What Is Rider Switch and How Do You Use It?
- Angelica Lynn
- Aug 19
- 2 min read
Visiting Disney Parks with young kids who may not meet height requirements—or simply don’t want to ride certain attractions—can make planning a Disney trip a bit tricky. I asked myself many times, "How can adults do big Disney rides with a baby?" when my daughter was little and I was dying to go on Indiana Jones!
Then I learned this trick. Disney's Rider Switch is here to help families enjoy thrill rides without having to wait in line twice. Here’s a quick and easy breakdown of how it works, so you can make the most of your park day.
Table of Contents:
🪄 What Is Rider Switch?
Rider Switch is a system that allows one part of your group to ride an attraction while another part waits with a Guest who can’t (or doesn’t want to) ride. Then, the waiting group can board the attraction without waiting in the regular line.
Perfect for families with young children and infants or Guests with special needs!
🚶 Step-by-Step: How Rider Switch Works
1. Let a Cast Member Know: When your full group arrives at the attraction, tell a Cast Member you’d like to use Rider Switch. Everyone must be present for this step.
2. Split Into Two Groups: Your group will divide like this:
Party A (usually the first riders) enters the regular queue.
Party B waits outside the line (up to 2 Guests can ride next).
3. Get Scanned: The Cast Member will scan the admission tickets or MagicBands of Party B and explain where to return when it’s their turn to ride.
💡 Pro Tip: Use this waiting time to grab a snack, rest in the shade, or enjoy a nearby activity!
4. Switch & Ride: Once Party A finishes the ride, Party B heads to the Rider Switch return entrance.
5. Skip the Line: Party B will have their tickets re-scanned and be able to ride without waiting in the standard queue—saving time and avoiding double lines!
🎢 Which Rides Offer Rider Switch?
Not all attractions have Rider Switch, but many height-restricted or thrill rides do. Just ask a Cast Member or check the Disneyland app, Walt Disney World app, or website for a current list.
Additionally, you can download these Rider Switch ride lists below or save them to your Disney Planning Pinterest Board!
🧒 Why Families Use Rider Switch
Everyone gets a chance to ride
Avoids repeat long waits
Keeps little ones happy and safe
Efficient use of time while in the parks
With Rider Switch, everyone in your group gets the chance to ride their favorite attractions—without missing out or waiting twice. It’s just one more reason Disney makes park visits extra family-friendly!
If you're planning a Disney trip with young kids, let me help you for free! As a mom myself and a Disney travel professional, I specialize in planning and organizing Disney trips that are as stress-free as possible. Leave the booking anxieties to me and we'll create your family's dream vacation with no extra costs for my planning help!
