Visiting Disneyland Paris with a 5-year-old can be a delightful experience. The parks are designed to provide a mix of excitement, adventure, and magic for young children.
So, which are the best rides at Disneyland Paris for 5 year olds?
From Fantasyland’s whimsical rides to Discoveryland’s futuristic attractions, there is something for every young adventurer. The Walt Disney Studios Park offers new and exciting experiences like the Avengers Campus and the Mickey Mouse show at the Animagique Theatre.
So, without further ado, let’s get started:
Key Points in 30 Seconds:
Consider the best times (mid-Jan to early Feb, mid-April to mid-May, Sept to early Dec), buy tickets in advance, and download the Disneyland Paris app.
You can get a free park map or use the official app to see wait times, show schedules, and character locations.
Keep an eye on children, utilize baby care centers, and plan meals around parades and shows.
Understanding the Theme Parks
“Disneyland”—this name always sounds special to kids of all ages, especially the little ones. But before going for the rides at Disneyland Paris, let’s explore the two parks: Disney Park and Walt Disney Studios.
Disneyland Park
Disneyland Park offers a delightful array of attractions perfect for your little kids and 5-year-olds.
- Fantasyland: A magical realm where little ones can embark on an adventure to Neverland with Peter Pan’s Flight, or spin joyfully on the Mad Hatter’s Tea Cups.
- It’s a Small World: An enchanting boat ride that takes families on a journey across the globe, sparking curiosity and joy in both children and adults alike.
- Discoveryland: Discoveryland, contrasting with Tomorrowland’s theme, offers a unique take on futuristic exploration with an adventure towards Jules Verne’s Nautilus for deep-sea mysteries.
- Character Meet-and-Greets: Kids can meet beloved Disney Princesses at the Princess Pavilion and have a special encounter with Mickey Mouse himself at Meet Mickey Mouse.
Walt Disney Studios Park
Walt Disney Studios Park also offers exciting and special attractions, especially designed for young children.
- Toy Story Playland: Experience the thrills of Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin, a mini roller coaster perfect for young riders.
- Ratatouille – The Adventure: Join Remy on a captivating 4D journey inspired by the Disney•Pixar film Ratatouille.
So, both parks provide numerous indoor attractions, sheltered walkways, and amenities such as baby care centers – ensuring a comfortable visit for families with little ones.
Bonus Tips:
There are no kid’s height restrictions at Disneyland Paris because at least one parent can share the ride with their child.
Planning the Visit: Best Times, Fast Passes, and More
First of all, before finalizing your trip, you should make a proper plan, especially when you are planning with the kids.
- Aim to visit between mid-January and early February, mid-April and mid-May, or September and early December, with mid-week visits to avoid the regular crowds.
- A weekday visit early in the morning during the school year is the ideal time to visit Disneyland Paris with your 5-year-old.
- Skip the line with Disneyland Premier Access One for single-ride time slots, or Premier Access Ultimate for multiple rides all day.
- Make sure to download the Disneyland Paris app, then plan your day, check wait times, and book the reservations.
- Check accommodation options wisely. Disney offers convenient free shuttles from Disney-branded and other partner hotels. Also, off-site accommodation offers budget deals.
- For international travelers, Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is the best landing option, with high-speed TGV trains offering one of the best ways to reach Disneyland.
- It’s always a good idea to check the height and age restrictions for the rides before visiting Disneyland Paris.
- Consider the individual child’s tolerance for thrill rides before deciding whether to take them on this attraction.
Best Rides for Young Kids at Disneyland Paris
As Mickey Mouse and all the princesses of Disney are waiting for your little champ, let’s explore the best list of rides at Disneyland Paris and see which one is ideal for young hearts and curious minds:
Peter Pan’s Flight
Location: Fantasyland, Disneyland Park.
Theme: A magical suspended dark ride with Peter Pan Characters.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: 15-70 minutes.
Ride Duration: Around 3 minutes.
Peter Pan’s Flight at Disneyland Paris is perfect for 4 or 5-year-olds. Here, you can board a flying pirate ship with Peter, Wendy, and friends for an unforgettable journey from miniature London rooftops to Neverland.
