A Comprehensive Guide for Annual Passholders to the Best Disney World Rides

If you’re gearing up for a trip to Disney World, you’ve probably encountered a universal truth: planning a visit can be quite daunting. Where to stay? What to pack? Can you experience Disney on a budget? And, of course, the most essential question of all: Which rides are the absolute best? Let’s face it, you’re unlikely to experience every attraction during your vacation, especially since Fast Passes are no longer available. Prioritizing the top rides makes perfect sense.

This guide ranks the best rides at Disney World across all four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. And the insights come from an annual passholder who frequently visits. Our family invested in annual passes a few years back, making trips to Disney World a regular occurrence, ranging from one to three weeks at a time. We’ve gathered a wealth of knowledge about the rides, and in the spirit of sharing “pixie dust,” I’m excited to pass along some of that information to you.

So, strap in, keep your arms and legs inside the vehicle until it comes to a complete stop, and enjoy our ranking of the best Disney World rides—organized by those suitable for younger or more timid riders and those aimed at thrill-seekers.

Best Disney World Rides for Younger or More Timid Riders

Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, classics, indoor
Location: Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom
Nostalgic and iconic, this attraction showcases technological progress, but your kids might prefer the more thrilling options in Magic Kingdom.
Wildlife Express Train
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides
Location: Africa in Animal Kingdom
A hidden gem! Kids who love trains will enjoy this peaceful 7-minute ride through the savanna, leading you to Rafiki’s Planet Watch for a behind-the-scenes look at some animals.
Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides
Location: Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom
This slow-moving tram offers great views and a narrated tour, but be sure to check out all the other attractions Magic Kingdom has to offer.
Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, classics, indoor
Location: World Showcase in Epcot
A pleasant boat ride through the Mexico Pavilion, but it might not hold excitement compared to other attractions.
TriceraTop Spin
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, spinning
Location: DinoLand U.S.A. in Animal Kingdom
A basic ride where kids can feel like they’re soaring as they spin around in their personal triceratops.
Spaceship Earth
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, dark, classics, indoor, interactive
Location: Future World in Epcot
An iconic ride that takes you through the history of human communication, featuring an interactive component to envision your future.
Living with the Land
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, indoor
Location: Future World in Epcot
A gentle boat ride that educates about farming history and showcases how Disney grows food for its restaurants.
Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, spinning, classics, Disney princesses
Location: Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom
A classic carousel that younger kids adore, offering a fantastic view of Cinderella’s Castle.
Journey Into Imagination with Figment
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, dark, indoor
Location: World Showcase in Epcot
A whimsical ride that introduces Figment to new fans, providing a silly and delightful experience.
Astro Orbiter
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, spinning, classics
Location: Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom
Offers stunning views as you glide above Tomorrowland.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, spinning, Disney princesses
Location: Adventureland in Magic Kingdom
Nostalgically themed ride that allows kids to fly on carpets, akin to TriceraTop Spin.
Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, Disney princesses, indoor
Location: Magic Kingdom
A delightful ride for Ariel fans, perfect for cooling off with its indoor queue.
Mad Tea Party
Height: Any height
Category: Spinning, classics
Location: Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom
A spinning ride that kids enjoy, though it may not be suitable for those prone to motion sickness.
The Seas with Nemo & Friends
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, indoor
Location: Future World in Epcot
Similar to the Little Mermaid ride, but with the added bonus of Epcot’s massive aquarium at the end.
It’s a Small World
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, classics, indoor
Location: Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom
A classic Disney experience, though some may find it a bit eerie. You might find yourself singing along on this gentle journey.
Na’vi River Journey
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, indoor, Avatar
Location: Pandora — The World of Avatar in Animal Kingdom
A mystical boat ride that offers stunning visuals, especially at night.
Alien Swirling Saucers
Height: 32 in (82 cm) or taller
Category: Spinning
Location: Toy Story Land in Hollywood Studios
A fun ride with a quick pace, but be prepared for a little squeezing when the ride gets going.
Jungle Cruise
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, classics
Location: Adventureland in Magic Kingdom
A nostalgic ride that features animatronic animals and witty tour guides. The updates coming to this ride will make it even better.
Frozen Ever After
Height: Any height
Category: Small drops, slow rides, dark, indoor, Disney princesses
Location: World Showcase in Epcot
A must-ride for Frozen fans, featuring a small plunge towards the end.
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, animal encounters, classics
Location: Africa in Animal Kingdom
An unforgettable experience to view wildlife up close; best done early in the day or at dusk.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, spinning, classics, interactive
Location: Adventureland in Magic Kingdom
Similar in style to other spinning rides but with a play area that kids might enjoy even more.
Peter Pan’s Flight
Height: Any height
Category: Small drops, slow rides, classics, indoor
Location: Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom
A visually stunning ride that takes you through scenes from the beloved film, with an interactive queue.
Toy Story Mania!
Height: Any height
Category: Spinning, indoor, interactive
Location: Toy Story Land in Hollywood Studios
A fun 4D shooting game that keeps the whole family entertained.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Height: Any height
Category: Slow rides, indoor, interactive
Location: Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom
A delightful ride through the Hundred-Acre Wood that kids will love.

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In summary, navigating the vast array of rides at Disney World can be a challenge, especially for families with younger or more timid riders. This guide provides a curated list of attractions that cater to all ages and thrill levels, ensuring that you can prioritize the best experiences during your visit.