All Disney Parks Around the World – Ranking & FAQ

There are six Disney Theme Park Resorts in the world. Our American readers may be most familiar with Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, but there are beautiful Disney theme park resorts in Paris, China, and Hong Kong. In fact, the two Tokyo Disney theme parks are the third and fourth most visited theme parks in the world!

Our ranking list includes all Disney Parks around the world ranked considering the best attractions, dining, theming, immersion, and entertainment. Keep reading to see what Disney Theme Park ranked as our top pick for the best of all Disney theme parks around the world!

Where Are All the Disney Locations Around the World?

There are six Disney Park resorts around the world. These resorts include two in the United States: Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. There are four international Disney Resorts including locations in Paris,  Japan, and China. If you include individual theme parks in each resort that totals twelve Disney Resorts around the world. Here is the full list of all Disney Parks around the world:

• Disneyland Resort (California, United States of America)
  • Disneyland, California Adventure
  • Original Disney Park, Opened 1955
• Walt Disney World Resort (Florida, United States of America)
  • Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom
  • Opened 1971
• Tokyo Disney Resort (Tokyo, Japan)
  • Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea
  • Opened 1983
• Disneyland Paris (Paris, France)
  • Disneyland Paris, Walt Disney Studios Park
  • Opened 1992
• Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (Hong Kong, China)
  • Hong Kong Disneyland
  • Opened 2005
• Shanghai Disney Resort (Shanghai, China)
  • Shanghai Disneyland
  • Opened 2016

I am going to rank each of these resorts' theme parks individually rather than the resorts as a whole.

FAQ All Disney Parks Around the World

Here are your answers to the most frequently asked questions we see about all Disney Parks around the world.

Ranking All Disney Parks Around the World

For each individual theme park, I am going to use a few different areas to qualify their spot on our top list. These ranking criteria include:

• Attractions- each theme park will have its attraction list included and a brief ranking of these rides. This is also helpful for seeing which theme parks have repeat rides and indicating how different they may or may not be.
• Dining- dining options vary from one theme park to the next. While some theme parks may excel in this area, others have a stronger focus on ride quality.
• Entertainment- entertainment at the Disney Parks includes a variety of stage shows, parades, fireworks, and other nighttime spectaculars. All of these will be taken into account when raking the theme parks.
• Theming/Immersion– One of the things that Disney does best is their dedication to theming and immersing guests in the worlds its theme parks are trying to emulate. Each theme park succeeds in this category in its own way but some go above and beyond the rest in this area.

Keep reading to see which Disney Park I ranked as the #1 spot for all Disney Parks around the world!

12. Walt Disney Studios Park (Disneyland Paris)

Walt Disney Studios Park is one of two parks at Disneyland Paris. Walt Disney Studios Park opened in 2002 and the original Disneyland Paris theme park first opened in 1992.

Walt Disney Studios Park is themed after a similar concept to Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World with the theme park revolving around show business, movie themes, and movie production. The icon of the park is the Earffel Tower which is a water tower with Mickey Mouse ears that was inspired by the water tower at the Walt Disney Studios lot in Burbank, CA.

The themed lands at Walt Disney Studios Park include areas dedicated to Pixar, Marvel, and Disney animated classics, and two areas focused on movie production. Easily the most impressive area in Walt Disney Studios Park is the newer Avengers Campus which is similar to the Avengers Campus in California but has an additional Avengers roller coaster called Avengers Assemble: Flight Force. Before Avengers Campus was added, a Ratatouille section was added that features an impressive trackless dark ride. This ride has since been added to EPCOT. Prior to these additions, this theme park fell far short of its counterpart theme park Disneyland Paris but now has risen to be a bit stronger contender to include this park in your Disneyland Paris vacation.

While this theme park has grown to include popular favorites like the addition of Avengers Campus and more additions to the World of Pixar, its theming falls short of the other Disney Parks around the world which is why it is ranked at the bottom of our list. This park is definitely a second-day theme park to visit after you prioritize the main theme park at this resort which is Disneyland Paris. In some cases, many guests skip visiting this park altogether to prioritize the main theme park. The park is “themed” to be a Hollywood backlot and initially really leaned into the industrial backlot theme.

Walt Disney Studios Park Attractions

The full list of Walt Disney Studios Park attractions includes favorites like the newer addition of Avengers Campus along with the World of Pixar.

Front Lot

Earffel Tower

The Earffel Tower is a faux water tower named for its Mickey Mouse ears based on the version that formerly existed at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The Earffel Tower serves as the icon of Walt Disney Studios Park.

Disney Studio 1

Guests will explore the golden age of film in this attraction that features a Hollywood streets with facades of various Hollywood buildings. Inside the building, guests can find food options and gift shops.

Toon Studio

Animation Celebration

At the Animation Celebration theater, guests can enjoy a one-act Disney show that celebrates Frozen, featuring a sing-along with Kristoff, a visit with Elsa in her ice palace, and more.

Animation Academy

In this experience, you'll learn about how Disney's animated characters are created and have the opportunity to draw an animated Disney character yourself. There is a limited number of seats per class.

Flying Carpets Over Agrabah

This spinning ride based on the movie Aladdin takes guests on a journey on a magic carpet through the sky. You'll spin around a giant genie's lamp, and you can adjust your ride to go higher or lower or tilt forwards and backwards.

Mickey and the Magician (seasonal)

This live stage magic show features Mickey, who is accidentally transported to magical worlds and encounters a blend of favorite characters like Genie from Aladdin, Lumière from Beauty and the Beast, Rafiki from The Lion King, and more.

Worlds of Pixar

Cars Quatre Roues Rallye (Cars Race Rally)

In this ride, guests board vehicles inspired by the Cars movie on spinning turntables. The cars spin and shift from one turntable to the next during the ride.

Cars Road Trip

During this ride, Sally and Cruz Ramirez from the Cars movie take guests on a tour of Route 66. You'll meet familiar characters at
World’s Largest Lugnut, explore Cars-tastrophe Canyon, and see Mater's latest junkyard creation.

Crush's Coaster

Crush's Coaster is a spinning enclosed rollercoaster that takes you on a thrilling underwater journey. You board a giant turtle shell that takes you into an ocean world, then as you rush to escape jellyfish, sharks, and glowfish, the Australian Current whisks you away.

Ratatouille: The Adventure 

This 4D trackless dark ride shrinks guests down to the size of a rat, and a culinary adventure goes wrong as Chef Skinner ruthlessly chases you through the kitchen. During your escape, you'll encounter the sights and smells of Gusteau's restaurant from the Ratatouille movie.

RC Racer

RC Racer, inspired by Toy Story, is a 25-meter high half-pipe rollercoaster that takes you on a thrilling journey forwards and backwards across the track aboard Andy's remote-controlled car.

Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin

Climb aboard Slinky Dog in this spinning ride as he chases his tail around and around a bowl of rubber dog bones!

Toy Soldiers Parachute Drop

On this parachute drop ride, guests will join the green regiment from Toy Story and learn how to parachute. You'll ascend and fall as you take in the view of the park and its attractions.

Production Courtyard

Disney Junior Dream Factory

This interactive 20-minute live show at Studio D takes you through how dreams are made, with experts Minnie and Mickey helping to save the day as the factory suddenly shuts down.

Stitch Live!

This encounter with our favorite blue alien invites guests to interact live with Stitch through the screen. The show is improvised, so each one will offer something different.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror – A New Dimension of Chills

This accelerated drop ride takes you on a journey to encounter three ride stories: The Malevolent Machine, The Shaft Creatures, and The 5th Dimension.

Avengers Campus

Avengers Assemble: Flight Force

Avengers Assemble: Flight Force is a rollercoaster that invites you to join Iron Man and Captain Marvel on a thrilling mission to divert Kree missiles aimed for Earth.

Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure

On this interactive ride, an Open House goes wrong as Peter's Spider-Bots start replicating out of control. Guests will help Spider Man get control of the Spider-Bots that have escaped and are wreaking havoc across Avengers Campus by webbing them.

11. Hong Kong Disneyland (Hong Kong Disneyland Resort)

Hong Kong Disneyland was the first Disneyland park to open in China and is managed by Hong Kong International Theme Parks. It is the largest theme park in Hong Kong and opened to visitors in 2005. Disney incorporates Chinese culture and customs into designing and building the resort. This includes the adherence to the rules of feng shui in the structure of the park, notably with a bend in the walkway near the entrance so good qi energy would not flow into the South China Sea.

The park includes seven themed lands: Main Street, U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point, and Toy Story Land.

Hong Kong Disneyland is a beautiful theme park but falls short of some of the unique offerings that can be found at other Disney theme parks around the world. The newest land, World of Frozen, brings its own unique attractions to the park like a brand new Frozen-themed roller coaster. Read more about this new land in our World of Frozen guide.

This addition to Hong Kong Disneyland is a good move to give this park a unique edge over the other Disney theme parks and so far the World of Frozen looks like a great step towards an immersive Frozen environment as the park has essentially replicated Arendelle from the movies. Hong Kong Disneyland is one of the smallest Disney theme parks so it's great to see a move to expand the resort. Today the version of FastPass at this resort is Premier Access Pass.

Hong Kong Disneyland is a smaller theme park compared to the rest but it does offer many traditional Disney classic attractions along with newer favorites like a land devoted to Toy Story. The attraction in Hong Kong we are most jealous of for the US is the Mystic Manor attraction which features an original story. See the video above. The new World of Frozen may really bolster the ranking of Hong Kong Disneyland on our list of best Disney Parks around the world. This new addition to the park will really give it a unique edge which is something this park definitely needs to be seen as a strong contender against the other Disney Parks.

Hong Kong Disneyland Attractions

The full list of Hong Kong Disneyland attractions includes some familiar favorites repeated around Disney Parks in the world. Once World of Frozen opens in November, I expect we'll see an increase in interest in the offerings at this theme park which may help bolster its attendance as it is one of the lowest-attended Disney Theme Parks in the world.

Main Street, U.S.A.

Animation Academy

In this experience, guests will learn how to draw some of your favorite Disney characters, with step-by-step instructions from a Disney artist. The classes are taught in Cantonese, and seating is limited.

Art of Animation

The Art of Animation exhibit invites guests to explore the magic behind animated movies, displaying the animation techniques of the past and present.

Hong Kong Disneyland Railroad 

This steam-powered train has stops at Main Street, U.S.A. and Fantasyland, with trains arriving at the station every 5 to 15 minutes. The Disneyland Railroad has 3 locomotives modeled after the originals built for Disneyland: the Walter E. Disney, Roy O. Disney, and Frank G. Wells.

Main Street Vehicles

You can take a turn-of-the century vehicle—a classic omnibus, taxi or paddy wagon—for a one-way trip down Main Street U.S.A.

Fantasyland

Cinderella Carousel

This Carousel inspired by the movie Cinderella features 60 wood-carved ornate horses and two chariots, with hand-painted vignettes of the movie adorning the inner rounding board.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

On this gentle ride, climb aboard Dumbo and fly in circles over Fantasyland as Timothy Q. Mouse directs the action! You can control how high or low Dumbo flies by using the lever inside the gondola.

“it's a small world”

“it's a small world” is a boat ride that features a chorus of characters around the world singing the iconic song of harmony in their native languages. As you float across all seven continents, you'll encounter locations like the North Pole and The Middle East while spotting Disney characters like Lilo and Stich, Peter Pan and Tinker Bell, and more. In the queue, keep an eye out for a parade of figures that occurs every 15 minutes!

Mad Hatter Tea Cups

Hop into a giant, vibrantly decorated teacup and embark on a spinning adventure as part of your “un-birthday” party inspired by Alice and Wonderland, with whimsical music and a canopy of paper lanterns overhead. You can dictate how fast your teacup spins through the wheel in the middle, so if you are easily made dizzy, you can opt out of turning it at all for a more gentle ride.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Guests will board a giant honey pot and embark on an adventure through the world of Winnie the Pooh. You'll see favorite characters from the movies and encounter scenes of Heffalumps and Woozles, Tigger bouncing, characters braving wind and rain, and a sunny day at a party with Pooh and friends.

Mickey's PhilharMagic

This short 3D film tells the story of Donald Duck, who is fast asleep before Mickey wakes him, then he finds himself with Mickey's Sorcerer Hat conducting a dream concert of animated musical sequences. The film features different locations from iconic movies and songs like “I Just Can’t Wait To Be King” from The Lion King and “A Whole New World” from Aladdin.

Castle of Magical Dreams

The Castle of Magical dreams is dedicated to several princesses and queens: Cinderella, Tiana, Aurora, Ariel, Mulan, Snow White, Moana, Merida, Belle, Rapunzel, Pocahontas, Jasmine, and Anna and Elsa. The stage in front of the castle hosts various daytime shows celebrating Disney characters.

