59 Disney World Rides and Attractions, Ranked From Worst to Best

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59 Disney World Rides and Attractions, Ranked From Worst to Best

Planning the ultimate Disney World vacation can be tough — with so much to see and do, where does one start? As Travel + Leisure‘s on-staff theme park expert and a frequent Disney World visitor, I’ve tested every attraction, interviewed Imagineers, and researched the ins and outs of the parks. To help you plan your trip, we’ve rounded up 59 Disney World rides and attractions from all four theme parks — Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios — and ranked them from worst to best, so you know which ones to prioritize and which to skip.

You’ll notice this list of rides at Disney World doesn’t include every single attraction on property — to keep it (somewhat) concise, we excluded stage shows and some smaller attractions from the lineup.

Table of Contents

Top 5 Can’t Miss

  • Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is a riveting, hyper-immersive ride that puts you right in the middle of the battle between the First Order and the Resistance.
  • Soar over Pandora’s ethereal landscape in Avatar Flight of Passage — a breathtaking, cutting-edge experience.
  • Half the fun of Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is the throwback soundtrack, with songs from the ’70s and ’80s that’ll have you grooving in your Omnicoaster seat.
  • Haunted Mansion is a retro-style classic that’s fun for all ages, with its slow-moving buggies and a theme song you won’t be able to stop humming.
  • Expedition Everest has a winning combo of exciting roller coaster drops and turns and magical storytelling that whisks you into the Himalayas.

Magic Kingdom

Swiss Family Treehouse

Courtesy of Disney

There’s nothing “wrong” with this attraction per se, but compared to all the exciting rides on this list, the Swiss Family Treehouse just can’t compete.

Country Bear Jamboree

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Country Bear Jamboree is great if you need a break to sit in the air-conditioned theater, but there are better shows in the Magic Kingdom — although this one does offer a lovable dose of Frontierland nostalgia with some revamped versions of favorite Disney tunes.

The Hall of Presidents

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See every president in audio-animatronic form at this educational attraction. While The Hall of Presidents might seem more suited to a museum than a theme park, the addition of the newest president always attracts visitors.

Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress

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Disney devotees know that Walt himself came up with this attraction’s concept, making it a piece of theme park history. The fan-favorite song “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” is a highlight of the nostalgic attraction about technological progress.

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin

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This basic spinning ride is a theme-park staple, and other versions at Disney offer a bit more excitement. Watch out for the spitting camel!

Walt Disney World Railroad

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This scenic ride around the park’s perimeter is a pleasant way to get from land to land or rest while you take in the views from another perspective. However, if you’re on a time crunch, it can be swapped in favor of a more exciting attraction.

Prince Charming Regal Carrousel

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This charming “Cinderella”-themed carousel is an adorable addition to Fantasyland, but it’s similar enough to other merry-go-rounds at theme parks around the world that your ride time can be better spent elsewhere in Magic Kingdom.

Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor

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This engaging comedy show allows the animated characters to interact directly with audience members for a hilarious and unique experience. It’s definitely one of the better shows in Magic Kingdom.

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

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This 3D theater attraction features music and characters from classic Disney animated films, so it’s fun for kids and nostalgic adults alike, especially if you want to cool off and sit down on a hot Florida day.

Tomorrowland Speedway

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Get behind the wheel of a gas-powered race car at Tomorrowland Speedway. This retro attraction is especially exciting for kids not yet old enough to drive — and less fun for adults who deal with daily traffic.

The Barnstormer

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This Goofy-themed family coaster delivers on kid-friendly thrills in the cute Storybook Circus area of Magic Kingdom Park, near the Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station play area.

Astro Orbiter

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Although the ride itself isn’t all that original — you’ll find similar experiences on Dumbo the Flying Elephant and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin — the views of Tomorrowland and Cinderella Castle make Astro Orbiter worth riding if the wait isn’t too long.

Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room

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With 225 audio-animatronic figures and an infectious tune, Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room is a retro classic with a history dating back to 1963.

Under the Sea — Journey of the Little Mermaid

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Revisit the songs from “The Little Mermaid” with Ariel, Flounder, Sebastian, and the rest of the gang as you slowly cruise through delightful scenes inspired by the film.

Tomorrowland Transit Authority People Mover

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Explore Tomorrowland from above and get a behind-the-scenes view of the land’s attractions as you ride along on the breezy PeopleMover.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

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Visit Hundred Acre Wood with Pooh and pals on this sweet dark ride featuring music and scenes from “Winnie the Pooh.” The Heffalumps and Woozles dream sequence is a personal favorite.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

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There’s no denying that Dumbo is a quintessential Disney attraction that’s loved by guests of all ages. In fact, it’s one of the few rides found at all six Disney theme park resorts around the world.

