The Best ‘First Rides’ for Kids in Disney’s Magic Kingdom

The magic of Disney can be hard to explain to your younger ones. The multi-sensory impact is something that must be experienced to believe, no matter how much research you immerse yourself in. It can also be extremely overwhelming if you aren’t prepared. Today, we are launching a new mini-series, looking at the best ‘First Rides’ in each Disney theme park for you to share with your younger children. First up is Disney’s Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Florida, where we are going to help you find the perfect attractions to capture those magical first Disney moments with your kids.

There are a combination of factors to consider, not only with the attraction itself but also when it comes to lining up. After all the hype of coming to a Disney park, the last thing your children want to do is stand in their first queue for hours on end. This makes Fantasyland a perfect place to start. Not only are the attractions a bit quieter in a sensory capacity, but the lines are more fluid in movement as well. Here are five suggestions for your family’s first rides in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Dumbo the Flying Elephant is located in the heart of Fantasyland’s sub-section, Storybook Circus, and is my top pick for your child’s first attraction. Not only are there two separate (and identical) ride structures to make the line move faster, but there is also a fun (indoor and air-conditioned) waiting area where your kids can play while you wait. It’s perfect for those photo ops as you swirl around in the sky riding your own Dumbo.


The Magic Carpets of Aladdin

In a similar style to Dumbo, Aladdin’s Magic Carpets has an extra element of adventure. While this ride isn’t quite as charming as Dumbo, it’s positioned perfectly to transition to more exciting ventures and almost has a fast-moving line to help you get started quicker.

Photo by Ben McLeod on Unsplash


Prince Charming’s Regal Carrousel

What could be more classic than a first ride in a carrousel? Prince Charming’s Regal Carrousel is sparkly and bright, giving you those enchanting first feels that you’ve been hoping for. Let the hustle and bustle of Fantasyland fade away around you while you enjoy your time aboard one of the Royal Horses.


The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

If you are looking for an introduction to Disney’s classic dark ride, these next two are for you. The Many Adventures of Winnie The Pooh is an attraction that uses a continuous loading system to keep the queue moving smoothly. The characters of Winnie the Pooh are, for many of us, our first loves when it comes to Disney entertainment, and your children will be most likely to recognize these friends from the Hundred Acre Wood.


Peter Pan’s Flight

This slow-moving Disney Dark Ride is a great introduction to the immersion of Disney attractions without any of the scary moments you might find in other attractions. The magic of soaring high above London as you follow Peter Pan off to Neverland is a wonderful experience that will start your Disney vacation with a beautiful sense of wonder and enchantment. Peter Pan’s Flight is a must-do experience for everyone in your family, so why not start your Disney trip with all the pixie dust of Peter Pan?


If you’ve visited the Disney parks before, let us know what your first attraction was and how it shaped your initial experience in the parks.

For more advice on attractions to suit your family, check out our online community discussion forums here.

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