Looking for the Best Rides at Animal Kingdom (and activities) that every member of the family can participate in? These are your best options with low or no height limits at this Walt Disney World Park!
Headed on a family trip to Walt Disney World? We just got back from the Mommy and Me trip of a lifetime and we had a total blast. From planning Walt Disney World outfits to park days to a Disney Cruise with a stop at Castaway Cay, we did it all. Now that we’ve visited the Walt Disney World Resort a number of times, I wanted to create a guide for how WE tackle each park. Full disclosure, I’m terrified of roller coasters. So this guide to the Best Rides at Animal Kingdom? You’re not going to see Expedition Everest ANYWHERE on my list. This is a perfect guide for traveling with younger kids…..all of our ride and activity suggestions have low or no height limit and aren’t….scary. 
The Best Rides at Animal Kingdom (and Activities) With Low Height Requirements:
A day or two in Animal Kingdom is one of my favorite parts of any Walt Disney World trip. Animal Kingdom is a totally unique experience, and we have NOTHING like it at Disneyland. It’s super immersive, and has a great layout. If you’re looking for a park where your kids will be entertained, with plenty of areas to play and explore…..Animal Kingdom is a great option.
Wilderness Explorers Program: The Wilderness Explorers Program is a super fun way to interact with the park and to entertain your kids in between rides and shows. This adorable program is FREE, and encourages children to earn badges (like Russell from Up) and reminds them that they can become an official Wilderness Explorer. There are 25 locations around Animal Kingdom (designated with a logo) where kids can obtain information and earn a badge (bonus that it’s educational at the same time). To participate you can pick up a handbook from the program headquarters on the bridge between the Oasis and Discovery Island or go to any of the Wilderness Explorer Troop Leader locations in Africa, Rafiki’s Planet Watch, Asia, Dinoland U.S.A. or Pandora.
Africa:
Kilimanjaro Safaris: A must do during any visit to Animal Kingdom. The Kilimanjaro Safari is an amazing way to see the residents of Animal Kingdom. We’ve done an early morning Safari, a midday and an early evening. My suggestion? Morning or evening when the animals are more active. This is relaxing, and you sit long enough to get some real rest.
Wildlife Express Train: Looking for a shorter ride? The Express Train gives you a behind the scenes glimpse at parts of Animal Kingdom and who doesn’t love a train ride?
Festival of the Lion King: Now the Festival of the Lion King isn’t a ride…..it’s a show. And it’s AMAZING. I cry every time I see it. I would highly suggest getting a fast pass for it if you can, because you get the best seats that way. This is a don’t miss.
Not to Miss: Exploring the Harambe Marketplace is a ton of fun for all ages, there are murals and designs everywhere and amazing musicians (bonus for adults…..try the Dole Whip with rum, it’s DELISH).
Asia:
The Asia section of Animal Kingdom does house two “big kid” rides aka the Roller Coasters. However, there are also really fun activities, so even if roller coasters aren’t your thing….be sure you schedule some time to visit.
Up! A Great Bird Adventure: This adorable show features Russell and his best friend Dug as they discover species of birds from around the world, it’s a must see for any Up fan!
Not to Miss: The Bollywood Beats shows are so much fun, you can check the Disney World app for performance times for this Indian Dance extravaganza.
Dinoland, USA:
Not gonna lie, Dinoland is PERFECT for younger kids. If you’re looking for a quieter area with tons of space to play……this is a great option!
The Boneyard: Got a dino lover? This awesome play area lets the kids become paleontologists, dig up fossils (plus there are plenty of spots to sit for the grown ups).
TriceraTop Spin: Who doesn’t love a great view of the park? TriceraTop spin lets you ride HIGH in the sky on a dinosaur and it’s perfect for any age (no height requirement).
Finding Nemo the Musical: This show is ADORABLE! It’s also indoors and air conditioned (you’re welcome). We usually make this a mid-morning break on an Animal Kingdom day. If you can, snag a fast pass for the best seats!
Not to Miss: The Chip and Dale Meet and Greet in Dinoland, USA is so much fun. They’re SUPER interactive and in a nice cool, shaded area towards the back.
Pandora:
Now if you watched our Instagram Stories, then you know that we did Avatar Flight of Passage during our recent trip. This is on every list of the Best Rides at Animal Kingdom I’ve ever seen and I can vouch for how stunning it is. My thoughts? I’m scared of heights, but it was worth it. The ride is absolutely beautiful, and I just closed my eyes during a couple of drop scenes. Lydia felt a little young for it (she’s six), I’d suggest ages 8 and up unless you’ve got a thrill lover. But it’s definitely something to do if you can snag that fast pass, one of the most magical rides I’ve ever seen!
Na’vi River Journey: In Pandora, the Na’vi River Journey is a great all ages ride. You’ll take a leisurely trip down the river, and the scenery is amazing. Lydia remembered the ride from our last trip, and it was her top request to do again in Animal Kingdom. No drops, no height requirements, definitely Fast Pass it if you can.
Not to Miss: The drums in the middle of Pandora are SO MUCH FUN. In between musician sets, the kids can bang on them to their hearts content.
Discovery Island:
It’s Tough to be a Bug: This live show (with a 3d film) shows kids what it’s like to be…..a bug. It’s super cute and great spot to relax.
Tree of Life: The Tree of Life is absolutely STUNNING. Take some time to walk around the entire thing and to see it from all angles.
Not to Miss: Safari Mickey and Minnie are ADORABLE. We visited them for the first time on this trip, and I can’t believe we waited this long (yes, get a fast pass, it was so quick with one).
Have you been to Walt Disney World? What do you think are the Best Rides at Animal Kingdom (or activities)?