Mad Tea Party

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A replica of the opening-day attraction of the same name at Disneyland in California, the Mad Tea Party is a Disney classic that’s worth getting a little dizzy for.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

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Fight the Evil Emperor Zurg in this Toy Story-themed laser-shooting attraction in Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland, and battle your seatmate to see who can get the highest score.

It’s a Small World

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A contagious, uplifting tune and timeless appeal make this gentle boat ride a classic Disney stop. First debuted at the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair and overseen by Walt Disney, the attraction features music by Disney legends Richard and Robert Sherman.

Jungle Cruise

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The punny skippers are the true stars of this boat ride, which meanders past animatronic animals through the rivers of the world. Their one-liners and jokes have made this Magic Kingdom attraction a favorite among many parkgoers.

Space Mountain

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Of Magic Kingdom’s “mountains,” Space Mountain is a classic. The dark indoor coaster sends riders on a wild journey through the stars, and the queue and exit perfectly align with Tomorrowland’s retro-futuristic vibes.

Peter Pan’s Flight

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Fly over scenes from “Peter Pan” in this beloved Fantasyland attraction. There’s almost always a line, but the redesigned queue makes the wait feel shorter.

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

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Upon opening at Magic Kingdom, this “Snow White”-inspired family coaster gained instant classic status (and it has the wait times to match). It’s adorably themed, smooth, and an overall great attraction.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

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The “wildest ride in the wilderness” whisks guests through an abandoned mine and past picturesque Southwestern scenery, including red rock formations, canyons, and more.

Tron Lightcycle / Run

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With a thrilling launch, stunning visuals, and a unique ride vehicle, Tron Lightcycle / Run — which opened in 2023 — is an exhilarating experience. Take a ride on one of Disney’s fastest roller coasters after dark to take in the gorgeous lights as you fly along the track.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

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Since replacing Splash Mountain in mid-2024, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has become an instant favorite, especially among fans of “The Princess and the Frog.” Just be prepared (with a poncho in hand) because you will get wet on this re-themed version of the classic log flume ride.

Pirates of the Caribbean

Courtesy of Disney

It’s a pirate’s life for all of us on this Magic Kingdom boat ride — an enduring favorite because of its detailed scenes filled with animatronics and action, as well as its classic theme song. Fun fact: This attraction, with versions found at Disney theme parks around the world, actually inspired the film series.

Haunted Mansion

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Grim, grinning ghosts come out to socialize on this beloved Magic Kingdom Omnimover ride that employs a number of old-school illusions and a catchy theme song. Ride after ride, this one really never gets old.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

It’s Tough to Be a Bug!

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If bugs give you the creepy-crawlies, you’ll want to skip this 3D show based on “A Bug’s Life.” Fans of the 1998 movie may enjoy seeing it come to life, but some kids might find this one a little dark and scary at times.

TriceraTop Spin

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Similar to Astro Orbiter and Dumbo, this dino-themed spinning ride is pretty basic, so you may want to wait in line for the other attractions with classic appeal or great views.

Kali River Rapids

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This themed raft ride is a great way to cool off on a humid summer day, but beware — you’re almost guaranteed to get wet, if not absolutely soaked.

Dinosaur

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Find the Iguanodon before a meteor wipes out life on Earth — that’s the mission of this bumpy, thrilling Animal Kingdom ride. It can be a little intense for young and older guests, but it’s fun for those who don’t mind jerky movements and angry dinos.

Na’vi River Journey

Na’vi River Journey is a beautiful, calm boat ride with a truly impressive animatronic figure and stunning scenery, but it’s a little short and the wait times can get pretty lengthy.

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Courtesy of Disney

Not a conventional coaster or dark ride, Kilimanjaro Safaris gives guests the rare opportunity to spot some of the Earth’s most amazing creatures, including lions, giraffes, elephants, and more, as their guide spouts off fun facts about the species and their habitats. Riding past rhinos and zebras is magical in a different way, and that’s what makes this ride a must-experience at Animal Kingdom.

Expedition Everest

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Climb aboard a train and venture up Mount Everest, but try to avoid the mythical Yeti on this thrilling Animal Kingdom attraction. Expedition Everest is one of the best coasters at Disney World because of its outstanding theming and storytelling as well as exciting drops and turns.

Avatar Flight of Passage

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Deep inside beautifully designed Pandora — The World of Avatar is Disney’s best ride: Avatar Flight of Passage. Soar around Pandora on the back of a banshee in this Avatar-themed attraction. It’s difficult to compare classic dark rides like Pirates and Haunted Mansion to the state-of-the-art, innovative attractions that have debuted at the parks in recent years, but this ride combines a super-immersive 3D simulator with top-notch theming to create a breathtaking experience you won’t find elsewhere.