Fairy Tale Forest – presented by PANDORA 

In the Fairy Tale Forest garden, guests will explore several Disney fairytales with towers, caves, and castles in miniature scale. During the walk-through experience, you'll engage with the stories of movies like Tangled, The Little Mermaid, and more.

Tomorrowland

Hyperspace Mountain

This rollercoaster immerses you in a thrilling Star Wars battle in space. As you fly a reconnaissance vessel to keep tabs on an Imperial Star Destroyer, you realize it's a trap, then race to escape a swarm of TIE fighters as your escorting X-wing squadron engages with them.

Orbitron

This gentle ride takes you on a flight aboard a saucer as you circle a colorful galaxy of planets at the center. The front row controls how fly the saucers will go, and you can also experience sound effects by pressing buttons inside the saucer.

Stark Expo

Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle!

Shrink down to the size of an ant as you help Ant-Man and The Wasp protect classified data from Hydra's Swarmbots. Guests will board S.H.I.E.L.D’s newest combat vehicle and fight to take back the Data Core in this shooting dark ride. This is their version of the Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters.

Iron Man Experience – Presented by AIA

The Stark Expo features multiple exhibition halls, where you can see the Iron Man III suit and see other impressive technological innovations from Stark. Then, board a 3D motion simulator ride that takes you on a tour of the city, but be prepared to unexpectedly encounter Hydra along the way. This ride system is another version of the Star Tours attraction.

Adventureland

Festival of the Lion King

This theatre-in-the-round show that retells Simba's story in The Lion King. Festival of the Lion King features live performers, song, special effects, acrobatics, and fire dancers.

Jungle River Cruise

On this ride across the Rivers of Adventure, you'll spot elephants, cobras, giant spiders, the Canyon of the Gods, and more as your skipper navigates the treacherous journey and tells jokes along the way.

Tarzan's Treehouse

Guests will take a log raft across the Rivers of Adventure to reach the island with Tarzan's Treehouse, then explore Tarzan's Jungle Treehouse. You will see various rooms, including a family hut, study, laboratory, and kitchen, then enjoy the sweeping view of the park from the top. Guests will need to be able to climb 157 steps to experience this attraction, though certain areas are accessible via wheelchair.

Liki Tikis 

Liki Tikis is a water play area where kids can cool off under leaking tiki totem poles with the sound of jungle drums playing in the background.

Toy Story Land

RC Racer

RC Racer is a steel shuttle rollercoaster that swings forwards and backwards on a U-shaped track. Guests hop aboard Andy's remote-controlled car, RC, on this thrill ride up and down the 27-meter-tall roadway.

Slinky Dog Spin

On this spinning ride, guests will hang on tight on Slinky's back as he chases his tail around his food bowl, picking up speed as he goes.

Toy Soldiers Parachute Drop

Toy Soldiers Parachute Drop, inspired by the soldiers from Toy Story, invites guests to join a parachute drill set up by Andy. The ride floats guests up and down a 25-meter-tall parachute tower and take in the view of Mystic Manor and Grizzly Gulch nearby.

Grizzly Gulch

Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars

This rollercoaster takes you on a journey in a mine car across a gold mining town fro the early days of California’s Gold Rush. You'll race through canyons, into mineshafts and a TNT storage cave, through the woods, and more in a thrilling ride that goes both forwards and backwards on the track. Though some parts of the ride are bumpy and take place in the dark, it is designed for guests of all ages.

Geyser Gulch 

As you explore Grizzly Gulch, the mining town, you'll discover that it was accidentally built on top of active geysers. Geyser Gulch is a water play area featuring a water tower, geyser, and water fight between two shops.

Wild West Photo Fun 

Guests can pose in an empty jail cell, behind “wanted” posters, or alongside the largest nugget of gold ever found at Gulch, “The Lucky Nugget.”

Mystic Point

Mystic Manor

In this ride, guests explore Lord Henry Mystic's museum of art and artifacts, including a magical music box that brings inanimate objects to life. After Albert, the mischievous monkey, opens the box, and the artifacts come alive. While the ride isn't intended to be scary, there may be some surprising moments or mildly frightening content that could upset younger kids.

Garden of Wonders 

The Garden of Wonders is a walk-through attractions that contains exhibits with optical illusions—three statues meld into one and other surprises await as you look from a certain angle a the art pieces.

Mystic Point Freight Depot

This is a spot where you can snap pictures with exotic artifacts like a stone head of Poseidon, an Egyptian bas-relief of Isis, and a Mayan carving of King Pacal.

World of Frozen (Opening November 2023)

Frozen Ever After

This slow moving boat ride invites guests into the Kingdom of Arendelle to re-experience the events from Frozen. This new ride will be similar to the one of the same name in EPCOT but will feature upgraded animatronics in the final scene with full moving features for their faces rather than projections.

Wandering Oaken's Sliding Sleighs

Wandering Oaken's Sliding Sleighs will be a thrilling Frozen-themed rollercoaster, with Sven bribed by Olaf holding a carrot to pull the sleigh.

10. Shanghai Disneyland (Shanghai Disney Resort)

Shanghai Disneyland opened to visitors in 2016 and promised guests that this resort would be”authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese.” To fulfill this promise, Chinese architects, designers, and teams of researchers were part of the park's development process to find ways to incorporate Chinese cultural elements into Shanghai Disneyland.

Because of this effort to pay tribute to Chinese culture, there are some elements missing from this park you may be used to finding at traditional Disney theme parks like no steam railroad surrounding the park's permit or no buildings created to obscure the outside world from guest view. Instead of the traditional hub with different spokes leading to the lands, Shanghai Disneyland has a collection of Chinese zodiac gardens at the center called the Gardens of Imagination. Also, several well-known attractions were excluded to avoid criticism of cultural imperialism from Chinese guests like Space Mountain, Jungle Cruise, and It's a Small World. Restaurant seating was revised after research found that Chinese guests take longer over meals and the resort provides extensive picnic areas to better adapt to extended families.

Shanghai Disneyland also has a large emphasis on live entertainment as some of Disney's research found that many Chinese guests prefer that to thrill rides. The park has seven themed areas: Mickey Avenue, Gardens of Imagination, Fantasyland, Treasure Cove, Adventure Isle, Tomorrowland, and Toy Story Land. Zootopia Land is the newest big addition to the park which will open later this year. From a new Zootopia attraction to themed entertainment, merchandise, and food offerings, the new Zootopia land will be offering incredible experiences for guests.

There are several meet-and-greet locations throughout the park where you can meet characters like the Avengers, the Toy Story characters, Duffy and Friends, Disney Princesses, and more.

Shanghai Disneyland is a popular international Disney Park with some of its most devoted fans ranking this as one of the top Disney parks. Although it is a bit behind the other theme parks, this is still an impressive park and we especially love the attention to detail to their Storybook Castle which serves as the park's icon. Some criticisms of the park have been that it's too driven by Disney franchises and characters but as this is a move we've Disney leaning towards lately, this criticism may die out over time. Overall, Shanghai Disneyland is a solid contender for our best Disney Parks around the world for its attention to detail for Chinese culture and unique attractions. Once Zootopia Land opens, its rank may increase among the most popular Disney Parks!

Shanghai Disneyland Attractions

Some of Shanghai Disneyland's best attractions include Pirates of the Caribbean- Battle for Sunken Treasure Attraction, Tron Lightcycle Power Run (now also at Walt Disney World), and Peter Pan's Flight.

Adventure Isle

Camp Discovery

Camp Discovery offers guests the opportunity to explore trails, rope courses, and more. There are three elevated rope courses, Vista Trail, and an Excavation Site for young explorers to play in.

Roaring Rapids

On this rafting adventure, guests will brave the “Roaring Mountain” and encounter the beast that lives inside of it. The ride will take you into dark caves past the monster, through a lava tube, past volcanic vents, and over rough water. Be prepared to get wet!

Soaring Over the Horizon

In the preshow, a shapeshifting Shaman welcomes guests into the celestial observatory and gives safety instructions. Then, the motion simulator ride takes guests on a flying tour of beautiful sites across the world.

Disney•Pixar Toy Story Land

Rex's Racer

This half-pipe rollercoaster inspired by Toy Story takes guests on a high-speed journey aboard Andy's RC Racer car. Rex has the controls, and he sends guests on a journey zooming back and forth across the U-shaped track.

Slinky Dog Spin

In this spinning ride, guests board Slinky, who is chasing his tail around his bowl of toy bones and picks up speed as he mpves.

Woody's Roundup

This whip ride takes guests on a pony cart journey as they dance and “do-si-so” around the corral to country tunes.

Fantasyland

Alice in Wonderland Maze

This Alice in Wonderland-inspired maze brings guests face-to-face with creatures and characters from the movie. You'll find an underground cave, the Cheshire Cat, and the dangers of the Red Queen's Garden during this journey, then finally arrive at the interactive set of the Mad Hatter's Tea Party.

Hunny Pot Spin

This ride is Shanghai Disneyland's version of the famous Mad Tea Party ride. In this experience, guests board a giant honey pot and embark on a spinning adventure where they can control how fast or slow they whirl around.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

This gentle dark ride invites you into the Hundred Acre Wood, where you'll encounter the beloved characters from the Winnie the Pooh movie. You'll see a bouncing Tigger, blustery winds, Pooh's dream of honey, and more.

“Once Upon a Time” Adventure

“Once Upon a Time” Adventure is an interactive walkthrough attraction that is themed to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, inviting guests to step into the world of the movie and engage with its characters.

Peter Pan's Flight

Peter Pan's Flight takes you on a journey with the Darlings from London to Never Land, stopping by iconic locations like Pixie Hollow, the Lost Boys' Hideout, Mermaid Lagoon, and Skull Rock as you witness key moments from the story of Peter Pan. This ride has the same premise as other versions but features a 4-person vehicle that can change speed and contains enhanced versions of existing scenes.

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is a rollercoaster that takes you face-t0-face with the Seven Dwarfs at work, then on a high-speed journey through the mines and around the mountain.

Voyage to the Crystal Grotto

This gentle boat ride takes you on a tour of sculpture gardens (featuring favorite Disney movies like Aladdin, Mulan, and more) and into a secret magical grotto with music, water, and lighting effects.

Enchanted Storybook Castle

The Enchanted Storybook Castle features the stories of the Disney Princesses, with mosaics and marquees dedicated to their stories. The beautiful castle includes Chinese elements that “signify harmony, prosperity and purity of heart and mind.”

Gardens of Imagination

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

This ride is the classic aerial ride where guests fly in circles aboard a Dumbo gondola for a view of the park below, but Shanghai's version is unique, as it's the only version of the attraction to exist outside of Fantasyland.

Fantasia Carousel

This carousel, inspired by the movie Fantasia, features intricate decoration, Pegasus-like horses, and Dewdrop fairies, with classical music playing during the ride.

Garden of the Twelve Friends

Gardens of the Twelve Friends is a walk-through attraction featuring mosaics of the Chinese Zodiac with Disney characters.

Tomorrowland

Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue

In this interactive shooting ride, help Buzz Lightyear stop the evil Zurg, who has developed a weapon of mass destruction. On the ride, guests aim for targets to neutralize Zurg and his army of bots.

Jet Packs

In Shanghai's version of Astro Orbitor, guests seated in “jet-pack” chairs can use hand-held controls to adjust their height as they circle in the air around a giant orb.

Stitch Encounter

In this interactive experience, guests video chat with Stich from Lilo and Stitch, exchanging jokes and playing games in Gantu's “borrowed” ship.

TRON Lightcycle Power Run

This high-speed rollercoaster inspired by TRON: Legacy takes guests on a thrilling race against opponents to capture 8 energy gates in the turbo-charged track called the Grid.

TRON Realm

In this experience, guests can explore three interactive zones: Imagine, Create, and Drive, where Chevrolet vehicles are combined with innovative TRON technology.

Treasure Cove

Explorer Canoes

Guests can take a canoe ride around Treasure Cove and Adventure Isle to see shipwrecks, treasure caves, giant rock sculptures, and more landmarks. The tour through the river is led by pirate-turned-businessman “Bilge Rat” Bill.

Pirates of the Caribbean Battle for the Sunken Treasure

Shanghai's version of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride features a different storyline than previous attractions, as the ride revolves around the search of Davy Jones’ sunken treasure. Guests will witness mermaids and the fearsome Kraken, a graveyard of lost ships, and a sea battle between the Dutchman and the Black Pearl, and more.

Shipwreck Shore

This interactive play area is the wreck of a pirate galleon, with tide pools, a mist garden, observation deck, and more. The play area is filled with an abundance of activities and ways to interact with the space.

Siren's Revenge

Siren's Revenge is a pirate ship interactive attraction offering various activities and games on deck.

