Orlando is one of the best places in the world for thrill-seekers looking for their next coaster fix. In addition to some of the most intense coasters around, Orlando is also home to some of the best family coasters. Whether it's your little one's first time riding a roller coaster, or your family is looking for an exciting ride that everyone can do together, the theme parks have got you covered. Here are the top 5 best coasters for young children in the Orlando parks.
Goofy's Barnstormer at Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World
Join Goofy, also known as the Great Goofini, as he takes flight over Storybook Circus, performing aerial stunts in his famous high-flying air show. Board the extra-long stunt biplane and hold on tight, because the Great Goofini isn't actually the greatest of pilots—as the large airplane-shaped hole in the billboard clearly shows. On the ride you'll soar through a barnyard and countryside, passing by the wooden observation tower and making gentle turns all around the site. Your flying adventure ends with a dive right through the big hole in the billboard and then your plane "lands" safely back inside the barn. After touching down, you can meet Goofy nearby at Pete’s Silly Sideshow. Riders must be at least 35 inches to take flight on The Barnstormer.
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World
This exciting ride through the Seven Dwarfs Mine will have you screaming "Heigh-Ho!" Make your way through the Enchanted Forest to find the rickety old mine carts inside the mountain. While waiting, kids can help Doc sort jewels in the interactive queue. On the ride, hold on tight as you careen through caverns and dart between trees on these out of control carts that swing back and forth with every turn you make. At the middle of the ride you'll get to see all of the dwarfs as they dig dig dig, sing and whistle while they work. And at the end of the ride you can peer through the windows of Snow White's cottage to see everyone dancing after a long day's work. This ride has a minimum height requirement of 38 inches.
Flight of the Hippogriff at Islands of Adventure, Universal Orlando
Hagrid has invited all the little wizards in your family to learn more about the Care of Magical Creatures. Today's lesson is the Hippogriff, a magical creature with the wings and head of an eagle and the body of a horse. Climb into a wicker coaster car shaped like the Hippogriff and be sure to bow to the animal as you pass it while climbing the lift hill – it is proper etiquette, after all. This family-friendly ride takes you through Hagrid's pumpkin patch, swooping around his hut, while offering incredible views of the nearby Hogwarts Castle. Muggles and wizards alike must be at least 36 inches to ride, and anyone under 48 inches must ride with a supervising companion.
Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster, Universal Orlando
This is the perfect ride for first-timers ready to try out a not-so-scary roller coaster, preparing them to take on a bigger one someday. Hop onto Woody's Nuthouse Coaster and hold on tight for gentle swoops and turns through his very own nut factory. There aren't any scary drops to worry about, but you will have to endure his silly puns and corny jokes. You can find the Nuthouse Coaster at Woody Woodpecker's KidZone area of the park. There are also fun play areas and shows made especially for kids in this colorful land. Riders must be at least 36 inches to ride the coaster, and riders under 48 inches tall must ride with a supervising companion.
The Dragon at Legoland Florida
Enter the realm of Lego Kingdoms, where fearless knights slay dragons to save princesses and magic is real. The Dragon roller coaster at Legoland Florida Resort stands out from the other family coasters at the park because the first half of this ride takes place inside the massive Legoland Florida Resort Castle. Inside the castle you'll encounter enchanting scenes made entirely out of Lego bricks, one of which puts you face to face with a fire-breathing dragon! Thankfully, Merlin gets there just in time to save the day, sending your coaster train outside for some thrilling maneuvers before returning everyone back home. Guests must be at least 40 inches tall to ride The Dragon.
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