Credit: Disney Taking toddlers to Disney World is an adventure full of magical moments, laughter, and cherished memories.
One of the best things about the parks is that many of the attractions are designed for the entire family to enjoy together, including the youngest members.
Disney understands the importance of creating rides that don’t have height restrictions, ensuring that even toddlers can experience the magic alongside their older siblings and parents. Below, we’ll dive into the top 10 best rides for toddlers at Disney World, starting with a beloved classic, Dumbo the Flying Elephant.
1. Dumbo the Flying Elephant
Location: Magic Kingdom, Fantasyland
No toddler-friendly ride list would be complete without mentioning Dumbo the Flying Elephant. This iconic attraction has been enchanting children for decades, and it’s easy to see why. Toddlers love the ability to soar through the air on their very own flying elephant, and the gentle rise and fall of the ride is perfect for little ones who may be experiencing their first amusement park attraction.
Dumbo is also unique because of its indoor play area, where families can relax while waiting for their turn to ride. This makes the experience stress-free for parents, as their toddlers can run off some energy before taking flight. It’s a great place to start a day in the park with your toddler, introducing them to the world of Disney in a way that’s both fun and low-pressure.
2. “it’s a small world”
Location: Magic Kingdom, Fantasyland
“it’s a small world” is a timeless attraction that is beloved by toddlers and adults alike. The ride takes guests on a gentle boat tour through different cultures around the world, featuring hundreds of animatronic children singing the famous theme song. The bright colors, catchy music, and adorable characters make it an instant hit with toddlers.
The slow-moving boat ride is perfect for young children who might be nervous about faster attractions, and there’s so much to look at that little ones are captivated throughout the journey. Parents often enjoy seeing their toddler’s eyes light up as they spot something new at every turn.
3. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Location: Magic Kingdom, Fantasyland
Winnie the Pooh has been a beloved childhood character for generations, and this ride brings the world of the Hundred Acre Wood to life in an enchanting way. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh is a gentle, trackless ride that takes families on a whimsical journey through some of Pooh’s most memorable adventures.
The ride features bouncy scenes with Tigger, a blustery day with Piglet, and a honey-filled dream sequence with Pooh. Toddlers will love the vibrant colors and interactive queue, where they can explore while waiting their turn. This is another ride with no height restriction, meaning the entire family can join in on the fun.
4. Peter Pan’s Flight
Location: Magic Kingdom, Fantasyland
Peter Pan’s Flight offers an unforgettable experience for little ones. This charming attraction allows families to board a pirate ship and soar high above London before flying off to Neverland. The ride’s innovative use of suspended track systems creates a smooth, gentle flight that toddlers will find magical without being overwhelming.
The scenes from Peter Pan are beautifully recreated with vibrant colors and soft lighting, creating an immersive experience that transports children into the story. This ride often has longer wait times, but it’s worth it to see the wonder in your toddler’s eyes as they “fly” for the very first time.
5. Journey Into Imagination with Figment
Location: EPCOT, World Celebration
If you’re visiting EPCOT with a toddler, don’t miss Journey Into Imagination with Figment. This playful ride features Figment, a mischievous purple dragon, who takes guests on a fun-filled journey exploring the five senses. The ride is colorful, silly, and full of interactive elements that keep toddlers entertained from start to finish.
The ride’s gentle pace and lighthearted theme make it perfect for younger guests, and there are plenty of opportunities for them to laugh and giggle along with Figment’s antics. After the ride, families can explore the interactive ImageWorks play area, where toddlers can play and engage with hands-on exhibits.
6. Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
Location: Magic Kingdom, Fantasyland
Sometimes the simplest attractions are the most magical, and the Prince Charming Regal Carrousel is no exception. Located in the heart of Fantasyland, this beautifully detailed carousel features hand-painted horses that toddlers can choose to ride. The music, lights, and gentle motion make it a classic Disney experience that little ones adore.
The carousel is easy for toddlers to enjoy, and parents can either ride alongside their child or stand next to them for added comfort. It’s a timeless attraction that will make your toddler feel like they’re part of a fairy tale, and it’s a perfect opportunity to capture those picture-perfect moments.
7. Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid
Location: Magic Kingdom, Fantasyland
This beautifully crafted dark ride takes guests “under the sea” to relive the story of Ariel, from Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid is a gentle, slow-moving ride that’s perfect for toddlers who love Disney princesses and colorful fish.
The ride is filled with beloved songs from the movie, like “Part of Your World” and “Under the Sea,” which are sure to capture your toddler’s attention. The animatronics are impressive, and there’s something new to see at every turn, making it a captivating experience for little ones. It’s also fully indoors, offering a nice break from the Florida heat.
8. Living with the Land
Location: EPCOT, World Nature
One of EPCOT’s most underrated attractions, Living with the Land, is perfect for families with toddlers who enjoy a relaxing, educational experience. This slow-moving boat ride takes guests on a tour through Disney’s greenhouses, where they can see how food is grown and learn about sustainable farming practices.
While it may not seem like the most toddler-friendly ride at first glance, the gentle motion, greenery, and calm atmosphere make it a surprisingly popular choice for young children. There’s a lot to see, and the ride’s slow pace allows toddlers to take it all in without being overstimulated.
9. The Seas with Nemo & Friends
Location: EPCOT, World Nature
For little ones who love the ocean, The Seas with Nemo & Friends is an absolute must. This ride takes guests on an underwater adventure with characters from Disney-Pixar’s Finding Nemo. The gentle ride vehicles move through colorful scenes filled with fish, turtles, and, of course, Nemo himself.
The attraction is full of fun visuals and familiar characters, making it an instant hit with toddlers. After the ride, families can explore the aquarium, where toddlers can get up close to real sea creatures like fish, sharks, and even manatees. It’s a perfect mix of entertainment and education, and it’s a great way to spend time with your little one at EPCOT.
10. Mad Tea Party
Location: Magic Kingdom, Fantasyland
Last but certainly not least, the Mad Tea Party is a spinning ride that’s been entertaining toddlers for decades. Inspired by Alice in Wonderland, this attraction lets families climb into oversized teacups and spin them as fast (or as slow) as they’d like.
The ride’s whimsical theme and bright colors make it appealing to toddlers, and the ability to control the spinning speed allows parents to adjust the experience based on their child’s comfort level.
While spinning rides can sometimes be overwhelming for toddlers, the Mad Tea Party offers a gentle enough experience that can be enjoyed by all ages. Parents can enjoy the smiles and giggles as their toddlers take control of their very own teacup.
The Magic of No Height Restrictions
What makes these rides so perfect for toddlers isn’t just the gentle motions and colorful themes, but the fact that they don’t have any height restrictions. This allows families to enjoy these magical moments together, without having to split up or leave anyone behind.
Disney has designed these attractions with the entire family in mind, creating experiences that cater to both the youngest guests and those who are young at heart.
Parents of toddlers often worry about how many rides their little ones will be able to experience at theme parks, but Disney World stands out by offering numerous attractions that the whole family can ride together. Whether it’s flying on Dumbo or sailing the seas with Nemo, there’s no shortage of magical moments waiting for toddlers at Disney World.
So, the next time you’re planning a trip to “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” keep these 10 attractions in mind. They’re sure to create lasting memories for you and your toddler, with plenty of laughter, joy, and Disney magic.
What’s your favorite attraction to experience with your children at Disney World? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!