This publish ranks each single journey and present at Walt Disney World–all 82 of them–with fast professionals & cons. Previously, we’ve rated and reviewed each attraction at Walt Disney World, however by no means earlier than have we listed all of them from worst to finest. (Updated November 26, 2022.)
At their pinnacle, Walt Disney World sights are iconic and timeless classics with multi-generational enchantment. At their weakest, WDW rides are indistinguishable from amusement park fare or direct-to-video sequels you’d skip over on Disney+ or Netflix. Then there’s a ton of center floor of fine stuff or nostalgic favorites in between.
Ironically, the most effective and worst sights at Walt Disney World each debuted within the final two years. I’m undecided if that is cosmic justice of types, and Imagineering created one as a result of the opposite was just a bit too good, or if it’s merely coincidence. Fortunately, there are much more spectacular sights than “watch this as penance for enjoying yourself too much” kind ones.
November 26, 2022 Update: Quite a bit has modified at Walt Disney World within the final year-plus since we final ranked each attraction at Walt Disney World. Of course, there’s the latest addition to EPCOT, with Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind being one of the vital costly sights of all-time. The newest re-rankings primarily assess whether or not it was well worth the cash, and the way it stacks as much as trendy masterpieces of Imagineering.
The different massive story is every part that has returned within the final 12 months. Reimagined variations of Fantasmic and Finding Nemo: The Musical are again, as are Festival of Fantasy Parade and Mickey’s Friendship Faire at Magic Kingdom. Several different exhibits that have been being introduced in modified type at the moment are again to regular, with up to date placement that displays all of that. As a results of all that, the variety of entries has elevated from 82 to 88 this 12 months (that’s nonetheless down from the all-time excessive of 94 in early 2020).
In addition to that, we’ve re-assessed and re-ranked different entries in an try to additional decrease our private preferences and opinions. As mentioned beneath, we’re making an attempt to be as goal as doable, however that’s not possible–and doubtlessly an train in futility. There’s a 100% probability you’ll not agree with each single considered one of our rankings–however there’s additionally a 100% probability that nobody would agree with each single considered one of your rankings.
It is actually not possible to please everybody with lists like this, and we’d admire you taking that into thoughts earlier than shouting at us within the feedback or on social media. Respectful dialogue and even debate are the entire level of this just-for-fun listing, however remember the fact that it is for enjoyable…and completely meaningless on the finish of the day. If you assume Frozen Ever After is the most effective journey at Walt Disney World, don’t view it as a private affront that it doesn’t crack our prime 10. These rankings have zero bearing in your enjoyment of any sights at Walt Disney World! 🙂
To that time, rating each attraction at Walt Disney World is a reasonably herculean endeavor. We opted to make it more difficult by additionally updating our attraction guides & opinions within the course of. You can discover these right here:
These ‘ride guides’ have been first revealed years in the past, and whereas we’ve up to date them to take away extinct sights and add new ones, re-reviewing some sights was overdue. Some sights have been refreshed in the previous few years, whereas others have begun to indicate their age.
Without overdoing the prefatory textual content, listed here are a number of fast floor guidelines for our rankings. First, we’re making an attempt to be goal to the best extent doable, with artwork route, themed design, length, and ambition stage all taken under consideration.
Second, we attempt to decrease subjectivity within the rankings, as this isn’t merely a listing of our favorites (that’s been completed already). However, that’s not all the time doable. Plenty of diehard Walt Disney World fan favorites don’t get the love they deserve among the many normal public. By distinction, some crowd-pleasers are (in our view) overrated and their high quality doesn’t justify their reputation. Lots of people like Wild Hogs and Grown Ups, however that doesn’t imply they belong on the AFI Top 100 List.
Finally, we don’t embrace something that’s solely a meet & greet or leisure act. Anyway, on with our rankings of all 80+ rides and exhibits at Walt Disney World, from worst to finest…
88. Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along — This new movie is an offensively unhealthy piece of revisionist lore that spews forth the untold story of LeFou, which ought to have remained that manner. Far worse than a direct-to-video sequel, and proof that fanfic authors may sometime see their terrible goals became our painful realities.
87. Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival — Cartoon shorts that you may watch on Disney+ proven in a 3D theater with results thrown into the combination. The shorts are pleasant…when seen at house.
