Guide

Best Rides for Kids Under 40 Inches at Walt Disney World

Planning a Disney trip with toddlers? Discover the best rides under 40 inches and attractions with no height requirement at Walt Disney World.

The Ultimate Guide to Disney Fun for the Little Ones

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World with toddlers or preschoolers can feel overwhelming, especially when you start looking at height requirements for thrill rides. However, here is the magical secret: The majority of attractions at Walt Disney World have no height requirement at all.

If your child is under the common 40-inch threshold—the height required for 'big kid' rides like Big Thunder Mountain or Seven Dwarfs Mine Train—you aren't limited to just meeting characters. From flying on elephants to sailing through pirate-infested waters, here is your comprehensive guide to the best rides under 40 inches at Disney.

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Magic Kingdom: The Land of No Height Requirements

Magic Kingdom is the gold standard for families with small children. Nearly 30 attractions here have no height requirement Disney World guests need to worry about, meaning if they can sit up, they can ride.

Must-Do Rides for Toddlers:

Peter Pan’s Flight: Board a pirate ship and fly over London. This is a classic, but lines get long—aim to do this first thing in the morning.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant: A rite of passage. While you wait, there is a themed indoor play area where kids can burn off energy in the AC.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: Hop into a Hunny Pot and bounce along with Tigger.

Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid: A slow-moving 'clamshell' ride that is visually stunning and rarely has a massive wait.

Pirates of the Caribbean: A gentle boat ride with one very small, dark drop. Most kids under 40 inches handle it just fine!

Jungle Cruise: A pun-filled boat tour that is a hit with parents and kids alike.

Hidden Gems for the Under-40" Crowd:

Walt Disney World Railroad: A great way to rest little legs while still 'doing' an attraction.

Prince Charming Regal Carrousel: Simple, classic, and located right behind the castle.

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EPCOT: Exploration for Tiny Travelers

EPCOT has transformed into a fantastic park for younger children. While it’s known for food and drink, the attractions for small kids are top-tier.

Top Picks:

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure: A 4D trackless ride where you 'shrink' to the size of a rat. There is no height requirement, though it is a 'bumpy' ride.

Frozen Ever After: Sail through Arendelle. Note: There is one small backwards drop that might surprise very timid toddlers.

The Seas with Nemo & Friends: Board a 'clamobile' and see real dolphins and manatees at the end of the ride.

Journey Into Imagination with Figment: A colorful, sensory experience that rarely has a wait.

Gran Fiesta Tour: Located inside the Mexico pavilion, this boat ride is calm, cool, and features Donald Duck.

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Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Beyond the Thrills

While Hollywood Studios is home to Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (40") and Slinky Dog Dash (38"), there is still plenty for the littlest stars.

Best for Little Ones:

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway: This is the crown jewel for toddlers. It has no height requirement and features catchy music and amazing 'cartoon' visuals.

Toy Story Mania!: A 4D carnival game. Even if your child can't aim the pull-string yet, they will love the spinning and the 3D effects.

Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy: A high-tech show rather than a ride, but a must for any 'Cars' fan.

Disney Junior Play & Dance!: An interactive show where kids can dance with Doc McStuffins and Vampirina.

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Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Wild Adventures

Animal Kingdom is as much a zoo as it is a theme park, making it perfect for kids who love animals.

Top Picks:

Kilimanjaro Safaris: This is a real-life safari. There is no height requirement, and seeing giraffes and lions up close is a memory they won't forget.

Na'vi River Journey: A glowing, bioluminescent boat ride that is incredibly calm and beautiful.

TriceraTop Spin: Think Dumbo, but with dinosaurs. It’s located in Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama.

The Wildlife Express Train: Take a ride out to Rafiki’s Planet Watch to visit the petting zoo.

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Pro-Tips for Parents with Kids Under 40 Inches

1. Use Rider Switch: If you want to ride a 'big kid' ride like Space Mountain but your child is too short, tell the Cast Member at the entrance you want to do 'Rider Switch.' One parent waits with the child while the other rides, then you swap without the second parent waiting in the full line again. 2. Check the App: The My Disney Experience app allows you to filter attractions by 'Any Height.' This is a lifesaver when you are standing in the middle of a park wondering where to go next. 3. Measure at Home: Don't let the first time your child gets measured be at the front of a ride. Measure them in their park shoes at home so you can set expectations early. 4. Character Sightings are 'Rides' to Toddlers: For a child under 4, meeting Mickey Mouse is just as thrilling as a rollercoaster. Don't skip the meet-and-greet locations!

Summary of No Height Requirement Attractions

When looking for rides under 40 inches at Disney, remember that 'No Height Requirement' means everyone—from infants in laps to grandparents—can enjoy the experience together. These rides are designed for the whole family to share the magic without the stress of a measuring stick.

Plan around shorter lines

Pick your park and dates. We watch every major ride and text you the moment a wait gets short.

Get ride alerts · from $5/dayAlerts for at least 3 rides or your money back.

Frequently asked questions

Can infants go on rides with no height requirement?

Yes! Attractions with no height requirement are designed for all ages. On most, such as 'it's a small world' or the Jungle Cruise, infants can sit on a parent's lap.

What happens if my child is exactly 40 inches?

If they are exactly 40 inches (with shoes on), they will be allowed on rides like Big Thunder Mountain and Soarin'. However, Disney Cast Members will measure them at the entrance and sometimes again right before boarding to ensure safety.

Are there any scary rides with no height requirement?

Some rides like Pirates of the Caribbean or Haunted Mansion have no height requirement but feature dark scenes or loud noises. It depends on your child's temperament!

Is there a place to store strollers while we ride?

Yes, every attraction has a designated Stroller Parking area nearby. Be sure to take your valuables and your diaper bag with you!