The Rides That Couldn’t Handle My Thighs at Disneyland Paris

‘Just pull the restraint down until it clicks.”
Cool, except… it didn’t.

If you’re worried about ride seats, restaurant chairs, or feeling out of place at Disneyland Paris, here’s the brutally honest guide from someone who’s been there and got wedged in turnstiles and kicked off rides in the process.

When I first visited as a UK size 26–28 (5ft5), I was nervous. I’d gained weight during lockdown, and I couldn’t shake the fear that I wouldn’t fit on the rides — or worse, that I’d be asked to get off mid-boarding.

And while I did have to get off Hyperspace Mountain (and skipped a couple of others), the reality was much kinder than I’d expected.

I returned last week as a UK size 16–18, but I brought my former mindset with me — and I’ve updated this guide with everything I wish I’d known back then.

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This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book something through them—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend things I’ve personally used or think will genuinely help you plan a smoother trip.

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💬 Join the “Plus Sized at DLP” Facebook group

Rides & Restraints

Some rides at Disneyland Paris were totally fine. Others took a bit more planning—or just weren’t workable for me at the time. Here’s how I found each one, based on seat size, restraints, and overall comfort.

Crush’s Coaster

This was the least plus-size-friendly ride in my experience. The seats are tight, and the lap bar presses hard if you carry weight around your stomach.

When I was a size 26–28, I didn’t even attempt it — just looking at the setup stressed me out. But on my most recent trip as a size 16–18, it was absolutely fine. I didn’t panic, didn’t feel squashed, and I got on and off without a fuss.

The turnstiles were pretty generous on this one too, and I’ll pop a few photos below to give you a better idea of what to expect — though heads up, they’re a little blurry because it all moves so fast.

That said, if you’re tall, have thick thighs and a big bum, or carry weight in your lower tummy like I used to, you might find it a squeeze.

A couple of tips if you want to give it a go: cross your ankles before the lap bar comes down, and push your bum right back into the seat.

The ride loads on a moving platform (which isn’t ideal when you’re trying to wiggle into place), but you can always ask the Cast Member to stop it if you’re nervous. They’re super helpful and used to these kinds of requests.

Indiana Jones

This one was also on the snug side. The seats are narrow, there’s not much legroom, and the lap bar needs to click down to a certain point before the ride can dispatch.

I’ve ridden in both the front and back rows, and there’s really no difference in space — both have a fairly big step up into the cart, very limited legroom, and slim seats with overhead restraints.

The turnstile before boarding was surprisingly wide — no issues there at all.

But there are quite a few steps up to the loading platform, so keep that in mind if you’ve got mobility concerns or just need to pace yourself.

On my recent trip as a UK size 16–18, I was totally fine. I didn’t feel uncomfortable or restricted, but I did notice the lack of breathing room once the bar came down.

Looking back, I probably would have attempted it at a UK size 22–24 (though I’d have mentally prepared for a squeeze). At a UK size 26–28, I likely would’ve turned back at the cart — it’s doable for some, but not the most forgiving of rides.

Hyperspace Mountain

This one can be tricky depending on how you carry your weight. At a UK size 22–24, I was able to ride (just about), though it took a solid push from Callum to get the harness to click — and it wasn’t exactly comfortable.

When I returned at a size 26–28, it didn’t work. I carry most of my weight in my stomach, and the restraint sits low across your stomach and chest, which made it impossible to close, even with help from two Cast Members.

They were kind and discreet about it, and offered me a FastPass for another ride, which really helped take the sting out of the moment.

Most recently, at a size 16–18, I fit with no issues — same body shape, just less of me, and the harness clicked into place without any drama.

Turnstile-wise, this one was absolutely fine — no issues getting through.

💡 Tip: Row 9 tends to have a bit more space. If you have a larger torso or chest, it may still feel snug. Cast Members will do their best to assist, but the restraint does need to fully click for safety.

Avengers Flight Force

The turnstiles are a bit narrower here, but manageable. Once past those, it’s absolutely fine.

The over-the-shoulder harness clicks into place as it comes down, so it doesn’t press hard on your stomach or chest the way Hyperspace Mountain does.

The back row of each cart offers the most wiggle room — I had no issues at size 26–28 and found it surprisingly comfortable.

