Everything You Need to Know About Ride Height Requirements at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World has a variety of different rides, from thrill rides to slower moving rides that anyone can get on. If you’ll be traveling with younger kids, you’ll want to make sure that they meet the height requirements before hyping them up for a specific ride.
Here are some of the most important information you should know about the ride height requirements at Walt Disney World, including why they exist, how they are enforced, and what options are available for guests who don’t meet the height requirements.
Also, make sure to download our free ride height requirement reference sheet below, which is handy to keep in your theme park bag!
Why Are There Height Requirements
Different rides have different height requirements based on the ride configuration, what kind of restraints are used, and speed of the rides. These height requirements are in place for safety and are based on each individual ride experience.
For rides that state they are for “any height” you typically can hold infants on your lap for the duration of the ride.
Height requirements are enforced by a height check station at the entrance of the ride, where you can check with a Cast Member that your rider(s) meet the required height. You stand at the measuring area while standing flat-footed and ensure you are past the guide stick marking the required height for the ride.
Understanding Height Requirements at Each Theme Park
Walt Disney World theme parks have many rides with no height requirement, that are suitable for the whole family to enjoy.
Check out this list for a complete look at all of the many rides that any rider may enjoy. You’ll also find Magic Kingdom the most lower height requirement friendly park, with the most no height and low height requirement rides available.
If you’re planning on putting some of the thrill rides into your schedule, check out our ride height printable below for easy reference.
Download this free Disney Theme Park Height Requirement reference sheet, to keep in your park bag when needed!
As you can see, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has the same number of “thrill rides” as Magic Kingdom, however Magic Kingdom has more “any height” rides to accommodate your whole party.
EPCOT and Disney’s Animal Kingdom have a mix of rides with height requirements and rides without a height requirement.
On each of our theme park day itinerary suggestions, we offer both options for thrill seekers that can ride the higher height requirement rides, or lower height requirement riders. So you can plan your day accordingly!
- Magic Kingdom Itinerary Suggestions
- EPCOT Itinerary Suggestions
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios Itinerary Suggestions
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Itinerary Suggestions
Checking the Ride Heights for Your Party
Below you’ll find the ride heights for different rides in the four Walt Disney World theme parks. These are the heights riders will need to meet or be over to get on the ride.
We also have a number of options below, if you have riders that don’t meet the height requirements and are looking for other options for entertainment!
Rider Swap at Walt Disney World
Rider Swap, also known as Rider Switch, is a super helpful service at Walt Disney World that allows adults traveling with small children (who either don’t meet the height requirement or don’t want to ride) to take turns experiencing thrill rides, without having to wait in the full line twice.
Here’s how it works: the first adult (or group) waits in line and rides while the other stays behind with the child. After the first group is done, the second adult can ride with minimal wait, usually through the Lightning Lane or a designated Rider Swap entrance. This makes it much easier for families to enjoy the attractions that younger kids might skip.
To use Rider Swap, just let the Cast Member at the attraction entrance know that your party wants to use it. They’ll guide you through the process and scan the MagicBands or tickets of those waiting second.
It’s available at select rides across all four parks, including popular attractions like Space Mountain, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and Avatar Flight of Passage. Rider Swap can be used with both the regular standby line and Lightning Lanes, making it a flexible option for maximizing your day while still keeping everyone happy.
Options for Guests Who Don’t Meet the Height Requirements
If you don’t meet the height requirements (or many just don’t love thrill rides!) there are still plenty of options for both entertainment and many “any height” slower moving rides available at Walt Disney World theme parks.
These any height may ride attractions are great for families with a range of ages and include fun classics like Dumbo the Flying Elephant, “it’s a small world”, and Peter Pan’s Flight at Magic Kingdom.
Shows and Performances
If a portion of your party isn’t looking to take part in a particular ride, all of the theme parks typically have plenty of shows and performances going on to entertain your party while you wait!
From the spectacular parades to the enchanting live performances, there is something for everyone to enjoy regardless of height. These shows often feature beloved Disney characters and captivating storytelling, providing a delightful experience for guests of all ages.
You’ll want to check the times guide for your visit to see what times will line up with the block of time you’re looking to fill.
Character Dining Experience Option
If part of your party will be looking to fill a big block of time while the thrill seekers go on rides, a great option is to head to character dining to get a meal and see characters at the same time!
With a wide range of restaurants and cuisine options to choose from, guests can indulge in some Disney dining while taking a break from the thrill rides. There are character dining options in each of the theme parks and at many of the resorts.
Check out our full guide to character dining at Disney World if you’ll be planning on of these fun experiences into your itinerary.
Any Height Can Ride Attractions
For those who still crave a taste of adventure, there are numerous attractions and experiences that do not have height restrictions. These attractions cater to guests of all ages and offer a unique and immersive experience.
From gentle boat rides that take you through enchanting scenes to interactive exhibits that allow you to explore the world of Disney in a hands-on way, there is no shortage of excitement for guests who don’t meet the height requirements.
Additionally, Walt Disney World offers a variety of interactive play areas and themed playgrounds where children can let their imaginations run wild.
These areas provide a safe and engaging environment for kids to burn off some energy and have fun while their older siblings enjoy the thrill rides. From pirate-themed play areas to interactive water fountains, there are plenty of opportunities for younger guests to have a blast.
Character Meet and Greets
Guests who will be skipping the thrill rides can take advantage of the many character meet and greet opportunities throughout the parks. Meeting beloved Disney characters up close and personal is a highlight for many guests. These interactions create lasting memories… and some great photos!
From classic characters like Mickey Mouse and Cinderella to newer favorites like Elsa and Buzz Lightyear, there are countless opportunities to meet and greet your favorite Disney characters.
Planning for the Height Requirements at Walt Disney World
Even if each person in your party doesn’t meet the ride height requirements, your family can still have a magical and memorable experience.
With a wide range of shows, dining experiences, attractions, play areas, and character meet and greets, there is something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of height. The goal is to create a truly inclusive and enchanting experience for all guests, and Walt Disney World goes above and beyond to achieve that.
Now that you know these Walt Disney World ride height requirements ahead of time, you can plan your trip accordingly and ensure that everyone in your party has a magical and safe experience.
Looking for more information to make your trip as magical as possible? Check out our packing list to make sure you have everything you need for a day at Disney!
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