86. Tomorrowland Speedway — Perfect for individuals who need to benefit from the stench and cognitive impairment of car exhaust. Scores factors amongst children because it provides them an opportunity to drive, and preview the enjoyable of being caught in site visitors.
85. The Magic Carpets of Aladdin — Spinner journey. Do Astro Orbiter or Dumbo as an alternative.
84. TriceraTop Spin — Spinner journey that ranks one greater as a result of dinosaurs.
83. Barnstormer — A curler coaster for youths who need gentle thrills, however are too brief for different coasters. It fills a task as a rite-of-passage curler coaster, however everybody else ought to keep away from this as a result of brief length, lackluster visuals, and an total unsatisfying expertise.
82. Disney Junior Dance Party! – A musical celebration that includes Disney Junior characters, together with Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, Timon, and Mickey Mouse. If you’ve got children, it’s in all probability for you. If you don’t, it’s in all probability not.
81. Prince Charming Regal Carrousel — Ordinary carousel. Okay at night time due to nice views of Fantasyland and Cinderella Castle lit up.
80. Mad Tea Party — A enjoyable and iconic diversion, though there’s actually nothing extra to this expertise than might be discovered at just about any amusement park. Disney simply clothes it up higher.
79. Awesome Planet — A movie that showcases Earth’s magnificence and pure landscapes. In-theater lighting results and an unique musical rating, plus narration from Ty Burrell as a realtor (ha!) pitching Earth is amusing.
78. Canada Far & Wide — Another movie, this time showcasing the majesty and variety of Canada in CircleVision 360. Beautiful musical rating plus narration by actors Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy that gives a whirlwind tour of the nation.
77. Mickey Shorts Theater – Home of the brand new “Vacation Fun” Mickey Mouse brief and a scattering of photograph ops (together with one devoted to the fan-favorite “Potatoland”), the Mickey Shorts Theater is surprisingly effectively completed, and simply what Disney’s Hollywood Studios wants–extra locations to keep away from crowds and revel in AC.
76. Reflections of China — Another Circle-Vision 360 movie, this time about China. Poetically narrated, and options scenes in China the place Western digital camera crews sometimes usually are not allowed. It’s superbly shot and scored, with a sweeping digital camera that envelopes visitors within the motion in a manner not doable by means of conventional movie.
75. Alien Swirling Saucers — The little inexperienced aliens pilot spaceships that spin and whip round visitors in an attraction that could be a mildly fulfilling 90 seconds, however an absence of particulars or quirk coupled with generally lengthy waits drag it down significantly.
74. Astro Orbiter — Spinner journey just like Dumbo. Elevated location in Tomorrowland makes this a enjoyable diversion, particularly at night time if traces are shorter.
73. Frozen Sing-Along Celebration – Sing-along for youths, however there are a number of moments of chuckle-worthy humor for adults. The Royal Historians of Arendelle weave the songs along with a free retelling of Frozen. Better than it in all probability ought to be.
72. Rafiki’s Planet Watch — Board the Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch to see a petting zoo and quite a few reveals regarding animal care. It’s fascinating, however not commensurate to the massive time dedication.
71. Journey into Imagination with Figment — Showcasing the facility of creativeness…with the least imaginative and obnoxious attraction doable. Still has its moments, however Figment deserves higher.
70. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh — Winnie the Pooh and his crew are low-key amongst Disney’s finest characters, however even they can not give enough coronary heart or allure to this rudimentary darkish journey.
69. The Seas with Nemo and Friends — A darkish journey retelling of the Finding Nemo story with a number of scenes projected into an precise aquarium. There are different excessive tech scenes and memorable results, however that is in all probability overselling the attraction, which is simply okay.
68. Walt Disney Presents… — A walk-through tribute to Walt Disney, with a movie on the finish. It helps put the parks in context, lifts the curtain, and in so doing makes the theme parks extra spectacular. Walt Disney Presents will make you admire Walt Disney World extra.
67. Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire – A ‘smile and dance’ present on the Cinderella Castle stage with musical numbers through a enjoyable competition with Mickey and numerous characters. The plot is flimsy, however the dancing, singing, and costumes are stable.
66. Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage — A stage present retelling the story of Beauty and the Beast in condensed type. This present is outdated, however nonetheless does sufficient with its choreography, performances, and dramatic styling that it feels prefer it really brings one thing new to the desk.
65. Dumbo the Flying Elephant — The iconic Dumbo spinner journey is a basic and ceremony of passage for all children, however due to improved lighting and brief waits, it’s now a enjoyable night-time attraction for visitors of all ages.
64. Liberty Square Riverboat — Relaxing approach to float round Frontierland. Like the Tomorrowland Transit Authority or the Walt Disney World Railroad, however on water.
63. Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse — 0% of youngsters in the present day can have seen this film, however treehouses are universally enjoyable.
62. Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor — A screen-based present throughout which monsters work together with and inform jokes to visitors. Laugh Floor might be hit and miss, largely relying upon visitor interplay high quality. We discover it far funnier than it in all probability is.
61. Feathered Friends in Flight! – The “new” model of this present replaces “Up! A Great Bird Adventure” and strikes up over 20 spots within the course of. It principally eliminated the sloppy writing and cringey character part to as soon as once more concentrate on the avian encounters. By themselves, these are majestic and fulfilling.
60. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin — An interactive and aggressive game-attraction to avoid wasting the universe on this blast-em-up, ride-through journey. It’s like a ride-through online game, and is enjoyable however very imprecise, archaic, and poorly maintained. Would have plenty of potential if modernized.
59. Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail — Wildlife strolling path, with (you guessed it) gorillas because the spotlight. There are additionally hippos underwater and being near them and the gorillas is fairly superior.
58. The Boneyard – There are solely a few issues (actually) that Disney did proper with Dinoland and Dinorama, and this is without doubt one of the two. Even as adults, we’re large advocates of play areas completed proper, and that is precisely that.
57. Hall of Presidents — Ah, lastly! That level of the listing the place issues get politically charged. Irrespective of your emotions on the presidents–any of them–this can be a fascinating and academic attraction that’ll make you’re feeling much less responsible about pulling your children out of college for a Disney journey. Arguably a tad too lengthy as every president is launched and stands for applause and/or boos.
56. Mission: Space — Simulator that sends visitors crashing on Mars within the extra intense model and orbiting Earth on the much less intense one. It’s an interactive thrill journey, however that oversells it. The story itself isn’t compelling and interactivity is phoned in. The thrills are the first draw.
55. Kali River Rapids — Whitewater raft journey spinning freely down a river by means of rainforest, ruins, and deforested areas with message of conservation. Kali River Rapids has a reasonably setting (minus the deforestation), however there isn’t sufficient substance to the scenes and it’s weak by raft journey requirements. The better part may simply be the road, so hooray for that.
54. It’s Tough To Be A Bug — 3D present about touting the advantages of inspects with the forged of A Bug’s Life. This is a chief instance of how you employ Disney characters to make an academic (at the least partially so) movie really feel like pure leisure. A cool setting and in-theater results preserve this related years after it debuted.
53. Gran Fiesta Tour — Boat journey that includes the Three Caballeros with Mexico’s tradition as a backdrop within the seek for Donald Duck. Weaves tradition along with Disney characters–a enjoyable expertise for anybody who likes boats, Mexico, fiestas, or waterfowl.
52. Tom Sawyer Island — An total island play space for youths that harkens again to a bygone space. It’s rather well completed, and an ideal place for youths to blow off vitality. Adults might benefit from the tranquility of the island, too. Worlds away from the chaos of a theme park.
51. Tree of Life Awakenings — Walt Disney World has an obsession with nighttime projection mapping exhibits, however that is nonetheless lovely and majestic–probably the most simply digestible and shifting of the bunch.
50. Disney Movie Magic and/or Wonderful World of Animation — Three totally different nighttime projection exhibits at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that commemorate motion pictures. You can guess the content material of every primarily based upon the names, however they’re very related. These fall in need of “fireworks show” or “nighttime spectacular” standing as a result of an absence of pyro and shorter length. That’s not a knock–they’re supposed to be diversions. Fantasmic is the nighttime spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and it really lives as much as that standing.
