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Best Magic Kingdom Rides & Attractions Guide (2024)

This post is a guide to the best rides and attractions at Disney’s Magic Kingdom park in Walt Disney World. It covers the complete list of attractions, which ones you absolutely must do during your trip, which ones to prioritize, and the ones you can just skip.

Best rides at Magic Kingdom TRON

Not too much has changed at Disney’s Magic Kingdom in the last few years, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t still dozens of great rides you and your family will love! Disney is working on some new additions to the park, but all your favorites are still there.

Many people have the idea the park is full of attractions that are only for kids, and while there are a bunch of those, there is a ride for every member of the family. From boat rides to roller coasters, dark rides, and shows, the Magic Kingdom is full of choices.

In fact, the Magic Kingdom has more rides than any other Walt Disney World theme park, and even in a whole day, you won’t get to see it all. That’s why it’s important to know the best rides before you go.

Best Magic Kingdom Rides and Attractions

In this post, we are going to give you a full list of all the Magic Kingdom attractions including traditional rides, shows, entertainment options, and experiences. Our rating system for the rides is on a scale from 1 to 10. The higher the number, the more it is a “must-do” when you visit.

Our opinion of the best rides at the Magic Kingdom is subjective and everyone has their own personal list of top rides. Some of the more popular ones we have a bit lower than some top lists, while other rides many would consider “boring” make our top 10. Let us know in the comments section which rides at the Magic Kingdom are your favorites.

Also, don’t forget to sign up for our FREE Weekly E-Mail Newsletter. There we bring you the latest updates on all the rides in the park as well as vacation planning tips. You can sign up here: Join our E-Mail Newsletter!

Full List of Magic Kingdom Attractions

Rides at Magic Kingdom

If rides are your thing, you are going to love this park. Disney’s Magic Kingdom has a total of 35 attractions which are a mix between classic theme park rides, shows, walkthroughs, and experiences. It has by far the most attractions of the 4 Disney World parks and there is enough to do here for 2 full days.

Here is a list of all the attractions at Disney’s Magic Kingdom…

Adventureland

  • Enchanted Tiki Room
  • Jungle Cruise
  • The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
  • Pirates of the Caribbean
  • Swiss Family Treehouse

Fantasyland

  • The Barnstormer
  • Dumbo the Flying Elephant
  • Enchanted Tales with Belle
  • “It’s a small world”
  • Mad Tea Party
  • Mickey’s Philharmagic
  • The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
  • Peter Pan’s Flight
  • Prince Charming Regal Carousel
  • Princess Fairytale Hall
  • Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
  • Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid
  • Walt Disney World Railroad – Fantasyland stop

Frontierland

  • Big Thunder Mountain
  • Country Bear Jamboree
  • Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade
  • Tom Sawyer Island
  • Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (Opening in 2024)
  • Walt Disney World Railroad – Frontierland stop

Liberty Square

  • The Hall of Presidents
  • Haunted Mansion
  • Liberty Square Riverboat

Main Street U.S.A.

  • Main Street Vehicles
  • Walt Disney World Railroad – Main Street U.S.A. stop

Tomorrowland

  • Astro Orbiter
  • Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
  • Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor
  • Space Mountain
  • Tomorrowland Speedway
  • Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
  • TRON Lightcycle Run
  • Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress

How Many Rides are there at Disney’s Magic Kingdom?

There are 25 actual rides at the Magic Kingdom in Disney World. There are a total of 35 attractions but there are only 25 rides in a moving vehicle. The rest of the attractions are shows or interactive experiences.

Best Rides at the Magic Kingdom

Best Rides at Disney's Magic Kingdom Park

There are so many things to see and do at the Magic Kingdom that it can seem overwhelming if you don’t have a plan. Some rides are better than others and not all the rides are an absolute must-do. In order to make the best of your time, you need to focus on the best rides first, then if you have time get to the other ones.

The best rides at Disney’s Magic Kingdom in order are:

  1. Splash Mountain (Currently Closed to become Tiana’s Bayou Adventure)
  2. Pirates of the Caribbean
  3. TRON Lightcycle Run
  4. Space Mountain
  5. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
  6. The Haunted Mansion
  7. Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover
  8. Peter Pan’s Flight
  9. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
  10. Jungle Cruise
  11. Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress

In our opinion, to have a complete visit of the Magic Kingdom you have to go on each of these rides at least once. These are the classic attractions here and all fall under the “Must-Do” category.

Before your visit, make sure to read all the Disney World Ride Height Requirements so you know ahead of time which rides your children can go on.

Let’s take a more in-depth look at all the Magic Kingdom rides…

Main Street U.S.A.

Main Street U.S.A. Magic Kingdom

Every trip to the Magic Kingdom begins with a stroll down Main Street U.S.A. Of course, everyone knows about the shopping and all the delicious snacks at the confectionary or the bakery, however, there are two attractions found here to get your day started.

Main Street Vehicles (5/10)

  • Ride Type: Slow Car Ride
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: N/A
  • Height Requirement: No

Many people don’t even know about the Main Street vehicles, let alone the fact that you can ride them. It’s a pretty cool sensation riding up and down Main Street in one of these, making you feel right out of the turn of the century.

Of course, don’t expect these to be a thrilling attraction, it’s just a quaint, slow ride where you can take in all the incredible smells and sights of your day ahead.

  • Best Time to Ride: It can be hard to ride the Main Street Vehicles because they do not run every day and there isn’t a schedule to which days they are running. When they are running it’s usually early in the morning, before the crowds pack in. We suggest getting there before 10:00 am since they stop running shortly after that.

Walt Disney World Railroad (7.5/10)

  • Ride Type: Train Ride
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 20 minutes
  • Height Requirement: No
Walt Disney World Railroad Magic Kingdom

The Walt Disney World Railroad takes you on a relaxing trip around the entire border of the Magic Kingdom park. You will pass through all the lands in the Magic Kingdom (except Liberty Square), giving you a preview of what to expect.

There are some small scenes set up along the way, but it’s not nearly as elaborate as the Disneyland Railroad. Just knowing how much railroads meant to Walt himself means you have to take a ride at least once around the park.

  • Best Time to Visit: The Walt Disney World Railroad is always fun to ride, but we prefer riding in the afternoon when most of the popular attractions have long wait times. There are 3 stops to get on and off (Main Street U.S.A, Frontierland, and Fantasyland).

