Many families don’t search for “non-scary rides.”
They search for “Is this ride scary?”
This guide ranks popular Orlando theme park rides by fear level to help you decide before getting in line.

My youngest might be the most timid theme park rider I have ever met. We love to go to Orlando every January to escape the New England gloom, and we always visit one theme park. 

For the first few years, my son hated it! He wouldn’t go on rides, and whined and complained the whole time. Then I convinced him to go on the Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon, and he loved it!  

From then on, I compared all the rides to Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon, and he could decide whether to ride or not. 

If you have timid riders, this post is for you!

In this article, we’ll explore the best theme park rides for timid riders in Orlando. Whether you’re traveling with young children or simply prefer a more relaxed pace, we’ve got you covered. You’ll learn about the different types of rides available and which ones are best suited for those who prefer a gentler experience. So grab your sunscreen and get ready to enjoy all the fun that Orlando has to offer without the fear factor.

Understanding Theme Park Rides

If you’re a timid rider, the thought of riding a roller coaster or other thrill ride can be intimidating. However, understanding the different types of rides and their intensity levels can help you choose the best ones for your comfort level.

Ride Intensity Levels

Most theme parks classify their rides into categories based on their intensity levels. These categories can vary from park to park, but they generally include the following:

• Kiddie Rides: These rides are designed for young children and are usually slow-moving and gentle.
• Family Rides: These rides are suitable for riders of all ages and tend to be less intense than thrill rides.
• Thrill Rides: These rides are designed to be exciting and intense, with high speeds, steep drops, and other thrilling elements.
• Extreme Thrill Rides: These rides are the most intense and extreme, with high speeds, steep drops, and other extreme elements.

Ride Types

In addition to intensity levels, rides can also be classified by their type. Some common ride types include:

• Roller Coasters: These rides feature a track with steep drops, twists, and turns.
• Water Rides: These rides involve boats or rafts traveling through water, often with drops or other thrilling elements.
• Dark Rides: These rides take place indoors and involve special effects and animatronics.
• Simulators: These rides simulate a variety of experiences, such as flying or driving. (So many rides today are these type!)

Choosing the Right Theme Park Ride

When choosing a ride, consider your comfort level and any physical limitations you may have. Start with less intense rides and work up to more thrilling experiences as you become more comfortable. Don’t be afraid to ask ride operators for more information about a ride’s intensity level or any safety concerns you may have. Remember, the goal is to have fun and enjoy your time at the theme park!

Ranking Theme Park Rides

I will be ranking these non-scary theme park rides from 1-5.

• 1 means that it is a simple track or similar experience. There are no drops or quick turns.
• 5 means that while this is still a non-scary ride there are some quick turns and a few drops. You will want to work up to these rides with a timid rider.

I am not ranking any roller coasters or rides that my timid child didn’t or wouldn’t like.  They are all fairly simple rides. However, I will list if the ride could make you have motion sickness.

Magic Kingdom: Gentle Thrills

If you’re a timid rider, the Magic Kingdom has plenty of gentle thrills to offer. From classic attractions to newer additions, you will find a ride for you.

It’s a Small World

Is It’s a Small World scary?

No. This ride is not scary at all. It’s a slow-moving boat ride with gentle music and no surprises.

What timid riders should know

• No drops or fast movement

• Bright scenes and calm pacing

• Can feel long for very young kids

Fear level: ? (1 out of 5)

Peter Pan’s Flight

Is Peter Pan’s Flight scary?

Peter Pan’s Flight is not scary, but it does take place in the dark and feels like you’re flying.

What timid riders should know

• The ride is dark

• You are suspended from above, which can feel high

• No drops or sudden movements

Fear level: ? (1 out of 5)

 

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

Is Seven Dwarfs Mine Train scary?

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is not scary for most riders, but it does have a few small drops and gentle turns. It’s designed as a family coaster and is often a child’s first step beyond slow rides.

What timid riders should know

• There are drops, but they are short and smooth

• The ride moves quickly at times, but never feels extreme

• It goes through a dark tunnel, which can surprise some kids

Fear level: ??? (3 out of 5)
Best for timid riders who are ready to try something a little faster.

EPCOT: Exploratory Adventures

If you’re a timid rider, EPCOT is the perfect park for you. This park is all about exploring the world and learning new things. There are plenty of rides and attractions that are perfect for the more cautious among us.

Soarin’ Around the World

Is Soarin’ scary?

Soarin’ is not scary, but it can feel intense if you’re sensitive to heights. There are no drops, spins, or sudden movements — the intensity comes from the flying sensation.

What timid riders should know

• You are lifted into the air, which can feel high

• The ride gently sways but stays very smooth

• The large screen can make it feel more intense than it is

Fear level: ?? (2 out of 5)
A good choice for cautious riders who don’t mind simulator-style rides.

If you have ever ridden on a Fly Over Experience, it is very similar.

