15 Best Rides at Disneyland 🎢✨ Perfect for Every Visitor!

Journey Fanatics may earn a commission from qualifying purchases, but we promise the prices are still the same for you!

If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland, chances are you’ve been dreaming about the magical rides, whimsical lands, and thrilling adventures that make it the happiest place on Earth. But with so many iconic attractions, it can be tough to decide where to begin. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! This guide highlights 15 of the best rides at Disneyland, offering tips, secrets, and insights to help you maximize your day and create unforgettable memories.

From adrenaline-pumping thrill rides to nostalgic classics, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re a first-timer or a Disneyland regular, read on to discover the ultimate Disneyland rides and attractions that belong on your must-try list.

Planning Your Visit to Disneyland 🏰✨

The key to having an amazing Disneyland trip is to start with a solid idea of your location and planning strategies! With a bit of strategy, you can avoid long waits and enjoy more of what the Disney park has to offer, comparing the unique experiences at Disneyland with other Disney parks. Here are some tips to get you started:

Best Times to Visit Disneyland

• Low Season: January through mid-March and mid-September through mid-November tend to have fewer crowds and shorter lines, which is ideal for most people who prefer a more relaxed experience.
• Midweek Magic: Tuesdays through Thursdays generally see lower attendance compared to weekends.
• Avoid Peak Hours: Arrive at “rope drop” when the park opens or return later in the evening when crowds thin out.

Use Genie+ and Lightning Lane

Maximize ride time by purchasing Genie+, which gives you access to Lightning Lane reservations. Skip the lines on popular attractions like Space Mountain and enjoy more rides without the wait.

General Crowd-Avoiding Tips

• Start your day in Fantasyland rides to avoid mid-morning congestion.
• Take a midday break to rest or explore quieter areas like Mark Twain Riverboat or New Orleans Square. The location of New Orleans Square offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling crowds.
• Ride the most popular attractions during fireworks or parades.

Themed Categories of Rides 🎠🚀

For Thrill-Seekers 🚀

If you love fast-paced action and heart-pounding excitement, these thrill rides will leave you breathless:

1. Space Mountain – Blast through the galaxy in this indoor roller coaster. Pro tip: Ride at night for shorter wait times and extra atmosphere!
2. Indiana Jones Adventure – Board a rugged vehicle for a bumpy, action-packed trip through ancient ruins. Keep an eye out for hidden details in the queue.
3. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – Hold on tight as you zoom through a Western mining town. Try riding at sunset for stunning scenery!
4. Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run – Take control of the iconic ship in this interactive ride. As the pilot on the right side, you'll have distinct responsibilities, and there's a comical expectation of making mistakes during the adventure. Despite any mishaps, the experience is so enjoyable that you'll want to ride again and again.

Nostalgic Classics 🌟

These beloved attractions capture the spirit of Disney magic and are perfect for all ages:

1. It’s a Small World – Step aboard this iconic boat ride and enjoy charming scenes from around the world. Fun fact: Look for Disney characters hidden throughout the ride.
2. Pirates of the Caribbean – Set sail for adventure in this immersive dark ride filled with pirate hijinks. Pro tip: The front row offers the best views!
3. Jungle Cruise – Cruise through lush landscapes while your witty skipper delivers pun-filled narration. Don’t forget to ask about the “backside of water”!

Relaxing or Scenic Rides 🚂⛵

Take a break and enjoy beautiful scenery with these peaceful yet magical experiences:

1. Disneyland Railroad – Circle the park aboard this vintage train while spotting unique views of attractions. A perfect way to rest tired feet! You can also catch a glimpse of the monorail as it glides through the park, offering another unique perspective.
2. Mark Twain Riverboat – Sail along the Rivers of America and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of New Orleans Square and Tom Sawyer’s Island.
3. Storybook Land Canal Boats – This charming boat ride takes you past miniature scenes from beloved Disney films.

Hidden Gems & Lesser-Known Rides 💎

For a more unique experience, check out these underappreciated gems:

1. Tiki Room – Relax in this air-conditioned show while tropical birds serenade you with timeless tunes.
2. Casey Jr. Circus Train – Perfect for families, this whimsical train ride offers impressive views of Fantasyland.
3. Tarzan’s Treehouse – Walk through this interactive spot, where curious explorers can discover fun surprises and enjoy a great view of Adventureland.

Specialized Experiences 🧒📸🎄

Disneyland offers magical seasonal and curated experiences, ensuring every visit feels special:

• For Families with Toddlers: Don’t miss gentle rides like Alice in Wonderland or Dumbo the Flying Elephant.
• Seasonal Overlays: Visit during the holidays to enjoy special versions of rides like Halloween’s Haunted Mansion Holiday or “it’s a small world” Christmas.
• Best Photo Ops: Snap a photo on Minnie’s Runaway Railway, near the Millennium Falcon in Galaxy’s Edge, or around the vibrant Avengers Campus.
• Newly Reimagined Attractions: Experience the charm of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, a newly reimagined log flume ride that brings the magic of 'The Princess and the Frog' to life with its catchy soundtrack and charming animatronics.

Insider Tips & Secrets 🤐🎢👀

• Best Times to Ride Popular Attractions: Visit thrill rides like Rise of the Resistance and Smugglers Run during parades or fireworks for shorter lines. Catch a glimpse of the excitement and anticipation building up as you approach these attractions.
• Hidden Mickeys: Look for these fun Easter eggs in intricate ride designs! For example, check out the chandeliers in Pirates of the Caribbean.
• Fun Facts: Ask cast members for surprise trivia about rides like Matterhorn Bobsleds or Snow White’s Enchanted Wish. You may not even realize how immersive these experiences are until you hear the fascinating details.

Maximizing Your Day at Disneyland 🗺️⏳

To get the most out of your day and night , use these strategies to plan your itinerary:

• Thrills First: Hit major attractions in the parks like Space Mountain and Indiana Jones Adventure early in the day. The track in "Indiana Jones Adventure" offers a bumpy thrill ride that takes guests on an exciting journey.
• Relax Midday: Cool off with scenic rides or shows.
• End with Nostalgia: Save classics like It’s a Small World for nighttime when the park is beautifully lit.

Use the Disneyland app to check live wait times and adjust your plans on the go.

Final Tips 🤔✨

Heading to the park? Here are some quick tips to make the most of your visit! If you’re not a fan of long waits, consider skipping rides you can also enjoy at Walt Disney World. When it’s rainy or too hot, indoor attractions like Star Tours and Haunted Mansion offer a great escape from the weather and can be watched comfortably. And if you’re prone to motion sickness on thrill rides like Millennium Falcon or Star Tours, sit in the middle and avoid focusing too much on intense screen effects. Each person can have a unique experience, so have fun and plan wisely!

Make the Magic Yours ✨🏰🌟

Disneyland is more than just an amusement park; it’s a treasure chest of memories waiting to be made. Whether you’re seeking thrills, nostalgia, or relaxation, thoughtful planning and insider knowledge can transform your trip into an unforgettable adventure. Don't miss the immersive experiences at Galaxy's Edge, where you can pilot the Millennium Falcon or join the Resistance in an epic battle.

Unique themed experiences like the Haunted Mansion Holiday, inspired by 'The Nightmare Before Christmas,' add an extra layer of magic to your visit, blending horror and humor in a way that only Disneyland can.

Happy Travels! 😄

For those seeking the perfect Christmas gifts for travelers, look no further!