49. Lightning McQueen Racing Academy — An spectacular Lightning McQueen Audio Animatronics automobile is the spotlight of this theater present during which McQueen collaborates and competes with different vehicles through a display screen. It’s a enjoyable present with cheeky humor and sufficient morsels that it received’t bore adults—children will possible find it irresistible.
48. Turtle Talk with Crush — An underrated interactive present that enables children to speak with Crush from Finding Nemo in a screen-based attraction that mimics a water tank. Turtle Talk is simply as fulfilling for adults, as a part of the humor goes over children’ heads, and there are plenty of “kids say the darndest things” kind moments in each present.
47. Mickey’s PhilharMagic — A 3D montage movie principally from the “Disney Animation Renaissance” cleverly tied along with Donald Duck. The animation fashion is a bit dated now, however kids of the 90s are nonetheless certain to get pleasure from this movie (actually, anybody ought to get pleasure from it).
46. Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room — Musical serenade of catchy songs from Audio Animatronics birds. It’s iconic, historic, and simply the proper length to keep up visitor curiosity. We find it irresistible.
45. Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid — New Fantasyland’s Little Mermaid darkish journey is without doubt one of the hottest within the park, nevertheless it’s an excessive amount of of a guide report. There are a few cool scenes and Audio Animatronics, and the queue is admittedly cool, however may very well be extra imaginative and interesting.
44. MuppetVision 3D — If you’ve got a humorousness, you’ll love MuppetVision 3D. The pre-show is definitely the spotlight of MuppetVision, and may pretty be described as sidesplitting. The major 3D present is sweet, and makes use of the standard 3D present gimmicks, plus characters within the theater. Not loving MuppetVision 3D is distinctly unpatriotic.
43. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular — Featuring quite a lot of totally different stunt kinds, plus humor, and interesting narrative scenes. It’s like a behind the scenes have a look at the filming of iconic moments from Indiana Jones. It simply works.
42. Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress — An Audio-Animatronics stage present with scenes in several eras showcasing technological improvements. The final scene is woefully outdated and this in all probability received’t enchantment to common visitors, however they’re fallacious–Carousel of Progress is a pleasant blast from the previous.
41. Impressions de France — Wide-format movie highlighting the tradition and pure fantastic thing about France set to a hauntingly lovely rating. It’s surged right here as a result of subjectivity and our sentimentality–Impressions de France is our favourite movie in all of Walt Disney World. It has a lovely, chills-inducing rating, a digital projection, and breathtaking visuals.
40. Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover — A slow-moving journey with good views of Tomorrowland, pure and easy. It’s onerous to articulate what makes the Peoplemover so particular–maybe it’s the prospect to chill out and decompress whereas absorbing the sights and sounds of Magic Kingdom sans crowds.
39. Walt Disney World Railroad – Another transportation attraction, this one providing a soothing railway journey across the total Magic Kingdom. There’s not ton to see and an egregious missing of dinosaurs, however trains are timeless, so that is stable.
38. Country Bear Jamboree — A stage present that includes Audio Animatronics singing bears, Country Bear Jamboree is nuanced, sharp, and irreverent. It subverts Southern stereotypes and presents one thing clever and handsome visitors (and youngsters) will love. We’ve heard that some individuals discover this historic and iconic attraction “boring.” Those persons are monsters.
37. Dinosaur — A high-speed, wild drive in a time rover by means of scenes with Audio Animatronics dinosaurs earlier than the second of extinction. Dinosaur has a humorous pre-show video and memorable scenes in a prehistoric world. Any journey with dinosaurs is nice, however there’s admittedly plenty of lifeless, darkish area right here.
36. Space Mountain — A darkish curler coaster by means of outer area. Space Mountain is gentle on thrills, however has historical past and magnificence going for it. There’s cool themed design, a blast-off tunnel, and music to boost the expertise. It additionally has fascinating post-show scenes in area.
35. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith — An intense (by Disney requirements) curler coaster with a loop, that includes Aerosmith. The pre-show and queue assist make it extra fascinating, however Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is principally an extraordinary rollercoaster at the hours of darkness. It’s brief however enjoyable–and the sort of journey you may discover in any amusement park.
