I am not a lover of roller coasters – not even a little bit. I was completely expecting to sit out while my husband and kids enjoyed all that Disneyland & California Adventure Park had to offer. For the most part, though, I was very wrong! Sure, there were a few rides (Tower of Terror and California Screamin’) that I wouldn’t step foot on but almost every ride was family-friendly.
Every ride is more than just a ride – it’s a ride and a show! Beautiful scenery, detailed seating and magical music make the story unfold as you are in line and then progresses as you ride these top 5 family-friendly rides at Disneyland and all the other rides they have to offer.
Other than the top 5 family-friendly rides, you’ll need a place to stay and things to do in the park other than rides. The Disneyland Hotel has magical headboards which are out of this world awesome and pin trading is such a fun thing to do!
Update – June 2020: I have expanded my wings and have ridden most Disneyland & California Adventure Park rides. Though I am still terrified of heights, Disney does a great job of making their rides manageable for even the scardiest of cats!
**Full Disclosure: I paid a conference fee to attend the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration at a deeply discounted rate. As a part of this conference, we were provided with complimentary items, special discounts and other benefits such as food and entertainment so that we could experience the magic of Disneyland. I was not asked to blog about my experience. All opinions are my own.
Top 5 family-friendly rides at Disneyland:
1. Radiator Springs Racers
My family and I could not get enough of the Radiator Spring Racers. An entertainingly perfect ride though the quaint little town.
2. Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
You’ll feel like you are square dancing with tractors – SUCH a fun ride! Be prepared to squish your riding partner as you slide around in your tractor, though.
3. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
While this wasn’t my favorite ride, it was manageable. The climbs were a little steep, but then the roller coaster zig-zags down the mountain.
4. Autopia
Located in Disneyland Park – Tomorrowland. Must be 32 inches or taller. Fast pass available.
A fantastic ride! Let your kids ‘drive’ but you’ll have to keep your foot on the gas for them if they can’t reach. When you ride at night, you’ll be able to see the fireworks from the line or your car.
5. Jungle Cruise
Located in Disneyland Park – Adventureand. Any height.
A laughable ride through the Amazon jungle. Just sit on the boat and listen to the tour guide tell you about the sights. Give your feet a rest with this ride!
I do not like Roller Coasters either! I like the Magic Mountain Ride. I have been on this ride. I also like the Log ride and the Jungle Cruise. I want to go back to Disneyland again. It is so much fun!!
I’m not a big fan of roller coasters either, I was I was! The Jungle Cruise sounds fun!
Disneyland? Well, I’d go with the rides that they don’t have at Disney World. LOL There are so many – from the Matterhorn to Indiana Jones ride!
That’s so true! “Old Me” wouldn’t consider the Matterhorn family friendly but the new adventurous me is ALL IN!