9. Hollywood Studios (Walt Disney World)

Hollywood Studios is one of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World and was initially developed as both a theme park inspired by Hollywood show business and an operating production studio. This is a similar concept to how we see Universal Studios Hollywood operate now although this is a different entity than Disney. Hollywood Studios had similar growing pains as we saw with California Adventure and has undergone a few transformations since its original opening in 1989. In the 2010s, Hollywood Studios began moving away from the working studio atmosphere and began integrating storytelling and immersive intellectual properties which greatly improved the theme park. Hollywood Studios is divided into seven themed areas inspired by existing locations found in Hollywood and Los Angeles or imagined worlds from Hollywood stories. These lands include Hollywood Boulevard, Echo Lake, Grand Avenue, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Toy Story Land, Animation Courtyard, and Sunset Boulevard.

The original icon of Hollywood Studios is similar to the Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris with a faux water tower with Mickey Mouse Ears. The icon then was developed into a Sorcerer's Hat and was removed along with the Earffel Tower. Now the icon of the park is the Chinese Theatre which now houses the popular Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway attraction. Most of the popularity of Hollywood Studios comes from its inclusion as one of Walt Disney World's four theme parks and also houses most of the newest attractions at Walt Disney World. Since the incorporation of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge and Toy Story Land, this park has seen crowd levels that often outrank the crowds at the other Walt Disney World theme parks.

When we compare Hollywood Studios to other Disney Parks around the world, this park does fall short in terms of its immersive elements. Aside from Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, the immersion at Hollywood Studios is a bit more disjointed and there is not necessarily a strong cohesive theme in the park. This theme park is a must-do if you are already planning on a Walt Disney World but as a stand-alone park, it falls short of the other Disney Parks around the world.

Hollywood Studios Attractions

Its main strongest contenders for popular original rides are the iconic Tower of Terror (which often is used as more of a visual of a park icon than the Chinese Theatre) and Slinky Dog Dash.

Disney Junior Play and Dance! 

Disney Junior Play and Dance! is a dance party featuring Timon, Mickey, and Disney Junior characters Doc McStuffins and Vampirina.

Green Army Drum Corps

The Green Army Drum Corps from Toy Story offers a high-energy performance with impressive drum sequences. 

Disney Movie Magic 

Disney Movie Magic is a nighttime show featuring music and projections of Disney movie moments onto Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. You'll see moments from movies like Indiana Jones, Pirates of the Caribbean, and more.

For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration

This show features the Royal Historians of Arendelle telling the story of their kingdom, then Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff appear to perform musical numbers like “Let It Go” that you can sing along to.

Beauty & The Beast Live on Stage 

Beauty & The Beast Live on Stage tells the story of The Beauty and the Beast live onstage. The musical performance is 30 minutes long and has multiple showtimes throughout the day.

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular

This live stunt show features Indy and Marion dodging traps, fight enemies, and more. Then, guests are told these stunts are performed through a demonstration of stage combat and a glimpse into the movie magic behind the action sequences.

Fantasmic!

Fantasmic! is one of the incredible entertainment offerings at Walt Disney World. This nighttime spectacular is present at a number of Disney Parks around the world all in different forms. The Hollywood Studios version of the show was greatly improved in recent years with a big upgrade to the technology and segments of the show.

Sunset Boulevard

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is a drop ride based on the story of hotel patrons who rode the elevator on a Halloween night and were never seen again after a storm struck the building. This ride may be scary for some guests due to its sudden drops in the dark and spooky atmosphere.

Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy 

In this attraction based on the Cars movie, Lightning McQueen shows off his new racing simulator with a giant wrap-around screen. During the 10-minute show, as Lightning's rival unexpectedly hacks into the simulator, they engage in a virtual race.

Rock ‘n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith 

In this rollercoaster, race your way through L.A. in a limo to one of Aerosmith's concerts with Aerosmith music playing throughout your journey. The ride features a launch from 0 to 57 miles per hour, then you zoom through inversions and past iconic landmarks.

Hollywood Boulevard

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway 

In this trackless dark ride, what starts out as a normal train ride into a wild adventure across a vibrant cartoon landscape. The queue features props and memorabilia from Mickey Mouse's film career.

Echo Lake

Star Tours — The Adventures Continue

During this motion similar 3D ride, a mishap causes C-3PO to pilot the ship. As Imperial forces intercept your ship after catching a rebel spy onboard, you engage on an exhilarating journey to escape and return to the Alliance base.

Vacation Fun – An Original Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie 

This animated short film starring Mickey and Minnie's shows their favorite vacation memories. After the show, you can pose for a vacation photo!

Animation Courtyard

Walt Disney Presents 

Walt Disney Presents takes you on a multimedia exploration of Walt Disney's legacy and life story, with the gallery featuring sketches, photos, models, costumes, artwork and more. After you tour the gallery, you can watch a short documentary film, Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream.

Grand Avenue

Muppet*Vision 3D 

This 3D show starts with the Muppets taking you on a tour of their lab, then chaos unexpectedly ensues! This part of the show features lighting, live performers, smoke, and audio-animatronics that bring the action to life.

Galaxy's Edge

Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run

In this interactive ride, you board the Millennium Falcon on a quest to steal coaxium containers from the First Order. Each rider plays a role in the ride, with two pilots, two gunners, two engineers. The pilots are the most involved role in the ride, with one steering up and down and one steering left and right.

Rise of the Resistance 

The extremely popular Rise of the Resistance utilizes multiple ride types (dark ride, motion simulator, and walkthrough) to completely immerse you in the world of Star Wars from start to finish. As your transport is taken captive by the First Order, you must navigate an Imperial Star Destroyer to make your thrilling escape.

Toy Story Land

Alien Swirling Saucers

This swirling saucer ride, inspired by the aliens from the Toy Story movie, spins you around as the “Claw” looms over you.

Toy Story Mania!

In this 4D shooting game, aim at moving targets with projectiles like eggs, darts, rings, and baseballs in a series of 5 games aboard a carnival-inspired tram. You can compete with others in your tram for the highest score, and keep an eye out for “Easter eggs” worth higher points!

Slinky Dog Dash

This family-friendly rollercoaster is inspired by the Toy Story movies and takes you on a journey around giant toys in Andy's backyard. This is an extremely popular ride in Toy Story Land!

8. California Adventure (Disneyland Resort)

California Adventure is the counterpart to Disneyland Park and opened in 2001. This park originally began as Disney's interpretation of California but since then this 72-acre park has grown to include areas devoted to the Pixar Film Cars, Avengers, and Big Hero 6.

California Adventure has always been known for its growing pains as when the park first opened, it did not meet its projected attendance which was impacted by the negative review shared at opening preview events. After this Disney spent the next few years adding new rides, shows, and attractions along with creating park-specific events to boost attendance. In 2007, the park received a full overhaul ending with the addition of Cars Land and Buena Vista Street. Disney is still in the process of updating California Adventure with the most recent addition area to the park San Fransokyo Square which opened earlier this year and Avengers Campus. California Adventure has eight lands: Avengers Campus, Cars Land, Pixar Pier, San Fransokyo Square, Buena Vista Street, Grizzly Peak, and Hollywood Land.

California Adventure has improved considerably since its initial opening and now draws larger crowds and attendance, especially with the addition of special events like the popular Halloween party Oogie Boogie Bash. As far as how California Adventure ranks amongst the other Disney Parks around the world, it does fall a bit short in terms of unique offerings and atmosphere. The best land in California Adventure is easily Cars Land which has not been replicated at any other Disney Park around the world and includes one of the best Disney rides Radiator Springs Racers. The immersion of this land is especially well done during the Halloween and Christmas seasons at Disneyland. For guests already visiting the Disneyland Resort, California Adventure is a nice addition to the trip. For many locals, Disney California Adventure has become their favorite park due to the wider walkways and more comfortable spaces.

California Adventure Attractions

Top attractions at California Adventure include Radiator Springs Racers, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Soarin Around California.

Cars Land

Radiator Springs Racers

Radiator Springs Racers, a part indoor dark ride and part thrill ride, fully immerses you in the world of the Cars movies. The ride starts out with a tour of Ornament Valley and the wild journey to get to Radiator Springs, then you prepare for an outdoor race against another car through a stunning desert landscape for the last portion of the ride.

Mater's Junkyard Jamboree

Mater's Junkyard Jamboree is a spinning attraction themed after Mater from the movie Cars. This spinning attraction makes it a bit further up on the list due to the hilarity of Mater's commentary and the music that plays during this ride. The spinning tractors go back and forth so you're being thrown around a bit making it extra fun.

Luigi's Rollickin' Roadsters

Luigi's Rollickin' Roadsters is a trackless ride featuring spinning cars that “dance” to Italian tunes like “Mambo Italiano” around Luigi's lot. The cars, Luigi's cousins, all have unique designs, and each ride experience is a bit different. The ride has two different versions for the holidays: Luigi's Honkin' Haul-O-Ween and Luigi's Joy to the Whirl.

Avengers Campus

Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!

This iconic, high-energy drop ride is located in Avengers Campus based on The Guardians of the Galaxy movie. Guests will join Rocket as he tries to free the Guardians of the Galaxy from the Collector, who has captured them and put them on display. Each ride experience is different, with 6 different storylines and music inspired by the soundtracks of the movies, with songs like I Want You Back and Give Up The Funk.

Web Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure

Web Slinger: A Spider-Man Adventure is an interactive ride located in Avengers Campus, where guests help Spider Man regain control of escaped Spider-Bots that are wreaking havoc across Avengers Campus. In the experience, you fling your hands in Spiderman-fashion to “web” the Spider-Bots, aiming for high-value targets and perhaps discovering special Easter Eggs along the way.

Grizzly Peak

Soarin' Around the World/Soarin' Over California

Soarin', located at Grizzy Peak, alternates between two versions: Soarin' Around the World and Soarin' Over California, which both take guests on an aerial tour of stunning locations, complete with music, dimensional sounds, scents, and more. Soarin' Over California is the nostalgic original version of this attraction and takes guests over famous locations from California like the Golden Gate Bridge and Yosemite. Soarin' Around the World takes you to locations across the globe, like the Taj Mahal and the Great Pyramids of Egypt.

Redwood Creek Challenge Trail

The Redwood Creek Challenge Trail in California Adventure is more than just a play area but an entire trail filled with discoveries. Kids can climb, jump and zipline all around this year. The best part? There's only one entrance and exit so parents can relax on a shady bench while kids get out some energy.

Grizzly River Run

Grizzly River Run takes you on a thrilling whitewater raft adventure, and this water ride will get you soaked. The circular 8-person raft takes you through caverns and down steep drops as you pass by the remnants of an old mining company and by the iconic California Adventure bear profile at the top of the mountain. We recommend a poncho for this ride, and lockers are available to store any items that may be damaged by water.

Hollywood Land

Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!

Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! is a dark ride that takes you through the story of the Monsters Inc. movie, where you follow Mike and Sully through Monstropolis as they try to return Boo back to her home. The ride features an audio-animatronic Roz who interacts with guests at the end of the ride.

Mickey's PhilharMagic at the Sunset Showcase Theater

Located in Hollywood Land, this is a short 3D film that follows Donald Duck as he finds himself conducting an orchestra in his dreams. The short film features favorite songs like “Be Our Guest” from Beauty and the Beast, “Part of Your World” from The Little Mermaid, “I Just Can’t Wait To Be King” from The Lion King and “You Can Fly” from Peter Pan. The show also has gentle special effects designed for kids like water splashes.

Turtle Talk with Crush

Turtle Talk with Crush is a live show where guests can chat with Crush the sea turtle from Pixar's Finding Nemo. This show is energetic and funny so kids of all ages enjoy it.

Sorcerer's Workshop

The Sorcerer's Workshop in California Adventure offers multiple activities for guests to enjoy like the Beast's Library from Beauty & the Beast, a quiz to figure out which Disney character you are and more interactive features. It's a great place to spend some time in the air conditioning when the afternoon heats up.

Animation Academy

Animation Academy is located in the same building as Sorcerer's Workshop. This is the place you can go to participate in a drawing class and learn to draw a Disney character! The Disney character featured changes on a daily basis so you can do this experience multiple times.

Paradise Gardens

Silly Symphony Swings

Silly Symphony Swings is a wave swinger attraction that swing you high in the air to the tune of Mickey's historic cartoon The Band Show with great views of California Adventure as you swing along.

Goofy's Sky School

Goofy’s Sky School is a steel wild mouse style rollercoaster in Paradise Gardens Park. The ride is based around Goofy’s posted instructions on “how to fly”: takeoff, fly, turn, nosedive, and land. It’s a short, thrilling ride with sharp turns and steep drops, reaching a maximum speed of 27 miles per hour.

Golden Zephyr

The Golden Zephyr is a spinning attraction that goes a bit higher and faster than the ones targeted at smaller children as it soars above California Adventure.

The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Undersea Adventure

The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Undersea Adventure takes you on a journey through the iconic scenes of The Little Mermaid movie as you follow Ariel's journey from underwater onto the land and dodge Ursula's evil plans. The ride features famous songs from the movie, including “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls” and “Kiss the Girl.”