34. Living with the Land — Boat journey showcasing the way forward for agriculture that weaves collectively components of a standard Disney attraction with a heavy dose of “edutainment” elements. I feel gardening is fairly terrible, however even I really like the look this journey presents at experimental horticulture strategies. Living with the Land is a testomony to human ingenuity, and it’s a disgrace that extra individuals aren’t all in favour of a soothing float by means of Epcot’s greenhouses.
33. Maharajah Jungle Trek — Walk-through animal exhibit with birds, bats, and tigers. Its scenes that deliver you up shut to varied animals, all whereas traversing by means of an elaborate Asian setting. The animal encounters are nice, however the themed design and environments are what units this aside from an extraordinary zoological exhibit. At one level you’re going by means of the ruins of a distant historical temple–it feels reclaimed by nature, and an precise setting the place these animals stay, reasonably than simply observing them of their pens.
32. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure – Walt Disney World’s latest journey is comparatively common. While it’s enjoyable to scurry round a Parisian kitchen as a mouse and there are a selection of issues that improve the attraction, its over-reliance on screens and their prominence knocks it down significantly as in comparison with different current additions. Read our spoiler-free Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure journey assessment for extra.
31. ‘it’s a small world’ — Possibly Walt Disney World’s most polarizing attraction, ‘it’s a small world’ is the long-lasting boat journey that includes the kids of the world and that track. Again, except you reside below a rock, you’re accustomed to it and have already got an opinion of it.
30. Toy Story Mania — A 3D screen-based shooter sport with Toy Story characters that’s nonetheless a ton of enjoyable. There’s nothing essentially fallacious with it, nevertheless it’s a bit one-dimensional. With that stated, the typical visitor would possible rank it greater than this ‘objective’ placement.
29. Na’vi River Journey — It’s Living with the Land, however with alien crops imported from outer area. Oh, and one of the vital breathtaking Audio Animatronics determine Imagineering has ever created. It’s good, however not so good as it ought to be.
28. Disney Enchantment — There is not any extra becoming of a approach to shut a day within the Magic Kingdom than with fireworks. This might rank too extremely for individuals who are disenchanted to the Happily Ever After successor (which was a prime 10 attraction–so this present fell fairly a bit from that), nevertheless it’s nonetheless pyro exploding over Cinderella Castle and that awesomeness can solely fall to date. We suggest viewing it on Main Street with the fireworks exploding behind Cinderella Castle (finest spots are beneficial in our Magic Kingdom Fireworks Viewing Guide).
27. Jungle Cruise — A ship safari by means of the rivers of Adventureland, with the true spotlight being the continuous zingers of the skippers. Jungle Cruise is considerably taste-specific, as you’re not using for the antiquated animal Audio Animatronics. If you don’t admire dry, deliberately corny, or self-aware humor, you could not like Jungle Cruise.
26. Festival of the Lion King — Acrobats, singers, and different performers in tribal apparel and vibrant costumes, plus parade floats with Lion King characters and different creatures enact scenes impressed by the Lion King in a really energetic theatrical present. There’s plenty of stuff occurring, in what principally quantities to plenty of audio-visual stimulation. The present simply flat out works, and its virtually summary nature permits the viewers to simply sit again and benefit from the wow-inducing performers.
25. Test Track — It’s just like the Peoplemover, however a lot quicker. Guests design a SimCar after which get right into a check automobile to see the way it compares on ‘the grid’ to the prototype they’ve designed, concluding with an exciting velocity check. Aesthetically paying homage to Tron, the interactivity is enjoyable and interesting–and reasonably instructional.
24. Harmonious – Neither of the 2 nighttime spectaculars for Walt Disney World’s fiftieth Anniversary are rousing successes, however Harmonious is the higher of the 2. It’s extra bold, distinctive, and has a number of compelling moments. Loses some factors for the daytime blight of the barges (amongst different issues), nevertheless it’s nonetheless a must-see.
23. Finding Nemo: The Big Blue & Beyond – Previously often called Finding Nemo: The Musical, this was renamed to make it much less descriptive when it returned. Although a few scenes have modified, and the present is tighter, it’s essentially the identical–in fashion, substance, and high quality. Human performers are paired with creatively-made puppets in a condensed retelling of Finding Nemo. The massive draw right here is how the entertainers manipulate the puppets. Are the people the main focus or the puppets they’re controlling? (Why not each?!) It’s an fascinating idea, and the presentation and music are wonderful. This present brings sufficient novelty to the desk to raise what would in any other case be a retread.