RC Racer

I didn’t go on this one (pirate ship-style rides are not my thing), but Callum did — and gave me the full rundown.

Each car has one orange seat designed for larger guests. It’s not clearly labelled, so it’s worth asking a Cast Member about it as you board.

The overhead restraint clicks into place as it comes down, which means it adjusts to your size rather than needing to lock at a specific notch.

The turnstiles are a little on the snug side, which seems to be a bit of a theme in Walt Disney Studios, but nothing unmanageable.

Callum (Men’s UK size M) said that based on what he saw, I wouldn’t have had an issue even at my biggest (UK 26–28).

He didn’t manage to grab any photos this time — he rode with our 9-year-old niece and was too busy helping settle her nerves (bless him).

Star Tours

This one was a breeze when I was UK size 26–28. The turnstiles are wide, the seats are roomy, and the seatbelts have plenty of give. I managed to grab a photo of the seatbelt on my trip last week.

It’s one of the more plus-size-friendly rides all around — no squeezing, no awkward shuffling, just hop in and enjoy the galaxy.

Tower of Terror

This one has slightly tighter turnstiles — I needed a gentle push from Callum to get through at a UK size 26–28 — but once you’re in, it’s smooth sailing.

The seats are wide, the seatbelts are generous, and there’s plenty of room to get comfy.

I’d recommend sitting next to someone you know and aiming for a wall seat if you can — it’s the first square of each row, closest to the elevator. It’ll make sense once you are there!

You do get lifted out of your seat quite a bit on this ride, so a bit of moral support (and something to lean against) helps.

👉 A quick heads-up: if you’re directed to the elevator on the left-hand side after the turnstiles, be prepared to walk up two flights of stairs. If mobility is a concern, the right-hand side elevators are on ground level, so feel free to ask a Cast Member if you need that option.

Big Thunder Mountain

This one’s been closed the last couple of times we visited, so I haven’t ridden it recently — but when I last went on as a UK Size 22–24, it was totally fine.

The lap bar closes to the largest rider, so if you’re sitting next to someone much smaller (like I was with Callum), they might feel like they’re about to take off.
It gave us a good laugh at the time, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re sharing a row.

🔧 The ride is currently under renovation, so it’s unclear if the restraints will be updated when it reopens. I’ll update this section once I’ve had the chance to ride it again!

Rides with Seatbelts or No Restraints

• Ratatouille – Trackless ride with wide bench seating and no restraints.
• It’s a Small World – Gentle boat ride, bench seating, no lap bar.
• Storybook Boats – No restraint, but watch the moving platform when boarding.
• Pirates of the Caribbean – Bench-style boat ride, no restraints, just hang on during the drops.
• Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin – Generous seatbelt, super tight turnstile (I struggled as a UK 26–28). You can ask to go through the accessible gate.
• Parachute Drop – Wide seatbelt and open design, no issues here.

• Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast – Simple lap bar that adjusts, but tight turnstile — I needed a discreet push to get through at my biggest.
• Teacups – No restraints, but it’s a tight squeeze once inside the cup. Shimmy sideways if needed.
• Cars Road Trip – No restraints, huge turnstiles.
• Cars Rally – Seatbelt on this one, and the seats are TINY with no leg room. I struggled to do the belt up as a UK 16-18.
• Web Slinger – Lap bar with lots of space.

Rides with Generous or Adjustable Lap Bars

• Snow White – Lap bar adjusts well, but turnstile is tight.
• Peter Pan’s Flight – Comfy lap bar, but tight turnstile again.
• Pinocchio – Generous lap bar, but also has a narrow turnstile.
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant – Spacious seating.

• Aladdin’s Flying Carpets – Wide seats and no issues with the lap bar.
• Casey Jr. Circus Train – Lap bar adjusts fine, but ask not to be seated in a “cage” cart as space is tighter in those.
• Phantom Manor – Lap bar lowers to fit, roomy doom buggies, no turnstile issues.

Turnstiles Can Be Tight (But There’s Help)

Most of the park is easy to move around, but a few of the turnstiles are surprisingly narrow — and they definitely caught me off guard when I was a UK size 26–28.

Buzz Lightyear, Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin, Stitch Live, and Pinocchio had the snuggest ones. At Stitch, I couldn’t get through at all, but the Cast Members were lovely and let me in through the accessible gate with no fuss.