Also, you can fly past Mermaid Lagoon, explore the Indian Camp, and visit the Darling children’s nursery, complete with iconic scenes from the film and a glimpse of Captain Hook’s ship.
Buzz Lightyear’s Laser Blaster
Location: Discoveryland, Disneyland Park.
Theme: An interactive ride with adventures into space with Toy Story’s Buzz.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: 30-70 minutes.
Ride Duration: 4-5 minutes.
Here, the riders board a two-person vehicle and use laser guns to shoot targets, competing to defeat Emperor Zurg. One parent can board the vehicle with the kid for the ride. The more targets you hit, the higher your score.
The ride also features colorful Toy Story scenes, making kids feel like they’re battling in space alongside Buzz Lightyear. It’s a fun, interactive experience that sparks young imaginations.
It’s A Small World
Location: Fantasyland, Disneyland Park.
Theme: A classic Disney Parks boat ride with 300 Audio-Animatronics dolls in traditional costumes.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: 10-45 minutes.
Ride Duration: 12-15 minutes.
This ride takes you through vibrant scenes of the globe where singing dolls are dressed in traditional outfits. This place showcases the beauty of the unity of different nations with the joyful tunes of the famous “It’s a Small World.”
This experience will surely leave an everlasting impression on your child.
Mad Hatters Tea Cups
Location: Fantasyland, Disneyland Park.
Theme: A traditional carousel attraction with songs from Snow White, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, etc.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: Around 20 minutes max.
Ride Duration: 2 minutes.
Mad Hatter’s Tea Cups is an iconic ride inspired by the beloved characters from Alice. This ride invites kids to climb and spin into a giant, brightly colored teacup, with lovely music playing in the background. Plus, with the center wheel, you get to control the speed of your spin.
Le Carrousel de Lancelot: A Royal Ride
Location: Fantasyland, Disneyland Park.
Theme: A traditional carousel attraction with songs from Beauty and the Beast, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Aladdin, etc.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: 10-30 minutes.
Ride Duration: 2 minutes.
“Le Carrousel de Lancelot” isn’t just any carousel; it’s a journey back to the age of chivalry and legend. This ride is inspired by the tales of King Arthur and his knights, offering a unique experience that blends history with fantasy and is perfect for an educational voyage for your child.
This ride offers you a unique experience, with precisely crafted horses and chariots telling you the story of medieval legend and lore. The carousel spins with gentle music, and you’ll feel like royalty parading through a fairytale kingdom.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Location: Fantasyland, Disneyland Park.
Theme: A dark ride on a mine cart through the magical land of Snow White.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: Around 30 minutes.
Ride Duration: Approximately 6 minutes.
This timeless tale gets a magical makeover in Disneyland Paris, where your children can journey through the enchanted forest alongside Snow White and her adorable band of seven dwarfs.
In short, this ride takes you on a mine cart through a series where you’ll find her singing along with the lovable dwarfs in their cottage.
You also experience the joy, suspense, and ultimate triumph of good over evil. It’s a ride filled with wonder, music, and maybe even a wicked witch or two!
Note:
The narration of the story is in French, but the story is easy to understand visually.
Pinocchio’s Daring Journey
Location: Fantasyland, Disneyland Park.
Theme: A dark ride.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: Around 20 minutes.
Ride Duration: 5-10 minutes.
From the charming streets of his Italian village to the eerie depths of Pleasure Island, this ride promises thrills, spills, and a touch of classic Disney magic for your children. You’ll get to board a wooden car and witness Pinocchio come alive and sing. Plus, you can see the greedy Stromboli lock Pinocchio in a cage.
Orbitron Flying Machines
Location: Discoveryland, Disneyland Paris.
Theme: A rocket-spinner attraction.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: Around 30 minutes
Ride Duration: 3-4 minutes.
This exhilarating ride takes you on a cosmic journey aboard your very own spaceship. When these rockets take off, you can adjust your height, which provides you with expansive views of Discoveryland and the surrounding area.
