You Go, Then I Go

Ultimate Disney World Rider Swap Guide

Are you heading to Disney World? Do you have a little one in your group who may be a wee bit short for some attractions? Then you’ve come to the right spot! I’m here to give you the lowdown on all things around Disney World Rider swap!

Disney World Attractions by Height

What’s Disney World Rider Swap?

Disney World is an oasis of family fun, but not all rides are designed for every age. For those moments when you’re eyeing that mega roller coaster but your toddler can’t join, there’s the Rider Swap. It lets groups with tiny tots take turns on the larger attractions, ensuring no one misses out.

Who’s it For?

Rider Swap is perfect if your group falls into one of these categories:

Scenario One

Your kiddo doesn’t meet the height requirement.

Scenario Two

They’re tall enough but would rather skip the ride and can’t stay alone.

PRO TIP : Have a mini-plan for the waiting group. Maybe it’s a snack break or a nearby smaller ride. It turns waiting into part of the fun!

Disney World Rider Swap: Step-by-Step

  • At participating rides, find Cast Members (often with iPads) at the entrance.
  • Split your group into two. Group 1 will ride while Group 2 chills with the non-rider.
  • Both groups should approach the entrance Cast Member. Group 2 will get a special Rider Switch pass in the “My Disney Experience” app.
  • Group 1 takes the plunge! Meanwhile, Group 2 can indulge in some Disney snacks or catch a nearby mini-show.
  • Once Group 1 finishes, it’s swap time! Group 2 hops on the ride using the Lightning Lane queue. Remember to validate your Rider Switch via your MagicBand or app.

Where Can You Swap?

Mainly on rides with height restrictions, here’s a list by park:

Magic Kingdom
  • The Barnstormer
  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
  • Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
  • Space Mountain (under refurbishment)
  • Tomorrowland Speedway
  • Tron Lightcycle Power Run
EPCOT
  • Frozen Ever After
  • Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
  • Mission: SPACE
  • Soarin’
  • Test Track
Hollywood Studios
  • Alien Swirling Saucers
  • Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
  • Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster
  • Slinky Dog Dash
  • Star Tours
  • Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
  • Tower of Terror
Animal Kingdom
  • Avatar Flight of Passage
  • DINOSAUR
  • Expedition Everest
  • Kali River Rapids
  • Na’vi River Journey

Frequently Asked Questions

Genie+ and Rider Swap

Good news! You don’t need Genie+ for Rider Swap. However, if you’ve got it, Group 1 can zip through using the Lightning Lane, saving precious Disney time.

What About Rise of the Resistance?

Absolutely, you can use Rider Swap! But if you want the full speedy Lightning Lane experience for everyone, you’ll need to purchase individual reservations. Remember, Disney keeps an eagle eye, so no cheeky shortcuts!

Time Commitment

Using Rider Swap might add a bit to your wait time, with some rides taking up to 45 minutes or more for both groups. Remember, it’s all about the experience, not the clock!

Double the Fun!

With Rider Swap, one lucky member might ride twice. If Group 2’s adult is solo, they can bring a guest from Group 1. So, maybe your older child can enjoy the thrill twice while sharing the moment with both parents.

Ready, Set, Ride!

Adventure awaits, Disney vacationers! Enjoy every moment, whether you’re on the ride or sharing giggles with your tiny tots in the waiting line. Remember, it’s the magic that counts.

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!

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