Tomorrowland Speedway in front of Space Mountain in Magic Kingdom Park

21 Must-Do Disney World Rides at Magic Kingdom

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Since its opening on October 1, 1971, Magic Kingdom Park has basically become synonymous with the Walt Disney World Resort. After all, can you really say that you’ve been to the Most Magical Place on Earth if you haven’t waltzed up Main Street, U.S.A., taken a picture in front of Cinderella Castle or gorged yourself on DOLE Whip from Aloha Isle? We think not.

And we haven’t even mentioned the best part of this fantastical theme park yet. The rides! Magic Kingdom attractions are some of the most popular rides at Walt Disney World, from iconic classics like “it’s a small world” and Space Mountain to newer favorites like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Plus, don’t forget the soon-to-open attractions that are sure to be a hit, TRON Lightcycle / Run and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

So, if you’re wondering which attractions are the best rides at Magic Kingdom, you’ve come to the right place. Join us as we explore all the must-see sights and sounds that have made Magic Kingdom and Walt Disney World overall one of the globe’s most beloved vacation destinations. Let’s get started!

Magic Kingdom Partners statue in front of Cinderella Castle

Don’t Miss These 21 Best Rides at Magic Kingdom

Ready for a Walt Disney World vacation you and your family will never forget? Then you definitely won’t want to miss the 20 best Magic Kingdom rides. From dark rides to roller coasters, from thrill rides to toddler-friendly attractions, these are all the rides that put the ‘magic’ in Magic Kingdom.

Main Street, U.S.A.

Walt Disney World Railroad

Walt Disney was an avid lover of trains. In fact, he even built his own model railroad in his family’s backyard. (If you’re looking for a nice break from the craziness of the theme parks, head over to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge to take a peek at one of the actual train cars.) So, what better way to pay tribute to his memory than with a ride on the Walt Disney World Railroad?

Not only is this one of the best Magic Kingdom rides, but the Walt Disney World Railroad is also an incredibly convenient and enjoyable way to get around the park. Along with Main Street, USA, stations are also located in Frontierland and Fantasyland. So, you can either use attraction to get from Point A to Point B or ride the entire Walt Disney World Railroad to get a lay of the land.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: N/A

Outside of bakery building

Tomorrowland

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

Attention, gamers of all ages! Located just a short walk from Space Mountain, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin takes you on an intergalactic mission to defeat the evil Emperor Zurg. With its arcade game-style design, Toy Story-inspired fun and oodles of friendly competition, this interactive ride has something for kids and adults alike.

Once you’ve climbed aboard, you’ll take aim with your laser cannon at targets throughout the attraction. The more points you score along the way, the higher up on Buzz Lightyear’s leaderboard you’ll climb and the more bragging rights you’ll earn. We guarantee you’ll want to ride again and again.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom Park at twilight

Space Mountain

You can’t go to Magic Kingdom and not ride Space Mountain. (Unless you have a kiddo like 5-year-old me, who wasn’t tall enough for the height requirement on her first-ever trip to Disney World. I’m still salty about that one.) The most iconic of the Magic Kingdom roller coasters, Space Mountain takes riders on an exciting journey through the stars, complete with plenty of twists, turns and surprise drops along the way. As you climb up the lift hill, you’ll be able to catch glimpses of far-off galaxies before plunging into almost complete darkness for your out-of-this-world adventure.

Although it might feel like you’re hurtling through the cosmic abyss at high speeds on Space Mountain, this is actually one of the slowest thrill rides Disney World has to offer, topping out at a mere 27 miles per hour. Still, this classic Magic Kingdom ride can still be a little bit scary at times. So, keep that in mind if you’re traveling with young adrenaline junkies in the making. Of course, if you’d rather not risk an upset little one, both Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress and the incredibly kid-friendly Tomorrowland Speedway are just a short walk away. The nearby Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover also rolls right through Space Mountain, making it another great way to experience the attraction without actually riding it.

Height Requirement: At least 44 inches (112cm) tall

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Tomorrowland Speedway in front of Space Mountain in Magic Kingdom Park

TRON Lightcycle / Run (Coming April 4, 2023!)

Grab hold of the handlebars of a lightcycle and set out on a high-stakes race across the Grid with TRON Lightcycle / Run. Located right next door to both Space Mountain and Tomorrowland Speedway, this thrilling roller coaster is Magic Kingdom’s newest attraction, making its debut on April 4, 2023. After climbing aboard the motorcycle-like ride vehicle, you’ll take off into the digital realm, zipping through eight Energy Gates and racing against the menacing Team Orange.

In short, it’s a visually-stunning ride that feels like nothing else at the Disney World theme parks. Be sure to swing by during the evening when the Upload Conduit is glowing in all its neon glory—go for a joyride on Tomorrowland Speedway for an especially magical view. As the newest attraction, TRON Lightcycle / Run is bound to draw massive crowds until demand cools down a bit. So, plan your day accordingly and be prepared to reserve your place in line with either the virtual queue or Individual Lightning Lane entry.