Adventureland

Adventureland Magic Kingdom

After leaving The Hub, make a sharp left and head into Adventureland. This exotic land is a fictional trip through the jungles of South America, Asia, Africa, the South Pacific, and the Middle East. This is where we usually start our days and can knock out all the rides on this side of the park right away.

Pirates of the Caribbean (10/10)

  • Ride Type: Boat Ride, Dark, Slow
  • Thrill Level: Low, Small Drop
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 8 minutes 30 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Pirates of the Caribbean Magic Kingdom

Pirates of the Caribbean is perhaps our favorite Disney ride of all time and the inspiration for the popular film franchise. It is the quintessential Disney dark ride taking guests in a boat through a fictional port town being overrun by pirates.

Everything from the audio-animatronics, to the incredible music and the elaborate sets, make this a must-do. In fact, we usually do it 2-3 times each visit. The Captain Jack Sparrow character from the films was added years later and you see him popping up throughout the ride.

I think almost everyone riding this while growing up, walked out singing the song and wanting to be a pirate later in life. Some small kids might be frightened by some of the gunfire, but overall it is a great ride that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The Disneyland version remains our favorite, but this one is still hard to beat.

  • Best Time to Visit: Pirates usually doesn’t have more than a 30-minute wait so you shouldn’t have a hard time going later on in the day when it’s hot outside. Don’t bother using one of your first Genie+ selections on this, use the standby queue. Otherwise, you can save it for later in the day with Genie+ if you like.

Jungle Cruise (8/10)

  • Ride Type: Boat Ride, Slow
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 9 minutes 5 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Jungle Cruise Magic Kingdom

Jungle Cruise is a slow boat ride with show scenes taking you through the jungles from around the world. You’ll see animals like lions, hippos, elephants, and tigers along the journey, and you’ll also run into danger.

The best part about the ride though is its corny, yet hilarious one-liners from your skipper piloting the boat. No matter how many times we ride, we always get a big laugh or two, though the quality of your skipper is really what makes the difference here.

The Jungle Cruise has a huge fanbase and has even inspired its own film with The Rock. You will also find its influence in various locations around Disney World. Jungle Cruise is a must-ride and an overall hilarious time.

  • Best Time to Visit: The Jungle Cruise often has long lines, and it’s one of our first choices for Genie+ since reservations tend to sell out quickly. If using the standby queue, we recommend doing this early on in the first couple hours of the day if possible, before the crowds come and the lines get too long.

Enchanted Tiki Room (6.5/10)

  • Ride Type: Musical Show
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 10 minutes
  • Height Requirement: No
Enchanted Tiki Room Magic Kingdom

If you like the audio-animatronics featured in attractions throughout the park, you should know it all started with the Enchanted Tiki Room. This 15-minute show features hundreds of animatronic birds singing one of the most famous Disney park songs of all time.

Though many consider it boring, we say it’s a must-do for any first-timer to the Magic Kingdom, and one we see over and over again very happily. It’s had some refurbishments throughout the years, but for the most part, it’s pretty close to the original show.

  • Best Time to Visit: There is no need to plan this one as it very rarely has a long line. We suggest experiencing the Enchanted Tiki Room right after stopping by next door for a Dole Whip.

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin (4.5/10)

  • Ride Type: Spinning Ride
  • Thrill Level: Medium
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 1 minute 30 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin Magic Kingdom Rides

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin is a spinning ride very similar to Dumbo the Flying Elephant in Fantasyland and Astro Blaster in Tomorrowland. It spins you and takes you up and down while giving you a birds-eye view of Adventureland.

Small kids will like it, but this is nothing special and you can skip it if you do one of the other two similar rides.

  • Best Time to Visit: Visit any time of day as wait times are not long. Don’t waste a Genie+ on it.

Swiss Family Treehouse (6/10)

  • Ride Type: Walkthrough Exhibit
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 10 minutes (approximate)
  • Height Requirement: No
Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse Magic Kingdom Attraction

The Swiss Family Treehouse is a walkthrough attraction based on the 1960 film Swiss Family Robinson. Disneyland has a Tarzan-themed version of the same attraction. It’s a cool attraction letting you experience what it would have been like to live in a similar treehouse, and fans of the movie will want to do it.

  • Best Time to Visit: It usually doesn’t have a long line so you can visit it whenever you want. If there are a bunch of people, skip it and come back when you can take your time going through it.

Fantasyland

Best Magic Kingdom Rides in Fantasyland

Most people think about Fantasyland when thinking about a Disney park. It is inspired by Disney’s animated films, fairy tales, and is filled with princesses, pixies, and boys who never grew up.

Fantasyland has the most attractions of any land at the Magic Kingdom, and if you have kids you might spend a good portion of your day here.

Peter Pan’s Flight (9/10)

  • Ride Type: Dark Ride, Slow
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 2 minutes 45 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Peter Pan's Flight Magic Kingdom Ride

Peter Pan’s Flight is the best ride in Fantasyland, yes even better than Seven Dwarfs. This is THE classic Disney dark ride and both parents and children will love it. The ride takes you from the city of London, all the way to Neverland where you see all the main characters from the film.

The coolest part about Peter Pan’s Flight is that the track is located above your ride vehicle, giving you the feeling of flying through the ride. While it needs some more upgrades to bring it into the 21st century, it remains a beloved ride and one you must do.

  • Best Time to Visit: Peter Pan’s Flight is one of the most popular rides at the Magic Kingdom, and you should make it a priority Genie+ selection. If you can’t get a Genie+ for it, make it one of your first rides of the day to avoid long waits.

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (8.5/10)

  • Ride Type: Roller Coaster
  • Thrill Level: Medium
  • Good For: Kids, Teens, Adults
  • Individual Lightning Lane Selection: Yes
  • Ride Length: 2 minutes 30 seconds
  • Height Requirement: 38 inches (97cm)
Best Magic Kingdom Rides Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is the newest ride in Fantasyland and perhaps the park’s most popular. It was built as part of the big Fantasyland expansion and is our favorite addition to the project. It’s a roller coaster, but tamer than the other 3 found at the Magic Kingdom.

It has some of the coolest audio animatronics of any ride at the Magic Kingdom, and incredible show scenes. Even the attraction queue is amazing with plenty of interactive parts to keep you occupied.

