Disneyland Rides: Complete Guide
Are you heading to Disneyland Park and want to know everything about the rides and attractions in the park? You have come to the right place! Here you will find a complete guide to all that Disneyland rides have to offer. You will find the length of each ride, description, height requirements, when you should ride, and most importantly, should you ride.
Adventureland Rides
Walt Disney’s Enchated Tiki Room
Height: Any Height | Duration: 10 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room is a great place to go to escape the heat in California. It is a shortened version of the original attraction from Disneyland and features four singing parrots who perform musical tiki numbers.
When to ride: Typically the only time you will wait for this show is when one is currently going on.
Should you ride: Deciding whether or not you need to visit this show depends on who you ask. I only visit it if I need to take a break and sit down, whereas others love the nostalgic feel of the show.
Indiana Jones™ Adventure
Height: 46″ or taller | Duration: 10 minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: Adults
If you like the DINOSAUR ride at Walt Disney World, you will love Indiana Jones Adventure. Join Indy as the Temple of the Forbidden Eye crumbles around you. It isn’t a roller coaster, but it is definitely for thrill-seekers. If you have little ones with you, you’ll be happy to know that this ride has rider swap!
When to ride: If you want to ride together and are not using the Genie+ for this ride, try to get here earlier in the day. The line can get long pretty quickly. However, the good news is its a pretty fun queue with lots to see.
Should you ride: If you are a thrill-seeker this is a cannot miss. I loved this ride on my first trip out to Disneyland and desperately wish it would come to Disney World. It also has a single rider line which makes it easier to skip lines!
Jungle Cruise
Height: Any Height | Duration: 8 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
The Jungle Cruise is great for all ages. This river cruise is made even better by the Skipper who tells corny jokes throughout your kid, but this also makes each ride unique depending on your Skipper. Disney World also has Jungle Cruise, but the “tour” is a bit different.
When to ride: The line for this ride is typically shorter at night, but if you have children who scare easily, try to take them during the day so they can tell that the animals are not real.
Should you ride: I would absolutely recommend making time for the Jungle Cruise. It is great for the entire family!
Tarzan’s Treehouse
Height: Any Height | Duration: 10 Minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Tarzan’s Treehouse is basically a giant playground. It is a great place to take your kids if you need them to run around for awhile to burn off that extra sugar. It is a self-paced place so you can spend as little or as much time here as you’d like, but it takes about 10-15 minutes on average. There is a lot of climbing up and down stairs, so this can be less relaxing than some would hope.
When to ride: Anytime. There is never a line really. However, later in the afternoon is ideal for a bit of a break.
Should you ride: This isn’t something we do every trip. It is a great time filler if you have to kill time between rides, but isn’t something that is a must-do. However, for families with kids, especially those who loved Tarzan, this is a pretty cool experience.
New Orleans Square Rides
Pirates of the Caribbean
Height: Any Height | Duration: 15 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Disneyland’s Pirates of the Caribbean is absolutely superior to Disney World’s version. It is a classic Disney dark ride that takes you on your own Pirate adventure. You’ll find beloved characters from the movies throughout the ride. FYI, it can be a bit scary for some children.
When to ride: You cannot use Lightning Lane for this ride, but the line can be hit or miss. Try to ride before noon, during a parade, or when a nighttime show is occurring. During busier times and weekends this tends to have a line. I would rope drop to avoid waiting.
Should you ride: Absolutely. Even if you have gone on Disney World’s version, this is a cannot miss attraction.
Haunted Mansion
Height: Any | Duration: 9 minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: Older
The Haunted Mansion, while it isn’t as scary as a standard haunted house, it can be scary for many young children. Hop on a doom buggy and travel through the mansion that is home to 999 happy haunts, where they are searching to make it an even 1000. If you are visiting in the fall or winter you will get the Haunted Mansion Holiday overlay. Jack Skellington takes over the mansion and is a cannot miss on your trip! This does mean the ride is closed, typically around labor day, to set up the overlay.
When to ride: Due to the location, Haunted Mansion typically always has a wait, especially during the holiday season. I would suggest using an Lightning Lane option on this ride or trying later at night to hop in line.
Should you ride: The catchy tune and hitchhiking ghosts are staples of a Disney trip, but skip it if you have little ones who scare easily. As stated before, if you are going during the overlay, 100% do not miss it!