Pixar Pier

Pixar Pal-A-Round

The Pixar Pal-A-Round is Disney California Adventure's ferris wheel that takes you 150 feet in the air for a beautiful bird's-eye view of the park. The gondolas are decorated with different Disney and Pixar characters, and you can choose from a fixed or swinging gondola (which will slide forward and backward along the rails during your journey).

Toy Story Midway Mania!

Toy Story Midway Mania! is a 4D interactive ride in Pixar Pier where guests will aim for moving objects with virtual darts, eggs, and other projectiles. Aim for high-value targets and spot friends like Hamm, Rex, Trixie, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Jessie along the way!

Incredicoaster

The Incredicoaster is the most intense rollercoaster between Disney California Adventure and Disneyland located in Pixar Pier. Featuring a loop and speeds of up to 55 miles per hour, it follows the story of the Incredibles as they lose baby Jack-Jack and the shenanigans that follow as you race after him from Dash’s point of view.

7. Disneyland Park Paris (Disneyland Paris)

Disneyland Park (Paris) is located in Chessy, France which is 20 miles east of Paris. Disneyland Park is the main theme park out of the two at the Disneyland Paris Resort which opened in 1992. It is the largest Disney Park operating outside the United States. Disneyland Park is divided into five themed lands which house 49 attractions. Disneyland Park's five lands include Main Street U.S.A., Frontierland, Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland.

The location of Disneyland Park poses its own unique weather challenges so modifications were made to the park design to protect against changes in weather which can include snow depending on the time of year. This includes more covered walkways and over 35 fireplaces in hotels and restaurants.

One of the best aspects of Disneyland Park Paris is its version of Sleeping Beauty's Castle. Since castles are not necessarily always seen as a fantasy element in Europe (they have real castles!) imagineers went above and beyond with this version to impress guests. There is a Dragon Lair under the castle where guests can see the large dragon from the movie and it's an amazing use of space around the castle. Disneyland Paris ranks high on our list for the aesthetic and beauty this theme park offers. This is evident in every inch of the park from Sleeping Beauty's Castle to the Queen of Hearts area.

Disneyland Paris Attractions

Disneyland Paris made some efforts to not simply replicate the attractions from Disneyland and changed Tomorrowland to Discoveryland with the area focusing on a retro future theme. Other different elements include a change of the Haunted Mansion into the Phantom more plus a more intense version of Space Mountain.

Fantasyland

Sleeping Beauty Castle

The Sleeping Beauty Castle is the beautiful icon of Disneyland Paris and the perfect spot for a photo. A dragon sleeps below in its dungeon!

it's a small world

This boat ride takes you around the world as characters sing the famous “it's a small world” song of peace and unity. The whimsical facade features architecture from styles across the globe, and a parade of figures appears every fifteen minutes at the top of the clock tower.

Peter Pan's Flight

Guests will embark on an adventure through the world of Peter Pan in this dark ride that takes them to the Darling nursery, then the night skies of London and the beautiful Never Land. You'll see iconic locations from the movie like Skull Rock, Mermaid Lagoon, and Pirate's Cove.

Blanche-Neige et les Sept Nains (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs)

This indoor dark ride takes guests through the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. On the ride, you'll visit the seven dwarfs in their cottage, brave the haunted forest, and confront the evil queen.

Les Voyages de Pinocchio 

This dark ride takes you on an adventure through scenes of the Disney movie Pinocchio. Aboard a wooden car, guests follow Pinocchio as he escapes Stromboli's Marionette show and the adventure that ensues, ending with the song “When You Wish Upon a Star” as he becomes a real boy.

Mad Hatter's Tea Cups

In this classic ride, guests board a giant colorful teacup, then engage in a wild spin to whimsical music in this joyous “Unbirthday” party. You can control how fast you spin through the wheel in the center of the teacup.

Alice's Curious Labyrinth

This hedge maze attraction is inspired by moments and characters from the Alice in Wonderland movie split into two different sections. In the two mazes, guests explore the White Rabbit's Hole, encounter confusing signage, meet the Cheshire Cat, and dodge card soldiers pop up and yell, “Off with their heads!”

Le Carrousel de Lancelot

Sir Lancelot's carrousel features intricately decorated horses and plays renditions of songs from movies like Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and more.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

This gentle rides takes guests on Dumbo's back as he takes to the sky. Timothy Q. Mouse helps orchestrate the action with his magic feather as Dumbo flies in circles over Fantasyland, and guests can decide how high or low their Dumbo gondola flies.

Casey Jr. Circus Train

The Casey Jr. Circus Train, pulled by the engine Casey Jr. from Dumbo, takes guests on a tour of iconic locations from Disney movies in miniature scale through Storybook Land.

Storybook Land Canal Boats

This gentle boat ride through Disney's Storybook Land takes guests on a tour of miniature villages and landmarks from Disney movies, like Rapunzel's tower from Tangled, the dwarfs' mine and house from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and more.

La Galerie de la Belle au Bois Dormant (The Castle of the Beauty in the Sleeping Forest) 

In this walkthrough attraction, guests explore a balcony with Sleeping Beauty stained glass windows and tapestries.

La Tanière du Dragon

This walk-through attraction features a dragon who is held prisoner in the dungeons beneath Sleeping Beauty Castle. The dragon sleeps, but it will occasionally wake up and puff smoke.

Discoveryland

Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain

On this intense rollercoaster, guests start out on a reconnaissance mission, then quickly discover they've flown into a trap and race to escape Imperial TIE fighters. The ride is a bit different than its Disneyland and Disney World versions and is a treat for rollercoaster enthusiasts, as it features three thrilling inversions!

Star Wars: The Adventure Continues

As you embark on your Starspeeder 1000 journey, an unexpected string of events causes C-3PO to unexpectedly take the controls of the ship. On this motion simulator ride, you'll escape Imperial forces and encounter other dangers as you navigate the galaxy on this chaotic flight.

Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast

In this shooting game, help Buzz Lightyear defeat the evil Zurg as he tries to take over with his army of robots. Guests will aim for the batteries and have the opportunity to shoot at higher-value targets for a greater score!

Autopia

Guests can drive in cars with a real steering wheel and pedal as they cruise over hills and around turns across the track along a guide rail. This is a fun opportunity for kids to try their hand at driving a car!

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

In this short film, Donald Duck conducts an orchestra that plays iconic Disney songs like “Be Our Guest” from Beauty and the Beast, “You Can Fly,” from Peter Pan, “Un Poco Loco” from Coco, and more in this animated musical dream sequence.

Les Mystères du Nautilus

This walkthrough attraction based on 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea features a tour of the Nautilus submarine. Guests will explore Captain Nemo's room, the engine room, the main salon, and more.

Orbitron 

This ride guests aboard a rocket in circles around a galaxy of planets. As you control how high or low your rocket flies, you can take in the view over Discoveryland.

Adventureland

Pirates of the Caribbean

The Disneyland Paris version of this classic attraction features the classic pirate scenes at the start of the attraction and the grotto scenes with the skeleton pirates at the end of the ride. Like the Disneyland Park version in California, the ride features two drops.

Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril

This ride is a rollercoaster-style attraction, based on the Indiana Jones movies, where guests take a thrilling ride on a mining cart through a lost temple.

La Cabane des Robinson (Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse)

In this walk-through attraction, guests explore the home of the shipwrecked Swiss Family Robinson, exploring rooms like kitchens, libraries, bedrooms, and more. As you reach the top, you can enjoy the view of the island.

Adventure Isle

This island features two sides, North and South, with different offerings to explore. On the North side, you'll discover caves, a shipwreck, and Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse. On the South is a rockier landscape where there is hidden treasure and Captain Hook's Pirate Ship moored near Skull Rock.

Pirates' Beach

Pirates' Beach features two pirate-themed playgrounds with rope ladders, slides, and a plank.

Le Passage Enchanté d'Aladdin

In this walkthrough attraction, you can explore various scenes from the movie Aladdin.

Frontierland

Big Thunder Mountain

This rollercoaster is the “wildest ride in the west” that takes you on an adventure through a cursed mining town. You'll dodge dynamite explosions and fly though caverns and across the mountain on this exciting ride.

Phantom Manor

Phantom Manor is the Disneyland Paris version of the Haunted Mansion that takes guests on a ride through a haunted house that used to be home to Henry Ravenswood, who contributed to the “disappearances” of all four of his daughter's suitors.

Rustler Roundup Shootin' Gallery

This Wild West-themed shooting gallery features a variety of moving targets.

Thunder Mesa Riverboat Landing

Two 19th century style paddleboats, the Mark Twain and Molly Brown, take guests on a trip across the Rivers of the Far West, with views of waterfalls, Big Thunder Mountain, Wilderness Island, and more.

Frontierland Playground

This Old West-inspired playground features slides, wooden springed horses, and more.

Main Street U.S.A.

Liberty Arcade

The Liberty Arcade is an exhibition invites guests to learn the story of the Statue of Liberty through artwork, photographs, and display cases.

Discovery Arcade

Discovery Arcade is an exhibition dedicated to “yesterday's visions of tomorrow,” where you can explore the greatest creations and ideas of the 19th century through posters, display cases and more.

Disneyland Railroad

The Disneyland Railroad departs from Main Street Station and Frontierland Depot, and on the ride, guests can take in the sights of the park.

Main Street Vehicles

Main Street features 19th-century style horse-drawn streetcars and vintage vehicles like a Mercer, Paddy Wagon, Omnibus, Fire Engine or Limousine to transport you on your one-way trip to transportation stops in Town Square and Central Plaza.

6. Animal Kingdom (Walt Disney World)

Animal Kingdom is one of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World and is the most unique theme park on our ranking list of best Disney parks around the world. Animal Kingdom is the largest theme park at Walt Disney World at 580 acres in size and opened on Earth Day in 1998. This theme park is dedicated to the natural environment and animal conservation and is home to hundreds of species of live animals. Aside from great efforts to protect the animals' welfare in Animal Kingdom, the theme park was also built to include traditional attractions. This is what gives Animal Kingdom its unique status as it houses live animals along with traditional theme park attractions.

Animal Kingdom ranks high on our list due to its unique status among the other theme parks and the fantastic immersive qualities in the lands. Animal Kingdom has seven themed areas: Oasis, Discovery Island, Pandora- The World of Avatar, Africa, Rafiki's Planet Watch, Asia, and DinoLand U.S.A. Animal Kigdom's Discovery River separates Discovery Island from the other areas. The park icon is the Tree of Life which is a 145-foot-fall artificial baobab tree. Animal Kingdom is a zoological park engaging in research and conservation efforts of animal species.

Animal Kingdom is one of the best Walt Disney World theme parks and offers great immersive themed areas but also some of the best attractions on our theme park list like Avatar Flight of Passage and Kilimanjaro Safaris. There are many attractions that are unique solely to Animal Kingdom which helps this park earn its high ranking on our list of best Disney parks around the world.

Animal Kingdom Attractions

Animal Kingdom's list of attractions is unique from some of the other best Disney parks around the world since it also includes a variety of animal encounters around the theme park. Animal Kingdom is a large theme park, the biggest on our list, and offers more to do than many of the other theme parks.

Animal Encounters 

Animal Kingdom offers several opportunities to view and learn about a variety of incredible animals in Africa, Asia, Discovery Island, and The Oasis. From tigers to Komodo Dragons, there are animals you can watch in their exhibits as you explore trails like the Discovery Island Trails, Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, Maharajah Jungle Trek, and more.

Entertainment

Chakranadi

Donald's Dino-Bash!

Harambe Village Acrobats

Viva Gaia Street Band!

Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe 

This 15 minute interactive show features high-energy drumming from talented performers in authentic dress, and the audience is encouraged to participate.

Festival of the Lion King

Festival of the Lion King is a 40-minute live performance that tells the story of The Lion King through song, dance, and puppetry.
It includes favorite songs like “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?”, “I Just Can’t Wait To Be King” and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.”

Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! 

Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! is a 25-minute live show based on the Finding Nemo movie. The performance features special effects, animated backdrops, puppets, and immersive lighting to create a compelling underwater setting.

Rafiki's Planet Watch

Conservation Station 

At the Conservation Station, guests can explore the Veterinary treatment room, Nutrition Center, and Science Center. You can also  see amphibian, reptile and invertebrate windows that will give you a glimpse of snakes, spiders, and more.

The Animation Experience at Conservation Station 

During this 25-minute experience, you can learn how to bring Disney characters to life from a Disney animator, with real life animals as inspiration. Note that to reach Rafiki's Planet Watch, you must take the Wildlife Express Train.

Affection Section 

You can access a petting zoo at the park with domesticated animals at Rafiki's Planet Watch in this interactive experience.