Just strap in and prepare for liftoff as you spin, twirl, and soar among the stars. It’s a journey that’s out of this world and is sure to amaze your young children.
Ratatouille: The Adventure
Location: Toon Studio, Walt Disney Studios Park, Disneyland Paris.
Theme: A motion-based 3D trackless dark ride.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: 30-60 minutes max.
Ride Duration: 4 minutes 40 seconds.
“Ratatouille” is a must-visit attraction for tourists at Disneyland Paris. This thrilling ride puts you right in the action of the beloved animated Pixar film Ratatouille.
You’ll shrink down to the size of Remy, the ambitious rat chef. Plus, you can join him on a wild chase through Gusteau’s renowned Parisian kitchen.
Cars Quartre Roues Rallye
Location: Toon Studio, Walt Disney Studios Park, Disneyland Paris.
Theme: A fun ride based on the characters of the famous Disney·Pixar franchise “Cars.”
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: 7-13 minutes or more on a very busy day.
Ride Duration: Around 2-5 minutes (subject to change).
This ride is inspired by the popular Pixar movie series “Cars” where you get to race through Radiator Springs in your very own car.
The fun begins as the vehicles sit on and start spinning, and the cars playfully bump and switch places with each other. With twists, turns, and plenty of high-octane excitement, this ride will leave your kids revved up and ready for more!
Slinky Dog ZigZag Spin
Location: Studios Toy Story, Parc Walt Disney, Playland, Disneyland Paris
Theme: A fun and playful ride themed around the Toy Story franchise.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: 6-21 minutes.
Ride Duration: 1.5-2 minutes.
Inspired by the beloved character from “Toy Story,” you have to sit on a colorful caterpillar-style ride vehicle that resembles Slinky Dog’s stretched-out body.
Much like riding on the back of a playful puppy as it dashes through a maze of twists and turns! There will be some small drops and climbs that will give a mild thrill. This ride is perfect for 4-year-olds and anyone who loves a fun and playful adventure.
Additional Information for First-Time Tourists:
- There’s usually a shorter wait time for this ride compared to some of the bigger attractions.
- This is a great first coaster experience for young children due to its gentle nature.
- FastPass is not offered for this ride, but the lines typically move quickly.
Pirates of the Caribbean
Location: Adventureland, Disneyland Paris.
Theme: A classic dark ride attraction through a pirate-themed environment.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: Around 45 minutes.
Ride Duration: 10-15 minutes.
Through the waterways, this ride takes you to the past scenes of pirate life, battles, and treasure hunts of Captain Jack Sparrow.
The ride also features dramatic special effects, and Captain Jack Sparrow and Captain Barbossa make a menacing appearance.
Phantom Manor
Location: Frontierland, Disneyland Paris.
Theme: A Western/Gothic-themed dark ride with a tragic romance storyline.
Height Requirement: No requirement.
Average Wait Time: 20-60 minutes max.
Ride Duration: 6 minutes.
Phantom Manor is a permanent attraction at Disneyland Paris, not a special event. It’s their version of the Haunted Mansion ride found in other Disney parks.
This ride takes you on a Doombuggy through various scenes with ghostly apparitions and spooky effects. This haunted mansion has its own story, centered around a mysterious phantom and a tragic romance.
The ride is mostly known for being darker and spookier than its counterparts. You can expect ghosts, ghouls, and special effects on your journey.
Important Notes:
Phantom Manor can be suitable for some 5-year-olds with parental guidance, but it might be too scary for others. So parents should decide if it’s appropriate.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Location: Frontierland, Disneyland Paris
Theme: A Wild West-themed ride through a ghost town and an abandoned mine.
Height Requirement: 1.02 m (40.5 inches) or taller.
Average Wait Time: 15-20 minutes (Off-Peak) & up to 90 minutes (Peak)
Ride Duration: 2 minutes 30 seconds
This ride’s most popular attraction is designed to take riders on a thrilling journey through a haunted gold mine. Along the way, you will encounter runaway minecarts, dynamite explosions, and other Wild West dangers. Kids will love this chance to experience the excitement of the gold rush.
