The 8 Best Ride-On Toys of 2021

Best Overall: Little Tikes Cozy Coupe 30th Anniversary Car

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You'd be hard-pressed to find a household with children that don't have this classic toy at home. For 30 years this car has been delighting children with its easy to maneuver style and open and close doors. Built for children 18 months and up, this toy will have them racing around the backyard with their feet (think Fred Flinstone). It also has storage space for bottles, cups, and snacks and is easy to wipe down and clean when messes happen. And don't think this will only be fun for little ones. As your child grows up they'll still get a kick out of rolling and pushing this car around. Their older sibling may even want to take a spin!

Runner-Up, Best Overall: Radio Flyer Deluxe Steer and Stroll Trike

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The Radio Flyer wagon is an American icon, and this three-wheeler matches its classic design with the easy-riding fun of a tricycle. Perfect for kids from 2 to 5, the Radio Flyer Deluxe Steer and Stroll Trike is easy to customize to fit your child’s age and level of riding confidence. A rear-mounted handle allows the parent to steer and push, but it can be removed when your young one is ready to take to the pedals and handlebars themselves. An adjustable seat can be raised as your child grows, and an attached storage bin makes it easy to bring some favorite toys along for the journey.

Parents love that you can guide your child’s ride using the handlebar, and then eventually remove it as they grow and develop their motor skills—it gives the toy an unusually long lifespan. While some write that assembly can be challenging, the brand’s customer service is stellar, and once it’s constructed you can’t beat the bright red look and classic sense of Americana.

Best for Truck Lovers: Peg Perego John Deere Ground Force Tractor with Trailer

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If your child is obsessed with all things trucks, he or she will love the Peg Perego John Deere Tractor. This electric tractor is perfect for ages 3-7 and can hold up to 85 pounds. It features two speeds, 2.5 and 5 miles per hour, and can even go in reverse. Plus, it has a built-in FM radio so your kid can blast his favorite tunes as he does all that much-needed yardwork. An adjustable seat with armrests makes for a comfortable ride and the rechargeable 12-volt battery allows for hours of fun. The detachable trailer lets your child haul his or her favorite toys all across the lawn while “helping” mom and dad with chores. 

While it does require a good deal of assembly, it’s worth it. Children of all ages and genders love riding on a John Deere tractor that looks like the real thing.

Best Two-Wheeler: Costzon Ride-On Motorcycle

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While a true two-wheeler is too difficult for most toddlers, but the Costzon Ride-On Motorcycle gives the illusion of riding on two wheels while providing the stability of three. With an authentic motorcycle look, this battery-powered bike runs via a foot pedal and reaches speeds up to 1.8 miles per hour. The third wheel is tucked away in the back, so from the side and front, the toy really does look like it’s running on two wheels. It’s even got a built-in music and horn button and working headlights.

The motorcycle-inspired design is very cute, and kids love playing with the music button to set the tone for the perfect afternoon ride.

Best Horse & Carriage: Little Tikes Princess Horse & Carriage

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If your child is obsessed with everything princess, check out the Little Tikes Princess Horse and Carriage. This ride-on toy can be maneuvered by both children and adults, and features realistic horse sounds to carry your princess wherever she desires. A steering wheel, detailed carriage doors, and two beverage holders all add to the fun of being a real princess. 

Best for Babies: Step2 Whisper Ride II

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This push car from Step2 is perfect for babies 18 months and older. This ride-on plastic car features a fold-down handle, four easy-to-push wheels, and two cup holders for the ultimate riding adventure. It comes in blue or pink, and even has a kid-powered horn that honks. It can hold up to 50 pounds and measures 45.5 x 19 x 34 inches. Easy to push or pull, this car is a load of fun for children and can be assembled without a massive time investment.

Best Playset: Step2 Up & Down Roller Coaster Ride On

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This playset from Step2 combines the fun of a traditional ride-on toy with the excitement of hopping on a roller coaster, all in your own backyard. A colorful riding car with a high back and handrails sits atop a three-piece plastic track with 10 feet of gentle slopes to the finish. The design of the track holds the car in position as it makes its way toward the end, and ensures it stays in place when your child climbs in at the top. The whole playset simply snaps together, and non-slip steps provide access to the car from either side. All in all, it offers a fun, exciting ride your child will want to take again and again.

The Step2 Up & Down Roller Coaster Ride-On provides hours of enjoyment and is great for kids from as young as 2 all the way up through 8 or so.