The Best Disneyland® Resort Rides for Every Age

No matter how old you are, Disneyland® Resort has something magical waiting for you, making it a favorite destination for families. Seriously, it’s not just a theme park—it’s a place where everyone can feel like a kid again (even if you’re actually there with kids of your own).

Whether you’re wrangling toddlers, hanging with teens, or reminiscing about your own Disney memories, we’ve got you covered. This guide breaks down the best rides for every age group to make sure your whole crew has an unforgettable time.

Let’s dive in and plan your perfect rides with your discounted Disneyland® Resort tickets today!

Best Rides for the Little Kids (Ages 0-5)

Let’s be honest—Disneyland® is pure magic for little ones! Everything is big, bright, and colorful, and there’s no shortage of rides that are perfectly sized for tiny adventurers. Plus, you’ll find lots of places to take a break if they need it (because, you know, toddlers).

Top Park Ride Picks:

• It’s a small world: A colorful boat ride through a whimsical world of singing dolls.
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant: Soar high above Fantasyland in your very own flying elephant, a favorite for young dreamers!
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: Join Pooh and his friends on a delightful journey through the Hundred Acre Wood.
• King Arthur Carousel: A classic carousel featuring beautifully crafted horses!

Rides for Teens and Thrill-Seekers (Ages 13-19)

This is where Disneyland® really shines for teens. Thrill rides? Check. Cool photo ops? Double check. Enough thrills to keep them off their phones (well, mostly)?

Top Picks:

• Space Mountain: A thrilling journey through the galaxy on a high-speed roller coaster in the dark.
• Indiana Jones Adventure: Dodge boulders, avoid snakes, and race through ancient ruins on this wild jeep ride!
• Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!: A free-fall adventure with a Guardians of the Galaxy twist!
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: The wildest ride in the wilderness, featuring twists and turns through an old mining town.

Rides for Adults and Nostalgia Lovers (Ages 20+)

Grownups, this is your time to shine! Whether you’re here for the cutting-edge attractions or just reliving childhood memories, Disneyland® is the perfect escape from reality.

Top Picks:

• Haunted Mansion: A spooky yet whimsical tour of a haunted estate filled with “999 happy haunts.”
• Soarin’ Around the World: Glide over breathtaking landscapes from around the globe on this immersive hang-gliding simulator!
• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance: A cutting-edge attraction that immerses you in the Star Wars universe like never before!
• Peter Pan’s Flight: Relive your childhood as you soar over London and Neverland in this classic dark ride.

Rides for the Whole Family (All Ages)

Disneyland® is at its best when it brings families together, and these attractions are perfect for bonding moments.

Top Picks:

• Disneyland® Railroad: Take a scenic tour around the park on this classic train ride.
• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway: Join Mickey and Minnie on a zany, fun-filled adventure through a cartoon world!
• Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage: Dive under the sea and explore the world of Nemo in this immersive ride.
• Main Street Vehicles: Travel down Main Street, U.S.A. in charming vintage vehicles!

Additional Rides Found at Disneyland® Park

• Casey Jr. Circus Train (Ages 0-5)
• Storybook Land Canal Boats (Ages 0-5)
• Mad Tea Party (Ages 6-12)
• Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin (Ages 6-12)
• Matterhorn Bobsleds (Ages 13-19)
• Splash Mountain (Ages 13-19)
• Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride (Ages 20+)
• Snow White’s Enchanted Wish (Ages 6-20+)
• Astro Orbiter (All Ages)
• Mark Twain Riverboat (All Ages)

Additional Rides Found at Disney California Adventure® Park

• Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind (Ages 0-5)
• Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! (Ages 6-12)
• Jumpin’ Jellyfish (Ages 6-12)
• Grizzly River Run (Ages 13-19)
• Goofy’s Sky School (Ages 13-19)
• Golden Zephyr (Ages 6-20+)
• Silly Symphony Swings (Ages 6-20+)
• Pixar Pal-A-Round (All Ages)
• Turtle Talk with Crush (All Ages)

Ride Tips for Families at Disneyland® Resort

• Arrive Early: For the best chance to experience multiple thrill rides, arrive at the park when it opens. It’s even more possible to enter through the gates easily when you purchase discounted Disneyland® Resort tickets in advance!
• Check Height Requirements: Most rides in this age group have no height restrictions but always double-check to ensure your little one can ride!
• Location of Rides: These attractions are conveniently located in Fantasyland, making it easy to enjoy multiple rides in one area.
• Use Lightning Lane: Save time by booking Lightning Lane access to popular attractions! One Park Per Day and Park Hopper tickets with Lightning Lane are available and super popular! Check out the different ticket types and you might find the perfect one for your family!
• Try Rider Swap: If you have younger kids who can’t ride, use the Rider Swap service to allow adults or older kids to take turns!
• Visit Baby Care Centers: Baby Care Centers, located at the end of Main Street, U.S.A., and in Disney California Adventure® Park, provide nursing rooms, changing stations, and feeding areas.
• Relive Childhood Memories: Attractions like Peter Pan’s Flight and Haunted Mansion evoke nostalgia, perfect for Disney fans who grew up with these classics!
• Find the resort’s Hidden Gems: DLR has many secret spots that will make your trip more special. Check them out!
• Make Time for Bonding: These attractions are great for slowing down, taking in the sights, and enjoying the magic together. Maximize your stay at the park with discounted Disneyland® Resort tickets!

PRO TIP: Be mindful of Ride Maintenance Schedules.

When planning your Disneyland® adventure, make sure to check the schedule for ride maintenance, refurbishments, and closures. By doing so, you can create an itinerary that lets you save time. You can focus on newly opened and improved rides and attractions, plus other experiences. Here are some dates you should note to make the most of your visit:

Disneyland® Park

• Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln - reopening in the future

• Jungle Cruise – closed on February 17; reopening date to be determined.

• Space Mountain – closed February 23 to 26, 2026

• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance – closed on January 20; reopening date to be determined.

**The return date for the Magic Happens parade will be announced soon.

Disney California Adventure®

• Golden Zephyr – closed from March 9 to 17, 2026

• Grizzly River Run – reopening date to be determined.

• Jumpin’ Jellyfish – closed from February 23 to March 5, 2026

• Soarin' Over California - open from February 6 to July 1 in celebration of DCA’s 25th Anniversary.

**Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! has officially ended, and Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue will close permanently this year.

Disneyland® Has Something for Everyone!

From toddlers experiencing their first ride to adults reconnecting with childhood favorites, Disneyland® Resort offers something for every age group. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nostalgia lover, or a parent looking for family-friendly fun, Disneyland®’s magic is unmatched.

Ready to plan your Disney adventure? Check out our other blogs for tips, tricks, and guides to make your trip unforgettable!