Critter Country Rides
Splash Mountain
Height: 40″ or taller | Duration: 11 Minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: All
Splash Mountain is more than just your standard log flume ride. Take a 52-foot plunge and see over 100 animatronic characters! Although this isn’t a coaster, it can be scary for some children due to the drop.
When to ride: There are a few options to try and avoid a line for Splash Mountain. The first two are to use Lightning Lane or use the single rider line. You can also wait until the end of the night or go first thing in the morning. The line goes through waves throughout the day so keep an eye on your app for wait times!
Should you ride: As long as it isn’t freezing outside, definitely try to fit this ride into your Disneyland day. They do lower the water jets on days when it is cooler as well.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Height: Any | Duration: 4 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh is a typical dark ride for Disney and is a popular ride for younger kids. It does have a section that can be a little scary for some children because it features heffalumps and woozles.
When to ride: While this can occasionally get busy, the wait time is often less than 20 minutes. You can pretty much hope on this ride at any time.
Should you ride: While this isn’t typically a standard must-do attraction, both adults and kids will love the playful dark ride with everyone’s favorite characters.
Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes
Height: Any | Duration: 10 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
There are three different ways to tour this specific area. The explorer canoes are only operational on certain days and seasonal periods so make sure they are operating.
When to ride: There usually isn’t a long wait for these, but they are a good way to break up the day.
Should you ride: This isn’t a must-do at all, so don’t get to upset if they are closed for your visit. However, they do provide a unique experience which can be awesome as well!
Frontierland Rides
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Height: 40″ or taller | Duration: 3.5 Minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: All
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is great for people who are working their way up to a big coaster. While there are a lot of twist and turns, and even some fun dips, there isn’t anything to qualify it as a big coaster. No loops or giant drops, so it is great for anyone who is tall enough to ride it!
When to ride: If you don’t want to use Lightning Lane for this ride, try to hit it earlier in the day before a line forms or toward the end of your park day.
Should you ride: If you like thrill rides, you should definitely go on this. It is one of Disney’s three iconic mountains after all!
Sailing Ship Columbia
Height: Any | Duration: 14 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Sailing Ship Columbia does not run all the time. However, it tends to be the most interesting of the three water options for Rivers of America. You can wander above and belowdecks on your sail around the river.
When to ride: It is unlikely you will need to wait for this ride very long, if at all.
Should you ride: It isn’t something I consider a necessary attraction if I only have one day at Disneyland. However, if you are there for multiple days, it is definitely worth your time, especially if it is running.
Mark Twain Riverboat
Height: Any | Duration: 18 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Mark Twain Riverboat is a paddle-wheel riverboat that travels around Tom Sawyer Island and Fort Wilderness. It is one of three ways to travel around that area, but it is the most reliable.
When to ride: Be mindful of when the last boat leaves for the night. It does not run until park closing.
Should you ride: It isn’t something I consider a necessary attraction if I only have one day at Disneyland. However, if you are there for multiple days, it is definitely worth your time.
Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island
Height: Any | Duration: 45 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Similar to Tarzan’s Treehouse, this is an exploration type attraction. You have to take a raft over which can take up some time as well. It is a great place to bring your kids to run around for awhile. Families with kids under 14 or so will have a blast!
When to ride: Anytime, you won’t have to wait for this almost ever.
Should you ride: If you have a lot of time to kill it is worth checking out, but it isn’t something that would be considered a must-do for anyone.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rides
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Height: 38″ or taller| Duration: 5 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is the first of two rides to open in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Guests can finally ride the “fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy.” Every ride is different because the controls actually matter!
When to ride: Given the excitement for the new land, it is surprising that currently, the wait isn’t always hours long. To be on the safe side, try to get here shortly after park opening.
Should you ride: As long as you are 38″ or taller, absolutely ride. The face that the ride is different each time and is based off how you fly make it a truly unique riding experience, whether you are a Star Wars fan or not.
Rise of the Resistance
Height: 40″ or taller | Duration: 18 minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: All
Rise of the Resistance is the newest attraction to Disneyland and has multiple ride systems making it unlike any other attraction. Help the Resistance fight the First Order in this one of a kind ride.
