Planning a trip to Walt Disney World? Well don’t go before you know which rides are “must do” attractions! Here are the top rides you absolutely can’t skip at each park in Walt Disney World!
Knowing which attractions are must-do rides can help you maximize your magical experience. At DizN Vacations with Jessica Yashin, I specialize in helping families, Disney adults, and thrill-seekers plan their perfect Disney vacation.
Magic Kingdom: Where the Magic Begins
TRON Lightcycle / Run
One of the newest and most thrilling additions to Magic Kingdom is TRON Lightcycle / Run! This ride takes you on a high-speed adventure through the Grid. This coaster is a must for thrill-seekers and fans of cutting-edge attractions.
Pro Tip: Buy Lightning Lane Single Pass for this ride. Or use Early Theme Park Entry as a Disney hotel guest to get in line!
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
Perfect for families, this smooth yet exciting coaster combines charming storytelling with mild thrills! That makes it a can’t-miss ride for kids and adults alike.
Pro Tip: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train generally has long lines ALL DAY! Use Early Theme Park Entry to get in line ASAP! Or buy Lightning Lane Single Pass to skip the line.
Haunted Mansion
A classic Disney attraction, the Haunted Mansion is filled with ghostly surprises, stunning visuals, and Disney’s signature humor. No trip to Magic Kingdom is finished without a ride through the 999 happy haunts!
There’s always room for one more!
Pirates of the Caribbean
Set sail on an adventure through Captain Jack Sparrow’s world! This beloved ride is packed with animatronic pirates, immersive sets, and a catchy theme song. In fact, that song will stay in your head long after your trip.
Pirates is my FAVORITE Disney Park attraction! Although, there is no height requirement on this ride, it could be intimidating for very small children.
EPCOT: A Blend of Thrills and Innovation
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Disney’s first-ever reverse launch coaster is a game-changer. This Epcot attraction features high-energy music, stunning visuals, and intergalactic storytelling. It is an absolute must-ride for Marvel fans and coaster lovers.
However, if you experience motion sickness, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind could be challenging. You can purchase Lightning Lane Single Pass to skip the line. As of February 25, 2025, the virtual queue for this ride will stop. A regular line will be available.
Test Track
Design your own virtual vehicle and speed through a high-speed test track at nearly 65 mph! This ride is perfect for guests who love futuristic thrills and interactive experiences.
*Test Track is undergoing an update and is set to reopen in the summer of 2025. For more information, click HERE.
Frozen Ever After
For families with young kids, this boat ride through Arendelle is a magical experience. It is also perfect for anyone who loves Frozen. It’s a sing-along adventure that’s not to be missed.
Pro Tip: Use Early Theme Park Entry as Disney hotel guest to ride this attraction first thing in the morning.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Thrills and Movie Magic
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Arguably the most immersive ride in Disney history! Rise of the Resistance is a cinematic attraction. It is multi-layered and places you in the middle of the Star Wars universe. This is a must-do for Star Wars fans! Inside Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you can join the resistance against the first order.
Pro Tip: Purchase Lightning Lane Single Pass and reserve your time to skip the long line. Also, this attraction recently opened a “Single Rider” line. Use this option to skip the long line, If you don’t need to ride together with your friends.
Slinky Dog Dash
A family-friendly coaster offers fun dips, turns, and hills. It provides a playful Toy Story experience in Andy’s backyard.
Slinky Dog might be the most popular ride in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Pro Tip: Purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass and reserve a time to skip the line. On-property Disney hotel guests can make this purchase 7 day in advance of check in. Non-Disney resort guests can reserve Multi pass 3 days prior to visiting the park.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
If you love thrills and themed storytelling, you will enjoy Tower of Terror’s free-fall drops. Its eerie atmosphere makes it one of Disney’s most unforgettable experiences.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is a Disney classic! However, I personally avoided it until recently out of fear. But, after riding I discovered there is a reason it’s a fan favorite. Use the Lightning Lane option is possible
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Adventure Awaits
Avatar Flight of Passage
Soar through Pandora on the back of a banshee. This is one of the most breathtaking rides Disney has ever created. It is also one of the most immersive.
Pro Tip: As one of the top Disney World rides, Avatar Flight of Passage has long lines all day. Purchase Lightning Lane Single Pass to reserve a return time and skip the line.
Expedition Everest
For those who crave intense roller coaster action, this ride offers a high-speed train journey through the Himalayas. It takes you past the legendary Yeti. The entire experience is an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
Pro tip: Use the single rider line. This is helpful if you are comfortable splitting up your party. Doing so can avoid a long wait time.
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Experience a real-life safari featuring giraffes, lions, elephants, and more. This ride is perfect for all ages and a fantastic way to see live animals up close.
This is what Animal Kingdom is all about! The attraction lasts approximately 25 minutes. It is best to ride first thing in the morning or later in the evening.
Plan Your Disney World Adventure Today!
Walt Disney World is filled with iconic rides and unforgettable experiences. These attractions should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a Star Wars fanatic, you might be planning a magical family vacation. My expert travel planning services at DizN Vacations with Jessica Yashin will help you craft the perfect itinerary.
Ready to plan your dream Disney vacation? Contact me today and let’s create your most magical trip yet! Don’t forget to follow my latest theme park adventures on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. Get more Disney travel tips, park updates, and enjoy vacation inspiration!