Height Requirement: At least 48 inches (122cm) tall

Lightning Lane Access: Individual Lightning Lane

TRON roller coaster lightcycle ride vehicles

Fantasyland

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

One of the best Magic Kingdom rides for those traveling with young children is Dumbo the Flying Elephant. Soaring over Fantasyland since opening day, this classic ride has charmed guests since 1971 and, to this day, remains one of the most cherished attractions at Walt Disney World. The ride is so iconic, in fact, that you can even see one of the attraction’s elephants in Washington, D.C. at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

The experience begins when riders board their own precocious pachyderm before taking flight. Along with being an aerial spinning ride, each elephant is equipped with its own joystick, allowing riders to move Dumbo higher or lower as they see fit. This gentle motion makes it perfect for little kids who may not be ready for some of the more intense Magic Kingdom rides like Space Mountain or Big Thunder Mountain Railroad just yet.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Dumbo the Flying Elephant ride in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park

Enchanted Tales with Belle

Whether you’re a fan of the Disney Princesses or looking for an especially memorable character interaction, Magic Kingdom’s Enchanted Tales with Belle is a can’t-miss experience. For this character meet-and-greet on steroids, you’ll venture into the realm of Beauty and the Beast for an interactive retelling of Belle’s classic story. Your journey begins in Maurice’s Cottage before stepping through a magic mirror and into Beast’s Castle itself.

However, this isn’t any ordinary stage show. You’re invited to take part in this tale as old as time, too. Various roles throughout the show are played by lucky audience members, making for an experience you won’t soon forget. So, you better start practicing your French accent!

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: N/A

Beast's Castle at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park

“it’s a small world”

Set out on a slow boat ride across the globe on “it’s a small world.” Another opening-day original, “it’s a small world” continues to delight guests of all ages to this day. As you glide through each nation, you’ll be greeted by vibrant dolls adorned in traditional costumes, each joyfully singing the ride’s titular tune in their native tongue. It’s an earworm, so don’t be surprised if you keep humming it the rest of the day (speaking from experience). Few rides can compare to the enduring legacy of “it’s a small world”, making it a must for any and all Disney fans. The attraction is located just across from Peter Pan’s Flight, so be sure to stop by when you’re in the area.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

"it's a small world" sign at night in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park

Mad Tea Party

Get ready for a wild ride through Wonderland on Mad Tea Party. Located just a hop, skip and jump away from Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Tomorrowland Speedway, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Mad Tea Party plops riders in a gigantic teacup and sends them swirling through Fantasyland.

Bear in mind that as the most quintessential of Disney’s spinning rides, this arm-powered attraction can get kind of intense, particularly for those who are prone to motion sickness. On the bright side, you’re able to twirl your teacup as fast or as slow as you want. If you’d rather, you don’t even need to spin at all—just sit back and take in the sights and sounds as you whirl along.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Mad Tea Party in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

Experience the magic of Disney’s classic animated films with Mickey’s PhilharMagic. Located next door to Peter Pan’s Flight, this musical Magic Kingdom attraction is a must for anyone who can’t help but sing along when they watch the likes of Aladdin and The Little Mermaid. The 3D show combines beloved Disney characters, colorful animation, infectious music and whimsical special effects to create an unforgettable experience that is sure to put you in a good mood.

As these iconic scenes unfold before your eyes, you’ll also be treated to the many misadventures of Donald Duck, who accidentally inserts himself into various movie scenes with the help of Mickey’s sorcerer hat. Needless to say, chaos and plenty of laughs ensue. The whole thing adds up to an attraction that is sure to have you charmed.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Mickey's Philharmagic sign with Cinderella Castle in background in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park

Peter Pan’s Flight

Climb aboard a pixie-dusted pirate ship and set sail for adventure on Peter Pan’s Flight. This classic Disney dark ride takes guests to the far-off world Neverland, with a moonlit pitstop over the twinkling streets of London along the way. Throughout your journey, keep your eyes peeled for mermaids and pirates galore, along with appearances by Tinker Bell, the Lost Boys, Captain Hook, Mr. Smee, the ticking crocodile and, of course, Peter Pan himself.

As one of the best dark rides at Disney World, the lines can get pretty long for Peter Pan’s Flight, especially if you don’t have Disney Genie+. That said, we think it’s well worth the wait. Fortunately, Peter Pan’s Flight also happens to have one of the best queues at any Disney park. So, at least you’ll have plenty of things to look at while you wait.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Peter Pan's Flight at night in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

Heigh-ho, heigh-ho! It’s off to work you go! Enjoy an animated adventure through the world of Snow White and her crew of height-challenged friends on Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in New Fantasyland. This family-friendly roller coaster begins with guests boarding a mine car bound for the seven dwarfs’ diamond mines. As you travel along the winding track, swaying to and fro all the way, you’ll wind through a storybook forest, traversing babbling brooks and wooded paths as you go.

