allow guests of any height.

What rides might scare young kids?

Haunted Mansion, Dinosaur, and Pirates of the Caribbean can be dark or intense. Always consider your child’s comfort level.

Is Genie+ worth it with kids?

Yes—especially for high-demand rides. It helps minimize long waits, which kids appreciate.

Seasonal Magic to Consider

Disney goes all-out for the holidays, and kids love the extras:

• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (Aug–Oct): Trick-or-treating, special parades, and fireworks.

• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (Nov–Dec): Festive shows, snow on Main Street, and holiday treats.

• Holiday Overlays: Jungle Cruise becomes “Jingle Cruise” and “it’s a small world” gets holiday décor.

Where to Stay

If you’re searching for family-friendly resorts, Disney’s Beach Club Resort is an excellent choice, featuring a fantastic water park. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is also a strong contender, offering great quality, value, and family suites. Additionally, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort has recently expanded with the opening of the Island Tower in 2024. This new addition boasts spacious rooms that are perfect for families and provides convenient monorail access to Magic Kingdom.

For more guidance, check out our article on the Best Disney Resort for Kids.

Conclusion

Visiting Disney with kids can feel overwhelming, but with the right plan, it’s unforgettable. From magical, gentle rides like Na’vi River Journey to Epcot Secrets like Turtle Talk with Crush, every park offers unique experiences designed to make kids smile. Add in dining, parades, water fun, and seasonal events, and your trip becomes pure family magic.

Ready to plan? I recommend contacting The Vacationeer, an Earmarked Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. Their experts can help you:

• Book the best resorts and dining reservations.

• Secure Genie+ and Lightning Lane access.

• Find discounts or promotions.

• Create a customized itinerary for your family.

• Personalized service with one dedicated vacation planner, from planning to trip completion!

Best of all, their services are completely free.

👉 Whether you’re visiting Disney with toddlers, bringing the grandkids, or looking for tips that are more suited for adults, The Vacationeer makes planning easy.

So pack your Mickey ears, charge your phone for photos, and get ready—because Disney World in 2025 or 2026 is truly the most magical place for kids.

Related reads:

• Disney Crowd Calendar

• Disney Dining Plan Information

• Best Disney Travel Agents