When to ride: This is decided for you by your boarding group. When you enter Disneyland be sure to join the virtual queue. You’ll want to do this earlier in the day because boarding passes will hit capacity as the day progresses.
Should you ride: Absolutely. This ride is unlike anything you have ridden at Disneyland or anywhere else.
Fantasyland Rides
“it’s a small world”
Height: Any | Duration: 14 minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: All
“it’s a small world” is one of the most well known Disney attractions. Whether you love or hate the song, the 300 animatronics represent different countries and bring you on a journey around the world.
When to ride: The entrance to “it’s a small world” is something pretty special to see, especially during the holiday season. The ride loads quickly throughout the year and we had no problem getting a Lightning Lane toward the end of the night during the holidays.
Should you ride: I love the nostalgia of the ride, so if you have never ridden before, it is a must-do. However, if you have, you probably already have decided if you love or hate the attraction. If it is during the holiday season, this is a must-do.
Peter Pan’s Flight
Height: Any | Duration: 3 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
You can fly over London with Peter Pan and off to Neverland! It is a typical Disney dark ride, but nothing overly scary for kids. You’ll see mermaids, pirates, lost boys, and more. The added touch of flying over everything is something truly magical.
When to ride: This line fills up quickly, so try to head here within the first hour of park opening or towards the end of the park day.
Should you ride: I won’t miss this ride if I am in the Magic Kingdom. However, I never seem to have the time to wait in line here when I am at Disneyland. There are beautiful animations at the Disneyland ride, but overall I would prefer to try a ride that I can’t catch in Orlando.
Pinocchio’s Daring Journey
Height: Any | Duration: 3 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
This is another classic Disney dark ride. It tells the story of the adventures of Pinocchio.
When to ride: There is almost never a line for this.
Should you ride: While it isn’t a must-do, if there is a short wait, it is still entertaining.
King Arthur Carrousel
Height: Any | Duration: 3 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
This is a pretty standard carousel, except it features Disney music while you ride. The ride itself can take a while to load and unload due to all the small children.
When to ride: Before noon or around dinner time.
Should you ride: It is a fun time for kids, so if you see that there is a minimal wait, it is worth riding if you have younger children with you. Definitely not a must-do though.
Alice in Wonderland
Height: Any | Duration: 4 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
This is a classic Disney dark ride that takes you through the Alice in Wonderland movie. The effects and characters really make this ride something special.
When to ride: The ride loads pretty slowly, so the line can get long as the day goes on. The earlier you can hit it the better.
Should you ride: I love this movie and a classic dark ride, so I highly recommend this ride.
Snow White’s Scary Adventures
Height: Any | Duration: 2 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
The idea for this ride is that you are Snow White, which is why up until 1983 she wasn’t in the ride. It is a fun ride, but can be scary for some children or confusing if you aren’t aware you are supposed to be seeing what Snow White would see.
When to ride: There is rarely a line here, so you can get in fairly quickly throughout the day.
Should you ride: The ride is entertaining, but unless the queue is short, you can skip this.
Matterhorn Bobsleds
Height: 42″ or taller | Duration: 4 minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: All
The Matterhorn bobsleds were something I was looking forward to for my first trip to Disneyland. It is a pretty iconic ride and great for roller coaster people.
When to ride: I would grab a Lightning Lane for this or find the single-rider line if you want to ride. There is almost always a line. However, fair warning, people often complain that this ride is bumpy, cramped, and overall uncomfortable. It might not be worth waiting in line.
Should you ride: I love roller coasters and was very excited to ride the Matterhorn, however, it is definitely not the best coaster in Disneyland. Grab a Lightning Lane or do single-rider, but definitely don’t spend to much of your day waiting in line for this.
Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
Height: Any | Duration: 2 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Not just a classic dark ride, but a staple for many Disneyland park goers. This ride was taken out of Disney World and replaced with Winnie the Pooh. For many, a trip to Disneyland isn’t complete without riding Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. Parents with little kids should be warned that it can get loud and there is a “hell” scene that some small children will be scared of.
When to ride: Once the line is over 30 minutes, chances are it will remain that way the rest of the day. If you want to ride, you just have to accept you will wait a bit for this one.