Our only complaint with the ride is that it’s pretty short, but this is definitely a ride you want to plan your day around.

  • Best Time to Visit: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train has the longest lines at the Magic Kingdom so you need to make it a priority when planning your day. Definitely go here at rope drop, first thing in the morning. If the line gets too long later in the day, an Individual Lightning Lane selection might be worth it, we try to avoid paying more when possible.

“It’s a small world” (8/10)

  • Ride Type: Boat Ride, Slow
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 10 minutes 30 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
it's a small world Magic Kingdom

Yes, we know you know the song and can’t get it out of your head either! Love it or hate it, this ride is a Magic Kingdom classic that has been here since the park’s opening in 1971 and is based on the one overseen by Walt Disney himself from the 1964 World’s Fair in New York.

“it’s a small world” is a slow boat ride that explores the many countries in the world and mostly, their people and cultures. It’s pretty impressive to know there are over 300 animatronic dolls throughout the ride, each with colorful and vibrant costumes and against exotic backdrops.

This is a must-do ride with or without kids as it’s so ingrained into the Fantasyland culture. At least you’ll be able to sing the classic Sherman brothers song the rest of your day in the park.

  • Best Time to Visit: “it’s a small world” is not usually very crowded and you can go at most times of the day. If Fantasyland isn’t too crowded, try it in the afternoon or evening. Don’t use one of your first Genie+ selections on it, and you can probably wait until later in the day in the standby queue.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (7/10)

  • Ride Type: Dark Ride
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 3 minutes 8 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh Magic Kingdom Rides

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh is a dark ride based on the classic children’s book character and his friends from the Hundred Acre Wood. This is one of the more popular Fantasyland rides as it takes you into a crazy dream Winnie the Pooh is having.

While it’s a good ride, it doesn’t stand up to Peter Pan’s Flight or Journey of the Little Mermaid, both better attractions nearby. Still, we often do it and it’s a must-do for fans of the characters.

  • Best Time to Visit: Lines can be long at times, and even though the interactive queue is nice, we avoid them if possible. If the wait is more than 20 minutes, try getting a Genie+ later in the afternoon.

Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid (7.5/10)

  • Ride Type: Dark Ride
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 6 minutes 15 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Under the Sea - Journey of the Little Mermaid Magic Kingdom Fantasyland

Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid is a slow dark ride in the Fantasyland expansion area. Join Ariel, Sebastian, Flounder, and Ursula, in a re-telling of the classic Disney animated film The Little Mermaid.

For dark rides, this happens to be one of the best at the Magic Kingdom, and we ride it every time we go. The queue sets the stage as you enter a grotto near the sea, and then climb into a clamshell to go on your journey. It doesn’t quite live up to its potential, but it’s a very solid ride.

  • Best Time to Visit: Do it early in the morning on your run through Fantasyland, or wait for a time when the line is short later in the day. No need to use a Genie+ selection on this unless it’s the end of the day and nothing else is left.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant (6/10)

  • Ride Type: Spinning Ride
  • Thrill Level: Medium
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 1 minute 30 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Dumbo the Flying Elephant Fantasyland

Dumbo the Flying Elephant is a spinning ride in the Storybook Circus area of Fantasyland. This ride has been at the Magic Kingdom since 1971, although it has undergone some changes through the years. Its interactive queue which opened in 2012 is a great addition and will keep your kids busy while waiting.

Guests hop into the Dumbo-shaped ride vehicles connected to a central pivot point while going up and down and spinning around the center. If we had to pick between the 3 spinning rides at the Magic Kingdom, we think Dumbo is the best. That said, it’s not one that you need to do unless you have small children.

  • Best Time to Visit: Dumbo has a higher capacity than the other spinning rides, so it usually doesn’t have a super long wait. If it does, use a Genie+ on it, or do it later in the evening, which is cooler anyway.

Enchanted Tales with Belle (6/10)

  • Ride Type: Walkthrough Show
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 10 minutes
  • Height Requirement: No
Magic Kingdom Ride Enchanted Tales with Belle

Enchanted Tales with Belle is an interactive walkthrough experience based on the characters from the Disney animated classic, Beauty and the Beast. Think of it as a character meet, only with a story being told at the same time.

Kids and adults alike are asked to participate in the storytelling and we have to admit, the special effects used in this attraction are pretty cool. Beauty and the Beast fans will love this and it is recommended no matter what if you have the time.

  • Best Time to Visit: It usually doesn’t have long waits, and it makes for a good attraction in the evening once some of the crowds have moved out of Fantasyland.

The Barnstormer (5/10)

  • Ride Type: Roller Coaster
  • Thrill Level: Low, Small Drops
  • Good For: Kids
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 1 minute 3 seconds
  • Height Requirement: 35 inches (89cm)
The Barnstormer Magic Kingdom

The Barnstormer is a small roller coaster in the Storybook Circus area of Fantasyland. It’s a kid’s roller coaster, so don’t expect many thrills here. It’s a good way to get your young ones warmed up though for some of the bigger rides in the park.

There is nothing special about The Barnstormer and you can safely skip it if you don’t have kids.

  • Best Time to Visit: Wait times tend to be long here and if you have small kids that won’t be doing some of the other bigger rides, you can consider using a Genie+ selection here when wait times are more than 30-40 minutes.

Mad Tea Party (5/10)

  • Ride Type: Spinning
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 1 minute 30 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Mad Tea Party Magic Kingdom attraction

The Mad Tea Party is a spinning ride based on the Disney classic film Alice in Wonderland. Guests get into oversized teacups attached to a turntable and spin around in circles.

We used to do this all the time when we were young, but honestly, all the spinning can be rough, so don’t do this if you get motion sickness. Besides being lightly themed, this is a standard ride that can be experienced at any local state fair.

  • Best Time to Visit: Wait times are short here and you don’t need much planning to do it. Just hop on when passing by and no need to use a Genie+ selection on it.

Mickey’s Philharmagic (6/10)

  • Ride Type: Show
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 12 minutes
  • Height Requirement: No
Mickey's Philharmagic Magic Kingdom

This is a 3D show full of clips from classic Disney animation and features Donald Duck. If you like Disney animation you will enjoy this show, especially if you grew up on the films featured.

  • Best Time to Visit: This is a good attraction to do in the afternoon when it’s hot out and you are waiting for your next Genie+ selection to be ready.