Along with the attraction’s unique rocking motion, one of the most impressive parts of this Magic Kingdom is its advanced Audio-Animatronics. As a result, you’ll get to experience the perfect blend of both thrills and storyline, making it one of the top roller coasters at Disney World. One of Magic Kingdom‘s most popular rides, lines for Seven Dwarfs Mine Train can often be very long. For the shortest wait, consider making a mad dash there right after rope drop if you’d rather not pay for Individual Lightning Lane entry.

Height Requirement: At least 38 inches (97cm) tall

Lightning Lane Access: Individual Lightning Lane

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train attraction sign

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Nestled just across from Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh is another Magic Kingdom dark ride you won’t want to miss. This delightful attraction takes guests on a fanciful adventure through the pages of one of A.A. Milne’s beloved storybooks and into the Hundred Acre Wood, all from a massive honey pot. Naturally, you’ll encounter many familiar friends along the way, like Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Owl, Rabbit and, of course, Tigger, too. If you’re lucky, you might even see some heffalumps and woozles.

No matter how many times you’ve been on it before, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh never ceases to charm the pants off riders. With its whimsical scenes, adorable characters and playful movements, it’s easily one of the best rides at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Best of all, the lines here tend to be more manageable than some of the others at Magic Kingdom. So, be sure to take advantage during your visit.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid

Dive down where it’s wetter for an enchanting adventure through Ariel’s world on Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid. One of the newer dark rides at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, this is a must-do attraction for fans of everyone’s favorite mermaid. After boarding a colorful clamshell, Journey of The Little Mermaid plunges guests into this beloved Disney story, from her grotto filled with whozits and whatzits galore and Ursula’s lair to the romantic lagoon where they almost share their first kiss. Add in the film’s undeniably catchy soundtrack, and this is yet another Magic Kingdom ride you can’t help but love.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Ariel statue near Journey of The Little Mermaid in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park

Liberty Square

Haunted Mansion

Without a doubt, one of the best rides Magic Kingdom rides (or at any Disney theme park, for that matter) is the Haunted Mansion. Located in Liberty Square in Magic Kingdom and at Disney Parks around the world, Haunted Mansion is a classic Disney attraction and an essential stop for dark ride fans both young and old, as well as those who enjoy a spine-tingling tale or two.

After boarding your Doom Buggy, you’ll embark on a guided tour of the haunted abode, courtesy of your Ghost Host. From there, you traverse a dimly lit hallway adorned with spectral paintings before encountering some of its supernatural inhabitants. From talking busts to singing spirits, from the grand hall filled with waltzing ghosts to Madame Leota’s seance room, there’s no shortage of spooky surprises in store at the Haunted Mansion.

As you can probably imagine, this iconic Magic Kingdom ride can get pretty busy, especially during peak season. Fortunately, there are tons of interactive elements sprinkled throughout the queue. So, even if you’d rather not show up for rope drop or splurge on Disney Genie+, there is still plenty to keep you entertained while you wait.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom Park

The Hall of Presidents

Just around the corner from the Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square, The Hall of Presidents is a must-see attraction for theme park aficionados and history buffs alike. One of the original Magic Kingdom attractions, this Audio-Animatronic stage show pays tribute to America’s presidents and is an enduring testament to the patriotism of Walt Disney himself.

As you enter the theater, which is modeled after Independence Hall in Philadelphia, you’re immersed in American history, featuring impressive artifacts and an official presidential seal. Then, after having a seat in the auditorium, you’ll be taken on a journey through time as each president is introduced. The Audio-Animatronic technology used here is truly impressive, down to their facial expression and hand gestures. Of course, if you’re really just looking for a quiet place to soak up some A/C and maybe squeeze in a nap, this Magic Kingdom attraction is pretty great for that, too.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: N/A

Tree with lanterns in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom Park

Frontierland

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

We can’t talk about the best Magic Kingdom rides and not mention Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Located near the Frontierland station for the Walt Disney Railroad and the former Splash Mountain, as well as Tom Sawyer Island, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is easily one of the most fun rides at Magic Kingdom. For this family-friendly roller coaster, you’ll climb aboard a runaway mine train for a rollicking ride through an old ghost town and a haunted gold mine.

Featuring unexpected drops, sharp turns and plenty of thrills, this roller coaster is perfect for theme park enthusiasts of all stripes, from budding adrenaline junkies to experienced adventure seekers. Not only is this iconic ride one of the best Disney World roller coasters for kids, but it’s also incredibly scenic. During your journey through the Wild West, you’ll catch glimpses of cascading waterfalls, dramatic rock formations and other natural wonders. For an especially picturesque experience (and to skip the typical fireworks crowds), plan to ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad during the nightly pyrotechnic display and take in the show as you roll along.