Discovery Island

Wilderness Explorers 

After picking up a Wilderness Explorer handbook, you can work to become a Wilderness Explorer as you engage in nature-themed challenges around the park. You can earn over 25 badges during these self-guided activities that range from observing animals to learning wilderness skills.

It's Tough To Be A Bug!

In this 3D movie and live show, watch how a bug survives in the wild! The show contains special effects like smells, sprays, hidden leg ticklers, and more. Note that this show might be overwhelming to the senses for some kids and adults, so make sure you are okay with the content and the special effects before you go.

Tree of Life

The 140-foot tall Tree of Life, known as the famous symbol of Animal Kingdom, has more than 300 animals carved into it. It symbolizes the connection between and value of every animal on Earth, celebrating their role in the Circle of Life.  At the base of he Tree of Life is a variety of live animals, including lemurs, flamingos, kangaroos and tortoises.

Pandora – The World of Avatar

Avatar Flight of Passage

Avatar Flight of Passage takes you on an exhilarating 3D journey on the back of a banshee through the world of Pandora. During the ride, you soar over the lush landscape of the forest, dive down above the crashing waves, and feel the banshee breathing beneath you. This has been a fan-favorite ride since its opening and is a completely immersive, breathtaking experience that is not to be missed.

Na'vi River Journey

Na'vi River Journey is a boat ride through Pandora's visually stunning bioluminescent rainforest. On the journey, you'll pass by a variety of plants and creatures, with some glimpses of Na'vi and their direhorses. The ride ends with the famous animatronic of the Na'vi Shaman, and her fluid movement and incredible realism is truly a stunning sight to behold.

Africa

Kilimanjaro Safaris

On this tour of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve in your safari vehicle, you'll encounter over 30 species of beautiful live animals, including lions, crocodiles, hippos, giraffes, and more. This is a ride best experienced in the morning so that the animals are more active during your tour!

Wild Africa Trek

The Wild Africa Trek is a private 3-hour VIP tour that takes you on a journey with encounters of every animal in the Safi River Valley. You'll be treated to snacks, complimentary photos, and knowledge from your guide about the animals and animal conversation during the tour.

Wildlife Express Train 

This train will give you a behind-the-scenes view of animals at the park and take you to Rafiki’s Planet Watch during a 7-minute ride.

Asia

Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain 

Expedition Everest is a thrilling rollercoaster that whisks you through the Himalayas to the base of Mount Everest. Along the way, you'll encounter a broken track torn apart, then zoom backwards into an encounter with the mythical Yeti. The rollercoaster reaches speeds of up to 50 miles per hour during its thrilling journey, and some of its content might be scary for younger kids.

Kali River Rapids

Kali River Rapids takes guests on a whitewater rapid journey through the jungles of Asia on a circular raft. They will pass by waterfalls, statues, and ruins, then plummet down a 20 foot slope. Between the ride itself, and the potential for spectators to shoot water at guests riding the attraction through elephant water-sprayers, you will get very wet on this ride. Be sure to store anything that can be damaged by water in a locker, and wear a poncho onto the ride!

Maharajah Jungle Trek

The Maharajah Jungle Trek is a self-guided tour through the jungle that gives you a glimpse of Asian tigers, an aviary with over 50 bird species, and other beautiful animals like Komodo Dragons and Water Buffalo.

Dinoland U.S.A.

DINOSAUR

DINOSAUR is a thrilling dark ride where guests are recruited to secretly help a paleontologist rescue a dinosaur and bring it back to the present. Along the way, you dodge several carnivorous dinosaurs and rush to escape the giant meteor that is crashing down on Earth. This ride may be frightening for small children due to the dinosaur animatronics and scary content that takes place in the dark.

TriceraTop Spin

This carnival-inspired attraction takes guests for a gentle spin through the air inside a 4-person triceratops gondola. Both the front and back rows can control the motion of the ride via a lever: the back row dictate how high or low you fly, and the front row tilts the gondola forward and backward.

The Boneyard

This play area is designed as a dinosaur dig site where kids can explore slides, bridges, and caves, and help to excavate fossils.

Dino-Sue

This attraction is a replica of Sue, the largest T-Rex fossil ever found, who you can snap a picture with!

Fossil Fun Games 

You can engage in carnival-style dinosaur games, whacking and squirting targets, shooting hoops, tossing “comets,” and more in this play area, competing to win prizes.

5. EPCOT (Walt Disney World)

EPCOT is one of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World. EPCOT was originally created by Walt Disney in the early days of the development of Walt Disney World. His idea was an experimental planned community that would serve as a center for American enterprise and urban living. EPCOT is actually an acronym for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. After Walt Disney's death, the project was abandoned as Disney was uncertain about operating an entire community, and instead, the concept was changed into a theme park that showcased modern innovation and world nations. EPCOT opened in 1982 featuring the Future World area of the park to showcase modern innovation and the World Showcase including 12 world nations.

EPCOT has been a hub of construction for a few years now as the park revised the existing two sections of the park into four: World Celebration, World Discovery, World Nature, and World Showcase. EPCOT's park icon is Spaceship Earth, one of the park's iconic attractions which is inside a geodesic sphere. With construction about to wrap up at the end of 2023 with the finishing project of World Celebration complete, EPCOT will finally move away from the construction phase.

EPCOT ranks high on our list of best Disney parks around the world for a few reasons. EPCOT is still home to classic attractions (Spaceship Earth) that the park is known for while also moving to incorporate new hit e-ticket rides like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind which is one of the best roller coasters Disney has created in years. EPCOT, like Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom, is also unique to the other Disney theme park around the world with its World Showcase. The World Showcase includes specific areas dedicated to representing the culture, cuisine, architecture, and traditions of 11 nations. The nations found in World Showcase include Canada, United Kingdom, France, Morocco, Japan, United States, Italy, Germany, China, Norway, and Mexico.

Another reason EPCOT ranks high on our list is the superb dining options this theme park offers which outpace nearly the rest of the others on our best Disney parks around the world list. EPCOT hosts four marketplace-style festivals throughout the year which include food booths, entertainment, and special events. Due to the wide range of offerings at EPCOT, we rank EPCOT high on our list.

EPCOT Attractions

EPCOT has a wide variety of attractions, experiences, and entertainment along with a line up of popular attractions.

EPCOT Galleries 

Throughout EPCOT, there are several galleries dedicated to the art and history of various cultures, including the following:

• The Bijutsu-kan Gallery
• The Stave Church Gallery
• Project Tomorrow: Inventing the Wonders of the Future
• American Heritage Gallery
• Gallery of Arts and History
• House of the Whispering Willows
• Mexico Folk Art Gallery

Kidcot Fun Stops

You can collect cards throughout World Showcase that feature activities and facts about the culture and traditions of each country you stop at.

Disney’s DuckTales World Showcase Adventure

Through the Play Disney Parks mobile app, you can help Mr. McDuck find seven lost treasures hidden in each World Showcase country pavilion.

EPCOT Festivals 

Throughout the year, EPCOT hosts festivals that celebrate various cultures, including the International Festival of the Arts, the International Flower & Garden Festival, the International Food & Wine Festival, and the International Festival of the Holidays.

Character Encounters 

Characters appear to meet guests, with many appearing at the pavilions where their story takes place. You can see Mulan in China, Belle in France, Snow White in Germany, and many more characters at locations throughout the park.

EPCOT Entertainment

Command Performance

Entertainment at Canada Mill Stage

EPCOT Forever

JAMMitors

Matsuriza

Music of Mexico

Rose & Crown Pub Musician

Sergio

Voices of Liberty

World Discovery

Test Track

Guests get the opportunity to design a virtual concept car, then they board a “SIM” car that takes them through various tests—weather, rough terrain, sharp turns, and finally a thrilling outdoor pacing test that reaches a speed of 65 miles per hour.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is the first Disney rollercoaster with a reverse launch and is one of the longest enclosed rollercoasters in the world. Guests will join the Guardians of the Galaxy as they embark on an urgent mission, and the ride features a fun soundtrack of one of six randomly chosen songs.

Mission: Space

Mission: Space is a ride that simulates blasting off to space and orbiting the Earth, with guests playing the interactive roles of
navigator, pilot, commander or engineer. The ride comes in two versions: Green (the gentler, family-friendly version) and Orange (the more intense version that simulates the speed and G-forces of a spacecraft launch and reentry). If you get motion sickness easily, make sure to go with the Green Mission.

Advanced Training Lab 

This play area features space-themed games and activities, featuring digital games and an interactive playground.

The American Adventure 

The American Adventure is a show about our nation's history, with Benjamin Franklin and Mark Twain as your guides. It features glimpses of pivotal events in U.S. history like the writing of the Declaration of Independence and the Civil War, with 35 Audio-Animatronics and projections.

World Nature

Turtle Talk With Crush 

This 15-minute show gives you the opportunity to chat with Crush from the Finding Nemo movie in real time! The show is improvised, so each experience will be completely unique and filled with lots of laughs.

The Seas with Nemo & Friends 

On this gentle ride aboard a “clamobile,” guests enter the underwater world of Finding Nemo and dodge dangers like sharks, jellyfish, anglerfish, and more as they help find Nemo. After the ride, you can explore a giant saltwater aquarium.

Soarin' Around the World 

On this fan-favorite ride, you take to the skies to tour iconic locations from around the world, from the Swiss Alps to the Eiffel Tower. The ride contains light special effects like smells and gentle wind, and it also features an incredible musical score that perfectly supplements the action of each scene.

Awesome Planet 

The Awesome Planet film features scenes from around the globe, featuring special effects like wind, scents, and water. The film urges its audience to take action to protect and care for our planet.

Bruce's Shark World

At The Seas with Nemo & Friends Pavilion, you can explore this walk-through exhibit where you can test your knowledge of sharks.

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana

This walk-through attraction is an interactive trail inspired by Moana's connection with water, featuring a beautiful 16 foot tall figure of Te Fiti. On the trail, guests will play with the water and learn about its importance. You can read all about this unique Disney Parks experience in our guide to Journey of Water Inspired By Moana.

SeaBase 

At the SeaBase aquarium, you can observe fish, turtles, rays, sharks, and manatees. You can also book tours, including an adventure for certified scuba divers and a dolphin encounter, in tour experiences at SeaBase.

Living With the Land 

Living With the Land is a boat tour and dark ride that focuses on the history of agriculture and new agricultural techniques and technologies, featuring animatronics and glimpses of modified crops.

World Showcase

Remy's Ratatouille Adventure 

Remy's Ratatouille Adventure, the 4D trackless ride based on the movie Ratatouille, takes you on a journey from a mouse's point of view. On the ride, you navigate Gusteau’s Paris restaurant, trying to escape the angry Chef Skinner as he chases after you.

Frozen Ever After 

On this gentle boat ride, explore the kingdom of Arendelle and iconic scenes from the movie Frozen. You'll encounter Kristoff's troll family, see Elsa's ice castle, and more. While you won't get soaked on this ride, it features backward and forward plunges down short waterfalls.

Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros 

This ride, inspired by the movie The Three Caballeros, invites you to join Panchito the rooster and José Carioca on an adventure down the Rio Grande the parrot as you search for the missing Donald Duck.

Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along

This short 15-minute film features songs from the Beauty and the Beast movie like “Be Our Guest” that you can sing along to.

Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360 

Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360 is a 12-minute film that showcases the landmarks and culture of Canada.

Impressions de France 

This film about the beauty of France is 18 minutes long, showing iconic locations like the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles, a marketplace in Normandy, and more.

Reflections of China 

This 12-minute Circle-Vision 360° film takes you on a tour of iconic locations from China, like the Huangshan mountain range and the city of Suzhou.

World Celebration

Spaceship Earth 

This ride takes place in the geodesic sphere that is the icon of EPCOT, taking you on a journey to see how human communication has evolved over the course of history. This 16-minute attraction gives you glimpses of moments like the invention of the printing press and the announcement of the moon landing, with Audio-Animatronics and detailed sets helping to tell the story.

Journey Into Imagination With Figment 

This ride through the sensory labs of Imagination Institute is taken over by Figment the playful dragon he guides you through a journey across all 5 senses.

Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival 

This 18-minute film festival features three short Disney and Pixar films in 4D, with in-theater special effects.

ImageWorks – The “What If” Labs

This play area invites younger guests to engage with the senses! This creative space features stepping stones with sound, the chance to design your own dragon and record yourself in slow-motion, and more.

4. Tokyo Disneyland (Tokyo Disney Resort)

Tokyo Disneyland was the first Disney Park to be built outside the United States and opened in 1983. This park is owned by The Oriental Land Company and licenses intellectual property from The Walt Disney Company through a complex partnership. Tokyo Disneyland is part of the Tokyo Disney Resort which also includes Tokyo DisneySea. These two theme parks are the only two in the world not owned or operated by The Walt Disney Company. This has been said to be an advantage to both the Tokyo Disney theme parks as The Oriental Land Company puts considerable funding into these parks which results in frequent new projects and outstanding attention to detail.

