Best Universal Orlando Rides for Kids in 2026

Best Universal Orlando Rides for Kids in 2026

Best Universal Orlando Rides for Kids in 2026

This article is the guide to the best Universal Studios rides for kids! This guide covers every kid-friendly ride across all three Universal Orlando theme parks — Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and the brand-new Epic Universe — including height requirements, thrill ratings, and honest tips to help you plan the perfect day.

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando, be sure to check out our discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets and Universal Orlando vacation package deals, which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you need help picking the best time to visit Universal Orlando for your next vacation, be sure to check out our Universal Crowd calendar!

 Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar

Universal Orlando Kid-Friendly Rides

Across all three Universal Orlando parks, there are now over 20 rides and attractions suitable for children under 40 inches tall, including several with no height requirement at all. However, these rides span throughout the three Universal Orlando theme parks. This is different from visiting Disney World, where the Magic Kingdom park has over twenty-five rides for families visiting with young children in that one theme park alone. However, you will see that by understanding which theme park each Universal Studios kid ride is located in and knowing the height requirements; you can still have a great time visiting Universal Orlando with kids! 

Universal Studios kid rides without height requirements:

• Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl
• Caro-Seuss-El
• One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
• Storm Force Accelatron
• Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast
• Hogwarts Express (both stations)
• Constellation Carousel (Epic Universe)
• Fyre Drill (Epic Universe)

Universal Studios kid rides with height requirements:

• E.T. Adventure (34″)
• Yoshi’s Adventure – Epic Universe (34″)
• Trolls Trollercoaster (36″)
• The Cat in the Hat (36″)
• Flight of the Hippogriff (36″)

Rides requiring 40 inches:

• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
• The Simpsons Ride
• TRANSFORMERS: The Ride 3-D
• Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge (Epic Universe)
• Mine-Cart Madness (Epic Universe)
• Hiccup’s Wing Gliders (Epic Universe)
• Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry (Epic Universe)
• Curse of the Werewolf (Epic Universe)

Related Page: Visiting Universal Orlando with Kids

Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure: Kid Rides Breakdown

Hogwarts Express

Location: Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure (park-to-park ticket required)

Height requirement: No minimum height requirement

Thrill rating: 2.0/10

The Hogwarts Express at Universal Orlando Resort offers a unique and magical journey between the two parks – Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade Village in Islands of Adventure. This immersive train ride recreates the iconic journey to and from Hogwarts, as seen in the Harry Potter films. Guests board at either King’s Cross Station (Universal Studios) or Hogsmeade Station (Islands of Adventure), enjoying scenic views and magical surprises. It’s not just a transportation method but a fully-fledged attraction that captivates Harry Potter fans of all ages with its attention to detail and enchanting storytelling.

Related Page: What is the Best Time to Visit Universal Orlando 

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish 

Location: Islands of Adventure

Height requirement: No minimum height requirement

Thrill rating: 1.5/10

Another Seuss Landing Ride has made the list, and that is because of how kid-friendly the land is! Being a ride requiring no height, this Universal ride is good for little ones! In this ride, you are a flying fish that gently glides up and around fun flowing fountains.

Caro-Seuss-El 

Location: Islands of Adventure

Height requirement: No minimum height requirement

Thrill rating: 1.0/10

Unlike a traditional carousel, this ride features a variety of whimsical creatures and characters from the world of Dr. Seuss, offering a unique twist on a classic amusement park attraction. It’s perfect for younger children, with its gentle motion and colorful designs, allowing them to pick their favorite Seuss character to ride. The ride combines the charm of a carousel with the playful and creative spirit of Dr. Seuss, making it a delightful experience for families.

Kang & Kodo’s Twirl ‘n’ Hurl 

Location: Universal Studios Florida

Height requirement: No minimum height requirement

Thrill rating: 2.0/10

One of the other kid-friendly rides at Universal Studios Orlando is also located in Springfield: Home of the Simpsons. Spin in flying saucers and soar above the crowds on this fun ride with no height requirement. Each flying saucer can fit an average adult with one or two kids, making this one of the fun Universal Studios rides for little ones.

Storm Force Accelatron 

Location: Islands of Adventure

Height requirement: No minimum height requirement

Thrill rating: 2.0/10

“Storm Force Accelatron” is an exciting attraction located on the Marvel Super Hero Island at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. This ride invites guests to join forces with X-Men’s Storm in her epic battle against the villain Magneto. Riders spin around in teacup-style vehicles, simulating Storm’s power to control the weather. It’s a high-energy, spinning ride that’s great for kids who love superheroes and enjoy mild, whirlwind-like attractions. While it’s thrilling, the ride is also manageable for younger guests, making it a fun choice for families with children who are fans of the X-Men series.

E.T Adventure 

Location: Universal Studios Florida

Height requirement: Minimum height is 34”

Thrill rating: 2.5/10

As the only original Universal ride left, this is one of the best Universal rides for kids. Guests of all ages join E.T. on a journey from Earth to the friendly alien’s home planet. While adults feel the nostalgia from the 1982 movie, the little ones will be in awe over their journey. This wholesome adventure makes for one of the best family rides at Universal Studios Orlando.