22. Soarin’ Around the World — A preferred hang-glider simulator journey that gives a grandiose flight over wonderful areas across the globe plus an epic rating and refined results. Overuse of CGI, gimmicky transitions, and bent architectural icons drags it a bit, however Soarin’ stays an distinctive flight.
21. Frozen Ever After — This boat journey in Epcot’s Norway pavilion options characters from Frozen, taking visitors to the fictional nation of Arendelle, and immersing them in moments and music from the movie. It’s a cute attraction with cool Audio Animatronics figures and enjoyable songs. Read our spoiler-free Frozen Ever After Review for extra ideas.
20. Slinky Dog Dash — The crown jewel of Toy Story Land, which isn’t actually saying a ton, however Slinky Dog Dash continues to be higher than anticipated. It delivers nice thrills, a pleasant observe structure, and queue particulars. The greatest weak point is its relative lack of Imagineering, with no present scenes—albeit a cute ending.
19. Peter Pan’s Flight — This is the Fantasyland darkish journey completed to near-perfection, taking visitors in “flying” ships certain for Neverland. Peter Pan’s Flight’s age and poor situation stop whole suspension of disbelief; it might significantly wow audiences with a modernization (simply hovering into the highest 10 within the course of). Nevertheless, there’s nonetheless loads of magic in flying above London’s busy streets and a pirate ship.
18. Star Tours: The Adventures Continue — A 3D movement simulator montage journey by means of numerous areas within the Star Wars universe that was not too long ago up to date to incorporate scenes from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and tie into Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Those updates have made Star Tours’ story extra cohesive, and the attraction is arguably higher than Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. (We don’t assume so, however the case may very well be made.)
17. Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run — The ‘supporting’ attraction for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is unquestionably not an ideal attraction, with the interactivity being a blended bag and a gameplay-centric journey not being everybody’s cup of tea. However, there’s rather a lot to love about Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run past the sport/journey expertise. The queue is gorgeous, the pre-show is spectacular, and stepping foot into the Millennium Falcon whereas ready to board the journey is arguably the spotlight of the attraction as a complete. Read our Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run Review for extra suggestions on the attraction.
16. Festival of Fantasy Parade – Magic Kingdom went years (a long time?) limping together with the identical, drained daytime parade. Festival of Fantasy modified that, delivering an bold and huge scale manufacturing. The parade floats are all massive, detailed and have plenty of substance to them. There are tons of highlights, however the one everybody remembers is the steampunk-esque Maleficent float that breathes fireplace. Check out our Festival of Fantasy Parade Tips publish for finest viewing locations and extra.
15. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway – With solely a handful of ride-throughs on this earlier than Walt Disney World closed indefinitely, that is our rating that’s most topic to alter. However, we discovered ourselves having fun with Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway extra with every subsequent ride-through, so this doesn’t appear too excessive. Runaway Railway incorporates a sequence of loosely-connected vignettes in quite a lot of environments. There’s super vary within the settings, and the pacing turns into pretty frenetic and disorienting at factors. In a way, the journey could be very a lot in step with how a cartoon would bounce round, and it additionally boasts an earworm of an unique track. Runaway Railway in all probability just isn’t destined to change into a contemporary basic, nevertheless it’s a formidable new journey in a park stuffed with them. Read our Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Review for extra.
14. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad — Continuing the practice pattern, Big Thunder Mountain a rollercoaster themed as a runaway mine practice on a journey by means of the panorama of the Old West. It doesn’t have present scenes per se, nevertheless it flawlessly executes on its idea and supplies visible gags and particulars which are simply ascertainable as you whip previous. Hang onto your hats and glasses, as a result of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is “the wildest ride in the wilderness!” (It’s additionally considered one of Walt Disney World’s highest rides at night time.)
13. Spaceship Earth — A slow-moving darkish journey by means of Audio Animatronics-heavy scenes depicting the evolution of how people talk and technological innovation housed in Epcot’s iconic geodesic sphere. The story of our communication evolution is a compelling one, and moreover a number of cringe-worthy moments within the script, it’s very fascinating for all visitors. It loses some extent for the tacky screen-based ending and lack of present scenes throughout this descent.