Important Notes:
The ride may be too intense or frightening for some young children due to the dark tunnels, loud noises, and sudden drops. So, prepare your kids before taking this ride.
Star Wars HyperSpace Mountain
Location: Discoveryland, Disneyland Paris.
Theme: A roller coaster dark ride based on the Star Wars storyline.
Height Requirement: 1.20 meters (47.5 inches) or taller.
Average Wait Time: No specific wait time (1,980 riders per hour).
Ride Duration: 2 minutes 15 seconds.
Hyperspace Mountain is an exhilarating and engaging experience that takes you on a high-speed chase through the Star Wars galaxy.
The ride’s storyline places you as a Rebel Alliance pilot on a reconnaissance mission, where your mission is to spy on an Imperial Star Destroyer with your X-wing.
To make things more interesting, the high-speed ride features a launch sequence, drops, inversions, and an exciting onboard audio track that puts you right in the action.
Important Note:
Due to its intense launch, drops, inversions, and speeds up to 44 mph (71 km/h), this ride may not be suitable for children under 5.
Additional Activities for 5-Year-Olds
Disneyland Paris serves as a comprehensive guide for tourists, particularly if you are visiting with young children. In this section, we highlight a variety of child-friendly attractions that you can consider, except the rides for 5-year-olds.
Meet and Greet with Disney Characters
At Disneyland Paris, meeting your favorite Disney characters is an amazing experience that is designed to entertain visitors of all ages.
After entering the park, you can take your kids to the designated locations in both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park for the meet-and-greet session.
You can also join them at restaurants like Auberge de Cendrillon or Plaza Gardens (reservations are recommended). To ensure a memorable experience, it’s advisable to arrive early in the day at a meet-and-greet location, as lines can get long.
The Disney staff, known as cast members, manage the queues and assist you with photo opportunities. To make sure that everyone gets the chance to interact with the characters, you can take photographs, and collect autographs.
Pro Tips:
- Download the Disneyland Paris App: The app shows character locations, wait times, and schedules for character dining experiences. Also, the app/official website is one of the best way to book Disneyland Paris.
- Arrive early: Especially for popular characters, lines can get long.
- Bring an autograph book and Pen: Many characters will sign autographs, so come prepared.
- Be Patient and Polite: Characters interact with many guests throughout the day. Be patient and polite for the best experience.
Parades and Shows for Young Kids
Disneyland Paris offers a variety of parades and shows specifically designed to capture the attention of young children. Like Mickey and the Magician and the Lion King, who come to life right before your little one’s eyes!
Throughout the day, the park schedules various parades and shows and usually follows a scheduled route.
You are advised to check the official Disneyland Paris app or the daily schedule available at the park entrances for the latest timing and locations of these events.
Moreover, there are some marvelous rides in Disneyland Paris for adults. So, Disneyland Paris rides are not only enjoyable for kids but also exhilarating for adults.
Concluding Words
There you have it—our top picks for the best rides at Disneyland Paris for 5-year-olds! Each of these attractions offers a unique blend of magic, adventure, and fun that will keep your little ones entertained and enchanted throughout your visit.
And as you watch your child’s face light up with joy and excitement, you’ll know that these moments are the ones to cherish forever.
Happy adventuring!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Disneyland Park is better for 5 year old?
The Magic Kingdom is better for a 5-year-old in the Disneyland park.
Is Disneyland Paris safe for children?
Yes, Disneyland Paris is considered safe for children, with well-maintained rides, and trained staff. Also, with dedicated resources like baby care centers and lost child meeting points.
What age is free at Disneyland Paris?
Children under 3 years old can enter for free at Disneyland Paris.
Do kids eat free at Disneyland Paris?
Children under the age of three can eat for free at any of Disney’s buffet-style or family restaurants.
Is it worth taking a 5 year old to Disney World?
Of course, taking a 5-year-old to Disney World can be a magical experience that will stay in your family’s hearts for years to come.
How many rides can a 5 year old ride at Disney World?
Disney World will typically allow about 30 rides without height requirements.
