One of the things that our family really enjoys at any theme park, are the attractions. We all seem to be thrill-seekers, so we try to get in all the rides we can. Because the kids are 9, 8, and 6, we still have to be conscious of height restrictions and be sure that we do not go too far with the scare factor. Disneyland Paris has some really great attractions and also has a spookier element to many of their rides. Overall, their attractions are faster and more intense than at Disney World in Orlando (which is where we visit most). Follow along to see what we experienced and what we feel are some of the best Disneyland Paris attractions for kids.
Planning a visit to Disneyland Paris? You can’t miss our post Everything you need to know before visiting Disneyland Paris.
The Best Attractions in Disneyland Park for kids
Attractions in Adventureland
Adventure Isle (best for ages 3-10yrs)
Adventure Isle is a really fun part of the park that offers interactive play and lots of adventure. This attraction allows young guests to journey through tunnels, walk over suspension bridges, and hunt for hidden treasure. Though any age could participate with an adult in tow, it’s really the older kids that would really enjoy this attraction.
Pirates Beach (best for ages 3-10yrs)
Pirates Beach, near Skull Rock, is home to 2 pirate themed playgrounds with lots of fun for all ages. The playgrounds have some cool elements like rope ladders, a gang plank, and some slides. The scenery is so real and the backdrop is really good for pictures. This is an area that you may have trouble getting the kids to leave.
Pirates of the Caribbean (good for all ages, but best for 3+yrs)
Pirates of the Caribbean is one of my all time favorite rides at Walt Disney World. I was so excited to give it a go in Disneyland Paris and see if it lived up to the standards. I’ll have to say, the ride was very similar and just as fun. There seemed to be an extra drop at some point in the ride, and I think we only saw Jack Sparrow once hiding in a barrel. I do remember the smell of the ride being a bit different for me, but otherwise the same great experience that the kids really enjoy as well.
Attractions in Discoveryland
Autopia (best for ages 4-10yrs, must be over 32inches)
Autopia is a really fun ride for the younger kids that are tall enough to see over the steering wheel of a miniature car. They are able to steer the race car along a winding route around Discoverland. Rest easy, as there are guardrails in place underneath the cars to prevent any miscalculated turns and they have bumpers to those driving too close. This is a classic that can also be found at other Disney parks and it rarely ever disappoints.
Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast (best for ages 3-12yrs, but enjoyed by all)
Laser Blast is also one of my favorite attractions, as it’s a ride but also a test of skill. While the star cruisers that you’re riding spin around and move through the Gamma Quadrant, you try to shoot targets with a space laser gun attached to the craft. This one is so much fun for the little ones that can really take aim and score lots of points while fighting against the Evil Emperor Zurg. It can also be fun for smaller riders that are just along for the ride, as there are lots of lights and sounds to experience throughout the journey.
Mickey’s PhilharMagic (ages 0-6yrs)
Mickey’s PhilharMagic is an attraction that most anyone can enjoy, but it’s really the younger ones that get into the singalong who enjoy it the most. The movie is captivating, but it’s the songs that really make the experience such a great one. With songs like: “Be Our Guest”,“Part of Your World”,“I Just Can’t Wait To Be King”,“You Can Fly”, “A Whole New World”, and “Un Poco Loco” it is very hard not to chime in with them. This is also a great attraction to take a break from the heat or to sit down after standing in lines.
Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain (best for ages 8yrs+, 48 inches)
Hyperspace Mountain was one of our most anticipated rides, because we have several Star Wars fans in the family. While the ride looked very similar to Space Mountain from the outside, there were lots of big differences on the inside. Without giving too much away, the ride gets going right away and never lets up. There is great music and the storyline just unfolds right before your eyes. Hyperspace Mountain is not just a roller coaster, it’s a full blown experience. Our six year old was tall enough to ride, but she sort of regretted the choice right away and rode mostly with her eyes closed. This one would be for the older kids for sure.
