While the Indiana Jones attractions don’t date back to anything close to original, the rides are some of the most popular among park goers. Adventure, great one-liners, fantastic theming and of course our love for the man himself, Indy keep us coming back for more and more. But are all Indiana Jones attractions created equally across the Disney Parks? Here’s our ranking of each one, where they can be found and why they are ranked how they are.
1. Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Forbidden Eye (Disneyland – Anaheim, California, USA)
Opened: 1995 Type of Attraction: Enhanced motion vehicle ride Height Requirement: 46 inches (117 cm) Location: Disneyland Park, Adventureland
Set in the Lost Delta of India, this immersive ride takes you on a thrilling adventure to the Temple of the Forbidden Eye. Guests board a 12-passenger troop transport vehicle and are guided by Indiana Jones himself. The ride’s story centers around a dangerous, cursed temple and offers three different experiences, which are determined randomly: The Chamber of Earthly Riches, the Fountain of Eternal Youth, or the Observatory of the Future. The thrilling blend of lifelike robotics, innovative technology, and captivating storytelling make this attraction the best of the Indiana Jones rides.
2. Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull (Tokyo DisneySea, Tokyo, Japan)
Opened: 2001 Type of Attraction: Enhanced motion vehicle ride Height Requirement: 46 inches (117 cm) Location: Tokyo DisneySea, Lost River Delta
Similar to its counterpart in Disneyland, this attraction features a unique storyline based on the pursuit of the Fountain of Youth within the Temple of the Crystal Skull. The ride mechanics and vehicle design are identical, but the Tokyo version incorporates different visual effects and story elements. While it’s a thrilling experience, some feel it doesn’t quite capture the same magic as the Disneyland version.
3. Indiana Jones et le Temple du Péril (Disneyland Paris, Paris, France)
Opened: 1993 Type of Attraction: Roller coaster Height Requirement: 55 inches (140 cm) Location: Disneyland Paris, Adventureland
Taking a departure from the motion vehicle ride design, this attraction is a roller coaster set within a temple in the dense jungles of India. Although it offers exciting twists and turns, some guests find the ride experience jarring and less immersive than its counterparts. The theming is less elaborate, and the connection to Indiana Jones’ character and storyline is not as strongly felt, leading many to consider this the weakest of the Indiana Jones attractions.
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! (Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida, USA)
Opened: 1989 Type of Attraction: Live-action stunt show Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
While not a ride, Walt Disney World offers a live-action stunt show that recreates iconic scenes from “Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Guests can enjoy thrilling stunts, pyrotechnics, and even volunteer to participate in the show. While it’s a unique experience, some Indiana Jones fans may miss having a dedicated ride attraction at this location.
Conclusion
Indiana Jones attractions across the Disney Parks offer various experiences that cater to different tastes. For those seeking an authentic and immersive Indiana Jones experience, Disneyland’s Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Forbidden Eye stands out as the best, while Disneyland Paris’s roller coaster may disappoint some fans. Regardless, all parks provide a taste of the adventure, excitement, and charm of one of cinema’s most beloved characters.