If you’re ever worried about getting stuck, just ask. I often went through sideways, stood on tiptoes, or got a gentle push from Callum. Not always graceful, but it worked — and it never ruined the day.

💡 Update: I’ve added a video of me going through the Dumbo turnstile on my most recent visit — the first time I’ve been back since losing 11 stone. It felt like such a milestone moment, and I hope it helps give you a clearer idea of the space if you’re feeling unsure.

Walking, Queueing & Staying Comfortable

Disneyland Paris is bigger than it looks. On my last trip, I clocked nearly 30,000 steps a day without even trying—which was fine until my feet decided they’d had enough.

Comfy shoes are essential. I wore my trusty Asics and still felt it by the end. If you’re thinking about breaking in a new pair at the park… don’t.

When it comes to queues, some of them are tight and winding, especially in older rides. If you start to feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable, Cast Members are happy to offer alternate entry routes—just ask.

I’ve also seen people using those clever little telescopic stools so they can rest their feet during long waits. I don’t have one yet, but it’s very much on my next-trip packing list.

There are plenty of benches dotted around the parks too. Don’t feel bad about stopping to take a break—you’ll last longer and enjoy the day more if you pace yourself.

Dining Comfortably at Disneyland Paris

This was one area I didn’t have to think twice about. Every place I ate—whether it was a sit-down restaurant, a speedy snack, or a quick service spot—had sturdy, metal-framed chairs that felt solid and secure.
Not once did I worry about flimsy plastic or awkward squeezing.

If you’re unsure about seating when you arrive, just speak to a Cast Member. They’re more than happy to help you find a table that works, and I never once felt uncomfortable asking.

That said, outdoor seating tends to have a bit more space to stretch out, especially during peak meal times.

I often chose it over crowded indoor areas when I wanted to avoid bumping elbows with strangers (or with Callum, who cannot eat a burger without creating a 5ft radius of sauce).

The Facebook Group That Helped Me the Most

Before one of my trips, I joined the “Plus Sized at DLP” Facebook group—and honestly, it was a game-changer.

It’s full of real people sharing their experiences: what rides they fit on, what to expect at different sizes, and what helped them feel more confident at the parks.

You can post a photo or description of your size, and people with similar body types will happily let you know how they got on.

I found myself checking it before heading to certain rides so I knew what to expect—it took away a lot of the guesswork and helped ease some of the anxiety around fitting or feeling uncomfortable.

❓ FAQs About Visiting Disneyland Paris as a
Plus-Size Guest

Still got questions? Here are a few things I wondered before my trip—and the answers I wish I’d had.

Which Disneyland Paris rides are best for plus-size guests?

The most plus-size-friendly rides include Pirates of the Caribbean, Ratatouille, Star Tours, Peter Pan’s Flight, and Buzz Lightyear. These have either adjustable bars or no restraints at all.

What rides at Disneyland Paris are sometimes difficult for plus-size visitors?

Crush’s Coaster, Indiana Jones, and Hyperspace Mountain are known to have tighter seats and lap bars. Hyperspace Mountain in particular has a restraint system that sits low across the stomach, which may not fit all body types.

Do turnstiles at Disneyland Paris have size limits?

Some turnstiles in the parks are very narrow, especially at rides like Buzz Lightyear, Slinky Dog, and Stitch Live. Cast Members can open the accessible gate if needed—just ask politely at the entrance.

Can I ask a Cast Member if I’ll fit on a ride at Disneyland Paris?

Yes, and you absolutely should. Cast Members are trained to assist with these situations and will help you discreetly. Many are happy to offer FastPasses or alternate boarding options if a ride doesn’t work out.

Final Thoughts

Looking back, I’m so glad I didn’t let fear stop me from going. Were there awkward moments? Yes. Did I have to get off a ride? Also yes. But I still had an incredible time—and I didn’t miss out on the magic.

For anyone wondering about plus size Disneyland Paris experiences, it’s reassuring to know that with a bit of planning and support, the park can be enjoyed comfortably. Cast Members are supportive, most rides are manageable with a bit of planning, and there’s so much to enjoy that goes far beyond lap bars and turnstiles.

So pack the comfy shoes, ask for help when you need it, and give yourself permission to have a good time. You deserve it—and truly, it’s worth it.