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What is the Best Age to Take Your Kid to Disney World? | Explained

The biggest question that you may ask when vacationing with kids, is what is actually the best age to take your kid to Disney World?

In this page, we'll cover the best ages to visit each of the 4 Disney World parks, and what to consider for each age.

best age to take kid to disney world

Table of Contents

Factors to Consider When Taking Your Kid to Disney World

Height of Child

The main factor in the case of kids is their height. Many rides have minimum height requirements that riders must meet, in order to ensure their own safety.

Popular Disney rides such as Space Mountain (44″), Avatar Flight of Passage (44″) and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (40″) all have a minimum height requirement of at least 40".

goofy kids

You can find a list of the ride height requirements for all Disney parks directly from the Disney World site.

disney world rides height requirement

How Young is Too Young?

To some parents, having their child be old enough to remember their Disney trip is a big factor into whether they will spend the money to take them.

To other parents, just being able to take pictures with them (for memories) and seeing their child's live reaction is enough to justify the cost.

In the end it just comes down to preference, but you should know that children 0-2 years old receive free admission.

Best Age For Disney World

As a rule of thumb, the best ages to take your kids to Disney World are between 3-12 years old. However, visitors of all ages can enjoy the parks, and Disney World does a fantastic job catering to all age groups.

Best Age for Magic Kingdom

All ages.

Disney's Magic Kingdom is the park that is perfect for all ages. Whether you're a child, a teen, or adult, there's something that everyone can enjoy while just visiting this park.

magic kingdom kids

For the younger crowd, Fantasyland is an area specifically made for them, and they can also find the the famous Disney characters such as Mickey and Minnie walking the park waiting to meet you.

For the older crowd, there are popular rides such as Space Mountain, Big Thunder Railroad, and the Haunted Mansion.

Additionally, there are amazing night shows for all ages, including the famous Disney Fireworks.

Best Age for Animal Kingdom

5-12 years old.

Animal Kingdom is tailor made for children who love seeing animals, learning about them, as well as the different environments in which these animals live in.

animal kingdom kids

Visually, Animal Kingdom is one of the most stimulating parks and one of the best examples of this is the Tree of Life.

Located in the center of the Animal Kingdom park, the iconic tree of life towers at 145 feet and can be seen from quite a distance away. 

Close to 400 types of animals are carved on this giant tree, and really showcases the talent of the team of artisans who came together to create this icon of the park.

There are also plenty of thrilling rides such as Avatar: Flight of Passage & Expedition Everest, as well as educational rides such as the Kilimanjaro Safari.

Best Age for EPCOT

10-17 years old.

EPCOT leans on the older side of the Disney parks, as it details Walt's vision of the future, while still acknowledging and educating visitors on the past.

epcot kids

The park is split up in 2 areas, Future World and World Showcase. 

Future World

Is the portion of the park that focuses on innovation and technology. It details Walt's vision through unique architecture and design.

Here, you'll be able to find popular rides such as Test Track, Mission: Space, and The Seas With Nemo & Friends.

World Showcase

This portion of the park is exactly what it sounds like, as this area features different countries.

In each country, you'll find authentic food, drinks and even live experiences. They do a great job of providing guest with a real-life experience around the world.

We've made an entire guide on the best tips for EPCOT.

Best Age for Hollywood Studios

3-17 years old.

Hollywood Studios has recently become more like Magic Kingdom in terms of catering to all ages. This was mostly due to the addition of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.

disney hollywood studios kids

Galaxy's Edge

The moment that you step foot in there, it will feel as if you've stepped into another world, and you'll notice every single detail has been thought out, from the floor, to the stores, to the trash cans, the rides, the restroom signs, and even the cast members. 

star wars galaxys edge

Everything is Star wars-themed, and transitions perfectly from one area to another.

It will genuinely feel as if you're in the actual Star Wars movies.

Toy Story Land

Is a perfect area for the younger visitors, once you walk in, you'll become a toy-sized guest and be immersed in an interactive environment.

toy story land kids

You can hop aboard the Slinky Dog roller coaster, stop by and meet Woody and Jessie, all while the iconic Toy Story song plays in the background.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a 4 Year Old Enjoy Disney World?

A 4 year old can certainly enjoy Disney World, as there are plenty of toddler-specific areas that they can enjoy. In Magic Kingdom, you'll also find the famous Mickey, Minnie and company walking around the park, and they'll be happy to take a picture with you and your kiddo!

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