A Toddler’s Guide to “it’s a small world” in Magic Kingdom
Originally designed as part of the 1964 -1965 New York World’s Fair, “it’s a small world” became an instant success. It would go on to open at Disneyland in 1966, and was ultimately recreated for the opening day of Walt Disney World in 1971. Since then, “it’s a small world” has remained a fan favorite amongst the millions of people visiting Magic Kingdom each year. In this post, I’ll share some additional details about the ride and why it quickly became one of my tots’ favorites rides as well!
Much like other Disney attractions, strollers are not permitted in the queue. There are several stroller parking locations throughout Fantasyland that you can choose from. Typically, we park our stroller near the Prince Charming Regal Carousel and walk a short distance to the ride. The queue itself is long; built to accommodate high crowd levels. I often find that wait times vary throughout the day, so if the line looks long you can always try returning later in the day. It is also worth mentioning that this is a Lightning Lane attraction.. The line for “it’s a small world” is covered from the sun, which is very beneficial in the hot Florida summers. As you get farther into the queue, you’ll also start to feel the air conditioning more, which makes it a great option for taking a break from the heat or if it starts to rain you can duck into line.
The ride vehicles are boats with rows of bench style seating that you will need to step down into. There are no restraints, so any little ones needing to lap sit should be fairly comfortable. There’s plenty of space on the floor to place any bags that you might have. A word of caution, the water level is pretty close to the edge of the boat. If you allow your little one to sit on the end, ensure they won’t be tempted to stand or put their hand in the water, as this is not permitted. With that being said, you will begin your approximately 10 minute slow moving boat ride journey guided by audio-animatronic figures singing what is probably one of the most recognizable songs “It’s a Small World (After All)”. There are children represented from 7 different continents wearing authentic, hand made costumes. As you progress on the ride, you’ll hear that they all sing the same song in different languages. That was Walt’s idea; by the end of the ride you realize, “it’s a small world afterall”.
My kids (ages 4 ½ and 22 months) absolutely love going on this ride. The colors are bright, the song is catchy and it’s going just the right speed where you get a chance to really look at all the details big and small as you pass by. My older son loved the animals, the hot air balloons and the ferris wheel. It really is such a cute ride and there is so much to look at. Without a height requirement, it’s a great ride option for the whole family!
Final Thoughts
“It’s a small world” is a classic for a reason. I remember going on it with my parents when I was little, so it’s really special for me to now be able to take my own kids on it too. Your little ones will love the bright colors, seeing the children from all around the world and listening to the classic song that’s being sung in different languages. With a covered queue, air conditioning and a 10 minute ride time, it also makes for a great choice to take a break and cool off. I hope your family finds this ride as magical as mine does!