The 50+ Best PG Adventure Movies For Families

Ranker Film
Updated May 1, 2024 33.5K views 56 items
Ranked By
2.8K votes
347 voters
Voting Rules
Add your favorite movie to the list if it's missing, but only if it's the correct rating.
Latest additions: Ivy + Bean, Trolls Band Together
Most divisive: Race to Witch Mountain
Over 300 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 50+ Best PG Adventure Movies For Families

List of PG family-oriented adventure movies, ranked from best to worst with movie trailers when available. This list takes the best PG family-oriented adventure movies and pits them against each other to see once and for all what the greatest PG family-oriented adventure movie of all time is. This list of popular PG family-oriented adventure movies includes information like who directed the film, when it was released and which actors starred in the movie. If you think the top PG family-oriented adventure movie isn't as high as it should be then be sure to vote it up so it can take its rightful place among the other great PG family-oriented adventure films on this list. If you're trying to find a specific PG family-oriented adventure film you can search this list and filter to find what you're looking for.

List is made up of movies like Mac and Me and Free Willy.

If you're trying to find out "What are the best PG family-oriented adventure movies?" and "What are the most famous PG family-oriented adventure movies?" then this list is the perfect resource for you.

Use this list if you're looking for some new family-oriented adventure movies that are rated PG. Between Netflix, Hulu and other services there are thousands of great family-oriented adventure movies rated PG, so get out there and start watching.

Re-rank this list to fit your opinions, the share it with your friends, to find out how they would rank it via votes. {#nodes}

Among those that have directed a PG Family-Oriented Adventure movie are Christopher Nolan and James Cameron.

  • The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
    1
    Tilda Swinton, Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes
    21 votes

    Based on C.S. Lewis' beloved fantasy novel, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe transports viewers into an enchanted world filled with mythical creatures, epic battles, and timeless lessons about courage and sacrifice. Released in 2005 under the skilled direction of Andrew Adamson, this magical tale follows four siblings who discover a portal to another realm hidden within an old wardrobe during their stay at an English country home. Upon entering Narnia—a land cursed with eternal winter—they join forces with talking animals and mystical beings to defeat an evil witch queen (Tilda Swinton) bent on maintaining her icy grip over Narnia forevermore.

  • Back to the Future
    2
    Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Crispin Glover
    47 votes

    Back to the Future is a stellar example of blending science fiction, comedy, and adventure into a family-friendly film that has stood the test of time. Directed by Robert Zemeckis and written by Zemeckis and Bob Gale, this 1985 classic features Michael J. Fox as teenager Marty McFly and Christopher Lloyd as eccentric scientist Dr. Emmett Brown. The duo travels back in time from 1985 to 1955 using a modified DeLorean car powered by a "flux capacitor." Along their journey, Marty must ensure his parents fall in love so he can exist in the future while evading various challenges and obstacles. The film's captivating storyline, witty dialogue, and outstanding special effects have earned it multiple accolades and solidified its place in popular culture.

  • Journey to the Center of the Earth
    3
    Brendan Fraser, Josh Hutcherson, Anita Briem
    43 votes

    Loosely based on Jules Verne's classic novel of the same title, Journey to the Center of the Earth is a visually stunning adventure film filled with excitement around every corner. Released in 2008 under Eric Brevig’s direction, it stars Brendan Fraser as Trevor Anderson—a scientist determined to follow clues left by his missing brother—that lead him deep beneath Earth’s surface alongside his nephew Sean (Josh Hutcherson) and local guide Hannah Ásgeirsson (Anita Briem). Along their perilous journey, our protagonists encounter wondrous landscapes filled with prehistoric creatures while navigating treacherous terrain full of jaw-dropping surprises—including discoveries that have significant implications for both their own lives and human understanding of Earth’s interior realms.