You are strapped into a row of seats, and there is a little bit of back-and-forth movement.

Spaceship Earth

Is Spaceship Earth scary?

No. This is a very calm and slow ride, even though much of it is in the dark.

What timid riders should know

• Slow-moving track

• Mostly dark scenes

• No drops or surprises

Fear level: ? (1 out of 5)

Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Immersive Experiences

If you’re looking for immersive experiences at a theme park, look no further than Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This park transports you to different worlds and makes you feel like you’re part of the action.

Toy Story Mania!

Is Toy Story Mania scary?

Toy Story Mania is not scary, but it does involve spinning and fast screen movement.

What timid riders should know

• Vehicles spin between games

• Bright screens and loud sounds

• Can cause motion sickness

Fear level: ?? (2 out of 5)

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Is Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway scary?

This ride is not scary, but it can feel a bit overwhelming for timid riders due to fast scene changes, loud music, and screen effects.

What timid riders should know

• The ride is trackless and moves unexpectedly

• Some scenes feel faster than they actually are

• It can be dark at times, but it stays playful and cartoon-like

Fear level: ??½ (2.5 out of 5)
Great for timid riders who enjoy cartoons and don’t mind visual effects.

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Is Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run scary?

This ride is not scary, but it can feel intense because of motion simulation.

What timid riders should know

• Screen-based flying simulation

• Can feel fast

• No real drops

Fear level: ??? (3 out of 5)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Chill Animal Encounters

If you’re a timid rider, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has plenty of mild excursions to enjoy. Here are some of the best rides to check out:

Na’vi River Journey

Is Na’vi River Journey scary?

Na’vi River Journey is not scary at all. It’s a slow, peaceful boat ride with no drops, no sudden movements, and no surprises.

What timid riders should know

• The ride is dark but very calm

• There are no drops or fast moments

• The focus is on scenery, music, and atmosphere

Fear level: ? (1 out of 5)
One of the best rides for very timid riders or first-time park visitors.

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Is Kilimanjaro Safaris scary?

Not scary, but the ride can be bumpy.

What timid riders should know

• Feels like riding in a truck

• Sudden stops possible

• Animals roam nearby

Fear level: ? (1 out of 5)

TriceraTop Spin

Is TriceraTop Spin scary?

It depends on how you ride it.

What timid riders should know

• You control how high you go

• Can be gentle like a carousel

• Optional up-and-down motion

Fear level: ? to ???? (1–4 out of 5, rider controlled)

Similar to the classic Dumbo ride, TriceraTop Spin lets you soar through the air on a gentle spin. You’ll be riding on the back of a Triceratops, perfect for kids and adults who want a mild thrill.

Universal Studios: Light Entertainment

If you’re a timid rider, Universal Studios is the perfect place for you to enjoy a day of light entertainment. This theme park is known for its movie-themed attractions, which offer a range of experiences for all ages and thrill levels.

Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon

Is the Jimmy Fallon ride scary?

This ride is not scary, but it can cause motion sickness. There are no drops or real speed — everything is simulated with screens and seat movement.

What timid riders should know

• The ride stays in one place the entire time

• The screen moves quickly, which can feel intense

• It’s loud and energetic, but meant to be funny, not frightening

Fear level: ?? (2 out of 5)
This is a great “test ride” to see how someone handles simulators.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Ride

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Is Despicable Me Minion Mayhem scary?

Not scary, but very jostly.

What timid riders should know

• Simulator ride

• Stationary seating is calmer

• Can feel like small drops

Fear level: ????? (5 out of 5 for motion sensitivity)

Another great option for timid riders is the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride. This 3D simulator ride takes you on a wild adventure with Gru and his minions but without any big drops or intense thrills.

I would recommend that your timid riders opt for the stationary seats at the front. This will help avoid the feeling of drops and spins.

I rate this a 5 if you do the traditional seating. It is still a tame ride, but you will be jostled around a lot and surely feel sick when finished.

Men in Black: Alien Attack

Is Men in Black scary?

Not scary, but fast and spin-heavy.

What timid riders should know

• Spinning vehicles

• Dark ride

• Loud noises

Fear level: ???? (4 out of 5)

The “Men in Black: Alien Attack” ride at Universal Studios Florida is an interactive ride inspired by the “Men in Black” film

During the ride, guests board a vehicle equipped with laser guns and are recruited to become MIB agents tasked with defeating an alien invasion. The experience involves riding through a New York City street set, where riders encounter various animatronic alien creatures. Guests compete for points by aiming and shooting at targets throughout the ride.

While “Men in Black: Alien Attack” is dark and fast-paced, with spinning vehicles and sudden movements, it’s intended to entertain rather than scare.

I rate this a 4. This ride is really fun, but it spins around a lot! While it is a great ride for timid riders, you won’t want to this one first!

Islands of Adventure: Calm Discoveries

If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience at Universal Orlando Resort, then the Islands of Adventure has some great options for you. Here are some of the best rides for timid riders:

Flight of the Hippogriff

Flight of the Hippogriff

Is Flight of the Hippogriff scary?