Should you ride: This is up in the air. I enjoyed this ride, but I don’t have any strong nostalgia for it. My mother however greatly misses this from Disney World so would insist on riding. It is more a family call.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
Height: Any | Duration: 1.5 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Dumbo the Flying Elephant has quickly become one of the most photographed and iconic attractions in Disneyland. Fly above the park with Dumbo and get a different view! The ride now features a fun play area you can bring your kids to wait in instead of standing in a line.
When to ride: This ride can get quite a line considering how short the ride itself is. If you really want to ride, try to get in line during a parade.
Should you ride: Unless you have a lot of time in the parks, you don’t really need to ride.
Casey Jr. Circus Train
Height: Any | Duration: 2 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: Kids
I would say this is more for kids simply because the seating isn’t optimal for most adults. Casey Jr. Circus Train shows the same sights at the Storybook Land Canal Boats, so adults would most likely be more comfortable there. However, the wait for this is typically much less.
When to ride: The line for this is usually pretty minimal so ride whenever fits in your day.
Should you ride: If you have kids in your party, definitely. Who doesn’t like a train ride? If it is just adults, I would prefer the Canal Boats.
Mad Tea Party
Height: Any | Duration: 1.5 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Another iconic ride in Disney parks is the Mad Tea Party. Hope into the tea cups and spin around in Wonderland for a bit! While the ride is spinning you, you can spin yourself even faster. It is definitely fun for kids and adults, just don’t do it right after you’ve eaten.
When to ride: The line varies during the day, but because the ride can hold a decent number of people, it usually moves fairly quickly if you don’t want to using Lightning Lane.
Should you ride: I would recommend this to anyone who doesn’t get dizzy easily.
Storybook Land Canal Boats
Height: Any | Duration: 9.5 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Go on a boat ride to all of your favorite storybook lands. The ride itself is quiet and calm and is welcome break during the day.
When to ride: The boats close an hour before parades, but open up after. If you happen to be near them, try to jump in line before the crowds realize it is reopened. The lights at night add a nice touch as well.
Should you ride: I really enjoy this ride. I wouldn’t call it a must-do, but I also wouldn’t tell anyone to skip over it. Be warned, the line moves slow, so while it might not look like a long wait, it probably is.
Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough
Height: Any | Duration: 15 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
An often overlooked experience Disneyland has is the ability to walk through the castle. Most guests don’t realize it exists, which is a shame. It is really a self-paced activity but takes about 15 minutes.
When to ride: Since this is self-paced there isn’t really a line. However, depending on when you go some people might be moving quicker than you, which can get uncomfortable.
Should you ride: I love this attraction. It is quick, simple and unique. It is a nice magical touch for any Disney trip.
Mickey’s Toontown Rides
Mickey’s House and Meet Mickey
Height: Any | Duration: 5 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
This is a self-guided tour through Mickey’s house and world. You will visit his house, backyard, Pluto’s doghouse, and finally Mickey’s Movie Barn. You will hang out in the barn watching Disney cartoons while you wait to be allowed into Mickey’s Dressing Room, where you get to meet Mickey Mouse!
When to ride: If your child, or you, really want to meet the Mouse himself, head here within the first few hours of the park opening, or shortly before Toontown closes for the day, which often closes before the park does.
Should you ride: Unless someone in your party wants to meet Mickey there, I wouldn’t call this a must-do. However, if there isn’t a much of a wait, the concept is really fun.
Minnie’s House
Height: Any | Duration: 5 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
This is a self-guided tour through Minnie’s House. There are different surprises hidden throughout the house to add a bit of magic to your day!
When to ride: A line can form pretty quick for this so if it interests you, try to visit before Mickey’s house since the line here is outside.
Should you ride: It is entertaining, but isn’t a must-do. Minnie Mouse herself isn’t always there either.
Goofy’s Playhouse
Height: Any | Duration: 5 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Goofy’s Playhouse is a fun play area for little ones to blow off some steam for a bit. Disney recommends it for children ages 2-5.
When to ride: Since there really isn’t shade, it is better to hit earlier in the day or later at night.
Should you ride: This is really meant for families with little kids. It’s great for toddlers, but can be skipped if your party is older.
Donald’s Boat
Height: Any | Duration: 5 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Donald’s Boat is another fun play area for little ones to blow off some steam for a bit. Disney recommends it for children ages 2-5.