Attractions in Fantasyland
Alice’s Curious Labyrinth (best for ages 2-6yrs)
Alice’s Labyrinth is one of the hidden treasures in Fantasyland that I feel deserves more attention. The labyrinth itself was artfully created and there are so many intricate details from Alice’s famous adventure through Wonderland. While anyone should appreciate and enjoy the maze, it’s really the preschool aged kids that will truly embrace the magic of this fun adventure. Be sure to visit this one as soon as you get to Fantasyland, because it is certainly worth the time and photos.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarves (best for ages 2-8yrs)
Snow White at Disneyland Paris is quite different than we expected, especially after riding the Mine Train at Walt Disney World. While you do ride in a minecart through an enchanted land, this ride is not a roller coaster and very appropriate for younger riders. The ride is a bit scary as you confront the evil queen and travel through her mirror, but most of it is playful and upbeat with the seven dwarves as the heroes.
Casey Jr. Circus Train (best for ages 0-6yrs)
The Circus Train, Casey Junior, from the classic Disney animated movie Dumbo is such a fun way to tackle a ride through Storybook Land. Passing by the settings from classic Disney movies, your little passengers will certainly be entertained and most likely not want to get off. This is a great ride for calming the littles down, taking a quick napo, or just getting away from the crowds for a bit.
During your train ride, you’ll see some of these::
- Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
- The gingerbread Babes in the Woods
- Rapunzel’s high tower with a braid hanging out of the window
- The Old Mill
- Prince Eric’s seaside castle from The Little Mermaid
- The Greek temple and Mount Olympus from Fantasia
- Snow-covered landscapes from Peter and the Wolf
- The “Night on Bald Mountain” scene from Fantasia
- The Cave of Wonders from Aladdin, which swallows the boats
- A scene from The Sword in the Stone
- Belle’s village and the Beast’s castle from Beauty and the Beast
- The Emerald City and the Witch’s Castle from The Wizard of Oz
Dumbo the Flying Elephant (best for ages 0-6yrs)
Dumbo is another classic ride that is perfect for younger children. I remember we could not get enough of Dumbo when our kids were younger. Just like the one at Disney World, this ride has a way with children that unleashes pure joy as they coast through the air. Love this ride!!
Sir Lancelot’s Merry-Go-Round (good for ages 0-6yrs)
The Sir Lancelot’s Carousel is another Disney staple that charms all of the little riders. While really any age can ride the merry-go-round, it is so special for young children and toddlers. This one is themed in honor of Sir Lancelot’s fairy tale and has some beautiful hand-carved horses to ride around on.
Peter Pan’s Flight (best for ages 2-10yrs)
Peter Pan’s Flight was one of my absolute favorite rides as a child. I remember it feeling so lifelike, flying over London’s nighttime sky and seeing all of the scenes down below. There isn’t a much more magical feeling in a ride that simple, which is why it almost always has a 90+ minute wait at all parks. There is no height limit, but I would say that it could be a little overwhelming for very small children. Otherwise, it really is enjoyed by all.
Attractions in Frontierland
Big Thunder Mountain (ages 6-12yrs, over 40 inches)
Big Thunder Mountain is a very fast and very exciting outdoor roller coaster that is also one of my favorites. While it could be fun for some younger children, it is definitely meant for more mature riders. There is a height requirement of 40 inches and for good reason. The ride takes lots of quick dips and sharp turns, so fitting in the restraints is necessary.
Phantom Manor (best for ages 6-12yrs)
Very much like The Haunted Mansion in Orlando, Phantom Manor has its own haunted secrets within. The story behind this haunted manor is a bit different, but the ride is very much the same. I will say though, that there was just something about the manor and the entire experience that was overall scarier than the mansion. Because of this, I would recommend the smaller ones in your group skip this one, especially if they are skittish.
Thunder Mesa Riverboat Landing (good for ages 0-10yrs)
Thunder Mountain River Boat is a wonderful way to explore the Wild West on an old paddle boat. After riding, you can also take a small raft over to Thunder Mesa Riverboat Landing, and the kids will have a blast. There are playgrounds, picnic tables, and an old fort that has lookouts and secret caverns to escape the fort. While across on Riverboat Landing there is a very unique view of Big Thunder Mountain and Wilderness Island.
Attractions on Mainstreet U.S.A.
Disneyland Railroad (best for ages 0-6yrs)
The Disneyland Railroad departs from Main Street Station and Frontierland Depot. This is another great one for the tiny travelers with a slow ride around Disneyland Park. The scenery is great for anyone seeing the park for the first time, as you get to see some of the areas you may not otherwise notice.