  • Flight of the Navigator
    4
    Joey Cramer, Veronica Cartwright, Cliff DeYoung
    34 votes

    Flight of the Navigator is a spellbinding 1986 science fiction adventure film directed by Randal Kleiser that takes viewers on an exhilarating ride through time and space. The movie follows 12-year-old David Freeman (Joey Cramer), who mysteriously disappears in 1978 only to reappear unaged eight years later—with no memory of where he has been or what happened during his absence. Soon, David discovers an extraordinary truth: he was abducted by an alien spaceship called Max (voiced by Paul Reubens) to gather information about Earth’s lifeforms. Together, they embark on a fantastic voyage as they attempt to return Max's home planet while evading government agents intent on capturing them both. Featuring stunning visual effects for its era—Flight of the Navigator remains an enjoyable cinematic journey that continues to entertain and inspire.

  • Free Willy
    5
    Jason James Richter, Lori Petty, Jayne Atkinson
    36 votes

    The 1993 family adventure film Free Willy tells a touching story about friendship between humans and animals that transcends barriers. Directed by Simon Wincer, this heartwarming tale centers on young Jesse (Jason James Richter), an orphan who forms an unlikely bond with Willy—an orca kept in captivity at a local theme park. As Jesse discovers Willy's yearning for freedom, he becomes determined to release him back into the ocean despite numerous obstacles along the way. Featuring breathtaking cinematography showcasing nature's beauty, stirring performances from its cast, and an inspiring message about perseverance and compassion—Free Willy will undoubtedly tug at your heartstrings.

  • Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs
    6
    Ray Romano, Denis Leary, John Leguizamo
    29 votes

    In this thrilling third installment of Blue Sky Studios' Ice Age series released in 2009-directed by Carlos Saldanha—beloved characters Manny (Ray Romano), Sid (John Leguizamo), Diego (Denis Leary), Ellie (Queen Latifah), and others are back for yet another prehistoric escapade. This time around, our heroes venture into a mysterious underground world teeming with dinosaurs after Sid inadvertently steals some dinosaur eggs and finds himself in perilous danger. With striking animation, laugh-out-loud humor, new friendships forged along their journey—Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs delivers heartwarming entertainment perfect for family movie nights.

  • Aladdin
    7
    Will Smith, Mena Massoud, Naomi Scott
    33 votes

    Aladdin has become synonymous with Disney's golden age of animation since its release in 1992. Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, this enchanting adaptation of the Arabian Nights folktale features memorable characters like street-smart Aladdin (voiced by Scott Weinger), courageous Princess Jasmine (Linda Larkin), villainous Jafar (Jonathan Freeman), lovable Genie (Robin Williams), and more—all brought to life through spectacular artistry and captivating songs composed by Alan Menken. At its core, Aladdin is a timeless adventure filled with magic carpets, mysterious lamps, genies granting wishes—all wrapped in an inspiring message about staying true to oneself amidst trials and tribulations.

  • Ice Age: The Meltdown
    8
    Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary
    28 votes

    Ice Age: The Meltdown is a delightful sequel to Blue Sky Studios' animated hit Ice Age released in 2006 featuring endearing characters like Manny the mammoth (voiced by Ray Romano), Sid the sloth (John Leguizamo), Diego the saber-toothed tiger (Denis Leary), and the infamous Scrat, a squirrel struggling to recover his elusive acorn. This time around, the group navigates a rapidly melting landscape and faces new challenges as they search for a safe haven before the impending flood. The film's witty humor, vibrant animation, and powerful message about friendship make it an entertaining and enjoyable experience for viewers of all ages.

  • Nim's Island
    9
    Abigail Breslin, Jodie Foster, Gerard Butler
    30 votes

    A delightful blend of live-action and fantasy elements makes Nim's Island an enjoyable family-friendly adventure for audiences young and old alike. Released in 2008 under Jennifer Flackett's direction, it stars Abigail Breslin as Nim Rusoe—a spirited young girl living on a remote tropical island with her father Jack (Gerard Butler). When Jack goes missing at sea during a research expedition, it's up to Nim—aided by Alexandra Rover (Jodie Foster), an agoraphobic adventure novelist—to brave unknown dangers and rescue her father. Nim's Island is a charming tale of courage, determination, and the power of friendship that will surely captivate viewers.

