Disney ParksDisney Tips & Tricks

These Are the Rides Every Disney Fan Must Do at Least Once

Visiting Walt Disney World is like stepping into a world of fantasy and adventure. With so many incredible attractions, planning your visit ensures you experience the best rides each park has to offer. This guide highlights must-ride attractions that will make your trip unforgettable.

Magic Kingdom: Classic Disney Magic

Magic Kingdom is the heart of Walt Disney World, bringing Disney stories to life with a mix of nostalgia and modern thrills. Whether you love fairy tales or exciting coasters, this park has something for everyone.

1. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

Step into the world of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs on this smooth, family-friendly roller coaster. It features gentle thrills, stunning scenery, and an interactive queue filled with sparkling gems.

The ride’s swaying mine carts and beautifully animated characters make it a favorite among visitors. Try riding at night for an extra magical experience. If you want to maximize your ride time, consider using Lightning Lane or arriving early to beat the crowds.

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
Credit: Disney

2. Haunted Mansion

Enter the Haunted Mansion, where eerie illusions and ghostly effects bring 999 happy haunts to life. The attraction starts with a stretching room that sets the mood for the spooky yet playful journey ahead.

Your Doom Buggy glides through detailed rooms filled with spirits, floating objects, and classic Disney storytelling. Pay close attention to the ghostly figures; some of them might even hitch a ride home with you!

3. Peter Pan’s Flight

Soar over London and into Neverland on a flying pirate ship in this beloved attraction. Peter Pan’s Flight brings the classic story to life with suspended ride vehicles that glide through colorful, glowing scenes.

The gentle pace and immersive details make it a favorite for all ages. Due to its popularity, it’s best to use Lightning Lane or ride early in the day. The queue also features interactive elements that immerse guests in the magic before boarding.

4. Dumbo the Flying Elephant

This iconic ride lets you take to the skies on Dumbo’s back for a relaxing, nostalgic flight. The ride’s charming music and gentle motion make it a must-try for first-time visitors.

A play area inside the queue keeps kids entertained while waiting, making the experience even more enjoyable for families. Whether you choose to ride during the day or enjoy the glowing lights at night, Dumbo never disappoints.

Dumbo Fantasyland Disneyland
Credit: Disney

5. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which opened in June 2024, brings the world of The Princess and the Frog to Magic Kingdom. This ride follows Princess Tiana as she prepares for a Mardi Gras celebration with lively music and bayou scenery.

With bright visuals, catchy tunes, and an exciting drop, this new attraction has quickly become a guest favorite. Fans of the film will love the inclusion of familiar characters, while the immersive storytelling ensures an unforgettable experience.

Epcot: Innovation and Exploration

Epcot blends futuristic technology and global culture into one incredible park. It offers exciting attractions that celebrate human achievement and adventure.

1. Spaceship Earth

Housed inside Epcot’s iconic geodesic sphere, Spaceship Earth takes riders through the history of human communication. This slow-moving ride highlights significant advancements, from ancient cave paintings to the Internet age.

Its educational yet entertaining storytelling makes it a great way to start your visit to Epcot. The ride has been updated over the years, adding new enhancements to make the experience even more engaging.

2. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

This thrilling roller coaster brings the Guardians of the Galaxy into a high-speed, intergalactic adventure. Featuring a reverse launch and rotating ride vehicles, it offers a completely unique experience.

Exterior of Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT at night
Credit: Disney

With a soundtrack of classic hits and plenty of Marvel humor, this ride is a must-do for thrill-seekers and comic book fans. Be prepared for unexpected twists and turns and a highly immersive queue experience that sets the stage for your mission.

3. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

Shrink down to the size of a rat and explore a French kitchen in Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. This 4D attraction takes riders through Gusteau’s restaurant using trackless ride technology.

With fun visuals, delightful smells, and immersive effects, this ride is perfect for all ages and a highlight of Epcot’s France pavilion. Combining practical sets and digital effects makes guests feel like they’ve truly stepped into Remy’s world.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Action-Packed Adventures

Hollywood Studios puts guests into the world of movies and television, featuring immersive lands and thrilling rides inspired by blockbuster franchises.

1. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Join Mickey and Minnie on a wacky cartoon adventure where anything can happen. This trackless dark ride brings classic animation to life with colorful scenes and unpredictable twists.

It’s a fun, family-friendly ride filled with surprises and catchy music that will have you humming long after the ride ends. Be sure to watch for hidden details and Easter eggs that pay tribute to Disney’s animated history.

2. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Step into a galaxy far, far away in this groundbreaking Star Wars attraction. This massive experience combines multiple ride systems, including trackless vehicles, motion simulators, and a thrilling drop sequence.

A line of stormtroopers stands in formation inside a futuristic spaceship hangar.
Credit: Disney

From facing stormtroopers to escaping Kylo Ren, this ride is an unforgettable adventure for Star Wars fans. The level of immersion in this ride is unlike anything else at Walt Disney World, making it a must-ride for visitors of all ages.

Final Thoughts

Walt Disney World continues to evolve, offering new attractions and experiences every year. Whether you prefer classic Disney nostalgia or high-speed thrills, there’s a ride for everyone.

With recent openings like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, there’s always something exciting to discover. Make sure to check ride availability, as some attractions undergo refurbishments.

If you’re planning a trip, consider making a ride strategy to maximize your time. Use Lightning Lanes wisely, take advantage of early entry options, and stay hydrated throughout your magical adventure.

Which ride holds the most magical memories for you? Share your experience in the comments below! Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, there’s always something new to experience at Walt Disney World!

Claudia Ochoa

Gigi is a passionate storyteller and Disney enthusiast who loves sharing random fun facts while exploring the parks. Originally from Mexico, she firmly believes that starting in her home country is the best way to experience EPCOT’s World Showcase.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Related Articles