6 Best Nickelodeon Cartoons of ‘90s

Until 1991, Nickelodeon aired animated television series that were largely imported from foreign countries. Then, the channel created a number of original cartoons, making Nickelodeon the go-to source for children’s entertainment. Nicktoons still make a substantial portion of Nickelodeon’s lineup, including both current and reruns of former programming. Although Nickelodeon continues to produce new cartoons, the '90s undoubtedly introduced us to the 6 Best Nickelodeon cartoons.

Rugrats (1991-2004)

A '90s staple, Rugrats focuses on a group of toddlers, mainly Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil and Angelica. Their parents are portrayed as easily distracted, leaving the adventurous, young children free to explore. Thus, viewers got to see the imaginative, day-to-day lives of Tommy and his playmates as they rode around in the Reptar wagon or hung out with Cynthia, who is a really good dancer. The show not only enjoyed a remarkable 13-year run, but also spawned three films, a spin off series, and two direct-to-video specials. 

Hey Arnold (1996-2004)

The show centers on a fourth grader named Arnold as he navigates urban life. Not only did he live in a boarding house with his kooky grandparents, quirky neighbors, and his pet pig Abner, but also his school was populated with hilarious, relatable, young friends and classmates. Between fighting with Helga, who harbored a secret crush on him, hanging out with his best friend Gerald, and pining for Lila and Ruth, Arnold taught us a thing or two about life and helped us smile along the way.

CatDog (1998-2005)

The series follows the adventures of CatDog, a conjoined cat and dog hybrid with opposite personalities; Cat loves Opera and reading, while Dog prefers Rock n’ Roll and chasing garbage trucks. Although they have their differences, the two are best friends. Viewers got to enjoy the crazy adventures of CatDog, but at the end of each episode were still left wondering many things, like how they could be best friends when they seemed to hate each other and, more importantly, how did they go to the bathroom?

The Wild Thornberrys (1998-2004)

The Thornberrys are a family of documentary filmmakers, famous for their televised wildlife studies. The show primarily centers on the family's younger daughter Eliza, who can secretly communicate with animals, including their pet chimpanzee Darwin. Together, the pair frequently ventures into the wilderness, befriending many species of wild animals along the way. The series taught us about animals and life’s lessons such as the importance of family or that grunge is always in, so I think we can all agree that this show is smashing!

Rocket Power (1999-2004)

Rocket Power revolves around a group of friends named Otto, Reggie, Twister, and Squid in the fictional Southern California town of Ocean Shores. The foursome surf, skate, and play extreme sports daily, while making it all look so easy. Not only do we the daily situations of the young gang, but also enjoy other loveable characters like Raymundo, Otto and Reggie’s cool surfer dad, and Uncle Tito, the best friend to the family who helps run the Shore Shack.

Spongebob Squarepants (1999-present)

We all still know and love the yellow sponge “Who lives in a Pineapple under the sea?” Spongebob Squarepants chronicles the adventures of Spongebob and his friends in the fictional underwater city of Bikini Bottom. As the longest running series on Nickelodeon, the show has welcomed famous guest stars throughout the years including Amy Poehler, Johnny Depp, Tina Fey, Will Ferrell, and Scarlett Johansson. From the mouthwatering Krabby patties to the catchy F.U.N. song to the antics in Jellyfish fields, this show has kept me entertained and laughing to this day.