One of the wonders of Walt Disney World is that there is truly entertainment for everyone, regardless of age. Whether you’re looking for high-octane thrills or just a gentle trip through the world of imagination, they’ve got you covered.
That said, sometimes it can be tricky visiting with younger children. What exactly are they ready for and what will they enjoy? Don’t worry. We’re here to help. In this week’s episode of the Celebrations Magazine Podcast, we talked about visiting the parks with younger Guests. In that spirit, we thought we’d take a look at some of our favorite Disney experiences for the park’s littlest visitors.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
While neither the Jungle Cruise nor Pirates of the Caribbean are downright terrifying, both have a few spooky moments that could be a tad intense for Disney’s youngest Guests. And I’m not just saying that because I plugged my ears and buried my head in my mom’s side the first time I rode Pirates.
Luckily, Adventureland is also home to the Magic Carpets of Aladdin. It’s an aerial carousel-type attraction, located near Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room. Hop aboard for a magical flight, but watch out for the camel statues. They spit!
The Barnstormer Starring the Great Goofini
So, your little isn’t quite ready for Space Mountain or Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, but they’ve still got a little bit of a wild side? The Barnstormer, located in the Storybook Circus portion of the Magic Kingdom, is the answer! Featuring everyone’s favorite accident-prone daredevil, the Great Goofini, this rollercoaster provides thrills that aren’t too intense. But they aren’t so mild that Mom, Dad, and older kids won’t enjoy them.
Be aware that there is a minimum height of 35 in (89 cm) to ride.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
Another aerial carousel, Dumbo the Flying Elephant is a perennial favorite since Walt Disney World’s opening day. You’ll climb aboard Dumbo and take flight, and you don’t even need the aid of a magic feather.
Sometimes the queue for this attraction can get a little long, but Disney has just the answer. There’s an indoor circus-themed playground that the kiddos can enjoy. The adults will be given a sort of pager (like the type you get in a restaurant) that will buzz when it’s time to jump back in line.
“it’s a small world”
This is a perfect attraction for Guests of all ages. Even if you’re traveling with an infant, the bright colors and contrasts, along with the simple, catchy music, will be sure to keep them entertained. The Animatronic dolls are all adorable, and the settings are charmingly crafted to put a smile on your face.
For extra fun, have everyone pick out a favorite scene or animal as you sail through, then compare notes when you’re done. You might be surprised at what everyone chooses!
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Any of Fantasyland’s dark rides could have gone here. Peter Pan’s Flight and Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid are both gentle attractions that let Guests step right into beloved Disney classics. That said, I’ve got to admit that I’m partial to the silly ol’ bear from the Hundred Acre Wood.
Whether you’re bouncing along with Tigger or floating by Piglet, this sweet attraction will keep you laughing and clapping with delight. The scariest moment is when you run into the Heffalumps and Woozles, which are really more silly than frightening. In a more lighthearted moment, see if you can spot the heffalump blowing smoke rings!
The Seas with Nemo and Friends
Frozen Ever After at Epcot has a drop that might be a little intense for some Guests, and Journey Into Imagination with Figment has some loud sounds that might startle some noise-sensitive youngsters. That’s why The Seas with Nemo and Friends is probably the Epcot attraction best suited for younger Guests. There are lots of bright tropical animated fish that dart about and say silly things. A delightfully catchy song, and even a view into real aquariums.
The only potentially scary moment is when the angler fish appears, chasing Marlin and Dory around, but it’s pretty tame. Fortunately Crush soon appears to take everyone on a righteous ride through the E.A.C. (that’s East Australian Current to you and me). Don’t forget when you’re done to go pay Crush a visit at the Turtle Talk With Crush show. This fun-filled interactive show is geared specifically toward younger Guests…though parents will have a blast too. And yes, you’ll definitely be saying “dude” for the rest of the day!
TriceraTop Spin
A lot of the ride-style attractions in Animal Kingdom are pretty intense (Flight of Passage, Expedition Everest, and Kali River Rapids for example). While It’s Tough to be a Bug is an all-ages 3D show, there are some scary surprises throughout the show that make it sort of hit or miss when it comes to kids. Some love it, but there are always more than a few who seem terrified.
Luckily, there’s another aerial carousel to experience. Climb aboard a triceratops and take to the sky on TriceraTop Spin! Located in the Chester and Hester’s Dino-Rama portion of Dinoland U.S.A., this attraction is a great chance to kick back, throw your hands in the air, and enjoy the breeze in your hair while you soar above the park.
Festival of the Lion King & Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…And Beyond!
Kilimanjaro Safaris is the true showstopper at Animal Kingdom, taking you out among real-life animals that wander around acres of open land designed to resemble their native habitats in Africa. Kids will absolutely love it, but younger Guests might get a bit antsy. This is one of the longer attractions in Walt Disney World, and there’s no guarantee on what you’ll see or how active the animal will be.
If you’re looking for a sure-fire hit with your little traveler, check out the shows Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…And Beyond! They’re filled with music, bright colors, and amazing costumes (giant puppets in the case of Nemo). Festival of the Lion King also adds some audience participation. Keep a special eye out for the Tumble Monkeys. They’re sure to make everyone giggle.
Alien Swirling Saucers
Toy Story Land is full of kid-friendly attractions, but it’s worth noting that Slinky Dog Dash is a fairly intense roller coaster, and particularly young Guests may have a hard time with the aiming and controls of Toy Story Mania (though they may not care, because it’s still a blast even if you don’t rack up any points).
That’s why we’re going with Alien Swirling Saucers. It’s a spinning attraction that doesn’t go too fast or hard but might make your tummy flip a bit. Plus, you get to see a lot of cute, green aliens.
Disney Junior Play and Dance
Standing in queues and sitting still for long shows may have made your tot a bit antsy. That’s why you’ll want to stop in and watch the Disney Junior Play and Dance! show at Hollywood Studios. It’s a perfect opportunity for the kids to shake their sillies out along with favorite characters like Doc McStuffins, Vamparina, Timon, and the great Mickey Mouse himself!
Of course, this is far from a comprehensive list. Running around Tom Sawyer Island, singing along with the Country Bears, enjoying a little mayhem with the Muppets, or just wandering along with trails in Animal Kingdom, there’s plenty to keep your kids immersed in that special magic you can only find at Disney.
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