  • Beethoven's 2nd
    10
    Charles Grodin, Bonnie Hunt, Debi Mazar
    21 votes

    Beethoven's 2nd is a delightful sequel to the successful 1992 family comedy about a lovable, oversized St. Bernard and his human family. Directed by Rod Daniel in 1993, the film sees Beethoven fall in love with fellow St. Bernard, Missy, resulting in a litter of adorable puppies who soon find themselves in peril at the hands of Missy's scheming owner Regina (Debi Mazar). As the Newton family—led by Charles Grodin and Bonnie Hunt—comes to their rescue, they face obstacles that test their determination and bond. Filled with heartwarming moments and lighthearted humor, Beethoven's 2nd is an enjoyable adventure for animal lovers and families alike.

  • SpaceCamp
    11
    Kate Capshaw, Lea Thompson, Kelly Preston
    21 votes

    SpaceCamp is a sci-fi adventure film released in 1986 under Harry Winer’s direction that captures the excitement of space exploration while providing an entertaining storyline for viewers of all ages. The movie follows a group of teenagers attending a summer camp designed to simulate astronaut training who are inadvertently launched into space aboard NASA’s Space Shuttle Atlantis when their robot companion Jinx (voiced by Frank Welker) mistakenly triggers the launch sequence. As they work together to survive their unexpected journey through outer space, these young astronauts discover newfound skills and courage along the way. With thrilling action sequences and fascinating insights into life as an astronaut—SpaceCamp offers an engaging cinematic experience perfect for aspiring explorers.

  • E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
    12
    Henry Thomas, Dee Wallace, Peter Coyote
    20 votes

    Directed by Steven Spielberg and written by Melissa Mathison, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a beloved classic from 1982 that tells the heartwarming story of an unlikely friendship between Elliott (Henry Thomas), a lonely ten-year-old boy, and E.T., a gentle alien stranded on Earth after being inadvertently left behind by his own kind during their planetary research mission on our world. As Elliott works alongside his siblings Gertie (Drew Barrymore) and Michael (Robert MacNaughton) to protect E.T. from government agents and help him return to his home planet, the touching bond that develops between boy and alien transcends cultural and linguistic barriers—proving that love knows no bounds. With its enchanting score by John Williams, outstanding special effects, and a timeless message about empathy and connection—E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial remains an enduring masterpiece in the realm of family adventure films.

  • Popeye
    13
    Robin Williams, Shelley Duvall, Paul L. Smith
    20 votes

    Based on E.C. Segar's iconic comic strip character, Popeye is a live-action musical comedy released in 1980 under Robert Altman’s direction starring Robin Williams as the spinach-loving sailor known for his supersized muscles and indomitable spirit. Featuring Shelley Duvall as Popeye's beloved sweetheart Olive Oyl, the film follows their adventures in the seaside town of Sweethaven as they confront various foes—including Brutus (Paul L. Smith) and his band of ruffians—while searching for Popeye's long-lost father Poopdeck Pappy (Ray Walston). With toe-tapping tunes composed by Harry Nilsson, colorful characters brought to life by talented performers, and a whimsical storyline that embodies the essence of its source material—Popeye is a delightful cinematic experience perfect for fans both old and new.

  • Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed
    14
    Freddie Prinze, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Matthew Lillard
    22 votes

    The crime-solving gang returns for another live-action romp in 2004's Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed directed by Raja Gosnell. Starring Freddie Prinze Jr., Sarah Michelle Gellar, Matthew Lillard, Linda Cardellini, and Neil Fanning providing the voice for Scooby himself—the movie sees Mystery Inc. face their most challenging case yet when a mysterious villain wreaks havoc on Coolsville by bringing its infamous monsters to life. As our heroes work tirelessly to solve the mystery and restore order—the audience will enjoy thrilling action sequences, laugh-out-loud humor, and appearances from beloved characters like Scrappy-Doo in this exciting sequel perfect for fans of all ages.

  • The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian
    15
    Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes, William Moseley
    12 votes

    Following up on the success of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, director Andrew Adamson brings C.S. Lewis' beloved fantasy series back to life in 2008's The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian—the second installment that finds siblings Peter (William Moseley), Susan (Anna Popplewell), Edmund (Skandar Keynes), and Lucy Pevensie (Georgie Henley) returning to Narnia only to discover that centuries have passed since their last visit. They encounter valiant Prince Caspian X (Ben Barnes) who has been exiled by his villainous uncle Miraz (Sergio Castellitto) from the Telmarine throne. As they join forces with their old Narnian friends to help restore Caspian to his rightful place—the Pevensies must confront new challenges, make difficult choices and embrace their destinies as saviors of Narnia once more.