Prince Charming Regal Carousel (5/10)

  • Ride Type: Spinning
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 2 minutes
  • Height Requirement: No
Prince Charming Regal Carousel Magic Kingdom

Prince Charming Regal Carousel is the oldest ride at the Magic Kingdom as it was built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company in 1917. If you have small kids or really like carousels then it’s a fine ride, you will appreciate all the original horses, hand-carved from maple.

  • Best Time to Visit: You can visit the carousel any time of the day you like, the wait times are not long. We prefer riding at night because the lights give off a cool effect.

Frontierland

Best Frontierland Rides at Disney's Magic Kingdom

Fans of the Wild West will love Frontierland. This is a romanticized version of the American West, telling the story of cowboys, Native Americans, and exploration.

Splash Mountain (10/10)

  • Ride Type: Boat Ride, Dark Ride
  • Thrill Level: Medium/High, Big Drops
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 11 minutes
  • Height Requirement: 40 inches (102cm)
Splash Mountain Magic Kingdom

(UPDATE – Splash Mountain officially closed at Disney’s Magic Kingdom on January 23, 2023, and will be replaced by Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Late 2024. At this time we obviously can’t accurately rank it since it’s not open, so we are leaving our thoughts on Splash Mountain here until it opens. Hopefully, it’s at least close to the same level as the original.)

Splash Mountain is a ride based on characters from Disney’s Song of the South film in the back of Frontierland. It’s actually a dark ride and log flume combined into one, with elaborate show scenes and a big drop at the end.

Splash Mountain is one of the absolute best rides in Walt Disney World and is a must-do on any trip to the Magic Kingdom. The mix of thrills, storytelling, and music is almost unbeatable.

Disney announced that Splash Mountain is being re-themed to a Princess and the Frog ride in the near future, so get to the Magic Kingdom for one last ride ASAP!

  • Best Time to Visit: We recommend doing Splash Mountain early in the day while knocking out the rides in Frontierland and Adventureland before it gets too hot and everyone flocks to this ride. If you are using Genie+, we recommend using one of your first selections here, especially in the summer when temperatures are high. If it’s the off-season, you can get away with waiting until later.

Big Thunder Mountain (9/10)

  • Ride Type: Roller Coaster
  • Thrill Level: Medium
  • Good For: Kids, Teens, Adults
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 3 minutes 25 seconds
  • Height Requirement: 40 inches (102cm)
Magic Kingdom Rides Big Thunder Mountain

Big Thunder Mountain is a roller coaster in Frontierland and definitely the “wildest ride in the wilderness!” It’s a runaway mine train coaster taking you into the old Wild West, through caverns and mining camps.

While it can be a rough ride and could use some upgrades, we love Thunder Mountain and make it a priority on each trip. A definite must-do ride and a Disney classic.

  • Best Time to Visit: It’s one of the more popular rides in the park, but it usually doesn’t warrant using one of your first Genie+ selections on it as it should last into the afternoon. If you go early in the morning there is no need and you can ride using the standby line with minimal wait.

Country Bear Jamboree (8/10)

  • Ride Type: Animatronic Stage Show
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 12 minutes
  • Height Requirement: No
Country Bear Jamboree Magic Kingdom

The Country Bear Jamboree is a stage show in Frontierland featuring audio-animatronic bears singing country music. This is one of the more controversial attractions at the Magic Kingdom and many people find the show old-fashioned and boring.

(UPDATE: The Country Bear Jamboree will be getting a new update in 2024 and all of your favorite bears including Trixie, Big Al, Henry, and the others will be reinterpreting favorite Disney songs.)

We happen to love the Country Bear Jamboree and think it’s one of the most clever shows in Walt Disney World, full of one-liners and comedic quips. The sheer nostalgia alone of this ride makes it worth visiting, and it harkens back to classic Disney World.

  • Best Time to Visit: There is almost never a long wait for the Country Bears, so you can do this whenever you like.

Tom Sawyer Island (6/10)

  • Ride Type: Walkthrough
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 30 minutes (approximately)
  • Height Requirement: No
Tom Sawyer Island Magic Kingdom

Tom Sawyer Island is an exploration area accessible from the rest of the Magic Kingdom only by raft. This makes it the quietest, and most peaceful area of the park, perfect if you want to get away from the crowds.

Its inspiration comes from the Mark Twain novel The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and contains references to these characters throughout. The island is filled with caves, bridges, and there is even a fort to explore. It’s a great place to let your kids have a little space to run and explore.

  • Best Time to Visit: Tom Sawyer Island can be hard to get to since you have to wait for the rafts to transport you there. The average wait time is 10-20 so you have to take this into consideration in your schedule.

Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade (4/10)

  • Ride Type: Carnival Game
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 3 minutes
  • Height Requirement: No
Frontierland Shootin' Arcade Magic Kingdom

This is an Old West-themed shooting gallery that uses projectile-free infrared technology. Guests can take their best shot at a bunch of moving and stationary targets. This attraction requires a fee to play, so we usually just skip it.

  • Best Time to Visit: You can go anytime there is not a long wait.

Liberty Square

Liberty Square Magic Kingdom Attractions

Liberty Square is designed as a colonial-era American town set during the Revolutionary War. The details here are amazing, with a full-sized replica of the Liberty Bell from Philadelphia and the Liberty Tree. Attractions include the Haunted Mansion, Liberty Square Riverboat, and The Hall of Presidents.

Haunted Mansion (9/10)

  • Ride Type: Dark Ride, Slow
  • Thrill Level: Medium, Scary
  • Good For: Kids, Teens, Adults
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 7 minutes 30 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Haunted Mansion entrance Magic Kingdom

The Haunted Mansion is a slow-moving dark ride, and one of the most popular attractions in Disney World. This is one of the most detailed attractions Walt Disney Imagineering has ever built and an iconic ride.

Though there are a few scary parts, The Haunted Mansion is supposed to be a whimsical look at the “999 happy haunts” and it shouldn’t be too scary for most kids.

  • Best Time to Visit: The line moves very quickly here and the wait is not usually more than 30 minutes on a normal day, so you shouldn’t need a Genie+ reservation. The new queue is also interactive, giving you something to do while you wait. Try going at night for an even scarrier experience.

