Walt Disney World is truly a magical place that offers something for every visitor, no matter their age. With so many rides and experiences across its four parks, it can be challenging to decide what to try, especially when traveling with young children or older family members. This list highlights ten attractions that can be enjoyed by guests of any age, from infants to grandparents, and will bring joy to everyone at your party!
These rides have no height restrictions and are designed to be universally entertaining. While certainly more attractions fit this bill, these top ten are perfect starting points for a family-friendly Disney World experience.
10. The Seas with Nemo & Friends – EPCOT
Dive into an undersea adventure with The Seas with Nemo & Friends, located in EPCOT’s World Nature. Hop into a clamobile and join Nemo, Dory, and their friends as they explore a beautifully animated underwater world. After the ride, guests can explore SeaBase, a fascinating aquarium filled with fish, sharks, stingrays, and dolphins. With educational presentations and even scuba divers, SeaBase offers hours of fun and learning.
For even more fun, check out Turtle Talk with Crush, an interactive show where kids and adults can ask questions to Crush, the lovable turtle from Finding Nemo and Finding Dory. This attraction has a high entertainment value and short lines, making it a great choice for all ages.
9. Spaceship Earth – EPCOT
Take a journey through time and innovation inside EPCOT’s iconic geodesic dome with Spaceship Earth. This slow-moving dark ride tells the story of human progress, from prehistoric cave paintings to modern technology. Kids will enjoy the visual storytelling, while adults appreciate the nostalgic look at history. It’s a great way to learn a bit while relaxing on a nearly 12-minute ride.
8. Character Meet-and-Greets – All Parks and Resorts
One of the most memorable parts of a Disney trip is meeting beloved characters. From Mickey Mouse and Minnie to Disney princesses and Pixar pals, there are opportunities to meet and greet characters throughout all four parks. While some of these experiences require a bit of a wait, using Genie+ or booking a character dining experience can help you skip the lines. This experience is not just for kids—meeting favorite characters is a thrill for all Disney fans, young and old.
7. The Enchanted Tiki Room – Magic Kingdom
The Enchanted Tiki Room in Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland is a nostalgic musical show that’s fun for the whole family. Hosted by lively animatronic birds, this show combines catchy tunes with a relaxed, tropical atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day and enjoy a Dole Whip from nearby Aloha Isle afterward. The Tiki Room is one of Disney’s longest-running attractions and remains a charming favorite.
6. It’s a Small World – Magic Kingdom
No trip to Disney World is complete without a journey on It’s a Small World. This classic boat ride takes guests through a colorful world of dolls representing various cultures, all singing the iconic tune “It’s a Small World.” The slow pace and vibrant scenes are ideal for young children, while the nostalgia factor appeals to adults. Love it or hate it, this ride is a Disney staple you won’t want to miss.
5. Astro Orbiter – Magic Kingdom
In Tomorrowland, Astro Orbiter offers a unique spin on a classic aerial carousel. Although similar in appearance to Dumbo the Flying Elephant, this ride soars high above Tomorrowland, giving riders a fantastic view of Magic Kingdom. With its 11 rotations per minute, it’s surprisingly thrilling but accessible for all ages. However, guests with mobility issues may find it challenging to get in and out of the rocket-shaped ride vehicles.
4. Haunted Mansion – Magic Kingdom
Experience the spooky and whimsical Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square. This dark ride takes guests through a “haunted” mansion filled with humorous and friendly ghosts. While it has a spooky atmosphere, the ride is gentle enough for young children and is packed with clever details for older guests. Even the queue is entertaining, with interactive gravestones and fun facts to discover. If possible, grab a Genie+ reservation, as this classic ride is popular!
3. Peter Pan’s Flight – Magic Kingdom
Soar over London and Neverland on Peter Pan’s Flight, one of the most beloved attractions in Magic Kingdom. This dark ride takes guests in flying pirate ships over iconic scenes from Peter Pan, making it perfect for guests who love the classic Disney stories. With long wait times, it’s best to secure a Genie+ reservation or visit during off-peak hours to enjoy this magical ride without a long wait.
2. Festival of the Lion King – Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom offers incredible shows, and Festival of the Lion King is one of its best. This live performance brings Simba and his friends to life with acrobatics, puppetry, and unforgettable songs from The Lion King. The vibrant costumes, lively performers, and familiar songs make it a top choice for all ages. With air-conditioned seating and fantastic entertainment, this is a show you won’t want to miss.
1. Kilimanjaro Safaris – Animal Kingdom
Take a ride through the African savanna on Kilimanjaro Safaris and see animals like elephants, giraffes, and lions in a setting designed to mimic their natural habitats. This 18-minute safari-style ride offers unique animal sightings each time, so it’s worth revisiting. Knowledgeable guides provide educational insights, making it engaging for all ages. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Kilimanjaro Safaris remains an awe-inspiring experience.
Conclusion
Walt Disney World is packed with attractions for guests of all ages. From classic rides like It’s a Small World and Spaceship Earth to unforgettable shows like Festival of the Lion King, these ten attractions provide magical experiences that everyone in the family can enjoy. So, whether you’re traveling with a baby or a grandparent, this list is a great starting point to make the most of your Disney World vacation.
Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime with these family-friendly experiences at the most magical place on Earth!