  • Dora and the Lost City of Gold
    16
    Isabela Merced, Eugenio Derbez, Michael Peña
    36 votes

    Fans of Nickelodeon's long-running animated series Dora the Explorer will be delighted by this live-action adaptation directed by James Bobin in 2019 titled Dora and the Lost City of Gold. Isabela Moner stars as Dora—a steadfast adventurer who leaves her jungle home behind to navigate the unfamiliar world of high school before being called back into action when her parents become lost on a quest to find Parapata—an ancient Incan city hidden within South America's vast rainforests. Aided by faithful monkey companion Boots (voiced by Danny Trejo), her cousin Diego (Jeff Wahlberg), and new friends from school—Dora must outwit villains intent on plundering Parapata's legendary treasures while unraveling its mysteries amidst danger at every turn.

  • Honey, We Shrunk Ourselves
    17
    Mila Kunis, Ben Stiller, George Carlin
    21 votes

    In this entertaining third installment of the Honey, I Shrunk the Kids series released in 1997 under Dean Cundey’s direction—eccentric inventor Wayne Szalinski (Rick Moranis) accidentally shrinks himself, his brother Gordon (Stuart Pankin), and their spouses Diane (Eve Gordon) and Patti (Robin Bartlett) to microscopic size while experimenting with a new shrinking machine. As they navigate the treacherous terrain of their own home alongside minuscule insects and other seemingly insurmountable obstacles, the tiny adults come face-to-face with their overgrown children who have no idea that anything is amiss. Filled with comical moments, endearing characters, and inventive special effects—Honey, We Shrunk Ourselves is an amusing addition to this family-friendly franchise.

  • Stuart Little 2
    18
    Geena Davis, Hugh Laurie, Jonathan Lipnicki
    21 votes

    Based on E.B. White's popular children's book series, Stuart Little 2 is a charming sequel directed by Rob Minkoff in 2002 featuring Michael J. Fox as the voice of Stuart—the endearing anthropomorphic mouse adopted into a human family. In this installment, our pint-sized hero embarks on an exciting adventure with new friend Margalo (voiced by Melanie Griffith), a bird pursued by the nefarious Falcon (James Woods). As they navigate their way through New York City, Stuart learns valuable lessons about loyalty, courage, and friendship—all while teaching others that size does not define one’s worthiness or capabilities.

  • Eight Below
    19
    Paul Walker, Bruce Greenwood, Moon Bloodgood
    24 votes

    Directed by Frank Marshall, Eight Below is a gripping 2006 adventure film set in the unforgiving wilderness of Antarctica. Based on a true story, the movie follows Jerry Shepard (Paul Walker), an Antarctic researcher who is forced to leave his team of loyal sled dogs behind during a dangerous mission due to severe weather conditions. As Jerry and his colleagues race against time to rescue their canine companions, the dogs must rely on their instincts and each other to survive the harsh environment. Showcasing breathtaking cinematography and heartfelt performances from its human and animal stars alike—Eight Below is a riveting tale of perseverance, loyalty, and the indomitable spirit that exists within us all.

  • The Flintstones
    20
    John Goodman, Elizabeth Perkins, Rick Moranis
    24 votes

    Yabba-dabba-doo! The beloved prehistoric television family gets a live-action makeover in 1994's The Flintstones directed by Brian Levant. Featuring an all-star cast including John Goodman as bumbling but lovable Fred Flintstone, Rick Moranis as his loyal best friend Barney Rubble, Elizabeth Perkins as Wilma Flintstone and Rosie O'Donnell as Betty Rubble—this fun-filled adventure sees our heroes face challenges both at home and work when Fred becomes unwittingly embroiled in an embezzlement scheme masterminded by villainous Cliff Vandercave (Kyle MacLachlan) that could cost him everything he holds dear. Filled with nostalgic charm, humorous moments—and even appearances from iconic characters like Dino and baby Pebbles—The Flintstones is sure to bring smiles to viewers of all ages.

