Disney World is a fantastic vacation destination for families, especially those with family members of varying ages and heights. There are several family attractions throughout all 4 Disney parks, and there are also several thrill rides and roller coasters. Disney roller coasters have varying degrees of thrill. Some coasters are more suitable for families and smaller kids, while some like Rock n’ Roller Coaster or Tron Lightcycle Run are more thrilling and extreme. If you have a young roller coaster enthusiast in your family, or you just prefer a more gentle coaster experience, then check out these family roller coasters at Disney World.
The Barnstormer – Magic Kingdom
With a height requirement of just 35 inches, this is truly a family roller coaster! This gentle ride is perfect for those who are experiencing their first ever roller coaster. The Barnstormer is located in Fantasyland, near Dumbo the Flying Elephant and Casey Jr. Splash n’ Soak Station. The Barnstormer attraction features a 30 foot hill, and 679 feet of track. The coaster reaches a top speed of 25 miles per hour, and the attraction is approximately 40 seconds long.
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train – Magic Kingdom
Also located in Fantasyland, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is a smooth and gentle roller coaster that is just a few notches above Barnstormer in thrill level. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is located near Storybook Treats and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. This roller coaster has a height requirement of just 38 inches, and since its opening in 2014 it has entertained many guests with its charming indoor mine scene featuring the iconic “Hi Ho” song. This attraction features an on-ride photo so guests can capture their memories with their family. This roller coaster reaches a top speed of 34 miles per hour.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – Magic Kingdom
This classic Disney coaster was an opening day attraction for both Magic Kingdom and Disneyland. Known as “the wildest ride in the wilderness”, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has a height requirement of 40 inches or taller. Guests enjoy Big Thunder Mountain Railroad for its wild twists, turns, and sudden drops. This roller coaster reaches a speed of 36 miles per hour, making it a great family roller coaster that is a bit on the wild side.
Slinky Dog Dash – Disney’s Hollywood Studios
With a height requirement of just 38 inches, Slinky Dog Dash is a popular roller coaster for families. Located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Toy Story Land, Slinky Dog Dash features a larger-than-life Slinky Dog ride vehicle that launches guests through Andy’s backyard. This coaster not only features an on-ride photo, but also an appearance by Wheezy the Penguin who serenades you at the end of the attraction with his version of “You’ve Got a Friend in Me”. This roller coaster reaches a speed of 40 miles per hour, making it one of the faster family roller coasters on property. However, the ride is so smooth that many guests find this attraction to be gentle and tolerable!
What is your favorite family roller coaster at Disney World? 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 two toddlers. 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.