12. Expedition Everest — This curler coaster takes a web page out of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad’s playbook and improves upon it in practically each conceivable manner. Expedition Everest incorporates a foreboding queue, unimaginable particulars, fascinating journey autos, a spectacular ascent, and on-ride encounters with a yeti. Many results on the attraction now don’t work; probably the most notable of those is the big Audio Animatronics “Disco” Yeti. Despite this, Expedition Everest continues to be impressively enjoyable and Walt Disney World’s most bold curler coaster.
11. Fantasmic! – At least till Happily Ever After returns, that is the most effective nighttime spectacular at Walt Disney World. Honestly, it would retain the throne even then, as this bold manufacturing getting into Mickey Mouse’s goals in a present that includes mist screens, characters on stage, boats, fireplace, and fireworks is best than ever. It’s utterly not like the fireworks and projection exhibits elsewhere, and the brand new heroes sequence with an Aladdin chase, Elsa’s “Show Yourself” track, and stirring moments with Pocahontas, Moana and Mulan brings much better steadiness than earlier than.
10. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train — This household curler coaster’s strengths are its Audio-Animatronics, themed design, music, and novelty stage. Its weaknesses are length and present lighting. Despite its reputation among the many normal public, we’d argue that Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is underrated amongst Walt Disney World followers–it’s destined to change into a contemporary basic. is the latest journey in Magic Kingdom, and is without doubt one of the hottest at Walt Disney World. Read our spoiler-free Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Review if you wish to know extra.
9. The American Adventure — An Audio Animatronics-driven “montage” stage present of key moments in American historical past. The scenes are detailed and insightful, and spectacular as they rise from the stage. The American Adventure is a robust present that will make the eyes of patriotic Americans leak a bit. It ranks as one of many all-time biggest achievements of Walt Disney Imagineering, and has aged extremely gracefully. Those with brief consideration spans might not admire it, however the identical may very well be stated for Avengers: Endgame. Seeing the Voices of Liberty carry out earlier than American Adventure and a meal at Regal Eagle Smokehouse afterwards is the final word in distinctly patriotic experiences at Walt Disney World.
8. Kilimanjaro Safaris — Animal Kingdom’s flagship safari journey by means of environments just about indistinguishable from the African savannas. Kilimanjaro Safaris is an incredible attraction, showcasing a large number of animals in what seems to be their pure environments. It proves that generally the most effective Imagineering is the invisible sort that fades into the background, and probably the most thrilling experiences aren’t excessive tech thrill rides, however the true world.
7. Avatar Flight of Passage — This thrill journey is like Soarin’ on steroids, completed to perfection. Riders climb aboard the again of a banshee and hyperlink to an avatar flying by means of Pandora for a simulator expertise that’s much more ‘active’ than any previous attraction of its nature. You can really feel your banshee breathe, the wind and spray of the ocean in your face, and odor loads of scents alongside the way in which. Even although Avatar Flight of Passage is a screen-based attraction, that fades away in the course of the expertise. You are totally immersed within the expertise, and totally droop disbelief and embrace the motion over Pandora. Flight of Passage has a sure je ne sais quoi that provokes an emotional response not like many different sights.
6. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind – An extremely satisfying attraction from begin to end, with a queue and pre-shows that present depth, a few wow-moment results, hilarity & hijinks, and a compelling story set-up. The curler coaster itself is satisfying in length and has improbable circulate and fluidity–higher the music and the movement, it feels a bit like dancing. Above all else, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is simply flat-out, improbable enjoyable. It’s considered one of probably the most enjoyable sights in all of Walt Disney World. It hits the entire proper notes, and is only a continuous hoot from begin to end. In massive half, that is owing to the Marvel characters, humor, and use of music. It’s precisely the blockbuster attraction that EPCOT wanted, and is one other nice trendy hybrid of story and enjoyable from Imagineering. (Read our spoiler-free Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Ride Review for extra.)
5. Splash Mountain — A log flume journey that with dozens of Audio Animatronics critters that deftly mixes thrills with memorable present scenes for considered one of Imagineering’s peak works. On prime of that, Splash Mountain options an ideal vary in environments, catchy music, and moody environment–all of which culminates with an enormous drop into the briar patch.