The Cat in the Hat 

Location: Islands of Adventure

Height requirement: Minimum height is 36”

Thrill rating: 2.0/10

The Cat in the Hat is a trendy ride that typically has a low wait time, which is great if you’re looking for the best Universal rides for kids. This ride is located in Seuss Landing, a themed land that is geared for the younger travelers in your party. With the familiar story of the zany Cat in the Hat, this ride is nostalgic, goofy, and fun. With quick spins, life-sized animatronics, and low wait times, it is a no-brainer-brainer that The Cat in the Hat ride is one of the best Universal rides for kids.

Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast

Location: Universal Studios Florida

Height requirement: No minimum height requirement

Thrill rating: 2.5/10

Join Illumination’s Minions, Belle Bottom, Jean Clawed, and the rest of the Vicious Six at Villain-Con as you aim for supervillain stardom. This fully interactive gaming experience is a new addition to the Universal Studios Orlando rides list. Use your E-Liminator X blaster to test your skills in a fun, interactive setting. This Universal Orlando ride is located in Illumination’s Minion Land at Universal Studios Florida and offers an enhanced gameplay experience through the Universal Orlando Resort app.

Trolls Trollercoaster

Location: Universal Studios Florida

Height requirement: Minimum height is 36”

Thrill rating: 4.0/10

The Trolls Trollercoaster is the perfect introduction roller coaster for kids visiting Universal Orlando who might be just too little to tackle some of the larger rides. It’s also located in the newest area of Universal Studios Florida, which is Dreamworks Land, and guests can also take advantage of two brand-new shows with one themed after Kung Fu Panda, play areas, and some amazing themed snacks.

The Flight of the Hippogriff 

Location: Islands of Adventure

Height requirement: Minimum height is 36”

Thrill rating: 4.0/10

This is a great beginner’s roller coaster for kids at least 36 inches tall (if you’re looking to get them into thrilling rides early). With incredible views of Hogsmeade and Hogwarts Castle, any Potter fan would agree that the Flight of the Hippogriff is a wonderful Universal ride for kids.

Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon 

Location: Universal Studios Florida

Height requirement: Minimum height is 40”

Thrill rating: 3.5/10

This is one of the newest Universal Orlando rides, and as long as you’re in New York, you might as well stop by and watch the Jimmy Fallon show with Hashtag the Panda and the Ragtime Gals. But once you sit, be prepared to race through, below, and above New York with Jimmy Fallon on a motion-simulator ride.

Transformers: The Ride 

Location: Universal Studios Florida

Height requirement: Minimum height is 40”

Thrill rating: 4.0/10

In this motion-simulation ride, you’ll be riding with classic transformers like Bumblebee and Optimus Prime (on the big screen in 3D) to save the planet from Megatron and his goons. Be prepared to be immersed in another world where the lines between fantasy and reality get blurry!

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem 

Location: Universal Studios Florida

Height requirement: Minimum height is 40”

Thrill rating: 3.5/10

On this motion-simulated ride, you are invited to join Gru, his daughters, and the minions on a wild ride through Gru’s house and laboratory. This ride starts with a fun pre-show guaranteed to keep all your family members entertained while you wait to hop aboard the actual ride. This is a wonderful Universal Studios Orlando ride for kids!

The Simpsons Ride

Location: Universal Studios Florida

Height requirement: Minimum height is 34”

Thrill rating: 4.0/10

This virtual reality roller coaster will take riders to Krustyland with the Simpson clan for a nice, fun day at the park. But it’s the Simpsons, so you know that something will go wrong, and Sideshow Bob is sure to see to that! Ride projections are displayed on a huge 80-foot dome to make sure you are surrounded by all of the action.

The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man 

Location: Islands of Adventure

Height requirement: Minimum height is 40”

Thrill rating: 4.5/10

Another kid-friendly ride at Universal is located on Marvel Super Hero Island. If you have a little superhero in your family, they will love this ride. As an honorary guest of your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, you travel through the streets of NYC and fight off our favorite villains. This ride is 4D and a ton of fun, making it a great kid-friendly Universal Orlando ride.

Epic Universe Kids Rides

Universal’s third Orlando theme park, Epic Universe, opened on May 22, 2025, and it brings an impressive array of family-friendly attractions across five themed worlds. Here’s what families with younger kids need to know.

Important: Most Epic Universe rides require guests to be at least 40 inches tall. Children under 48 inches must be accompanied by a supervising companion on all attractions. Child Swap is available at all Epic Universe rides, so one adult can wait with a smaller child while the rest of the group rides, then switch without re-queuing.

Constellation Carousel

Location: Epic Universe — Celestial Park

Height Requirement: None (children under 48″ must be with a supervising companion)

Thrill Rating: 1/10

The first thing you see when entering Epic Universe, this stunning carousel sits at the center of Celestial Park. Instead of horses, riders pick from constellation-themed animals — lions, dragons, peacocks, and bears. It’s a showstopper visually and a perfect first ride for the youngest Epic Universe visitors. No minimum height makes it one of the most accessible Epic Universe kids rides available.

