Longest Disney Rides Ranked – You Won’t Believe Which One Takes the Top Spot!

Both Disneyland and Disney World offer a variety of immersive attractions and ride experiences. Something that helps make these rides stand out is the amount of time you actually spend immersed in the world of the attraction. Some of the longer-lasting rides are favorites for visitors who want to enjoy an extended journey of fun and adventure. These longer rides often combine immersive storytelling, detailed theming, and comfortable pacing, giving guests a chance to fully lose themselves in the magic of Disney.

Most of these rides that exceed typical ride time standards sometimes have one or more “pre shows,” which contribute to the overall storytelling and entertainment of the attraction. These pre shows not only make waiting in line seem shorter, but it also introduces more of the attraction's storyline with fun elements.

As weekly visitors to the Disney parks, we always appreciate the attractions that last longer and allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the world of the attraction. Below we rank the longest rides that come in over 10 minutes and the longest one might surprise you!

10. “it's a small world”

“it’s a small world” is one of Disney’s most well-known attractions, located in both Magic Kingdom at Disney World and Disneyland in California. This 10-minute long slow-moving boat ride takes guests on a journey through colorful, whimsical scenes that represent different cultures from around the world, all while playing the famous theme song, “It’s a Small World (After All).” The attraction is known for its message of global unity and peace, celebrating the idea that despite our differences, we all share a small world.

Both versions of “it's a small world” at Disneyland and Disney World feature hundreds of animatronic dolls dressed in traditional clothing of their respective countries and singing the ride's theme song in multiple languages. The boats travel through the Middle East, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Pacific Islands. In the final room, all of the different cultures come together, dressed in white and gold, to symbolize peace and harmony. The children from all regions sing together in English, reinforcing the ride's message of global unity.

8. Living with the Land

Living with the Land at EPCOT is a relaxing boat ride through various scenes and a greenhouse that lasts approximately 14 minutes. Located inside the Land Pavilion, this gentle ride takes guests on a journey that dives into incredible agricultural innovation and sustainable farming techniques. The first part of the ride showcases indoor scenes that explore the relationship between humans and the environment, depicting ecosystems like rainforests, deserts, and prairies.

The second half of the ride is a tour through EPCOT’s real working greenhouses, where Disney’s horticulturists use advanced techniques such as hydroponics and aquaponics to grow crops. Visitors see a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fish being raised, some of which are served in the park's restaurants. Living with the Land offers a relaxing and informative experience that highlights the importance of sustainable food production and environmental stewardship.

Living with the Land is not only one of the longest rides at Disney, but is one of my personal favorites at EPCOT!

7. Pirates of the Caribbean

Although Pirates of the Caribbean is located at both Disneyland and Disney World, Disneyland's version is about seven minutes longer, lasting about 15 minutes. Located in New Orleans Square, this boat ride takes guests on a journey through pirate-infested waters, with immersive scenes depicting battles, treasure, and mischief. Starting with a peaceful float through the Blue Bayou restaurant, the ride plunges down two small waterfalls, leading guests into elaborate pirate scenes with animatronic characters, including Captain Jack Sparrow.

Disney World's version of this iconic attraction is located in Magic Kingdom in the Adventureland area. It offers a similar storyline which follows various pirates raiding a coastal village, hunting for treasure, and battling with cannons on their ships.

Both versions of Pirates of the Caribbean offer both thrilling and immersive scenes, which is made even better by the fact that each ride is 10-15 minutes long. It's combination of adventure, light-hearted fun, and catchy music (“Yo Ho, Yo Ho, A Pirate's Life for Me”) makes it one of the most beloved Disney attractions.

6. Spaceship Earth

Spaceship Earth is a classic attraction located inside the iconic sphere at EPCOT in Disney World. The ride is a slow-moving dark ride that takes guests on a 16-minute journey through the history of human communication, from prehistoric times to the modern age and beyond. It's both educational and immersive, showcasing how advancements in communication have shaped human civilization over thousands of years.