The park has seven themed areas: the World Bazaar, Adventureland, Westernland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Critter Country, and Toontown. Tokyo Disneyland is a castle park fashioned out of all the best elements of Disneyland in Anaheim and Magic Kingdom in Florida. Teams for the Oriental Land Company literally flew to Orlando and Anaheim to pick out the best of the Disney Parks built at that time. For this reason, you'll see the grand castle fashioned on the Cinderella Castle in Walt Disney World and also a wishing well modeled after the Snow White Grotto in Disneyland.

Tokyo Disneyland is a large theme park at 110 acres in size and offers the same Happiest Place on Earth atmosphere that the US parks capture so well. This park and its counterpart, Tokyo DisneySea, are some of the most popular theme parks in the world!

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Tokyo Disneyland Attractions

Tokyo Disneyland offers 24 attractions that are similar to the other “castle parks” but with an improved Winnie the Pooh and Monsters, Inc ride. And of course, the ever-popular Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast which has been a hit with park guests and may be one of the best Disney dark rides!

(Gavin commentary here?)

World Bazaar

Omnibus

This old-fashioned double-decker bus takes guests around the Plaza.

Penny Arcade

Guests can enjoy several old-fashioned arcade games, from pinball machines to baseball games!

Adventureland

Western River Railroad

This authentic steam train takes you on a 15 minute journey through Adventureland, Critter Country, and Westernland.

Pirates of the Caribbean

Tokyo Disneyland's version of the Pirates of the Caribbean features classic moments from the ride like the Grotto, auction, prison, and burning town scenes with appearances from Captain Jack Sparrow along he way.

Jungle Cruise: Wildlife Expeditions

Guided by their skipper, guests will brave the jungle and its inhabitants, encountering elephants, crocodiles, lions and other wildlife on the adventure, with lighting effects at night.

Swiss Family Treehouse

In this walk-through attraction, guests can explore the Swiss Family Treehouse, built by the shipwrecked family and its various rooms.

The Enchanted Tiki Room: Stitch Presents “Aloha E Komo Mai!”

Tokyo Disneyland's version of the Tiki Room features animatronic singing Hawaiian birds, then Stitch appears and interrupts the show to cause some mischief!

Westernland

Westernland Shootin' Gallery

In this Wild West-themed shooting gallery, guests aim at targets in front of a snoozing Deputy. You can earn badges depending on your score.

Country Bear Theater

This beloved show features the country bears playing and singing for guests. 18 Audio-Animatronic bears make up this western musical celebration that features songs and comedy!

Mark Twain Riverboat

The Mark Twain Riverboat, accommodating about 475 people, gives guests a ride around the Rivers of America, with beautiful views of Westernland and Critter Country.

Tom Sawyer Island Rafts

Guests can take this log raft to travel to Tom Sawyer Island, where they can explore Injun Joe's Cave, Huckleberry Swamp, and Tom Sawyer's Treehouse.

Big Thunder Mountain

Tokyo Disneyland's take on Big Thunder Mountain is similar to Magic Kingdom's version in Disney World. The rollercoaster takes you on a journey through an old gold mine as your train flies through canyons and caverns.

Critter Country

Splash Mountain

Tokyo Disneyland has the only remaining version of Splash Mountain after the closures of the ride at Disney World and Disneyland. The other versions of the ride are now becoming Tiana's Bayou Adventure. The ride log flume ride features animatronics, dark ride segments, and a drop down a 16-meter high waterfall.

Beaver Brothers Explorer Canoes

This canoe experience is a guest-powered ride around the Rivers of America. The canoe seats about 16 people, and guests paddle the canoe with guides helping to steer it.

Fantasyland

Alice's Tea Party

This iconic spinning attraction invites guests to board a giant colorful teacup, with a wheel in the center that they can use to control the speed and direction of their spin.

“it's a small world”

This beloved boat ride features a chorus of characters around the world in traditional attire singing a song of world peace in their native languages. You'll explore Europe, through Asia, Africa, Central America, and the islands of the South Pacific during your voyage. The ride's facade is the same as Disneyland's version in California, except it's painted with vibrant colors.

Castle Carrousel

This carrousel, inspired by the movie Cinderella, features ornate white horses and plays calliope music during its gentle spin.

Snow White's Adventures

Snow White's Adventures is an indoor dark ride takes guests through scenes of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, were they encounter characters like the evil Witch, the Seven Dwarfs, and more. While other versions of the ride have toned down their scary components, Tokyo's version retains its darker tone and ends abruptly with the Witch attempting to push a boulder down onto the ride vehicle.

Cinderella's Fairy Tale Hall

Cinderella's Fairy Tale Hall features paintings, dioramas, and artwork that tell the story of how she became a princess.

Dumbo The Flying Elephant

On this classic attraction, guests fly on the back of Dumbo, circling over Fantasyland with Timothy Q. Mouse helping to directing the action at the center.

Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast

Aboard magical cups, guests explore scenes from the Beauty and the Beast movie in this trackless dark ride. This is one of the most technologically advanced rides at the park and features 35 Audio-Animatronics and a Pepper's Ghost illusion as the Beast transforms back into his human form.

Peter Pan's Flight

This iconic ride, largely the same as Magic Kingdom's version, follows Darling family on their journey to Never Land. You'll see iconic moments from Peter Pan as you soar over the London night sky and circle the glowing Never Land, and witness scenes and locations from the movie.

Pinocchio's Daring Journey

Pinocchio's Daring journey is a dark ride that takes guests through scenes of the Disney movie Pinocchio aboard a mine car. You'll follow Pinocchio's adventures in how he turns from a wooden puppet into a real boy.

Pooh's Hunny Hunt

Tokyo Disneyland's version of The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh features a trackless ride system and advanced animatronics. On the extremely popular ride, guests follow along with Pooh's search for honey aboard a giant honey pot. Pooh's Hunny Hunt has been praised as the best Winnie the Pooh-themed attraction at any Disney park.

Haunted Mansion

Tokyo Disneyland's version of this classic attraction takes you on a ride through a haunted mansion that is home to 999 ghosts, goblins, and ghouls. Aboard a Doom Buggy, you explore the spooky scenes throughout the mansion, which is largely similar to Disney World's version of the ride.

Mickey's PhilharMagic

This short film follows Donald Duck conducting a dream concert of animated musical sequences. Favorite animated characters and songs are featured during this musical adventure!

Toontown

Gadget's Go Coaster

Gadget's Go Coaster is a junior rollercoaster inspired by Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers, where guests board an acorn train and take a gentle ride that zooms over Toon Lake.

Goofy's Paint ‘n' Play House

In this interactive house, guests can help Goofy repaint his room with the Splat Master that shoots paint onto walls and furniture.

Chip ‘n' Dale's Treehouse

In this walk-through attraction, guests can explore Chip ‘n' Dale's acorn treehouse that they call home.

Toon Park

This play area features animal sculptures and a space where kids can run around and explore!

Donald's Boat

Inside Donald's Duck's boat floating on Toon Lake, kids can explore and play with interactive elements like control panels and lamps.

Minnie's House

This play area invites younger guests to engage with Minnie Mouse's house, with interactive surprises in the kitchen and fun details to discover.

Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin

This wild spinning taxi ride follows Roger Rabbit and Jessica Rabbit as they try to put an end to the evil plans of the Weasels, who have put melting “dip” in the path of your vehicle.

Tomorrowland

Star Tours: The Adventures Continue

This motion similar 3D ride takes you through iconic locations of the Star Wars universe as C-3PO takes emergency control of your ship. On this wild ride, you escape Imperial forces and brave other adventures throughout the galaxy.

Stitch Encounter

At Stitch Monitoring Station, guests can communicate with Stitch in real time! As part of this interactive experience, guests video chat with the mischievous alien during an encounter full of laughter and surprises.

Space Mountain

This rollercoaster takes you on a thrilling rocket journey through space! The ride will be closing in 2024 as part of a redevelopment of the Tomorrowland area of the park, and its new version with enhanced performance and immersive special effects is expected to reopen in 2027.

Buzz Lightyear's Astro Blasters

Guests help Buzz Lightyear defeat the evil Zurg and his army of robots in this dark ride shooting game. Guests use their astro blasters to aim for the robots in this battle to save the universe.

The Happy Ride With Baymax

The Happy Ride With Baymax is a whip ride inspired by the Big Hero 6 movie. This cute ride features uptempo music and several Baymax figures swinging your vehicles across the space.

Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek!

Tokyo Disneyland's Monsters, Inc. attraction is part dark ride and part interactive game where you engage in a game of hide-and-seek with the monsters. Guests shine their flashlight to tag the monsters and see their reactions!

3. Magic Kingdom (Walt Disney World)

Magic Kingdom is the flagship park of Walt Disney World and is the most visited theme park in the entire world. This was the first theme park to open Walt Disney World in 1971 and would later be followed by the remaining three: EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. The layout and attractions of Magic Kingdom are inspired by Disneyland Park in California. One main difference that sets the park apart from Disneyland is the park icon, Cinderella Castle, which is far larger than the original castle and stands at 183 feet tall. This castle is easily the most famous of all the Disney theme park icons.

Magic Kingdom is divided into six themed lands: Main Street, U.S.A., Frontierland, Liberty Square, Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland. These are nearly identical to the lands offered by Disneyland (more on this top-ranked park below!) but with some small changes. Guests often compare Magic Kingdom and Disneyland Park due to these similarities and rank the copies of different attractions against each other. For instance, Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland is far superior to Magic Kingdom due to its longer length and additional scenes. But the Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World is often said to be the better version as it has a scene that the Disneyland version does not.

Magic Kingdom ranks high on our list of best Disney parks around the world due to its iconic history with Roy Disney, Walt Disney's brother, who took over the project of Walt Disney World after his death. Walt Disney World is steeped in nostalgic, Disney history just like Disneyland is. The iconic figure of Cinderella Castle is also one of the most impressive theme park icons and helps emulate the immersive nature of the fantasy-oriented magic the park seeks to create. Magic Kingdom also has the advantage of being built after Disneyland so that Imagineers could improve on the design by creating wider walkways and more space to expand.

Magic Kingdom Attractions

Magic Kingdom's classic attractions are part of what makes it one of the best Disney parks around the world but it is also home to historic attractions that now only exist at this park like the Country Bear Jamboree and Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress. The history Magic Kingdom offers is held up by the inclusion of these rides (something that was lost at Disneyland when theirs were removed) plus new popular rides help extend that Disney magic to new guests.

Magic Kingdom Character Experiences 

There are several character experiences throughout all areas the park where you can meet friends like Belle, Ariel, Winnie the Pooh and Tigger, and countless others. You can see which characters have meet-and-greet spots on the Disney World website.

Main Street, U.S.A.

The Hall of Presidents

The Hall of Presidents show features an original film that tells the story of the nation's founding and the challenges of our nation's history, then features Abraham Lincoln delivering his Gettysburg Address onstage. The show includes animatronic replicas of every President of the United States. The show lasts 25 minutes and runs multiple times per day.

Horses – Disney Animals

Visit and learn about the gorgeous Percherons, Clydesdales and Belgians that pull the trolleys down Main Street U.S.A.!

Main Street Vehicles 

You can take a horse-drawn trolleys, omnibus, jitney, or fire engine down Main Street U.S.A., with stops in Town Square or the plaza in front of Cinderella Castle.

Walt Disney World Railroad 

The Walt Disney World Railroad has three stations: at Main Street U.S.A., Frontierland, and Fantasyland. You can take a 20-minute ride on this vintage steam train all the way around Magic Kingdom or use it to get from one point to another at the park.

Liberty Square

The Haunted Mansion 

This classic attraction takes you on a ride through a Doom Buggy through a haunted mansion filled with ghosts, a séance room, a graveyard, and more. The incredibly immersive Haunted Mansion is a fan-favorite and a must-ride during your time at Magic Kingdom!

Liberty Square Riverboat 

The Liberty Square Riverboat, named the Liberty Belle, takes you on a ride aboard an authentic steam-powered vessel as you circle Tom Sawyer Island.

Tomorrowland

Astro Orbiter 

The Astro Orbiter is a spinning ride that takes you into the sky on a 2-person spaceship. On the ride, you'll orbit around various planets and get a bird's-eye view of Tomorrowland.

Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin 

As the evil Zurg is stealing batteries to power a new weapon, guests must help Buzz Lightyear by blasting the targets and stopping the robot army. As you engage in this interactive dark ride, you can turn your vehicle 360 degrees to aim and blast.

Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor

Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor is a comedy club hosted by Mike Wazowski from the Monsters, Inc. movie. This show engages with the audience, and guests have the opportunity to submit their favorite jokes to be featured.

Space Mountain 

This rollercoaster takes you on a thrilling journey through space past comets and meteors. The ride has two tracks: Alpha (left) and Omega (right), and the experience takes place in the dark as you zoom by stars and through a swirling wormhole.