Fyre Drill

Location: Epic Universe — How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk

Height Requirement: None (children under 48″ must be with a supervising companion)

Thrill Rating: 2.5/10

This interactive water boat ride puts teams of young Vikings in control of water cannons that can shoot up to 28 feet away. The goal? Blast flame-like targets throughout Berk — and very possibly other boats. It’s fun, competitive, and refreshing. Fair warning: you will get wet. Dress accordingly, or embrace it.

Yoshi’s Adventure

Location: Epic Universe — Super Nintendo World (Super Mario Land)

Height Requirement: 34 inches

Thrill Rating: 1.5/10

Making its U.S. debut at Epic Universe, Yoshi’s Adventure is a charming, slow-moving omnimover ride through the colorful Mushroom Kingdom. Riders hop aboard Yoshi vehicles and search for glowing eggs. It’s a gentle, visually dazzling experience — think the People Mover at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, but with Nintendo magic.

At just 34 inches, this is one of the most accessible Epic Universe rides for younger children. Go in expecting a relaxing, beautiful tour rather than thrills, and you’ll love it.

Pro Tip: Try to ride Yoshi’s Adventure early or late in the day. Wait times can stretch surprisingly long given how much families with young kids prioritize it.

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

Location: Epic Universe — Super Nintendo World (Super Mario Land)

Height Requirement: 40 inches

Thrill Rating: 3.5/10

One of the most technologically impressive family rides at Epic Universe. Guests enter through Bowser’s Castle, don a Mario hat and AR visor, and board a kart to race for Team Mario against Team Bowser. The ride fuses augmented reality, projection mapping, and elaborate physical sets to put you right inside a Mario Kart game — collecting coins, tossing shells, dodging obstacles. Every ride can yield a different score, giving it real replay value.

This is an absolute must for Nintendo fans of all ages, and at 40 inches it’s achievable for a wide range of kids.

Mine-Cart Madness

Location: Epic Universe — Super Nintendo World (Donkey Kong Country)

Height Requirement: 40 inches

Thrill Rating: 4/10

The U.S. debut of Universal’s “boom coaster” concept, Mine-Cart Madness sends riders hurtling through the Kongo Jungle to help Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong protect the Golden Banana. The ride’s standout trick: your mine cart appears to jump over gaps in broken track, thanks to a clever combination of a false visual track and the actual coaster track underneath. It’s jaw-dropping the first time it happens.

It is on the rougher side, so kids who are sensitive to bumpy rides should know what they’re getting into — but for most families, it’s a thrilling family coaster that earns its 40-inch requirement.

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders

Location: Epic Universe — How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk

Height Requirement: 40 inches

Thrill Rating: 3.5/10

Soar alongside Hiccup and Toothless on this family-friendly flying coaster through the skies of Berk. The ride keeps guests in an upright seated position and delivers sweeping views. It’s a great step up from the Trolls Trollercoaster or Flight of the Hippogriff for kids ready to go a bit further, and the How to Train Your Dragon theming is executed beautifully throughout.

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry

Location: Epic Universe — The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic

Height Requirement: 40 inches

Thrill Rating: 4/10

Set in 1990s wizarding Britain, this dark ride transports guests into the iconic Ministry of Magic for an all-out magical battle. Fans of the Harry Potter series will find it an incredible addition to Universal’s already beloved Wizarding World collection. At 40 inches, it’s appropriate for a wide range of kids, and the immersive queue through the Ministry is an attraction in itself.

Curse of the Werewolf

Location: Epic Universe — Dark Universe

Height Requirement: 40 inches

Thrill Rating: 4/10

This spinning roller coaster sends riders fleeing through dark forests as they try to escape a pack of werewolves. It reaches 37 mph, fits four riders per car, and offers a moderate level of thrill — more intense than the family coasters but not extreme. Reviewers describe it as a fun middle ground that most kids at 40 inches can handle, though those prone to dizziness should prepare for the spinning.

Related Post: Epic Universe Rides

Universal Orlando Rides for Kids FAQ

Does Universal Orlando have kid-friendly rides?

As discussed, Universal Orlando currently has six kid-friendly rides that do not require a minimum height requirement and eight other rides that are suitable for families traveling with young children who are at least 40 inches tall. This doesn’t include some of the very popular Universal Orlando shows, which families can also take advantage of, as well as exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Which Universal Orlando park is more kid-friendly?

In our opinion, Universal Studios Florida has the more family-friendly rides, with eight of the fourteen on our list being located in this park, including the new Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, and we also have the Dreamworks land. This park also has three additional shows that families visiting with young children can use.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We break down the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you’re ready to plan your trip to Universal Studios, be sure to check out Universal Orlando Tickets! Not only will you save money vs. buying directly, but all of our Universal Orlando tickets come with some amazing benefits that can help save you up to three hours in the parks!