TRON Lightcycle Run is the newest thrill ride and roller coaster in Magic Kingdom Park officially opening on April 4, 2023. However, soft openings and previews have already started. I have been able to ride 5 times and compare it to other rides at Disney World. Is TRON Lightcycle / Run kid friendly? Here’s what parents need to know in this Parents Guide to TRON / Lightcycle Run.
Is TRON Lightcycle Run Kid Friendly?
TRON Lightcycle Run is not too dark of a ride, but it does move fast, and will not be for all kids. With a fast launch, some mild drops, and some intensity, kids who are not thrill seekers may want to skip TRON at Magic Kingdom.
TRON is considered a roller coaster, but there are no loops or large drops, but it can be intense for younger kids.
TRON Lightcycle Run is based off the 2010 film TRON: Legacy, the sequel to TRON. The story of the ride is you’re basically leaving the real world behind and joining Team Blue in an epic quest across the Grid—the dark, computerized world with no horizons from TRON.
You board a Lightcycle, which is basically a motorcycle type vehicle, and race against the Grid’s most menacing Programs. You have to attempt to cross through 8 Energy Gates and secure your team’s victory—so you can survive to race another day.
If you haven’t seen the Tron films, then you may not get the purpose of the story. Either way, the queue and ride are very cool. Kids may just think it’s one big glow party.
What is the Height Requirement for TRON Lightcycle Run?
The height requirement for TRON Lightcycle Run is 48 inches tall, so little ones and preschoolers most likely will not be able to ride. But I’ve known some really tall preschoolers.
Is TRON Lightcycle Run Too Scary For Kids?
TRON Lightcycle Run is not really scary, but it is fast, and you go up high, so some kids may be scared. However, the ride is really short, so by the time you notice, it’s over. There is a front launch like in Rock ‘n Roller Coaster that is quick, and it feels more intense in the front row. If you want less intensity for kids, then don’t pick the front row. Here are some more TRON secret tips for when you ride.
There are no creepy elements, but most of the queue is dark with glow lights. The music is kinda upbeat which lightens the mood, but I could see how the anticipation could start building up for some kids. Some will think the lightcycles are so cool to ride, but there’s also a moment when you’re locked it and it’s not totally tight on you, and you think um is this thing really locked (it is).
You know your kids, so proceed with caution.
Also there aren’t really strobe lights, but there are some flashing lights during the ride.
Does TRON Lightcycle Run Have Big Drops or Go Upside Down?
TRON Lightcycle Run does not go upside down and does not have any major drops like Splash Mountain, but there are some minor drops. It doesn’t necessarily make your stomach drop but you can catch a little air.
On an intensity level, I would say it’s less kid friendly than Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, but more kid friendly than Expedition Everest.
Is TRON Lightcycle Run OK for Kids Under 8?
TRON Lightcycle Run is a good mid roller coaster for kids ages 8 and up who like some thrill. If your kids don’t like fast, then this is not the ride for them. TRON is defined as a roller coaster, but it doesn’t feel like a roller coaster if that makes sense.
Roller coasters to me mean big drops, maybe going upside down, combined with speed. TRON Lightcycle Run definitely has the speed and you feel as if you could be approaching a drop, but then the ride slows down, as does the intensity.
Age recommendations are also just a recommendation. I have thrill seekers at 4 years old and 12-year-olds who hate going fast. You know your kids best, but if it’s your fist time to Disney World, I wouldn’t start with this coaster.
Overall, this ride is a super fun addition to Magic Kingdom! It has enough thrill to satisfy thrill seekers, but it isn’t so intense that if you don’t love roller coasters (like me) that you can’t enjoy it. I rode it 3 times in a row, because it was that fun. I did feel a little dizzy after that 3rd time, but not really motion sick on TRON.
Welcome to the Grid! Also, don’t forget when TRON Lightcycle Run opens, it will not have a standy queue. Here’s how to score a Boarding Group and ride TRON.
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