Top 5 Disneyland Rides For Families

Disneyland is a park made for all ages to enjoy, but some rides shine when it comes to experiences that all ages can enjoy together. Today we’re highlighting the top 5 Disneyland rides for families. We considered many things when making this list, including hight requirements, scare factor, interactivity, and more. What’s the best ride for families at Disneyland? Keep reading to find out.

#5: Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
What is it?: Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run lets guests fulfill their childhood fantasy of flying at the helm of Han Solo’s Millennium Falcon, the “fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy” that made the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs. The experience starts with an encounter with a full sized recreation of the famous ship. From here visitors each take a different role, whether it be a pilot, gunner, or engineer.
Why is it great for families?: Millennium Falcon’s cockpit fits six riders. It’s a hoot riding with friends and family as everyone is frantically trying to steer the ship or gun down enemies. The experience is collaborative, with everyone trying to earn points for the groups total score.

#4: Pirates of the Caribbean
What is it?: Pirates of the Caribbean is one of Disney’s all time classics. This indoor boat ride takes you through a series of sets depicting a pirate raid on an island settlement, from the bombardment of the fortress to the debauchery that follows the victory. The attraction includes characters Jack Sparrow and Barbossa in animatronic form, from the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. Undoubtedly one of the most elaborate and imaginative attractions in Disneyland.
Why is it great for families?: Families can sit together in large boats that slowly move past elaborate sets and whimsical pirates participating in various comical activities. Some dark parts of the ride may scare younger kids, but for the most part it’s a good time. There’s also no height requirement, so the whole family can join in on the experience.

#3: Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
What is it?: Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters is based on the space-ranger character of Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story. The marginal story line has you and Buzz Lightyear trying to save the universe from the evil Emperor Zurg. The indoor ride is interactive to the extent that you can spin your car and shoot simulated “laser cannons” at Zurg and his minions.
Why is it great for families?: While only two people can ride per a vehicle, it’s a blast (see what we did there?) riding with family and then seeing who has the highest score afterwards. The ride is slow moving and has no scares, so all ages can enjoy.

#2: “it’s a small world”
What is it?: “it’s a small world” us a happy and upbeat attraction with a world-brotherhood theme and a catchy tune that will roll around in your head for weeks. Small boats convey visitors on a tour around the world, with singing and dancing dolls showcasing the dress and culture of each nation. The artistry and huge scope of this attraction has made it beloved by millions for over 60 years.
Why is it great for families?: No thrills, no chills, just pure classic Disney magic. Families can ride together in large boats. Kids love to find and point out their favorite Disney characters as they float through the ride.

#1: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
What is it?: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway places you in the center of a Mickey Mouse cartoon. The premise is that you’re on an out-of-control railroad car, courtesy of Goofy. You careen, gently, through 10 large cartoon show scenes, from tropical islands to cities to out-of-control factories. In each scene, Mickey and Minnie attempt to save you from disaster, with mixed results.
In each scene, Disney uses a mix of traditional, three-dimensional painted sets and the latest in video projection technology to show movement and special effects. It’s all done very well, and there are so many things to see on either side of the ride that it’s impossible to catch everything in one or two rides.
Why is it great for families?: Everyone loves Mickey Mouse. The ride is packed with Disney’s latest technology and mechanical wizardry, but none of that matters. It’s simply a ton of fun and a joy to ride. Each car has multiple rows of large bench style seating that fit parties of 4, so everyone can sit together. After the ride take a short walk over to Mickey’s house and meet the man, er mouse, himself.
Save time and money at Disneyland! Be sure to check out our Disneyland Crowd Calendar, which rates every day of the year on a scale of 1 to 10 so you can see how busy Disneyland and DCA will be during your visit. Also check out our Disneyland Touring Plans. These itineraries can show you how to beat the crowds and spend less time in line at your favorite rides. Our Touring Plans can also be personalized!
Which rides are your family’s favorite at Disneyland? Any questions? Be sure to leave a comment below.

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