Disney World, in Florida, is a very popular resort which welcomes more than 60 million visitors annually. Many of these visitors are aged 7 or under and rides such as Hollywood Studio’s super speedy Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Epcot’s Mission: Space (particularly Orange Team) and spooky attractions Haunted Mansion (Magic Kingdom) and Tower of Terror (also Hollywood Studios) are likely off limits for these children, due to height restrictions and/or utter fear!
Parents do not have to fear if they plan on taking Florida holidays and visiting the park with little ones though, since these five Disney World rides for young children are sure to leave smiles upon their faces!
Top 5 Disney World Rides for Young Children:
Dumbo the Flying Elephant (in Magic Kingdom)
Image credit: yesterland.com
Minimum height restriction: NONE
Have you ever seen an elephant fly? Well, you will should you decide to rotate and dip on this fun ride which is due to double in size during 2012. Each elephant comprises a joystick so that riders can control how high – or low – they soar whilst the ride is in motion. Cool huh?
Splash Mountain (in Magic Kingdom)
Image credit: greenmountaincountrymama.blogspot.com
Minimum height requirement: 102 cm or 40 inches
This Br’er Rabbit-themed water slide will leave children and adults alike squealing with delight as they topple over the peak of the mountain and soar down the 52.5 feet slide into the pond below. Before this finale, riders will twist, turn and dip through the log’s course – all riders should be prepared to get drenched!
The Seas with Nemo and Friends (in Epcot)
Image credit: igougo.com
Minimum height restriction: NONE
Nemo is missing once more and it’s up to you and your kids to help Marlin and Dory find him! Climb aboard a clam and descend into the “underwater” world in which riders will get to witness live tropical fish as they pass by the 5.7 million gallon salt-water fish tank. This is a gentle but visually stimulating ride.
Journey into Imagination with Figment (in Epcot)
Image credit: Disneyworld.disney.go.com
Minimum height restriction: NONE
This sensory lab – controlled by the fictional Dr. Channing – aims to stimulate all five senses of riders; sound, sight, smell, touch and taste. Unfortunately for the doctor however, a playful purple dragon named Figment decides to come along and hijack the experience. Great fun!
It’s a Small World (Animal Kingdom)
Image credit: themeparks.about.com
Minimum height restriction: NONE
Those that choose to experience this gentle boat ride will pass by more than 300 brightly decorated mechanical dolls – designed to represent more than 100 nations – whilst hearing the ride’s catchy roundelay theme song all the way. Launched in the late 1960s, this is one of Disney’s best known attractions.
What are your favorite Disney World rides for young children?
You may also want to read about my first trip to Disney World with Kids or my later trip to Disney World Epcot. You can check for special offers and deals at disneyworld.disney.go.com/special-offers/