Must-Try Rides and Attractions at Disneyland: The Ultimate Guide

Disneyland is recognized as “The Happiest Place on Earth” for multiple reasons, cram-packed with thrilling rides, enchanting attractions, and immersive experiences and activities that can take you away from reality, no matter your age. Whether youare a first-time visitor or a Disney pro, the ability to sort out which rides are actually worth your time will make your trip all the more magical. Here’s a rundown of the most essential attractions across Disneyland’s legendary lands.

1. Classic Disneyland Favorites

Disneyland’s timeless classics are a must do for every visit. “Pirates of the Caribbean” remains a fan favorite, marrying a languorous boat ride with gorgeous animatronics, swashbuckling adventure and the legendary “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me)” theme song. Close by, “Haunted Mansion” squeezes in a spooky but family-friendly ride through a resident ghosts’ estate, thanks to its myriad clever illusions, and characters such as the Hitchhiking Ghosts.

Nostalgics have “It’s a Small World,” a delightful boat ride through hundreds of singing dolls dressed in traditional costumes from cultures around the world. More toddler-friendly and those young at heart, however, are “Dumbo the Flying Elephant,” which allows guests to control their own flight.

2. Heart-Pounding Experiences for Thrill-Seekers

Disneyland does have high-speed rides if you’re up for thrills. “Space Mountain” is a must, a pitch-negative-space indoor roller coaster simulating the explosive laze of outer space. Indiana Jones Adventure in Adventureland is a rugged jeep ride enhanced with special effects, sudden drops and a temple setting that seems directly out of the movies.

In a gentler vein, “Big Thunder Mountain Railroad” delivers a raucous mine train journey through the desert featuring oodles of sharp corners and surprising explosions. And if you’re a fan of drops, “Splash Mountain” (which is being reimagined to become “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure”) is a log flume ride that features a thrilling final drop and catchy music.

3. The Modern Disney Magic: Star Wars and The Mandalorian

Disneyland has grown up with new, top-notch attractions, and “Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance” is perhaps the most spectacular. This revolutionary ride transports guests into the thick of a battle between the Resistance and the First Order, complete with life-size AT-AT walkers, a simulated getaway from a Star Destroyer and sci-fi-level realism. Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, nearby, lets you pilot the iconic spacecraft in an interactive mission.

Over in “Avengers Campus” at Disney California Adventure (right next door), “WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure” is a fun, interactive ride in which you help Spider-Man thwart rogue robots of his own making by shooting virtual webs. And “Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: BREAKOUT!” replaced the old Tower of Terror with a drop ride to a rocking soundtrack.

4. Providing Magical Moments for Families

I didn't think you could have a speed bucket-list in Disneyland. “Peter Pan’s Flight” is still one of the best dark rides in the world, as passengers float through London and Neverland. “Alice in Wonderland” takes you on a fantastical stroll through the Mad Hatter’s tea party, “Jungle Cruise” has relaxing rides with your funny skipper. “Fantasmic!”, a nighttime spectacle, is essential viewing, starring Mickey Mouse in a clash of good and evil, with water projections and fireworks, and beloved Disney characters.

All in all, you need to make the most of your visit. For long lines at popular rides, you may want the Genie+ service to avoid the long lines. Get there for rope drop for long waits at headliners, and don’t forget to sample stake snacks like churros and Dole Whip along the way. Finding a must experience attraction depends on whether you want thrills, nostalgia, or fantasy, but Disneyland’s top rides are unforgettable for everyone. Hit these must-rides first and you’re sure to have a magical adventure.