Riders board slow-moving, continuously loading vehicles that spiral upwards inside the geodesic sphere. Narrated by Dame Judi Dench, the ride takes a look at ancient history which includes:

• Cavemen and early communication
• Egyptians and development of written communication
• Greeks and Romans who created the alphabet and spread of knowledge through philosophy
• Middle Ages and Renaissance, including the creation of the printing press
• Age of Technology, with the rise of computers and digital technology
• The Future, which includes an interactive experience where guests can create their own vision of the future

Spaceship Earth is considered one of the best rides at EPCOT and is in part due to the 16 minute journey guests take throughout the attraction. This fan-favorite attraction is one of the longest rides at the Disney parks.

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5. Mark Twain and Liberty Square Riverboat

The Mark Twain Riverboat is a classic attraction found in Frontierland at Disneyland. It is a leisurely, scenic boat ride on a paddlewheel steamboat that circles the Rivers of America, offering guests picturesque views of various areas within the park. The ride lasts approximately 14 minutes and provides a peaceful and relaxing break from the park's busier attractions.

Guests board a large, authentic replica of a 19th-century paddlewheel riverboat named after the famous American author Mark Twain. Passengers are treated to scenic views of Frontierland, Critter Country, New Orleans Square, and Tom Sawyer Island. The experience includes narrations that highlight the history and romance of river travel during the 19th century. The narration, voiced by “Mark Twain,” reflects on life on the river and its importance in America's expansion westward. The steady sound of the boat’s steam engine and occasional steam whistle add to the authentic atmosphere.

Disney World guests can also experience a similar relaxing boat ride on the Liberty Square Riverboat, found in the Liberty Square area of Magic Kingdom. This boat ride lasts up to 17 minutes and takes guests on a peaceful cruise offering unique views of Liberty Square, Frontierland, and Tom Sawyer Island. The riverboat passes through charming scenes, including a Native American village, riverfront wildlife, and glimpses of classic Disney attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Haunted Mansion. The Liberty Square Riverboat offers a quiet, nostalgic experience, perfect for guests seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of Magic Kingdom. 

These relaxing riverboat rides are some of longest Disney attractions, and are both perfect for those looking to unwind and take in the park's scenery from a unique vantage point.

4. Disneyland and Disney World Railroad

Both Disneyland and Disney World offer scenic and nostalgic train rides throughout each of their respective parks. The Disneyland Railroad's full loop lasts approximately 18 minutes and has five stops on Main Street, U.S.A., New Orleans Square, Toontown, Tomorrowland, and at the park's entrance. During the journey, passengers experience unique views of various Disneyland attractions and themed areas, including a trip through the Grand Canyon and Primeval World dioramas, featuring life-size dinosaurs.

The Disney World Railroad offers a similar experience, with a full loop also lasting about 20 minutes. There are three stations located near the park entrance on Main Street, U.S.A., Frontierland, and Fantasyland. Guests can enjoy a relaxing, 1.5-mile scene route on one of four vintage steam trains that were originally built between 1916 and 1928!

3. Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom is a must-do wildlife expedition that lasts between 18-22 minutes. Set in the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, this open-air safari takes guests through diverse African environments, including savannas, rivers, and forests, where they can observe over 30 species of live animals in their naturalistic habitats.

During the ride, guests may see animals such as lions, giraffes, elephants, zebras, hippos, and rhinos, among many others. A knowledgeable guide narrates the journey, providing interesting facts about the animals and their conservation. The safari offers a unique experience each time, as the animals move freely throughout the expansive reserve, making for unpredictable and exciting encounters.

Definitely be sure to take the necessary time to experience Kilimanjaro Safaris, which is one of the longest rides at the Disney parks.

2. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is one of Disney's most technologically advanced and immersive rides, located in both Disneyland and Hollywood Studios as part of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. The ride blends multiple ride systems and cutting-edge effects to create a thrilling, cinematic adventure through the Star Wars universe. In total, it averages 18 minutes to experience this attraction from the first pre-show through the final trackless dark ride experience where guests will make a dramatic escape from the First Order.