The Hall of Presidents (7/10)

  • Ride Type: Animatronic Stage Show
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: Teens and Adults
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 21 minutes 35 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No

The Hall of Presidents is a 25-minute stage show featuring audio-animatronic figures of every president in American history. Each time a new president is elected, Walt Disney Imagineering makes a new figure who becomes the centerpiece of the show and who even makes a speech.

If you are not into “educational” attractions then you can skip over The Hall of Presidents. However, if you are a fan of history, or if your kids need a quick history lesson, this is a very powerful attraction not-to-be-missed.

  • Best Time to Visit: The Hall of Presidents makes a perfect afternoon attraction for a nice long break inside the air conditioning and out of the Florida sun.

Liberty Square Riverboat (6/10)

  • Ride Type: Boat Ride, Slow
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 12 minutes 45 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Magic Kingdom Park History

The Liberty Square Riverboat is an authentic 47-foot tall, steam-powered paddle wheeler that takes guests down the Rivers of America. There is a recorded narration by author Mark Twain, who shares his stories of time on the Mississippi River.

Don’t expect big thrills here, but it’s a relaxing way to spend an afternoon and it has great views of Liberty Square and Frontierland, perfect for photographers.

  • Best Time to Visit: Any time is ok to ride the riverboat, just check the schedule for departure times.

Tomorrowland

Best Tomorrowland Rides Magic Kingdom

Tomorrowland is a romanticized view of the future and the promise of tomorrow. It’s home to many popular Magic Kingdom attractions like Space Mountain, the Tomorrowland Speedway, and the newest attraction TRON Lightcycle Run.

Space Mountain (9/10)

  • Ride Type: Roller Coaster
  • Thrill Level: High
  • Good For: Kids, Teens, Adults
  • Individual Lightning Lane Selection: No
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 2 minutes 30 seconds
  • Height Requirement: 44 inches (112cm)
Space Mountain train loading area Magic Kingdom

Space Mountain is an indoor dark roller coaster and Disney World’s first real thrill ride. There is no denying the “cool factor” here as guests are blasted off into space while riding under comets, meteorites, and shooting stars.

It can be a pretty bumpy ride, so if you don’t like to be jostled, this one isn’t for you. This is one of the first roller coasters for many young kids, and it has a high nostalgic appeal. Make sure you ride Space Mountain as it’s definitely one of the best rides at the Magic Kingdom and something that needs to be experienced.

  • Best Time to Visit: If you are on this side of the park for rope drop, make this one of the first choices after Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. You can also wait until later in the evening to ride when the crowds die down. It’s also a good use of one of your early Genie+ selections and should be a priority.

TRON Lightcycle Run (10/10)

  • Ride Type: Roller Coaster
  • Thrill Level: High
  • Good For: Kids, Teens, Adults
  • Individual Lightning Lane Selection: Yes
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 2 minutes
  • Height Requirement: 48 inches (123cm)
guests riding TRON Lightcycle Run outside at night with the canopy lit up

TRON LIghtcycle Run is the Magic Kingdom’s newest, best, and most thrilling attraction. It’s a must-do for roller coaster enthusiasts and it’s unique from any other roller coaster in any Disney theme park.

First of all, if you like speed, this is the fastest roller coaster Disney Imagineers have ever designed and the launch sequence is awesome. Even though there are no loops or inversions, it’s probably the most thrilling ride at Walt Disney World (it doesn’t have the thrill factor of some Universal rides though).

The most fun part about it is the ride vehicle. Instead of a traditional seat and bench coaster, TRON puts you on one of the famous light cycle bikes from the films, which gives you an incredible feeling of freedom as you twist and turn your way through the grid. Think of a more modern Space Mountain with a bike like on Avatar.

Even if you are not riding, it’s worth taking a walk underneath the outdoor canopy and enjoying the screaming guests whizzing by overhead! The atmosphere and aesthetic there is incredible. This is and will be the most popular attraction at the Magic Kingdom for years to come.

Make sure you read our guide to the Using Virtual Queue at TRON Lightcycle Run for more info on how to ride it.

Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover (9/10)

  • Ride Type: Omnimover Ride, Slow
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 10 minutes 10 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover Magic Kingdom

The Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover is a slow-moving ride set high above the ground and offers excellent views of Tomorrowland. This is the ultimate relaxation ride at the Magic Kingdom and we love to just sit back and enjoy the day.

There are a few parts with behind-the-scenes looks at some of the other Tomorrowland rides, and you even get to go inside Space Mountain and see it from a different perspective. The PeopleMover is one of the top attractions at the Magic Kingdom and one you should definitely make time for.

  • Best Time to Visit: Any time is a good time to go on the PeopleMover. We think the best time however is at night, when you can see Tomorrowland all lit up below you. Going on right when the fireworks are starting is also a great time and offers an interesting perspective of the show.

Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress (8.5/10)

  • Ride Type: Show
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: Adults
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 20 minutes 45 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress Magic Kingdom

This is another one of Walt Disney’s classic attractions from the 1964 New York World’s Fair that has found a home at the Magic Kingdom. The Carousel of Progress is a 21-minute long stage show with a family of audio-animatronics giving you a look back at American life from the turn of the century until modern times.

This is another Magic Kingdom attraction that many people would consider “boring,” but it’s one of our absolute favorites. We’ve seen it 1000 times and still laugh at all the jokes. It’s a very entertaining look at how times have changed in this past century and one we recommend seeing.

  • Best Time to Visit: The Carousel of Progress is perfect on a hot afternoon where you can get a long reprieve from the heat.

Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor (7.5/10)

  • Ride Type: Show, Interactive
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 11 minutes
  • Height Requirement: No
Magic Kingdom Rides Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor

Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor is a screen-based show and one of the more interesting attractions at the Magic Kingdom. Monsters interact with guests in the audience as part of a comedy act and try to make you laugh as much as possible.

This is an attraction good for people of any age, and the way the monsters on the screen interact with the audience is really incredible. Since the audience is different every time, many of the jokes change from show to show.

  • Best Time to Visit: This is another good afternoon show to get out of the heat. Wait times are low so no need for a Genie+ selection here.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin (6.5/10)

  • Ride Type: Dark Ride, Shooting Ride
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 4 minutes 5 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin Magic Kingdom

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is a dark ride and game combo where you and a partner try to rack up to 999,999 points and take down the Evil Emperor Zurg on this space-based adventure. It’s a shooter-style ride similar to Toy Story Mania! only a more primitive version.

