Disney World is a great vacation destination for families. With so many attractions, shows, and experiences, there is something at the Disney parks that everyone can enjoy. It is a common misconception that Disney World is a place that is only for little kids. Big kids love vacationing to Disney and there are several attractions that big kids love. Disney World has its fair share of thrill rides and roller coasters, as well as other attractions that are a bit more mature and great for big kids. If you are traveling to Disney World with your big kids then check out these underrated attractions that big kids love!
Kali River Rapids at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Everyone knows and loves thrill rides at Animal Kingdom like Expedition Everest and Avatar: Flight of Passage. But Kali River Rapids is another thrilling attraction that tends to get overlooked! When your big kid rides this ride they will get wet, and they might even get soaked. This raft ride is for guests 38 inches or taller. Guests board the raft and head down the river for a water-filled adventure. Featuring a 20 foot drop, this attraction is only for kids and grown-ups who love a good thrill.
Crush ‘n’ Gusher at Typhoon Lagoon
If you find yourself at Typhoon Lagoon during your next Disney vacation then you have to check out Crush ‘n’ Gusher with your big kids. Disney is currently giving guests free waterpark tickets to use during their check-in day in 2025, and because of this more and more guests are exploring Typhoon Lagoon! This exciting waterpark is filled with attractions that are suitable for guests of varying ages and abilities. Crush ‘n’ Gusher is a unique attraction because it is a water roller coaster, rather than just a slide. Water propels you up hills and then you zip down them as you make tight turns and gain speed. This attraction is for guests 48 inches or taller.
Mission: Space at EPCOT
EPCOT is home to several thrill rides including the very popular Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind roller coaster. However, there are other attractions that are exciting for your big kid to experience. Mission: Space is an attraction that simulates a mission to Mars. This attraction has two modes, Orange which is a more thrilling experience with heavy G-force, and Green which is a more gentle experience. Orange has a height requriement of 44 inches or taller, whereas green has a height requirement of 40 inches or taller. Whichever experience you choose, you are sure to have a thrilling flight.
Star Tours at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios is home to thrilling attractions within Galaxy’s Edge like Rise of the Resistance and Smuggler’s Run. But just outside of Galaxy’s Edge is an attraction that is full of Star Wars fun. Star Tours is a motion simulator attraction during which guests fly through the galaxy with C-3PO as their frantic guide. Each journey is randomized, with hundreds of possible combinations. You never know what surprises are in store for you during this thrilling attraction!
What is your big kid’s favorite attraction at Disney World? Which attractions do you feel are underrated for older kids? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured Photo: Emily Murray.
Written by
Megan Woodard
Contributing Writer
Megan was born into a Disney family. Her first trip to Disney World was when she was only 18 months old. Now as an adult, Megan loves to share the magic of Disney with her family. Keeping up with Disney news and Disney World knowledge is a fun hobby for Megan. Disney World is her favorite place to be and continuously brings back her childhood joy.
