Cartoon Network has produced some of the most iconic animated series in television history. From action-packed adventures to clever comedies, the network has given us shows that shaped entire generations of viewers. Whether you grew up in the 1990s or discovered these classics later, this ranked list covers the best Cartoon Network shows of all time.
1. Adventure Time (2010–2018)
Adventure Time follows Finn the Human and his magical dog Jake through the post-apocalyptic Land of Ooo. What started as a quirky adventure show evolved into a deeply philosophical series with complex characters and emotional depth. Its creative storytelling, inventive world-building, and heartfelt themes earned it critical acclaim and a permanent place in animation history.
2. Regular Show (2010–2017)
Regular Show centers on Mordecai and Rigby, two slacker groundskeepers at a park whose mundane jobs somehow lead to supernatural chaos. Created by J.G. Quintel, the series perfectly blends 1980s nostalgia, workplace humor, and genuinely affecting storytelling. Its finale was one of the most satisfying in animation history.
3. The Amazing World of Gumball (2011–2019)
Gumball Watterson is a blue cat navigating middle school in the wildly mixed-media town of Elmore. The Amazing World of Gumball is one of the most inventive animated series ever made, mixing 2D animation, CGI, live-action, and stop-motion in the same frame. It routinely breaks the fourth wall and subverts cartoon conventions in brilliantly absurd ways.
4. Steven Universe (2013–2019)
Created by Rebecca Sugar, Steven Universe was a groundbreaking show exploring themes of love, identity, trauma, and redemption. Steven, a half-human half-gem boy, grows up defending Earth alongside the Crystal Gems. The series is celebrated for its representation and emotional storytelling.
5. Dexter's Laboratory (1996–2003)
One of the original Cartoon Network classics, Dexter's Laboratory starred a boy genius with a secret lab hidden behind his bookshelf. Created by Genndy Tartakovsky, the show had sharp humor and a comedic relationship between Dexter and his oblivious sister Dee Dee that never got old.
6. Samurai Jack (2001–2017)
Also from Genndy Tartakovsky, Samurai Jack is a masterclass in visual storytelling. A samurai prince thrown into a dystopian future ruled by the demon Aku, Jack must find a way home. The show's minimalist dialogue, stunning visuals, and mature themes made it unique in the CN lineup.
7. Over the Garden Wall (2014)
This limited miniseries is one of the most artistically accomplished animated works ever produced. Two brothers wander through a mysterious forest called the Unknown, pursued by a shadowy creature called the Beast. It is equal parts whimsical and haunting, with a visual style inspired by 19th-century American folk art.
8. The Powerpuff Girls (1998–2005)
Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup — three super-powered kindergartners defending Townsville — became icons of late 1990s animation. The Powerpuff Girls combined superhero action with sharp parody and genuine heart. Mojo Jojo remains one of the most memorable cartoon villains of his era.
9. Teen Titans (2003–2006)
Teen Titans was the definitive superhero team show of its generation. Robin, Starfire, Cyborg, Beast Boy, and Raven took on villains in an anime-influenced art style that distinguished it from other DC animated properties. The show balanced action with real character development.
10. Ed, Edd n Eddy (1999–2009)
The longest-running original Cartoon Network series, Ed, Edd n Eddy followed three neighborhood kids scheming to earn quarters for jawbreakers. With its rubbery animation style and endlessly quotable humor, the show developed a devoted fanbase that persists to this day.