The ride has flaws, and it’s not the best attraction at the Magic Kingdom, but overall it’s fun and one that kids, or anyone who grew up during the videogame age will enjoy.

  • Best Time to Visit: Wait times are not usually very long and there is no need to get a Genie+ reservation for this one. Do it as part of a Tomorrowland rope drop, or when you are in the area.

Astro Orbiter (6/10)

  • Ride Type: Spinning Ride
  • Thrill Level: Medium
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Ride Length: 1 minute 30 seconds
  • Height Requirement: No
Astro Orbiter Magic Kingdom

Astro Orbiter is another high-flying spinning ride at Disney’s Magic Kingdom and similar to Dumbo and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin. Guests are loaded into small rocket ship vehicles attached by a mechanical arm to a center pivot point and can go up and down while spinning.

The main difference here is that you are much higher than the other two rides and need to take an elevator up to the loading platform. Being high up makes it slightly more thrilling than the others.

  • Best Time to Visit: Monitor throughout the day and do this when lines are shorter. Try doing at night for a very cool experience over Tomorrowland.

Tomorrowland Speedway (6/10)

  • Ride Type: Car Ride
  • Thrill Level: Low
  • Good For: Kids
  • Genie+: Yes
  • Ride Length: 4 minutes 45 seconds
  • Height Requirement: 32 inches (81cm)
Tomorrowland Speedway Magic Kingdom Rides

There is no denying that kids love the Tomorrowland Speedway as it’s often their first time to experience what driving a car is like. This ride is a go-cart-style attraction as guests get in their own car for a spin around the track.

Though kids really enjoy it, it’s not very fun for adults. The cars are smelly, unresponsive, and handle terribly. This ride is in serious need of an upgrade at some point if it is going to stay in the Magic Kingdom.

  • Best Time to Visit: Since it’s not ideal to bake on the Tomorrowland Speedway asphalt during the afternoon, we prefer riding this in the morning or evening. Try getting a same-day Genie+ to avoid somewhat long wait times, but don’t make it an early selection, wait until the afternoon if you can.

New Attractions Coming to the Magic Kingdom

TRON Lightcycle Run (NOW OPEN)

TRON Lightcycle Run Roller Coaster Magic Kingdom

There aren’t a lot of brand new rides coming to the Magic Kingdom, but the one that just got built is going to blow you away. The TRON Lightcycle Coaster is a clone of the ride from Shanghai Disneyland and one of the fastest rides Disney has ever built.

The TRON coaster is the centerpiece of the Tomorrowland expansion and has quickly become one of the most popular rides in the park. Guests get onboard two-wheeled lightcycle bikes in a thrilling trip onto The Grid. The lights and special effects make you feel like you are right there in the world of TRON.

Official Opening Date – TRON Lightcycle Run officially opened to the public on April 4, 2023. However, preview events went on throughout March, as well as soft openings to the public, so many guests had a chance to ride it early.

Future Attractions

In addition to the opening of TRON Lightcycle Run, the return of the Walt Disney World Railroad, and the return of fan-favorite fireworks show ‘Happily Ever After’, what else is Magic Kingdom expecting in the future?

We are excited for the next attraction which will open up sometime in late 2024, and that’s Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. While we were sad to see Splash Mountain go, we are excited as the characters of Princess and the Frog take us on a musical log flume rid set in the Louisiana Bayou.

We also look forward to the reimagining and new Country Bear Jamboree show that should begin performing sometime in 2024! Thank goodness they are keeping our favorite characters like Big Al Henry, Trixie, and all their friends, just in a slightly different setting.

Disney also recently announced a huge new Magic Kingdom expansion that will take place behind Big Thunder Mountain, with news that it will be the LARGEST Magic Kingdom expansion in park history!

Walt Disney Imagineering Chief Creative Officer Bruce Vaughn said this new expansion projection will have attractions, shows, and restaurants! While we are excited for this, prepare for this project to take SEVERAL years.

For a more detailed look at more Disney attractions in the next few years, read our post on what’s next to Walt Disney World.

Shows & Entertainment

Maleficent Festival of Fantasy Parade Magic Kingdom

Besides the rides, there are many things to do and see at the Magic Kingdom, including a slew of entertainment options like shows, street performers, games, and activities for kids. The Magic Kingdom is also famous for its parades and fireworks shows, which you can’t miss!

Let’s take a look at all the best shows at the Magic Kingdom as well as our ratings for each of them…

Temporary Entertainment

In the past few years, Disney has used a number of different temporary entertainment options that have taken the place of past entertainment offerings as they’ve gotten back to normal.

That said, we are glad the famous Magic Kingdom Parade the Festival of Fantasy came back in early 2022, after taking a two-year hiatus.

Disney has also introduced some other new entertainment options in the last few years including The Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade. While they did have up to 7 different Character Cavalcades going down Main Street U.S.A each day, they still have kept the Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade.

Read the following posts for more info on the entertainment options at the Magic Kingdom right now:

Happily Ever After (10/10)

Happily Ever After Fireworks Magic Kingdom
  • Location: The Hub in front of Cinderella Castle
  • Type: Nighttime Spectacular (Fireworks, Projections, Pyrotechnics)
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Show Length: 18 Minutes and 20 Seconds

Happily Ever After is the current fireworks show at Disney’s Magic Kingdom and the best way to finish the day. When it first debuted in 2017, it was met initially with skepticism from fans, but it was then embraced and now recognized by most as the best fireworks show in Magic Kingdom history.

In 2021, it had a brief hiatus during the Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration when it was temporarily replaced by Disney Enchantment, a much inferior show. Fans disliked it so much they petitioned for the return of Happily Ever After, and here it is once again!

The show features music and characters from a wide variety of Disney and Pixar films to tell its story along with fireworks, pyrotechnics, lasers, and projection mapping. It also has one of the best original songs of any Disney show, aptly entitled “Happily Ever After.”

Happily Ever After is an absolute “must-do” for all first-timers, and most guests even if they’ve seen it dozens of times already (like myself). It’s THAT good, trust me. It’s extremely inspiring and moving, and I guarantee you won’t leave with dry eyes.

We recommend watching from The Hub, anywhere from behind the Partner’s Statue to Main Street will give you a great view. Get there at least an hour to al hour and a half early though for a good spot.