  • Tom and Huck
    21
    Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Brad Renfro, Eric Schweig
    20 votes

    Tom and Huck is a spirited adaptation of Mark Twain's classic novel The Adventures of Tom Sawyer released in 1995 under Peter Hewitt’s direction. The film stars Jonathan Taylor Thomas as mischievous young Tom Sawyer and Brad Renfro as his rebellious best friend Huckleberry Finn who unwittingly become witnesses to a terrible crime committed by sinister Injun Joe (Eric Schweig) while exploring the local graveyard late at night. Forced to confront their fears while eluding Joe's wrath as he seeks revenge against them for having exposed his misdeeds—Tom and Huck embark on a thrilling journey filled with danger, intrigue, laughter—and ultimately redemption that will captivate viewers from start to finish.

  • The Black Stallion Returns
    22
    Kelly Reno, Teri Garr, Vincent Spano
    20 votes

    The Black Stallion Returns is a captivating 1983 sequel to the critically acclaimed The Black Stallion directed by Robert Dalva. Featuring Kelly Reno as teenager Alec Ramsey—alongside his prized horse, the Black—we see them embark on a thrilling adventure across the deserts of North Africa after mysterious strangers steal the stallion in hopes of utilizing his unrivaled racing prowess for their own selfish gains. As Alec navigates treacherous terrain and faces unexpected dangers along his quest—he discovers newfound friendships, experiences unforgettable moments, and learns valuable lessons about courage, perseverance, and loyalty that will stay with him forever.

  • Snow Dogs
    23
    Cuba Gooding, James Coburn, Sisqó
    18 votes

    Snow Dogs is a lively 2002 family comedy directed by Brian Levant starring Cuba Gooding Jr. as Ted Brooks—a successful Miami dentist who unexpectedly inherits a pack of sledge dogs from his late estranged mother living in Alaska. Upon arriving in the picturesque town of Tolketna for what he believes will be a brief trip to claim his inheritance—Ted soon discovers that there is more to life than he realized after he becomes embroiled in an exciting dog-sledding race against a cunning rival seeking to claim his dogs for himself. Filled with uproarious humor, thrilling action sequences, and heartwarming moments—Snow Dogs is a delightful cinematic romp that will leave viewers of all ages smiling from ear to ear.

  • The Kid Who Would Be King
    24
    Louis Ashbourne Serkis, Rebecca Ferguson, Patrick Stewart
    27 votes

    The Kid Who Would Be King is a modern-day retelling of Arthurian legend directed by Joe Cornish in 2019 that effortlessly melds fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age themes into a captivating tale perfect for contemporary audiences. When young Alex Elliot (Louis Ashbourne Serkis) stumbles upon the mythical sword Excalibur stuck in a stone near his school—he unwittingly sets off on an extraordinary quest filled with magic, danger, and discovery as he learns valuable lessons about bravery, loyalty-forging alliances with friends Merlin (Angus Imrie), Bedders (Dean Chaumoo), Lance (Tom Taylor), Kaye (Rhianna Dorris)—and even sworn bullies—to save Britain from the malevolent enchantress Morgana (Rebecca Ferguson) who seeks to plunge it into darkness.

  • Born Free
    25
    Virginia McKenna, Bill Travers, Geoffrey Keen
    19 votes

    In this timeless 1966 family adventure film directed by James Hill based on Joy Adamson's best-selling book of the same name, Born Free tells the incredible true story of George (Bill Travers) and Joy Adamson (Virginia McKenna)—a husband-and-wife team dedicated to raising Elsa—an orphaned lion cub—with love and compassion before helping her transition back into the wilds of Kenya, where she belongs. As they grapple with heartache, challenges, and triumphs throughout their journey—the Adamsons provide viewers with an intimate look at their extraordinary bond with Elsa while showcasing nature's awe-inspiring beauty. Born Free has captivated hearts around the globe with its inspiring message about conservation, resilience—and above all else—the profound connections that can exist between humans and animals when given a chance.