Epcot

Turtle Talk With Crush

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Chat it up with Crush, the totally tubular turtle from “Finding Nemo,” in a real-time interactive show that kids will love. Even adults can enjoy a few laughs at this innovative attraction.

The Seas With Nemo and Friends

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This calming “Finding Nemo”-themed Omnimover ride is cute and ideal for kids who can’t experience Epcot’s more thrilling options. The attraction highlight occurs toward the end when the animated characters are projected against a live aquarium tank.

Journey Into Imagination With Figment

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Figment is a beloved Epcot icon, and the ride’s song is undeniably catchy. That said, Journey Into Imagination With Figment is best ridden when there’s little to no wait.

Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros

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Tucked inside Epcot’s Mexico pavilion, this is a fun, vibrant boat ride through Mexican sights with appearances from the Three Caballeros. It’s worth a stop if you’re in the beautifully themed pavilion and there’s little to no wait.

Living With the Land

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In line with Epcot’s educational and aspirational theme, Living With the Land offers a behind-the-scenes look at how our food is grown — and some of the crops seen on the tour are even served in the park.

Spaceship Earth

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For 16 minutes, guests can enjoy this slow journey through time narrated by Judi Dench. Located inside the park’s iconic ball, this is a classic Epcot attraction everyone should experience at least once.

Mission: Space

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With two ride experiences of varying intensity, Mission: Space offers both a thrilling space travel adventure and a chill journey around the Earth, so plenty of visitors can enjoy this interactive attraction.

Test Track

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Design a car and take it for a test ride to see how it stacks up on this exhilarating attraction. At the end, you’ll race up to 65 miles per hour as you soar along the track. These thrills, combined with the interactive design elements, make Test Track one of Epcot’s best rides. (Test Track is currently closed for updates and expected to reopen in 2025.)

Frozen Ever After

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Sing along with Anna and Elsa on this darling Epcot boat ride featuring all of the movie’s best ballads. Wait times can stretch upwards of an hour, so try to arrive early or hop on at the end of the day to minimize your time in line.

Soarin’ Around the World

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Fly over some of the world’s most famous landmarks, like the Great Wall of China and the Eiffel Tower, on this hang gliding flight simulator ride. The destination-inspired scents and freeing feeling of taking flight make this a must-do in Epcot.

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

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Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is located at Epcot’s World Showcase in the France pavilion. This family-friendly trackless dark ride takes guests on an adorable and exciting journey with Remy and friends through Gusteau’s restaurant.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

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An epic indoor Omnicoaster featuring a reverse launch, this coaster is pure fun. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is undoubtedly the best coaster on property, and the throwback soundtrack (with six different songs from the ’70s and ’80s) will have you grooving and singing along as you soar through the stars.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Muppet*Vision 3D

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This 3D show is made all the better thanks to live-action effects and Muppet animatronics. Muppet*Vision 3D is fun for fans of the lovable puppets, though it is outshined by all the newer offerings at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Alien Swirling Saucers

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Although it’s the least exciting of all the Toy Story Land attractions, this dizzying ride is still adorable and entertaining.

Toy Story Mania!

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This 4D Toy Story-themed ride takes guests through five carnival-style shooting games that are fun for all ages. You’ll want to ride again and again to see if you can improve your score.

Star Tours — The Adventures Continue

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While the Star Wars attractions in Galaxy’s Edge are undoubtedly impressive, this ride still holds its own. Plus, randomized sequences featuring locations from the movies mean you can have a different adventure every time you ride.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith

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This thrilling ride at Disney World features inversions, a launch start, and rocking music, making it a must for any coaster fan visiting Hollywood Studios.

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway

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This Disney World attraction is the first-ever ride featuring the adventures of Mickey and Minnie. The all-ages trackless ride has incredible visual effects that make it an excellent addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Slinky Dog Dash

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While many family coasters lack solid theming and imaginative tracks, Slinky Dog Dash delivers a truly delightful ride experience that guests of all ages will enjoy. Plus, the Toy Story theme is relevant for kids and nostalgic for adults.

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

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Star Wars fans, here’s your chance to pilot the famed Millennium Falcon. This motion simulator ride is great from start to finish, with an incredible queue, interactive mission, and super-immersive theming.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

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Based on The Twilight Zone series, this thrilling ride transports guests to the fifth dimension via the eerie Hollywood Tower Hotel, shooting them up and down the elevator shaft. The intricately detailed queue — set in the courtyard, lobby, and boiler room of the hotel — looks spookily stuck in time and perfectly builds suspense for the main event.

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

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Join the Resistance and try to escape the First Order on this astounding ride that puts guests right in the center of a Star Wars battle. The attraction’s impressive scale, hyper-immersive queue, multiple ride systems, and captivating plot line make it the most intense ride at Disney World in the best possible way; it’s so riveting, that you won’t want it to end.

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