Tomorrowland Speedway

On this ride, guests can steer cars with a working steering wheel and gas pedal on a controlled track. They can navigate up hills and around turns while glimpsing other attractions from the road.

Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover

This gentle tram ride takes you on a journey around Tomorrowland. Guests will take in the views of the park and also access an incredible behind-the-scenes look at attractions and shops like Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, Space Mountain, and Star Traders.

TRON Lightcycle / Run 

In this popular rollercoaster, based on the TRON: Legacy movie, you are Team Blue as you race through 8 energy gates. TRON Lightcycle/ Run features a thrilling 0-60 MPH launch at the beginning of the ride!

Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress 

Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress is a revolving theater show that invites guests to look into scenes that portray four generations of technological progress, with the classic song “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow.” The show features animatronics and an elaborate set for each tableau, and the audience revolves around a central stage where each act takes place.

Fantasyland

Cinderella Castle 

The iconic castle, the symbol of Magic Kingdom, is inspire by the one we see in Disney's Cinderella movie. Inside, be sure to marvel at the glass mosaics that tell Cinderella's story, and outside, pose for the perfect photo op.

The Barnstormer 

This rollercoaster, designed for younger guests, takes you aboard a gentle journey on a stunt plane around the Barnyard, flying high over Fantasyland! The aerial adventure is coordinated by Goofy as “The Great Goofini” in his homemade stunt airplane.

Casey Jr. Splash ‘N' Soak Station 

This water play area is inspired by the circus train from the animated Disney movie Dumbo, and circus monkeys, elephants, and camels spray water at guests.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant 

This attraction takes guests on a ride with Dumbo through the sky, with Timothy Q. Mouse directing the action with his magic feather. On the ride, you can control how high or low you fly in circles around Storybook Circus.

“it's a small world”

This beloved boat ride takes you on a journey across all seven continents as characters sing the iconic “it's a small world” song in several different languages and wear authentic dress for each region's traditional attire. The ride is a vibrant, beautiful ode to global unity and harmony, suitable for guests of all ages.

Mad Tea Party 

Go for a spin in a giant teacup in this famous attraction inspired by Alice in Wonderland! The attraction features a whimsical atmosphere and music, and you can control how fast you spin in your teacup through a wheel at the center.

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin 

This ride takes you on a four-person flying magic carpet ride! Circle around the giant genie bottle and magic lamp, with the back row controlling how you tilt forward and backward and the front row controlling how high you fly.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh 

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh takes you through the scenes of the Winnie the Pooh movie in a giant honeypot. You'll see favorite characters like Tigger, Kanga, Roo, Gopher, Piglet, Eeyore, and Owl during this engaging journey through the Hundred-Acre Wood.

Mickey's PhilharMagic

This short 3D film is shown on a wraparound screen and follows Donald Duck as he dozes off to sleep and finds himself conducting a concert of classic Disney songs! The experience includes light special effects like splashing water.

Peter Pan's Flight 

Peter Pan's Flight, inspired by scenes from the Disney movie Peter Pan, is a fan-favorite ride that takes you with the Peter and Darling family over London, around the beautiful Never Land, and into a conflict with the evil Captain Hook.

Prince Charming Regal Carrousel 

The Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, inspired by the movie Cinderella, takes guests for a spin on one of its 90 unique wood-carved horses.

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train 

The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is a rollercoaster inspired by the mines of the Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs movie. Guests race through the mines filled with glittering jewels and encounter the seven dwarfs singing as they work. The ride features an interactive queue where you can sort and interact with jewels!

Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid 

In this slow ride, guests explore an underwater world inside scenes of Disney's The Little Mermaid movie. Aboard a giant clamshell, encounter favorite characters like Sebastian, Flounder, Scuttle, King Triton, dodge Ursula's evil plans, and keep an ear out for familiar songs.

Adventureland

Jungle Cruise

This iconic ride takes you on a journey down the rivers of Asia, Africa and South America, where you'll witness the power of the jungle first-hand. Guests will catch glimpses of wild hippos, lions, tigers, gorillas, and more alongside the “world's most treacherous waters” as your skipper navigates, narrates, and shares no shortage of humor and puns.

A Pirate's Adventure ~ Treasures of the Seven Seas 

A Pirate's Adventure ~ Treasures of the Seven Seas is an interactive treasure hunt around Adventureland with five missions to complete.

Pirates of the Caribbean  

This classic attraction is a slow-moving boat ride that immerses you in the world of 17th century piracy. Guests float through the eerie Dead Man's Cove and then come face-to-face with pirates and follow as they plunder a seaside town.

Swiss Family Treehouse 

The Swiss Family Treehouse, modeled after the treehouse the Swiss Family Robinson built after shipwrecked on an island, offers guests an opportunity to explore its rooms and provides an incredible view of Adventureland and Magic Kingdom at its summit.

Walt Disney's Enchanted Tiki Room 

Walt Disney's Enchanted Tiki Room is a theater-in-the-round musical show featuring over 225 Audio-Animatronics. During this classic show, animatronic tropical birds, Tiki gods, and flowers sing and dance.

Frontierland

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad  

This medium-intensity rollercoaster is themed after a haunted mining landscape from the 1850s, based on the legend that the trains used to take off on their own through the mines. As you speed through caverns, red rock formations, and a dynamite explosion, you'll reach a top speed of 35 miles per hour.

Country Bear Jamboree 

This western musical show features 18 audio-animatronic bears that sing country tunes. The beloved 16 minute performance combines music and humor in an engaging “cele-bear-tion.”

Frontierland Shootin' Arcade 

In this shooting gallery themed after the Old-West, you can aim at nearly 100 targets, moving and stationary, with infrared technology.

Tom Sawyer Island 

Tom Sawyer Island is a walk-through attraction that guests can access via a log raft. You can explore caves, forts, suspension bridges, and more with references to Mark Twain's The Adventures of Tom Sawyer novel.

Tiana's Bayou Adventure

Formerly Splash Mountain, this water attraction will now become home to Tiana's Bayou Adventure a new thrilling water attraction based on Princess and the Frog.

2. Tokyo DisneySea (Tokyo Disney Resort)

Tokyo DisneySea is the other theme park at the Tokyo Disney Resort (the other we ranked above, Tokyo Disneyland!) and opened in 2001. This 176-acre theme park incorporates a nautical theme with seven lands or what Tokyo DisneySea names “Ports of Call” to be reminiscent of real harbors. It also overlooks Tokyo Bay which is fitting for the atmosphere of the theme park.

These Ports of Call include Mediterranean Harbor, American Waterfront, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, and Mysterious Island. There is an eighth Port of Call in progress, Fantasy Springs, which is set to open in Spring 2024. Fantasy Springs is an impressive $2 billion expansion to Tokyo DisneySea with areas devoted to Tangled, Peter Pan, and Frozen.

Tokyo DisneySea delivers here in spot number two and number one for international parks in large part because this park get the mix right. Disney Imagineer Rolly Crump once said that a theme park is like a salad. You need the perfect mix of ingredients to make the entire thing come together and “taste” good. Like a salad where you need all the different parts you need to have the variety of offerings all pulling together towards one overall taste. Tokyo DisneySea delivers on this with a mix of large ‘E-Ticket' thrilling attractions, slower attractions for all ages, characters, dining, and shows all housed inside the most highly-themed package Disney has delivered. The park oozes detail with so many little things that embody the early policies of Walt Disney to push to get the details right because even if the guests don't specifically see it, the parks will feel more authentic because the work was put in. This park doesn't cut corners and continues to deliver with every new addition and change. There is a reason this is one of the best Disney theme parks in the world.

Tokyo DisneySea Attractions

The Tokyo DisneySea attractions lineup is solid with offerings for the entire family. In multiple cases the park takes an attraction found in other Disney Parks around the world and delivers a far superior packaging and theme. Their versions of Indiana Jones, Toy Story Midway Mania, and Soarin' all take the other versions of the attraction and dramatically plus it.

Mediterranean Harbor

DisneySea Transit Streamer Line

Steamboats take guests around the park, with departure docks at Mediterranean Harbor, American Waterfront and Lost River Delta.

Soaring: Fantastic Flight

This motion simulator ride based on Soarin' Around the World has scenes of Tokyo that are exclusive to Tokyo DisneySea. The ride is set in the Museum of Fantastic Flight, which is dedicated to celebrating “humankind's enduring dream of flying.”

Fortress Explorations

This interactive walk-through attraction features the headquarters of the fictional Society of Explorers and Adventurers (S.E.A.). Guests can explore interactive exhibits and a game called the Leonardo Challenge.

Venetian Gondolas

Guests can take a short gondola ride that lasts just over ten minutes around the Palazzo Canals.

Fortress Explorations “The Leonardo Challenge”

Follow clues on your map and explore this fortress to become a member of S.E.A.!

American Waterfront

Turtle Talk

In this interactive show in the Undersea Observatory, guests can chat live with Crush from Finding Nemo. The show is about 30 minutes long.

Tower of Terror

In Tokyo DisneySea's version of this drop ride, Hotel Hightower was haunted after the disappearance of its owner after he offended an idol, one of the artifacts he stole and stored in the hotel. The New York City Preservation Society has reopened the hotel for tours, but things go awry as guests take the elevator to the top floor…

DisneySea Electric Railway

The DisneySeat Electric Railway is an elevated electric trolley that transports guests between American Waterfront and Port Discovery.

Toy Story Mania!

In this 4D shooting game, you shrink down to the size of a toy and aim at moving targets in a series of carnival-inspired games for the highest score.

Big City Vehicles

You can choose from an old-fashioned open-top town car, the police wagon, delivery truck, and more for a ride around American Waterfront.

Aquatopia

Aquatopia is a trackless ride inspired by Disneyland's Water Boat Cruise and Autotopia that moves through a lagoon of shallow water. The ride will suddenly dodge obstacles, spin, back up, and more as you navigate the unpredictable course.

Port Discovery

Nemo & Friends SeaRider

This simulator ride takes guests on an undersea journey with characters from the Finding Nemo and Finding Dory movies. As guest board the SeaRider, they are shrunk down to the size of a fish and explore the ocean, ride the current, and encounter several surprises.

Lost River Delta

Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull

Tokyo DisneySea's version of the Indiana Jones dark thrill ride as guests explore an Aztec Temple and wake the angry Crystal Skull. In the ride, guests try to escape the Temple of the Crystal Skull on their transport, facing multiple perils and sightings of Indiana Jones.

Raging Spirits

This rollercoaster zooms through the ruins of an ancient burial site where the spirits of fire and water have reawakened and are fighting one another. The ride is short and intense, featuring a full loop.

Arabian Coast

Caravan Carousel

This indoor, two-level carousel inspired by the movie Aladdin that has horses and Arabian animals available to ride like camels, elephants, and even Genie.

Jasmine's Flying Carpets

Jasmine's Flying Carpets take you into the air to circle Jasmine's Garden and the sights of the park below. You can control how high or how you fly during the flight and tilt the carpet forward and backward.

Sindbad's Storybook Voyage

Sindbad's Storybook Voyage is a boat ride based on the story of Sindbad the Sailor from Arabian folktales. The ride feaures a song written by Alan Menken and Sindbad's tiger sidekick, Chandu.

The Magic Lamp Theater

The Magic Lamp Theater is a 3-D show based on Aladdin featuring animation and live performance from a magician and his sidekick.

Mermaid Lagoon

Ariel's Playground

This mermaid-inspired play area allows guests to explore Ariel's Grotto and other locations inspired by The Little Mermaid.

Jumpin' Jellyfish

Jumpin' Jellyfish is a parachute jump-style ride that takes guests for a gentle float up and down through a colorful underwater setting.

Scuttle's Scooters

Aboard a hermit grab, guests embark on a spinning Caterpillar style ride around Scuttle from The Little Mermaid, who watches the action through his telescope.

Flounder's Flying Fish Coaster

This small rollercoaster takes you on a journey aboard a fish around the lagoon that is a little over a minute long. Because the ride is brief, it's a good introduction for kids who want to test the waters of a rollercoaster.

Blowfish Balloon Race

Blowfish Balloon Race is a spinning attraction where guests ride a four-person seashell gondola carried by racing blowfish.

Mermaid Lagoon Theater

This musical show based on The Little Mermaid features Ariel and friends, with iconic songs like Under the Sea and Part of Your World. The show includes live performance, puppetry, and a dazzling underwater set.

The Whirlpool

Guests board a cup made from kelp and spin around in a whirlpool in a gentle ride similar to the Mad Tea Party.

Mysterious Island

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

Aboard one of Captain Nemo's submarines, guests explore the ruins of Atlantis in this dark ride after their route is thrown off course by an attack from the Kraken. 