The experience begins with guests receiving a mission from Rey, BB-8, and other Resistance leaders. You're tasked with helping to fight the First Order, led by Kylo Ren, and ensuring that the location of the Resistance base is kept secret. After joining the Resistance, you board a transport ship, captained by Lieutenant Bek and assisted by Nien Nunb. The ship is ambushed by the First Order, leading to an exciting sequence where you're “captured” and brought aboard a massive Star Destroyer. Once captured, guests are escorted by stormtroopers and First Order officers through massive hangars, setting the tone with jaw-dropping scale and realism. The experience feels like you're really inside the First Order's warship! Once inside an intense interrogation room, Resistance members secretly rescue you from the Star Destroyer. The main portion of the ride is a trackless vehicle escape pod as you race through the ship, dodging stormtroopers, AT-ATs, and an intense encounter with Kylo Ren. The ride concludes in a dramatic face-off with Kylo Ren as you attempt to escape the Star Destroyer and return to safety. You narrowly escape as the ship begins to fall apart during the Resistance’s assault, leading to a thrilling drop and crash landing back on the planet Batuu.

What makes Rise of the Resistance one of the most impressive attractions is the immersive environments and sets, multiple ride systems including the transport ship and escape pod, to the overall cinematic storytelling throughout your journey. Although that 20 minutes goes by very quickly, Rise of the Resistance is widely known for being one of the longest rides at the Disney parks.

1. Carousel of Progress

Carousel of Progress is a classic Disney attraction located in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World and is officially the longest ride in both parks… not counting one of those monorail loops! It was originally created by Walt Disney for the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair and eventually made its way to Disney World shortly after. Known for its rotating theater and catchy theme song, “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow,” this 21-minute attraction takes guests on a nostalgic journey through the 20th century.

The attraction is set up as a rotating theater, where guests sit in one of several seating sections that move in a circular motion around four different stages. Each stage represents a different time period, showing how technological innovations have changed everyday life. Each stage has a cast of animatronics that depict a father, mother, children, dog, and other family members as they interact within their environment in each era. The first scene takes place at the dawn of the 20th century, followed by the 1920s, 1940s, and present day.

Although it is one of the oldest Disney World attractions, it still remains a fan favorite and is one of the longest rides at the Disney parks. It’s one of Disney’s most enduring attractions, offering guests a glimpse of history while reflecting Walt Disney's optimistic vision for the future.

Honorable Mention: Disney Monorail

Although most may not think of the monorail as a Disney attraction, it is just as beloved as Disney's most iconic attractions. The monorail is an iconic transportation system found at both Disney World in Florida and Disneyland in California. It serves as both a practical mode of transport and a scenic ride, offering guests unique views of the parks and resorts. Though the monorail systems at the two parks differ in function and route, both are integral parts of the Disney experience.

The Disney World monorail has three main lines, offering different routes and experiences. The Resort Line takes about 20-25 minutes to make a full loop, including stops at the monorail resorts and the Magic Kingdom. The Express Line runs directly between Magic Kingdom and the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC), which is where guests must park in order to access the Magic Kingdom and takes about 10 minutes. Lastly, the EPCOT Line runs between the TTC and EPCOT, providing a scenic route as it passes through the park, offering glimpses of Spaceship Earth and other attractions before arriving at the entrance after about 15 minutes.

The Disneyland monorail is primarily an attraction rather than a transportation system. It was the first daily-operating monorail in the United States when it debuted in 1959, and today it offers a scenic tour of the Disneyland Resort. The Disneyland monorail has two stations located in Tomorrowland at Disneyland and Downtown Disney near the Disneyland Hotel. The monorail offers a 15 minute round-trip journey that takes guests on a scenic loop above Tomorrowland, along the perimeter of the park, and through parts of Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney. Guests can either use it as transportation between Disneyland and Downtown Disney or ride it for the view.

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