  • Harry and the Hendersons
    26
    John Lithgow, Melinda Dillon, Margaret Langrick
    19 votes

    In this charming 1987 family comedy directed by William Dear, Harry and the Hendersons tells the humorous tale of an average American family who inadvertently adopts Bigfoot (Kevin Peter Hall), whom they name Harry after accidentally hitting him with their car during a camping trip in Washington state's Cascade Mountains. Starring John Lithgow as George Henderson alongside Melinda Dillon as his wife Nancy—the film follows their journey as they try to protect Harry from relentless hunters determined to exploit him for fame or fortune while struggling to reintegrate him back into his natural habitat where he belongs. With memorable performances from its talented cast—including heartwarming moments between man and myth alike—Harry and the Hendersons has become a cherished classic among fans young and old alike.

  • Scooby-Doo
    27
    Freddie Prinze, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Matthew Lillard
    24 votes

    Everyone's favorite mystery-solving canine makes his big-screen debut in 2002's live-action adaptation of Scooby-Doo directed by Raja Gosnell. Starring Freddie Prinze Jr. as Fred, Sarah Michelle Gellar as Daphne, Matthew Lillard as Shaggy, and Linda Cardellini as Velma—this entertaining film sees Mystery Inc. reunite after a two-year hiatus to investigate strange occurrences at the tropical Spooky Island theme park owned by Emile Mondavarious (Rowan Atkinson). As they navigate numerous twists and turns while unraveling the island's secrets—the gang encounters a bevy of comical creatures, thrilling scares—and ultimately unmask the culprit behind it all in true Scooby-Doo fashion.

  • Journey 2: The Mysterious Island
    28
    Dwayne Johnson, Michael Caine, Josh Hutcherson
    25 votes

    Based on Jules Verne's classic adventure novel The Mysterious Island, this 2012 film directed by Brad Peyton follows teenager Sean Anderson (Josh Hutcherson) as he embarks on a daring rescue mission with his stepfather Hank (Dwayne Johnson), helicopter pilot Gabato (Luis Guzmán), and spirited daughter Kailani (Vanessa Hudgens) after receiving a cryptic distress signal from his lost grandfather Alexander (Michael Caine) who is stranded on an uncharted island teeming with wonder, danger—and fantastical treasures beyond imagination. With breathtaking visuals, exhilarating action sequences, and moments of heartwarming camaraderie—Journey 2: The Mysterious Island offers viewers an unforgettable cinematic voyage sure to delight fans of epic adventures everywhere.

  • Race to Witch Mountain
    29
    Dwayne Johnson, AnnaSophia Robb, Alexander Ludwig
    23 votes

    In Disney's thrilling 2009 reboot of the classic 1975 film Escape to Witch Mountain, director Andy Fickman delivers an edge-of-your-seat family adventure starring Dwayne Johnson as Jack Bruno—a Las Vegas cab driver turned reluctant hero when he discovers two extraterrestrial siblings Sara (AnnaSophia Robb) and Seth (Alexander Ludwig) hiding out in his taxi while evading sinister pursuers intent on capturing them at any cost. As they race against time to return the alien duo back home before it's too late—Jack confronts danger around every turn while forming an unexpected bond with Sara and Seth that will change him forever. Featuring breathtaking special effects, high-octane action sequences, and a heartwarming message about friendship—Race to Witch Mountain is an exhilarating ride that will leave viewers eager for more.

  • The Adventures of Huck Finn
    30

    The Adventures of Huck Finn

    Elijah Wood, Courtney B. Vance, Robbie Coltrane
    14 votes

    Based on Mark Twain's beloved novel The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, this 1993 film adaptation directed by Stephen Sommers follows the journey of young Huck Finn (Elijah Wood) as he escapes his abusive father and embarks on a thrilling adventure down the mighty Mississippi River alongside runaway slave Jim (Courtney B. Vance). As they navigate a world filled with danger, deception, and unlikely friendships—Huck learns valuable lessons about loyalty, compassion, and the true meaning of freedom. Featuring an outstanding cast, including Robbie Coltrane, Jason Robards, and Ron Perlman—The Adventures of Huck Finn is a captivating tale that will resonate with viewers young and old alike.