
Disney World was designed for people of all ages. Walt Disney was a big kid at heart with an even larger imagination. His theme parks were never designed just for children. His idea of Disneyland stemmed from taking his daughters to the park. He realized that his parents often stood around with little to do and wondered how the entire family could get more involved in their weekend endeavors.
With that said, plenty of people think Disney World is just for children. However, many rides have a minimum height limit, and some are too intense for younger guests. Enter the Disney adults! Disney offers something for everyone—the thrill-seeker, the foodie, the historian, the nature lover, and more. Depending on your interests, your ranking of the parks might vary. Our take on Walt Disney World theme parks ranked from best to worst for adults.
EPCOT
EPCOT has a lot to offer, especially for adults. Starting with the World Showcase, each country is beautifully designed to represent its culture, cuisine, and merchandise authenticity. EPCOT is ideal for adults to stroll, eat, drink, and shop through the showcase. Personally, I like to start in Mexico and make my rounds, sampling different drinks and foods from each country. During EPCOT’s festivals, every country offers special menus with unique food and drink items to enhance the festival experience.
One of the standout attractions for adults is Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. This thrilling roller coaster, which opened in May 2022, remains a fan favorite for its fast-paced action and immersive storytelling. Additionally, EPCOT continues to impress with attractions like Soarin’ Around the World and Spaceship Earth, making it a top choice for adults who enjoy a mix of thrills and culture. The park’s newest nighttime spectacular, Luminous The Symphony of Us, adds a magical ending to any day spent exploring.
For shopping, Creations Shop offers a variety of Disney merchandise, making it a great stop for those looking to bring home a souvenir from their EPCOT adventure.
Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios has thrilling rides, themed cocktails, and a nostalgic old Hollywood vibe. Dining options here are excellent, from the upscale Hollywood Brown Derby to the retro 50’s Prime Time Café. Both restaurants offer themed dining experiences that take you back to the golden age of Hollywood.
Hollywood Studios delivers big thrills when it comes to rides. Highlights include The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. These rides cater to thrill-seekers and Star Wars fans, offering unforgettable experiences. The BaseLine Tap House is another great spot for adults to relax with craft beers and small bites.
The park’s entertainment offerings, like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, add even more fun to a day spent in Hollywood Studios.
Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom transports you into a lush, immersive environment perfect for adults who enjoy nature and adventure. The park features seven distinct lands: Africa, Asia, DinoLand U.S.A., Discovery Island, The Oasis, Pandora – The World of Avatar, and Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
Thrill-seekers will love rides like Avatar Flight of Passage, Expedition Everest, Dinosaur, and Kali River Rapids. One of the park’s most unique attractions, Kilimanjaro Safaris, allows guests to experience a safari adventure featuring live animals. Adults can also enjoy refreshing beverages—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—at Pongu Pongu in Pandora.
For those seeking relaxation, Animal Kingdom offers stunning trails like the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail and the Maharajah Jungle Trek, where you can get up close with fascinating animals in beautifully themed settings. The park’s natural beauty and immersive storytelling make it a must-visit for any adult Disney fan.
Magic Kingdom
Last but certainly not least is Magic Kingdom. While it is often seen as the most family-oriented park, it still offers plenty for adults. Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and TRON Lightcycle / Run (opened April 2023) provide thrilling experiences for adrenaline junkies. For those who prefer classic Disney attractions, Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion are timeless favorites that appeal to all ages.
Dining at Magic Kingdom has also evolved to cater to adults. Table-service restaurants like Be Our Guest, Wish Makers Enchanted Dining (formerly known as Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner), and Liberty Tree Tavern now offer alcoholic beverages, making the dining experience more enjoyable for adults.
The park’s iconic attractions, like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, continue to delight guests with their charm and immersive storytelling. Whether watching the classic parade on Main Street, U.S.A. or taking in the nighttime fireworks show Happily Ever After, Magic Kingdom offers magical moments for visitors of all ages.
Final Thoughts
Overall, each Walt Disney World park offers a unique experience for adults. Whether you’re into food, thrills, or immersive environments, there’s something for everyone. Thanks to its World Showcase, festivals, and attractions, EPCOT stands out as the ultimate adult-friendly destination. Hollywood Studios delivers thrilling rides and a nostalgic Hollywood charm, while Animal Kingdom provides a perfect mix of nature and adventure. With its classic attractions and updated dining options, Magic Kingdom ensures adults can experience the magic, too.
What’s your favorite park to visit as an adult? Let us know in the comments, and start planning your next Disney adventure today!