Walt Disney World is packed with great attractions for the preschool set, and a Disney trip is an ideal starter vacation for your little one. The rides that appeal to kids under 5 have a few things in common:

• Familiar characters or friendly, colorful images
• Pleasant surprises only – the rides on this list do not have sudden noises, darkness or unexpected movements
• Obvious and understandable motion and storyline. For instance, the horses on Cinderella’s Carousel go up and down and around in a predictable way, so your child knows what to expect when they climb into the saddle.

There are kid-friendly attractions in each of Disney’s four main theme parks, so no matter where you are in the “World,” you can find something fun for your preschooler. Here are 10 of the best:

1. Dumbo the Flying Elephant (Magic Kingdom)

Dumbo sits in the heart of Fantasyland and is a favorite among preschoolers. Riders can take a magical yet gentle ride on one of two sets of “flying” elephants (they move in opposite directions), and you can control how high your Dumbo goes.

Tip: Dumbo is such a hit with the preschool set that you need to ride it early. Make this one of your first stops to ensure you get a chance to ride without a long wait.

2. Prince Charming Regal Carrousel (Magic Kingdom)

Your preschooler will love the excitement of riding a “real” horse on this old-fashioned merry-go-round. With 90 horses available, Prince Charming Regal Carrousel generally has a short wait to ride.

Tip: If one of your kids can’t or won’t sit on a horse, there is a carriage with bench seats available for the ride.

3. The Barnstormer at Storybook Circus (Magic Kingdom)

If your child is feeling adventurous and wants to try a “big kid” ride, head over to Goofy’s Barnstormer, situated at Storybook Circus in Fantasyland. This ride offers short, fun twists and turns that are not too intimidating, making it a great opportunity for little ones to test their thrill-seeking skills. Note that the Barnstormer has a height requirement of 35″.

Tip: While this ride is adored by toddlers, adults over 6 feet tall may find the seating a little cramped!

4. The Monorail

While this isn’t technically a ride, kids of all ages treasure taking the monorail. If you’re staying at a monorail resort, there are ample opportunities to ride. Alternatively, you can also take the monorail from the parking lot to the Magic Kingdom or from the Magic Kingdom to EPCOT.

Tip: Treating the monorail as one last “ride” can help ease the transition when it’s time to leave the Magic Kingdom at nap time. Asking, “Who wants to ride the monorail?” is definitely more exciting than saying, “Time to go home!”

5. Kilimanjaro Safaris (Animal Kingdom)

Visit the Animal Kingdom for an up-close look at some of the most exotic creatures on Earth. This ride offers a unique chance to observe beloved animals in their natural habitats. Disney adds a special twist by integrating a storyline involving rescuing a baby elephant from “poachers.” Preschoolers will love the real animal encounters and the adventurous narrative.

Tip: Consider bringing along a kid-sized camera so your child can capture their own photos of the animals they encounter.

6. TriceraTop Spin (Animal Kingdom)

Similar to Dumbo’s ride, TriceraTop Spin features cute and friendly dinosaurs as the ride “vehicles.” Preschoolers adore this ride, and it generally has an extremely short line.

Tip: This ride lacks shade (which may explain the short waits), so it’s best to enjoy it early in the day or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat.

7. Disney Junior – Live on Stage! (Hollywood Studios)

This attraction is not a ride, but a vibrant show featuring live performances combined with state-of-the-art puppetry. Your toddler will delight in seeing their favorite Disney Junior characters, including friends from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and newcomers like Doc McStuffins and Sofia the First, perform on stage. The show is interactive, allowing preschoolers to dance, clap, and sing along with the characters.

Tip: Look for character meet and greets right outside the attraction’s exit, where you might catch Doc McStuffins or one of the Little Einsteins signing autographs and posing for photos post-performance.

8. The Boneyard (Animal Kingdom)

This oversized play area is designed for toddlers to roam free and release energy. Your little one will enjoy exploring the tunnels, climbing the slides, and experiencing the various net elements, alongside a large sandbox where they can excavate “bones.”

Tip: Ensure an adult accompanies kids under five in the multi-level play area, as young children can climb the nets but may lack confidence navigating their descent or feel intimidated by enclosed slides.

9. Journey into Imagination with Figment (Epcot)

Preschoolers will appreciate the lively images and playful storyline of this whimsical ride. Figment’s antics promise to elicit giggles, and the Imageworks play area is a big hit as well.

Tip: If you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, make your way to the Imagination Pavilion. There tends to be little to no waiting for the ride, and afterward, you can relax in the air-conditioned Imageworks play area.

10. The Seas with Nemo & Friends (Epcot)

Help find Nemo! This ride blends elements from Pixar’s Finding Nemo film with some of the coolest live sea creatures. Spot dolphins, sharks, and even a sea turtle as you explore the ocean and search for Nemo.

Tip: After the ride, take some time to check out the smaller tanks showcasing a variety of exotic and colorful sea life. You might even catch a glimpse of a real live Nemo!