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Not Every Disney Ride Is a Must-Do—Here’s What to Skip

Walt Disney World is a dream destination for countless families, packed with thrilling attractions and magical moments around every corner.

But not every ride is a must-do, and some may not be worth your valuable park time. If you want to make the most of your visit, here are a few attractions you might want to skip in favor of better alternatives!

However, with so much to see and do, it’s important to prioritize your time wisely. While every ride has its fans, some attractions may not offer the best value for your time, especially considering long wait times and evolving park experiences.

Surprisingly, these popular rides might not be worth your time! Here are four attractions you might want to skip on your next visit, along with some alternative experiences that could make your trip even more magical.


1. Tomorrowland Speedway (Magic Kingdom)

Tomorrowland Speedway offers a chance to drive a miniature gas-powered race car on a guided track.

However, the experience can feel outdated compared to Disney’s other innovative attractions.

Tomorrowland Speedway
Credit: Disney

Why You Might Skip It:

  • Long Wait Times: Lines can be substantial, even though the ride itself is short.
  • Outdated Design: The cars are gas-powered, meaning guests are exposed to exhaust fumes, which can be unpleasant.
  • Limited Thrill Factor: The cars are on a guided track, so they don’t offer the same freedom or excitement as similar experiences at other theme parks.

Alternative Experience:

  • Test Track (EPCOT): This high-speed attraction allows guests to design their own vehicle and race through thrilling test simulations.
  • Slinky Dog Dash (Disney’s Hollywood Studios): A fun, family-friendly roller coaster with smooth acceleration and exciting dips.

2. Journey Into Imagination with Figment (EPCOT)

This classic EPCOT attraction has been through several iterations.

However, many guests feel the current version lacks the magic of its predecessors.

Journey Into Imagination
Credit: Disney

Why You Might Skip It:

  • Dated Animatronics: While Figment is an iconic character, the ride’s visuals and effects feel outdated.
  • Underwhelming Storyline: The plot is less immersive compared to other Disney attractions.
  • Limited Interactive Elements: While the post-ride area has some interactive exhibits, the ride itself doesn’t offer much engagement.

Alternative Experience:

  • Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (EPCOT): A trackless dark ride that immerses guests in a fun, culinary adventure.
  • Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (Disney’s Hollywood Studios): A colorful, trackless ride featuring state-of-the-art animation and effects.

3. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (Magic Kingdom)

This gentle dark ride takes guests through the whimsical world of Winnie the Pooh and friends. While charming, it may not offer the excitement some guests seek.

Tigger with orange and black stripes spreads his arms wide in excitement, while Piglet climbs a blue ladder. They're surrounded by a dark, magical forest with glowing elements and falling lights at Disney World.
Credit: Joe Penniston, Flickr

However, some guests may find the transition from its predecessor a bit jarring.

Why You Might Skip It:

  • Long Wait Times: Despite its simplicity, the ride often has long lines.

  • Limited Appeal for Older Guests: The ride is primarily geared toward younger children.

  • Outdated Effects: Compared to newer attractions, the visuals and effects may feel dated.

Alternative Experience:

  • Pirates of the Caribbean (Magic Kingdom): A beloved boat ride with immersive animatronics and adventure-filled storytelling.
  • Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (Magic Kingdom): A smoother roller coaster with a thrilling, family-friendly experience.

4. Astro Orbiter (Magic Kingdom)

Perched above Tomorrowland, Astro Orbiter offers a unique aerial view of the park while spinning in rocket-themed vehicles.

Astro Orbiter
Credit: Resorts Gal

However, the ride’s simplicity and logistical challenges might make it less appealing.

Why You Might Skip It:

  • Limited Thrill Factor: The ride is similar to Dumbo the Flying Elephant but positioned higher.
  • Logistical Challenges: Accessing the ride requires an elevator, which can add to wait times and complexity.
  • Small Seating Area: The rockets have tight seating, making it less comfortable for some guests.

Alternative Experience:

  • Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin (Magic Kingdom): A fun, interactive ride where guests can help defeat Emperor Zurg.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (EPCOT): A thrilling, immersive roller coaster with exciting storytelling and music.

Walt Disney World offers countless attractions, each with unique charm and appeal.

While these four rides may not provide the best experience for every guest, they still hold nostalgic value for some.

If you’re looking to maximize your park time, consider prioritizing attractions that offer more immersive storytelling, cutting-edge technology, and high re-ride value.

Planning ahead and knowing which attractions align with your preferences can help make your Disney trip even more magical! Which of these rides do you think deserves a second chance?

Mike Ramirez

Mike Ramirez is a theme park fan born and raised in Mexico City. From a young age he's loved to learn all there is to know about the history of the Disney parks and rides. Whether it’s riding The Haunted Mansion, geeking out over the MCU, or singing along to show tunes, he's all about celebrating the magic of storytelling and imagination.

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