Journey to the Center of the Earth

This thrilling dark ride takes guests to the center of the earth aboard a subterranean vehicle. An unexpected volcano eruption sets the journey off its planned path, and guests must brave several dangers before escaping back to the surface. This is a very popular ride due to its intricate world-building and thrilling elements.

1. Disneyland Park (Disneyland Resort)

Disneyland ranks as our number one theme park out of all the Disney parks in the world. The first Disney theme park, Disneyland opened in 1955 and was the only park that Walt Disney himself ever set food in. These reasons alone may be enough to rank Disneyland as the number one park but this is not the only reason we ranked Disneyland as number one!

Disneyland also has some of the best immersion of their lands than you can find at the other theme parks including the beauty of New Orleans Square and the classic medieval-inspired stylings of Fantasyland. Disneyland also has more attractions in its theme park than others including the often compared Magic Kingdom. In fact, Disneyland has more attractions in it than any of the other castle parks! The attractions in this park are all the originals that many Disney parks around the world have replicated or been inspired by. While we have seen some attractions from other parks come to Disneyland, like Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway which started in Disney World, many of the classic originals started here.

Aside from Disneyland's iconic rides, this theme park also delivers so well on the street atmosphere it creates on every corner of the park. Disney characters are known for roaming the park and engaging directly with guests whether it is the Mad Hatter leading a dance with strollers or Mary Poppins riding the carousel.

You cannot beat the history of Disneyland Park as the original Disney theme park but it also stands well on its own due to the large amount of famous attractions it holds, the charm the atmosphere brings for guests, and the beauty of the lands.

Disneyland Attractions

Disneyland actually has more attractions in both Disneyland Park and California Adventure than all four Walt Disney World parks combined! But for this list, we are focusing primarily on Disneyland Park which is home to the original attrition for many iconic rides like Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Main Street, U.S.A

Main Street, U.S.A. is the first themed land you encounter when you enter Disneyland Park. This land is meant to resemble small American towns during the early 20th century.

Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln

Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln is a moving film about President Lincoln's life that features a realistic audio-animatronic representation of Abraham Lincoln. This live show is a great choice for history buffs and also a nice place to take a break in the air conditioning if you need a place to rest and enjoy Disney nostalgia.

Main Street Vehicles

The Main Street Vehicles take you for a leisurely ride from the entrance of Disneyland to Sleeping Beauty Castle. You have the choice of  horse-Drawn Street Car, jitney, fire engine, or an omnibus.

Disneyland Railroad

The Disneyland Railroad has multiple stops in Disneyland including Main Street, U.S.A., the entrance to Mickey's Toontown, New Orleans Square, and Tomorrowland. Since the Disneyland Railroad official train station is located in Main Street, U.S.A. this is where the train narration officially begins and ends.

Adventureland

Adventureland is themed after the wild jungles around the world and the attractions in this land all embody a sense of adventure.

Walt Disney's Enchanted Tiki Room

This room comes to life with colorful animatronic birds, flowers, and Polynesian Tiki statues. Dole Whips (a popular pineapple soft serve) are also served right outdoor.

Jungle Cruise

Board a canopied tramp steamer and leave civilization behind on a tongue-in-cheek journey through the globe's most “treacherous” rivers—and oldest gags.

Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Forbidden Eye

This is one of the best attractions in Disneyland! Themed after the popular Indiana Jones films, guests enter an immersive queue through a temple straight out of the movies. This is classified as a thrill ride as you are take on a wild journey through the Temple of the Forbidden Eye featuring fire, snakes, and an Indiana Jones animatronic.

New Orleans Square

New Orleans Square is a land themed after the French Quarter in the 19th century. This land is one of the most beautiful in Disneyland, in my humble opinion.

Haunted Mansion

Haunted Mansion is one of Disneyland's most iconic attractions. This is a dark omimover ride that takes you through multiple scenes in the style of visiting a Haunted House. The experience of this attraction begins the minute you enter the mansion with a large stretching room featuring portraits that become more macabre as the room stretches and the spooky fun continues as you enter your Doom Buggy. This is one of the best rides Disneyland Park has to offer!

Pirates of the Caribbean

Pirates of the Caribbean is another iconic attraction and has also been named the #1 attraction at Disneyland Park. This boat ride takes guests through the present and past history of pirates in the Caribbean. This ride features a variety of animatronics and added Jack Sparrow from the Pirates of the Caribbean films that are based on the attraction in.

Frontierland

Frontierland is themed after the American wild, wild, west.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

It's the wildest ride in the wilderness! This runaway train attraction is a great roller coaster for all ages featuring visuals of crackling dynamite and a fan favorite goat.

Pirate's Lair on Tom Sawyer Island

Technically an attraction, especially since you take a raft over the Rivers of America to get to it, but this is a walk through experience. This little island is filled with forts, pirate caves, and more to explore.

Mark Twain Riverboat

The Mark Twain Riverboat is old-fashioned steam-powered boat that takes you on a 14-minute journey along the river. The vessel features a working steam engine and four decks, and it was the first riverboat to be constructed in half a century when it was built in 1954.

Sailing Ship Columbia

The Sailing Ship Columbia is a full-scale replica of the original 18th century Columbia that was the first American ship to circumnavigate the globe. On the Columbia, you take a 15 minute journey around Pirate's Lair on Tom Sawyer's Island.

Fantasyland

Lots of low-intensity rides based on iconic Disney characters like Snow White, Pinocchio, and Dumbo. Fantasyland is also where we find some of the original Disney rides with the best classic, Disney charm.

Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough

Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough is how you can go inside Sleeping Beauty's Castle at Disneyland! This walkthrough tells the story of Sleeping Beauty with 3D displays as you wind through the castle. There is also a handicap-accessible option to view the story too!

Pinocchio's Daring Journey

Pinocchio's Daring Journey is a dark ride in Fantasyland that takes you through some of the events from Pinocchio. While this ride has a happy ending, you can expect some of the darker elements of the movie to take place which could be a little frightening for small children. This is a classic attraction so adults may appreciate the history of the ride.

King Arthur Carrousel

This carrousel features a notable Disney easter egg like the popular horse “Jingles” which is often called the “Mary Poppins horse” due to its dedication to Julie Andrews. The carrousel is set in the middle of Fantasyland so you take in all the atmosphere as you spin around with the castle in easy view too. This is a great place for photo ops!

Casey Jr. Circus Train

The Casey Jr. Circus Train, one of the original Disneyland attractions, takes you on a journey past mini-villages inspired by sites from Disney movies, like Arendelle and Elsa’s ice palace from Frozen, the Cottage of the Dwarfs from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and more.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Fly through the sky with Dumbo as he makes circles around a water fountain with direction from Timothy Q. Mouse and his magic feather. You can adjust the height you are flying through the lever inside the gondola. There is a stationary replica of the Dumbo gondola behind the main attraction that you can use to snap your perfect picture!

Storybook Land Canal Boats

This outdoor boat tour takes you through a tour of the miniature villages, towns, and palaces inspired by locations from Disney movies. Your tour guide will tell the story behind sites like King Triton's underwater castle from The Little Mermaid and the Cave of Wonders from Aladdin as you float by.

Mad Tea Party

This iconic attraction inspired by the Mad Hatter's Tea Party from Alice and Wonderland takes you for a thrilling spin in a giant teacup! You can control the speed and direction of your spinning journey through the wheel in the middle of the teacup. This ride has been a fan favorite since opening day of the park.

Mr. Toad's Wild Ride

This ride takes you on a wild journey through the countryside in an open-air buggy. You engage in a chaotic journey as you barrel through indoor and outdoor settings in scenes inspired by the Wind in the Willows scenes from Disney's The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad. Know that some content from this ride can be scary for younger children!

Alice in Wonderland

Alice in Wonderland is a Disneyland-exclusive ride that takes you through Alice's adventures through Wonderland. You'll encounter familar characters from the Alice in Wonderland movie as you glide through vibrant scenes, including Tugley Wood, the Queen's Garden, and the Mad Tea Party.

Snow White's Enchanted Wish

Snow White's Enchanted Wish follows the story of the Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs movie, taking you inside famous scenes like the dwarfs' cottage, the mines, and the evil Queen's sorcery chamber. Keep an eye out for the evil Queen above the entrance as she peeks out from behind a curtain to spy on visitors!

Matterhorn Bobsleds

The Matterhorn Bobsled’s ride is a coaster that winds you around and through the Matterhorn as you dodge the Abominable Snowman, starting out with a chilling ascent up the mountain in a dark tunnel. It has two routes, the Fantasyland side and Tomorrowland side, which have slight differences in ride experience from one another. Matterhorn Bobsleds is legendary, as it was the first roller-coaster-style attraction at Disneyland and the first tubular steel-tracked coaster in the world!

Peter Pan's Flight

This extremely popular ride follows the adventure of the Darling family as they join Peter in Never Land. The ride features iconic moments from the movie as you soar over London and circle Never Land in a night sky glowing with stars, then dive into the action and escape from the scheming Captain Hook.

it's a small world

This gentle boat ride takes you through different countries as the it's a small world song is sung by a chorus of characters in several different languages, sharing the “classic anthem to world peace.” As you travel to each location across the globe, you'll see appearances from Disney characters like Pinocchio, Ariel, Jasmine and Aladdin, and more. As you wait in the queue, the clock tower will open every 15 minutes to reveal a parade of figures!

Mickey’s Toontown

Classic Disney cartoon theme, great for the little ones.

Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway

This trackless dark ride is the first attraction ever themed around Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Recently opened in Toontown, there queue itself is part of the wonder of his attraction as you walk through the history of Mickey Mouse in animation.

Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin

Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin in Toontown takes you through some of the antics of the characters from the Roger Rabbit film in a car you can spin as you cruise through this fun dark ride. Even if your kids aren't familiar with this movie, they'll enjoy spinning the car around as they go through the energetic attraction

Gadget's Go Coaster

Gadget's Go Coaster is a beginner style roller coaster attraction in Toon Town which is a great starter coaster for kids. It's a short burst of fun with only one drop and it's a quick ride but still fun!

Tomorrowland

Walt Disney was a visionary and created Tomorrowland to give park visitors a preview of what the future could look like.

Astro Orbiter

Astro Orbiter is a two seater rocket spinning attraction in Tomorrowland that allows riders to adjust their height levels as they spin. This is a classic attraction that adults and kids love.

Autopia

Autopia is an opening day Disneyland attraction that kids love as they get the chance to drive their own car on outside tracks. This is a classic attraction that never fails to excite kids as they get behind the wheel.

Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage

This attraction takes you on an underwater ride in a submarine (don't worry, it doesn't fully submerge!) as you watch the story of Finding Nemo play out through the submarine videos. Keep in mind this attraction might not be a good fit if you have issues with claustrophobia.

Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters

Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters is an interactive dark ride shooting game themed after Buzz Lightyear. You receive points for the targets you hit which are all characters from Buzz Lightyear's cartoon the toy from Toy Story is fashioned after.

Disneyland Monorail

The Disneyland Monorail travels from Tomorrowland in Disneyland to Downtown Disney. It's a fun experience to ride or just to use as transportation.

Star Tours – The Adventures Continue

This 3D motion simulated flight features scenes from various Star Wars films as guests feel like they're actually flying through space.

Space Mountain

This high speed rollercoaster takes place in the dark as guests feel like they're flying through space. This is one of Disney's best and most popular thrill attractions.

Critter Country

Critter Country is themed after well, critters! The critters of Critter Country definitely follows an Americanized vision of what a Critter Country would like.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

This is a traditional dark ride attraction that takes you through the whimsical story of the Winnie the Pooh books. You'll board your honey pot and slowly move through a day in the life of Winnie the Pooh and his friends.

Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes

Davey Crockett Explorer Canoes takes you for a canoe ride around the Rivers of America but be prepared, you need to paddle yourself! This attraction has great views and an up close view of the scenery of this area of Disney.

Tiana's Bayou Adventure (Formerly Splash Mountain)

Splash Mountain was a water ride where guests travel in a wooden log through a mountain full of animatronic characters. The thrill part of this water ride is the large drop at the end. Splash Mountain will be replaced by Tiana's Bayou Adventure in late in 2024.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

The newest land to Disneyland is heaven for Star Wars fans but enjoyable for anyone. This land brought a fun Star Wars themed bar, lightsaber building, and two new attraction.s

Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run

This attraction simulates the experience of what it would be like to drive the Millennium Falcon as guests work together in three different roles (pilot, gunner, engineer) to help smuggle goods for a Star Wars pirate. The best part of this ride is the life size Millennium Falcon you pass by to enter.

Rise of the Resistance

Arguably one of the best rides that Disney has ever done, Rise of the Resistance takes guests on a multi-layered experience of what it would be like to be captured by the First Order. The visuals and animatronics on this ride are out of this world, literally.

Overall, our ranking of Disney Parks around the world easily puts Disneyland in the top contender spot although other parks are closely tied for that top five spot.

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