READ: Happily Ever After Fireworks Show | Details, Hours, & Full Review

Festival of Fantasy Parade (9/10)

Festival of Fantasy Parade Magic Kingdom
  • Location: Adventureland, Liberty Square, The Hub, and Main Street U.S.A.
  • Type: Character Parade
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Show Length: 30 Minutes

No trip to the Magic Kingdom is complete without taking in the Festival of Fantasy Parade. This is the current daytime parade and features characters from your favorite Disney animated films such as Beauty and the Beast, Tangled, Peter Pan, and more.

The floats are all grand and impressive in their design. The music is great and the dozens of performers really bring the energy. The highlight is the Maleficent float, a steampunk-inspired version of the fire-breathing dragon! This is the best daytime parade the Magic Kingdom has ever done and a must-see.

Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire (7/10)

Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire show
  • Location: The Hub in front of Cinderella Castle
  • Type: Live Stage Show (Musical)
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Show Length: 23 Minutes

This is a daytime stage show that takes place in front of Cinderella Castle. It’s a newer show and features Mickey and all his friends singing and dancing. This show changes depending on the season so it never gets boring seeing the same show over and over.

We don’t often watch it, but it’s an entertaining show for kids and a nice show when you have some time to kill.

Once Upon a Time (7.5/10)

  • Location: The Hub in front of Cinderella Castle
  • Type: Nighttime Spectacular (Projections, Pyrotechnics)
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Show Length: 14 Minutes

Once Upon a Time is a show in front of the castle that features Mrs. Potts and Chip from Beauty and the Beast. It doesn’t run every night, and when it does it’s either right before or after the fireworks, depending on the season. It features all sorts of cool effects like projections, pyrotechnics, and lasers and retells parts of many classic Disney stories.

It’s best on nights when it runs right before the fireworks since you are already going to be there waiting. Then after the fireworks, you can either go back to your resort or set off immediately to get a couple more rides in for the night.

Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party (6.5/10)

  • Location: The Hub and Main Stree U.S.A.
  • Type: Character Parade (Musical Dance Party)
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Show Length: 15 Minutes

The Magic Kingdom has had street parties in recent years, and Move It! Shake It! is the latest one. This is very similar to a parade and it features dozens of dancers and your favorite Disney characters on floats moving around to high-energy music. You’ll hear the original song, “It’s a Good Time”, as well as modern remixes of older Disney tunes.

It’s entertaining enough but not as cool as the Festival of Fantasy Parade. The show starts in the afternoon so check the schedule.

*(This has been suspended for the time being and it’s unclear if Disney will be bringing it back)

Let the Magic Begin (6/10)

Mickey and Minnie on stage for Let the Magic Begin Magic Kingdom
  • Location: The Hub In front of Cinderella Castle
  • Type: Live Stage Show
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Show Length: 5 Minutes

This is a stage show welcoming guests as the Magic Kingdom opens for the day. It features Mickey Mouse and his friends, as they greet you in front of the castle. This show is high-energy and a great way to get you pumped for the rest of your day.

Electrical Water Pageant (8/10)

  • Location: Seven Seas Lagoon & Bay Lake
  • Type: Nighttime Water Show
  • Good For: All Ages
  • Genie+: No
  • Show Length: 15 Minutes

Technically the Electrical Water Pageant doesn’t take place inside the Magic Kingdom, but right outside on the Seven Seas Lagoon. This light show is a Disney classic going back all the way to the first year the Magic Kingdom opened in 1971.

It has 14 floats and thousands of lightbulbs you’d expect to see on a Christmas tree basically strung up with chicken wire. The show hasn’t changed much in 50 years and the technology isn’t the best, but it will always hold a place in our hearts.

For a great view, watch the show from the beach at Disney’s Polynesian Resort or Disney’s Grand Floridian.

Genie+ Attractions at Magic Kingdom

FastPass+ at Disney's Magic Kingdom

You may have heard the little news that FastPass+ has been discontinued at Walt Disney World and replaced with the Disney Genie service. This has completely changed the way guests tour the Magic Kingdom.

Genie+ is very similar to FastPass+ and it lets you skip waiting in long lines all day and instead moves you through “Lightning Lane,” thereby skipping ahead of the rest of the guests waiting in the normal standby line.

Using My Disney Experience app, guests can make reservations for attractions they want to ride throughout the day and are then given a one-hour return time. Guests then come back during that time slot to ride. Reservations are limited to one at a time, so you can’t have 3 all at once like before. Guests must wait 2 hours in between making reservations.

Best rides at Magic Kingdom

Unlike the old FastPass+ system, Genie+ is NOT free and it comes with an extra charge to use it. Disney Genie+ costs between $15-$39 per day, per guest. Our article “How to Purchase Genie+” goes into more detail on the pricing and how to make reservations.

Besides Genie+, there are also Individual Lightning Lane selections. This is another pay-to-ride service separate from Genie+, and with another additional cost. Unlike Genie+ which gives you access to many attractions, Individual Lightning Lane selections allow you to pay to ride just one attraction at a time.

There are only 2 attractions using the Individual Lightning Lane in each park. It’s not necessary to purchase Genie+ to make an Individual Lightning Lane selection as they are 2 different services. Prices for Individual Lightning Lane selections at the Magic Kingdom range from $10-$20 each, per guest.

There is also a free Disney Genie service, but it doesn’t help you skip the lines, it mostly offers planning suggestions.

Here are all the current attractions using Disney Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lane at Disney’s Magic Kingdom:

Genie+ Lightning Lane Selections:

  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
  • Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
  • Dumbo the Flying Elephant
  • Haunted Mansion
  • “it’s a small world”
  • Jungle Cruise
  • Mad Tea Party
  • Mickey’s PhilharMagic
  • Monster’s, Inc. Laugh Floor
  • Peter Pan’s Flight
  • Pirates of the Caribbean
  • Space Mountain
  • The Barnstormer
  • The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
  • The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
  • Tomorrowland Speedway
  • Under the Sea~Journey of the Little Mermaid

Individual Lightning Lane Selections:

  • Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
  • TRON Lightcycle Run
Peter Pan's Flight queue Magic Kingdom

Even though there are 15+ Genie+ rides to choose from, not all of them are worth one of your limited selections throughout the day. These should be saved for the most valuable attractions, the hardest-to-get ones.