Height Requirement: At least 40 inches (102cm) tall

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom Park

Country Bear Jamboree

Entertaining Magic Kingdom guests since opening day, the Country Bear Jamboree is a quintessential Disney World attraction. Located just a short walk from Tom Sawyer Island and, previously, Splash Mountain (gone but not forgotten), this fun-filled stage show features a troupe of twangy, instrument-playing Audio-Animatronic bears who serenade guests with classic country-western tunes.

Guests are introduced to an array of furry friends, such as Big Al, Trixie and Liver Lips, who are sure to have you tapping your toes along with them. Plus, not only will you be treated to musical stylings unlike anything you’ve ever seen before, but there’s also some old-fashioned comedy thrown into the mix. While it’s certainly not the wildest ride in the wilderness (that title goes to Big Thunder Mountain), this charming stage show certainly provides plenty of laughs, as well as a welcome dose of A/C.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: N/A

Musical bears on stage

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (Coming Late 2024!)

Ok, we’ll admit that this next attraction on our list of the best Magic Kingdom rides isn’t officially open yet. However, once Tiana’s Bayou Adventure does make its debut, we’re sure that it will become many people’s favorite ride, especially for fans of the now-closed Splash Mountain. (Raise your hand if you’re still missing Splash Mountain as much as we are.)

Currently set to open in late 2024, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will take riders through the swamps of Louisiana alongside Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and Louis the trumpet-playing alligator. Set during Mardi Gras season, you’ll join the trio as they prepare for a party that New Orleans will never forget. Just like Splash Mountain before it, the whole thing will culminate with a massive drop that is bound to leave you drenched. We don’t know about you, but we can’t wait.

Height Requirement: At least 40 inches (102cm) tall

Lightning Lane Access: Individual Lightning Lane entry (tentative)

Splash Mountain in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom Park

Adventureland

Jungle Cruise

Take a trip on the wild side (and enjoy some cheesy dad jokes) with the Jungle Cruise. One of the most popular Disney rides (it’s so iconic that they even made a movie about it), Jungle Cruise has been entertaining Magic Kingdom guests since the park’s opening day. For this leisurely ride, you’ll board a riverboat and cast off for the exotic rivers of the world, encountering Audio-Animatronic wildlife along the way. (Fun fact: Walt Disney originally wanted the Jungle Cruise to feature actual animals, similar to Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. However, that idea was eventually scrapped due to obvious safety reasons.)

For us, the highlight of this beloved ride is the wisecracking Jungle Cruise skippers, who narrate your voyage with hilarious quips and puns that will have you chuckling (or groaning) as you float from South America to Africa to Asia. Afterward, keep the good times rolling, and take a break from the best Magic Kingdom rides, with a meal at the Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen, a Jungle Cruise-themed restaurant nearby that dishes up laugh-out-loud jokes from your skipper server and global flavors in equal measure.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Jungle Cruise signage at night

Pirates of the Caribbean

Ahoy, mateys! No list of the best Magic Kingdom rides is complete without talking about Pirates of the Caribbean. From the comfort of your boat, this dark ride takes you on a buccaneer adventure deep into pirate territory. Throughout your voyage, you’ll come face-to-face with a crew of colorful characters, like a band of pirates raiding a town square and Captain Jack Sparrow himself in all his swashbuckling glory. You’ll even be thrust into the middle of cannon fire, making Pirates of the Caribbean a laidback yet thrilling attraction for guests of all kinds.

A timeless classic, Pirates of the Caribbean remains a firm favorite at Disney’s Magic Kingdom year after year. Thankfully, despite its popularity, the line here tends to be pretty manageable. If the wait time gets out of hand, simply postpone your visit to Pirates of the Caribbean for later on in the evening when the line tends to be shorter.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: Disney Genie+

Pirates of the Caribbean sign in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park

Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room

Whether you’re a fan of the man, the myth, the legend that is Walt Disney, or you’re simply looking for a place to rest your feet and enjoy some A/C for a while, then Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room is for you. (After all, going on the best Magic Kingdom rides can be tiring for the best of us.) This Audio-Animatronic stage show created by Disney and his Imagineers dazzles guests with a vibrant kaleidoscope of singing birds, flowers and tiki gods. For a truly tropical experience, grab some DOLE Whip from Aloha Isle next door before you head inside.

Height Requirement: N/A

Lightning Lane Access: N/A

Tiki Room in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park

Well, folks, that brings our list of the best Magic Kingdom rides to a close. Of all the best rides at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, which attractions are at the top of your list? Let us know in the comments! Then, learn how you can save on your next trip to Magic Kingdom with our discount Disney tickets.