Visiting Disney Parks with children can be a magical experience, but it also requires some planning to ensure everyone in the family enjoys the attractions. One useful tool for families is Disney’s Rider Switch program, designed to help parents and guardians manage ride experiences when not everyone in the group can or wants to participate. This guide will provide an overview of how to effectively use the Rider Switch program at Walt Disney World.
Understanding Rider Switch
The Rider Switch program is available to all guests who need to accommodate non-riders, such as younger children or those who do not meet height requirements. It allows one adult to wait with the non-rider while the rest of the party enjoys the attraction. When the first group returns, the waiting adult can then enjoy the ride without standing in line again.
Rider Switch at Walt Disney World
In Walt Disney World, Rider Switch is available at select attractions across all four theme parks. Each park offers a variety of rides where the program can be utilized, from thrilling coasters like Space Mountain in Magic Kingdom to the immersive Avatar Flight of Passage in Animal Kingdom. Families should familiarize themselves with the list of eligible rides to make the most of their visit.
Magic Kingdom Park
- The Barnstormer
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
- Space Mountain
- Tomorrowland Speedway
- TRON Lightcycle / Run*
EPCOT
- Frozen Ever After
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind*
- Mission: SPACE
- Soarin’
- Test Track
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Alien Swirling Saucers
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
- Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
- Slinky Dog Dash
- Star Tours® – The Adventures Continue
- Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park
- Avatar Flight of Passage
- DINOSAUR
- Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain®
- Kali River Rapids
- Na’vi River Journey
How to Use Rider Switch
To use Rider Switch, guests should approach the cast member at the entrance of the attraction and request the service. The party is then split into two groups: the first group rides while the second waits, and then they switch. It’s a straightforward process that helps families maximize their park time while accommodating the needs of all members.
Conclusion
Disney’s Rider Switch program is a valuable resource for families looking to make the most of their visit to the parks. By understanding how to use this service effectively, guests can enjoy more attractions without leaving anyone out of the fun. Whether at Disneyland or Walt Disney World, Rider Switch offers flexibility and convenience, ensuring a more enjoyable experience for everyone in your group.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
