As a frequent Disney visitor, and married to a Disney parks super fan, I understand how exciting it is to explore Magic Kingdom. This park is a fantastic place for families, friends, and Disney lovers of all ages to create magical memories, despite the lack of available alcohol on the premises.
Related: How to Experience Disney on a Budget
If you want to maximize your experience, knowing the top rides is essential prior to your stay so you can dive in when you get to the park (and make sure you have your Lightning Lane all set up!). Here, I share my ranking of the five best rides at Magic Kingdom based on excitement, storytelling, and overall enjoyment, apart from one ride I've never actually been on but felt like I had to include. Let’s dive into the magic!
1. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is a fun and charming ride that takes you into the classic story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, just faster, and with more corners. This spinner coaster is gentle enough for younger guests while still offering a little thrill for everyone.
Pros:
Family-Friendly: The ride's height requirement is just 38 inches. It’s suitable for kids and has mild drops that keep older guests happy too.
Beautiful Scenery: With animatronics that feature Snow White and her seven companions, the ride brings the story to life. The visuals are enhanced by an enchanting musical score, adding to the immersive experience.
Cons:
Long Wait Times: Because of its popularity, wait times can average over 60 minutes during standard periods, and can be especially long (90 minutes+) during peak seasons. This is well worth the use of a Lightning Lane, though you'll have to pony up.
Short Experience: With an average ride duration of just 2.5 minutes, some visitors might wish for a longer adventure given the backdrop. But that's the case with like 98% of Disney rides so we're nitpicking here.
2. Pirates of the Caribbean
Ahoy, matey! The Pirates of the Caribbean ride lets guests embark on a slow-moving, swashbuckling, rum filled journey through Caribbean waters populated by pirates. It is one of Disney's longest-running attractions, first opening in 1967 in Disneyland, and spawned a series of movies where the first one was really good and then the rest were really bad/terrible.
Pros:
Immersive Experience: Detailed scenes, including animatronic pirates engaging in various antics, make this ride captivating. Many fans cite the iconic auction scene as a highlight, showcasing Disney's excellence in storytelling. Considering how old this ride is, it's impressive that it still looks this good.
Great for All Ages: Shallow water and gentle drops make this ride enjoyable for all, with a height requirement of only 40 inches.
Cons:
Occasional Delays: Periodic technical issues can result in delays, but these generally do not detract from the overall experience.
Less Thrilling for Some: If you're craving high-speed thrills, this ride might feel more laid-back compared to others.
3. Space Mountain
Looking for an adrenaline rush? Space Mountain whisks you through outer space at high speeds. It’s a classic indoor roller coaster that’s dark, fast, and full of thrilling twists.
Pros:
Thrilling Experience: Riders can reach speeds of up to 28 mph. With sharp turns and sudden drops, this ride is a hit with thrill-seekers.
Exciting Theming: The outer space theme adds an engaging narrative to the ride. Notably, the queue itself has fun exhibits and space-themed decorations.
Cons:
Intensity: This ride may not be for everyone, particularly for younger guests or those who prefer gentler rides. The height requirement is 44 inches, but beware there should be a maximum height. I'm 6'7" and this ride is a struggle to board.
Limited Visibility: It's dark. Like, super super dark. You won't see anything. Just keep that in mind if you have a fear of the dark.
4. Haunted Mansion
Beware of the ghostly adventure that awaits at the Haunted Mansion! This ride combines humor, chills, and clever storytelling in a spooky setting. This ride also has the distinct honor of being the one ride in Magic Kingdom that I...haven't actually been on.
Pros:
Unique Theme: With engaging scenes and cheerful ghosts, the Haunted Mansion strikes a perfect balance between spooky and fun, captivating visitors of all ages.
Clever Animatronics: The 999 happy haunts, including the famous stretching room scene, highlight Disney's mastery in storytelling, animatronics and innovation.
Cons:
Dynamic Ride: While enjoyable, some might find it lacks the excitement of a traditional roller coaster experience.
Crowded: Popularity can lead to long wait times, particularly during high traffic seasons. Arriving early can help you jump in line with shorter waits.
5. Tiana's Bayou Adventure
Tiana's Bayou Adventure, formerly known as Splash Mountain, a beloved log-flume ride, takes you on an adventure inspired by “The Princess and the Frog.” This attraction mixes charming storytelling with fun splashes for everyone to enjoy.
Pros:
Impressive Storytelling: The animatronics are amazing. Just incredible - and that really helps tell the story of the Princess and the Frog in a condensed version.
Splash Factor: The thrilling drop at the end is a highlight, with many guests relishing the refreshing splash on warm days.
Cons:
Seasonal Closure: It breaks periodically, or closes for refurbishments, so check its schedule before your visit.
Wet Riders: Water-splashing fun might not be for everyone, so consider bringing a poncho if you’re not a fan of getting wet!
Final Thoughts
Magic Kingdom is an enchanting destination packed with unforgettable experiences. The five rides I highlighted above showcase the park's best offerings, each delivering unique thrills and unforgettable stories. Whether it’s family fun, thrilling adventures, or captivating storytelling, these rides promise a day filled with joy.
To get the most out of your visit, keep an eye on wait times and utilize Lightning Lane options where available (and consider your costs!). Grab your loved ones and get ready to embark on a magical adventure through the heart of Disney! Enjoy the magic at Magic Kingdom!
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