This is a very mild roller coaster.

What timid riders should know

• Short coaster

• Small drops

• Over quickly

Fear level: ????? (5 out of 5 — mild coaster)

This roller coaster is perfect for those who want a taste of thrill without going overboard. It’s a short ride that takes you through Hagrid’s pumpkin patch and past his hut. The coaster has a maximum speed of 28 mph and a height of only 13 feet, making it a great option for those who are new to roller coasters.

I would rate this a 5. It is a roller coaster, but a very easy one. If you or your child is ready to try a “grown-up” rollercoaster, this is perfect.

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The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!

Is the Seuss Trolley Train Ride scary?

Not scary, but it is high off the ground.

What timid riders should know

• Slow-moving

• Elevated track

• No drops

Fear level: ?? (2 out of 5)

This ride takes you on a tour of Seuss Landing, giving you a bird’s eye view of all the colorful attractions. It’s a slow-moving ride that’s perfect for all ages. The ride is also wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for those with mobility issues.

I would rate this a 2. The ride is slow and easy, but it is raised off the ground, so it may be scary to those afraid of heights.

Hogwarts Express

Is the Hogwarts Express scary?

No. This is a calm, seated train ride.

What timid riders should know

• Screen-based windows

• No movement or drops

• Very relaxing

Fear level: ? (1 out of 5)

The Hogwarts Express at Universal Orlando Resort is not a scary ride. This attraction, which connects Universal Studios Florida with Universal’s Islands of Adventure, faithfully recreates the magical train from the Harry Potter series. Guests can board the train at either King’s Cross Station in the London area of Universal Studios or Hogsmeade Station in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure.

The ride is designed to be a pleasant and immersive experience for Harry Potter fans, simulating the journey that characters in the series take between London and Hogsmeade. During the ride, passengers are treated to views of the British countryside and magical elements from the Harry Potter world through the train’s windows, which are actually high-resolution screens.

I would rate this ride as a 1. No sudden drops, high speeds, or intense special effects typically characterize thrill rides. It’s a great opportunity for fans to relax and enjoy the transition between the two Harry Potter-themed lands at Universal Orlando Resort.

SeaWorld Orlando: Relaxing Encounters

If you’re a timid rider looking for a more relaxing theme park experience, SeaWorld Orlando has plenty of options. Here are some of the best rides and attractions that are perfect for the faint of heart:

Dolphin Nursery

Is Dolphin Nursery scary?

No. This is a walk-through animal experience.

What timid riders should know

• No ride vehicles

• Calm environment

• Only scary if you’re afraid of dolphins

Fear level: ? (1 out of 5)

The Dolphin Nursery is a great place to relax and watch the playful dolphins swim around. You can get up close and personal with these intelligent creatures and even learn more about them from the knowledgeable staff. This is a great attraction for all ages, especially those wanting a more laid-back experience.

This is rated a 1. The only chance it could scare someone is if they are afraid of dolphins.

Turtle Trek

Is Turtle Trek scary?

No. This is more of a movie experience than a ride.

What timid riders should know

• Stationary seating

• 3D visuals

• Very educational

Fear level: ? (1 out of 5)

Turtle Trek is a 3D movie experience that takes you “underwater”. You’ll learn about the life cycle of sea turtles and the challenges they face in the wild. This attraction is perfect for those who want to learn more about marine life and enjoy a relaxing, air-conditioned break from the Florida heat.

This is rated a 1. This is much more movie than ride, but it is a super great way to learn about sea turtles.

Tips for a Stress-Free Park Visit

Going to a theme park can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming for timid riders. Here are some tips to help make your park visit stress-free:

Plan Ahead

Before you go, research the park and its rides. Look up ride descriptions, height requirements, and thrill levels to get an idea of what you might want to ride. This will help you avoid wasting time and energy on rides that you won’t enjoy.

Arrive Early

Arriving early can help you avoid long lines and crowded areas. This will give you more time to explore the park and ride the attractions without feeling rushed.

Take Breaks

Don’t try to do everything at once. Take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. You can grab a snack, sit down and relax, or explore some of the park’s non-ride attractions.

Use FastPass or Express Lane

Many parks offer a FastPass or Express Lane option that allows you to skip the regular line and ride the attraction with little to no wait time. This can be a great option for timid riders who don’t want to spend too much time waiting in line.

Bring a Friend

Bringing a friend or family member can help ease your nerves and make the experience more enjoyable. You can ride together and provide each other with support and encouragement.

Wear Comfortable Clothes and Shoes

Make sure you wear comfortable clothes and shoes. They should be appropriate for the weather and the type of activities you’ll be doing.

This will help you feel more relaxed and comfortable throughout the day.

Following these tips can help you have a stress-free and enjoyable park visit, even if you’re a timid rider.