4. Pirates of the Caribbean — A ship-ride again in time to the times when pirates dominated the excessive seas. Pirates of the Caribbean options Audio Animatronics pirates, together with Captain Jack Sparrow, partaking in swashbuckling mayhem. It’s degenerate enjoyable for visitors of all ages, with nice element, amusing visible gags, totally immersive environments, and catchy music. While the Walt Disney World model is the weakest at any Disney park, it’s nonetheless a timeless basic.
3. Twilight Zone Tower of Terror — A free-fall thrill journey set within the Twilight Zone with an elaborate lead-in and wonderful story. Tower of Terror’s temper, the environment, and the environments earlier than the journey are all top-notch. It’s ominous, intimidating, and foreboding from the second you set eyes on the Hollywood Tower Hotel looming on the finish of Sunset Boulevard. From there, the build-up continues within the queue and pre-show, proper right down to the moments that the randomized drops start. While it incorporates a ton of nods to Twilight Zone episodes, the attraction’s masterful use of suspense is downright Hitchcockian.
T1. Haunted Mansion — If Tower of Terror is Hitchcockian, then Haunted Mansion is Lynchian. It’s half surreal dream, half superbly imaginative and impressionist nightmare. Haunted Mansion is so fascinating as a result of it really works on a number of ranges. Each of the scenes might be taken at face worth for what it presents by way of spooky and/or humorous imagery, or makes an attempt might be made at deeper evaluation.
Like an particularly vivid dream, visitors need to make sense of Haunted Mansion. This is why a lot has been written concerning the attraction, why there are such a lot of fan theories explaining all of it, and why visible components of Haunted Mansion are so significant to so many. Haunted Mansion is an expertise that etches itself in your reminiscence, even if you happen to’re not solely certain why. It’s Walt Disney World’s solely transcendent attraction–a murals that will likely be mentioned and debated for generations to return.
T1. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance – While it lacks Haunted Mansion’s artistry and timelessness, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is a revolutionary feat of Imagineering that redefines what a theme park attraction might be. It blurs the boundaries of queue, pre-show, attraction, and places visitors in the course of an intergalactic journey.
What makes Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance so mind-blowing, largely, is huge set items and a slew of how did they do this moments. The Imagineers used every part of their proverbial bag of technical tips, and executed all of them flawlessly. The end result with Rise of the Resistance is one thing epic in scale that feels extra like an interactive blockbuster movie than it does a standard theme park journey like Haunted Mansion. (Read our spoiler-free Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Review for extra.)
Admittedly, inserting Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance within the prime spot (or wherever close to it) requires overlooking its reliability woes, which led to each day downtime and unpredictable wait occasions–however ones which are normally lengthy–because of this. There’s additionally the truth that it’s pay-to-play through the Individual Lightning Lane, which is extra related right here than the opposite 3 sights that promote that line-skipping possibility as a result of aforementioned breakdowns and manner Lightning Lane visitors are prioritized.
The two #1 sights use very totally different approaches to evoke very totally different feelings, each with equally excessive levels of success. It’s because of this that we view Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Haunted Mansion because the yin and yang of Walt Disney World sights. Two complementary counterparts, separated by a long time and storytelling kinds, however collectively representing the vary of perfection in Walt Disney World attraction experiences.
Planning a Walt Disney World journey? Learn about motels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews web page. For the place to eat, learn our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews. To lower your expenses on tickets or decide which sort to purchase, learn our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets publish. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips publish takes a singular have a look at intelligent gadgets to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will assist. For complete recommendation, the most effective place to start out is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for every part you could know!
Your Thoughts
Obviously, nobody goes to have an identical rankings of each single Walt Disney World attraction. With that stated, which rankings on our listing do you actually agree or actually disagree with? Which Walt Disney World rides and exhibits do you assume are overrated or underrated? What makes your prime 10 and backside 5? We’re prepared to listen to pleasant and spirited debate a few lighthearted subject that finally doesn’t matter, so please share your ideas within the feedback–even if you happen to disagree with all of our Walt Disney World journey rankings!