The best choices for your first Genie+ selections at Disney’s Magic Kingdom are these attractions in the following order:

  1. Peter Pan’s Flight
  2. Jungle Cruise
  3. Space Mountain
  4. Big Thunder Mountain

Peter Pan runs out of reservations early in the day, and so does Jungle Cruise. Make one of these your first choice and save the others for after.

Is it Worth It?
Many guests are hesitant to pay an additional $15-$39 per day for a service that used to be free and they wonder if it’s worth the cost. In our experience, of all 4 Walt Disney World theme parks, Magic Kingdom is one of the only ones worth the cost.

It’s not worth buying for your entire vacation, but the Magic Kingdom has so many rides that it will help save a lot of time if used right. We find it especially useful when crowd levels are high or when you don’t have a lot of time to spend here. In our post Is Genie+ Worth It? we break down all the costs and which parks you get the best value at.

We also go over everything you need to know in our full guide to Disney Genie+ and the Lightning Lane. And if you are looking for specific strategies including a priority list and a specific touring plan to follow, read our Genie+ at Magic Kingdom Guide.

Best Family Rides

Best Family Rides at Magic Kingdom

Almost all the attractions at Disney’s Magic Kingdom are family-friendly, and there isn’t anything too intense for the majority of guests. There are many slow-moving dark rides and boat rides that everyone in the family will enjoy, both young and old.

There are also tons of rides for toddlers and little kids that do not have a height requirement.

Here are the best family rides at Disney’s Magic Kingdom in order:

  1. Pirates of the Caribbean
  2. “it’s a small world”
  3. Peter Pan’s Flight
  4. Jungle Cruise
  5. Splash Mountain (Tiana’s Bayou Adventure)

All of these rides are a hit with families and children, and the top 4 are very tame and slow-moving yet extremely entertaining and will be enjoyed by the whole family.

The only one that might be a no-go is Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (when it opens) since there is a height requirement. Even though there is a drop, the majority of kids love this ride and most parents with them.

Best Thrill Rides

Best Thrill Rides Magic Kingdom

The Magic Kingdom isn’t known for big thrill rides, and even though there are 4 roller coasters, most are not too intense for riders used to bigger coasters in other parks. Even though they have some thrills, none of the rides are on the level of Expedition Everest, Tower of Terror, or Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster.

Here are the best thrill rides at Disney’s Magic Kingdom in order:

  1. TRON Lightcycle Run
  2. Space Mountain
  3. Splash Mountain (Tiana’s Bayou Adventure)
  4. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
  5. The Haunted Mansion

TRON Lightcycle Run is the newest ride at the Magic Kingdom, and it also happens to be the most thrilling. It’s the fastest roller coaster Disney has ever made. Need I say more?

Space Mountain is the classic thrill ride, after all, what beats whipping around sharp corners in the dark? Not seeing where you are going definitely increases the “thrill factor”.

If you like big drops, then Splash Mountain is where it’s at. Though most of the ride is pretty slow, you might want to close your eyes for that 50-foot drop at the end.

The rest of the rides are not super scary, as the other two roller coasters on the list are not extreme and can be done by most guests. The Haunted Mansion is not a wild ride, but it might be scary for little kids.

How to Avoid Long Lines for Rides at the Magic Kingdom?

Magic Kingdom Best Attractions

Of course, with so many attractions at the Magic Kingdom, you also are bound to spend a lot of time waiting in line. Nothing is a bigger bummer than that, so here are our best tips to avoid waiting in line at the Magic Kingdom.

Go Early in the Morning – We suggest doing this for all the parks, but it might be most effective at the Magic Kingdom. If you are there at rope drop in the morning, the first 2 hours of the day are pretty quiet and you can get all the rides with the longest wait times done right away. Getting up early stinks but you’ll thank us later.

Go When the Crowds are Low – Another strategy is to avoid going during the times of the year when Disney World tends to be the busiest. Use our Disney World Crowd Calendar to find when there are fewer people in the parks. Also, weekdays are always less busy than the weekends so keep that in mind.

Make sure to look at the Disney World Attractions Refurbishment Calendar while planning your trip to see if any of your favorite attractions are scheduled to be closed while you are there.

For more attractions, be sure to check out our other Disney World Ride Guides:

If you are thinking about going to Walt Disney World in the coming future, make sure to read our Disney World Planning Guide. There you will find all the info and tips you need to plan your trip.

Your Thoughts

I want to know what you think about the Magic Kingdom Rides…

  • What is your favorite attraction at the Magic Kingdom?
  • Which new ride are you looking forward to the most?

Let us know in the comments section below!

If you enjoyed this article, as always I appreciate it if you’d share it with others via social media.  I work hard at making this website into a useful resource for you and your family to plan your visit to the Disney Parks and I hope it can help you! Thanks 🙂

Amy

Wednesday 22nd of February 2023

Love your site! I found it so helpful when planning our family's (first) upcoming trip to Disney World. The reason I'm commenting (and you are probably well aware) is to mention that Splash Mountain in no longer active as of late Jan 2023. I noticed this when I couldn't find it on the latest Magic Kingdom park map. Perhaps add a disclaimer on this page since it's listed as your top ride. Thank you for all the info!!

Ziggy Oskwarek

Friday 7th of April 2023

Hi Amy, thanks for the nice message, glad to help! Yes, when you read it I hadn't changed it, but now I updated the list so it should be all set to reflect what's currently open.

George Mells

Sunday 4th of December 2022

I of course have some different opinions but for the most part generally agree. Back in the 70s I had the negative experience of being stuck in "It's a Small World" for about 15 minutes. And of course the "Disney Sadists" did NOT turn off the song the whole time. I was also at the park the day both "Space Mountain" and "Pirates ..." opened. If people think "Space Mountain" is wild now they should have tried it then. It really tossed you around. I believe that "Pirates ..." has undergone some changes to remove the more non-PC elements but is still a good experience. I was on the Disneyland version in 2019 and enjoyed it.

I still like the "Tiki Room". I think it is really fun to see a toddler viewing it for the first time and seated near one of the totems that comes alive during the later songs.

While chaperoning a 1986 Grad Night I had an rare experience. I was riding the "Big Thunder Mountain" and when we came back into the boarding area we were asked if we wanted to go again. Unheard of under the normal "ride and get off" Disney structure.