Horse-Drawn Street Cars (great for all ages and families)
This is something that so many people do not really take advantage of and it is perfect for the little ones. When you see seats available on the horse-drawn street cars passing through Mian Street, just waive them down and take a seat. Such a great experience for the whole family and also makes for amazing pictures and videos.
Main Street Vehicles (great for all ages and families)
Here’s another way to travel down Main Street for free and full of excitement for littles. One-way trips pick up at the transportation stops in Town Square and Central Plaza.
Here’s all the types that you may see and get to ride:
- A turn-of-the-century fire engine, in bright bronze and red.
- Omnibus, a double-decker bus.
- A vintage Limousine.
- Mercer, a small, ornate, cream-coloured open-top car.
- Paddy Wagon, a classic police van.
The Best Attractions in Walt Disney Studios Park for Kids
Attractions in Toon Studio
Animation Academy (best for ages 4-12yrs)
The Animation Academy is one of the best kept secrets of Walt Disney Studios. This is every child’s opportunity to learn how to draw their favorite characters from the animation team. There are a limited number of seats available for each session, so be sure to get there early to stand in line. Our kids absolutely loved this experience and carried their drawings proudly around the park.
Flying Carpets over Agrabah (best for ages 0-6yrs)
Flying Carpets over Agrabah is Aladdin’s version of the Dumbo ride. Just as fun for the little onesBoard a magic carpet and soar around a giant genie lamp through the skies of Agrabah.
Attractions in Worlds of Pixar
Cars 4 Race Rally (best ages 3-8yrs)
Here’s a fun little track made just for little drivers to accelerate through the town of Radiator Springs. Fun for all children, but more enjoyable for them if they can steer and press the pedals. They can certainly still enjoy, as they wave to all of their CARS friends along the way.
Cars Road Trip (ages 3-8yrs)
This is a fun tour around the backlot tour of Disney Studios with lots of fun things to see from your favorite CARS characters. You’re riding in a tram, which is easy to take along any age child. Just keep in mind that there are some really loud parts of the ride towards the end that could startle younger riders. Besides that, its great for the whole family!
Crush’s Coaster (ages 4-10yrs, 42 inches)
Crush’s Coaster is a crowd favorite in our family. It has all of the elements of a great all-around ride. It’s fun, it’s fast, it’s smooth, and it has a great storyline! This ride does require children to be over 42 inches, as it is a coaster and also spins often. Be sure to ride this one with the kids, as it is tons of fun!
RC Racer (ages 6-12yrs, 48 inches)
RC Racer is like a giant half pipe for a giant race car toy that you happen to be riding in. This one requires some guts, as it gets launched to the top of an 80 foot ramp and back down several times over. Be sure not to get on this one after a big lunch.
Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin (ages 0-6yrs)
Here’s a good one that you can ride along with your kids of any age. This slinky dog zigzag is very bouncy and playful. Hard not to laugh and enjoy whoever you are. This is one to ride a few times throughout the day to brighten the day.
Planning a visit to Disneyland Paris? You can’t miss our post Everything you need to know before visiting Disneyland Paris.
Attractions in Avengers Campus
There does not seem to be many Disneyland Paris attractions for kids that are suitable for younger children.
Avengers Assemble: Flight Force (ages 6-12yrs, 48 inches)
Flight Force just opened at the end of July 2022. This one has a 48 inch height requirement and is to be a thrill ride with lots of twists, turns, and loops. Definitely one for the more experienced riders in the group, but sounds like a good one.
Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure
Now this one looks amazing! Suited for all ages, this is an interactive mission that allows you to sling your own virtual webs to help Spider-man fight spider-bots. I’m so sorry we missed the opening for this one, as our whole family would have loved this attraction.
Other than these rides, there looks to be some really great character encounters and challenges. Should be fun just to walk around with the kids and have them interact with the heroes and take part in all of the fun they will be having on the Avengers Campus.
We hope this helps when you’re planning your upcoming trip to Disneyland Paris. If you are interested in reading our Perfect 2 Day Disneyland Paris Itinerary click here.
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