When to ride: It is mostly a play area, so there is no line really. Head over whenever you need your kids to run around a bit.
Should you ride: This is really meant for families with little kids. It’s great for toddlers, but can be skipped if your party is older.
Chip ‘n Dale Treehouse
Height: Any | Duration: 5 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Chip ‘n Dale’s Treehouse is another walk-through attraction. Tour the house for everyone’s favorite chipmunk duo.
When to ride: It doesn’t typically have a line because of its location.
Should you ride: If you skip this, you aren’t missing much. Adults may have a hard time fitting through some of the areas because of the height as well.
Gadget’s Go Coaster
Height: 35″ or taller | Duration: 1 minute | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
This coaster is a beginner coaster for little ones. It reminds me of Barnstormer in Disney World. There isn’t much to the ride itself, but it is entertaining for young ones.
When to ride: The ride itself is short and loads slowly as well, so the line is usually steady throughout the day.
Should you ride: Unless you have a child who wants to ride coasters, but isn’t tall enough to go on the other ones yet, you can skip this.
Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin
Height: Any | Duration: 4 minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: All
Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin is a dark ride and spinning ride as well. There are mixed reviews about the ride because a lot of guests spend so much time on the spinning part that they forget to view the ride itself.
When to ride: The queue for this one is arguably better than the ride for some. While you can use Lightning Lane this ride, it is also a fun one to wait in for a bit, if you have time to kill. Once ToonTown is open, the line for this is fairly steady unless there is a parade going on.
Should you ride: I loved this ride, but I also have a soft spot for Roger Rabbit. I wouldn’t call this a must-do for most people, especially if you are avoiding Toon Town altogether.
Tomorrowland Rides
Autopia
Height: 32″ or taller | Duration: 4.5 minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: Kids
Autopia lets kids take the wheel and speed (at 7.5 mph) around the tracks. While this ride is technically for everybody, it is definitely a favorite among kids, while adults can usually skip it.
When to ride: A line can build up for this occasionally, so head there during the day or shortly after park opens if your kid wants to drive.
Should you ride: If you have a child, then this is a recommended ride. If it is just adults, you can usually skip the ride. Since there aren’t any amazing views or anything else notable about the ride, there isn’t a real reason to wait in line.
Space Mountain
Height: 40″ or taller | Duration: 4 minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: All
While some people claim this is just a wild mouse ride that is indoors, in the dark, with glow lights, we all know it is much more than that. During the Halloween season, it transforms into a Ghost Galaxy overlay.
When to ride: If you don’t want to use Lightning Lane for this ride, head there within the first hour. There is a single rider line which can help with the wait.
Should you ride: If you are a thrill seeker and tall enough, this is definitely a must-do ride. As long as it isn’t broken down, we try to hit it every visit.
Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage
Height: Any | Duration: 13 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Dive below into the sea to see Nemo and his friends. The ride combines projections and audio-animatronics for a one of a kind experience.
When to ride: This ride usually have a steady line throughout the day, so it doesn’t usually matter when you get in line.
Should you ride: I think it is a fun ride, but only worth it if you have a few days. The ride itself is fun, however, it is a small space and can feel claustrophobic for a few people.
Astro Orbiter
Height: Any | Duration: 1.5 minutes | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Astro Orbiter is basically the same as Dumbo, but goes a touch faster.
When to ride: There is no Lightning Lane for this ride and the line can get very long. I don’t recommend waiting to long for this though. Go either before 10am or toward the end of the park day.
Should you ride: I wouldn’t call this a must-do ride at all, especially if you have done the Disney World version.
Star Wars Launch Bay
Height: Any Height | Duration: Varies | Lightning Lane: No | Ages: All
Star Wars Launch Bay is an area that lets guests interact with Star Wars characters, visit galleries full of memorabilia, shop for the latest Star Wars merchandise, and play interactive games.
When to ride: Since the attractions themselves vary by line, there isn’t necessarily one time to visit. You won’t have to wait long for the film, but depending on the Star Wars characters you want to meet, the lines can add up.
Should you ride: If anyone in your party is a Star Wars fan, this is worth your time to check out. It is mostly self paced so you don’t have to spend extra time here if you don’t want too. It helps get some Star Wars in before the land opens.
Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters
Height: Any | Duration: 4.5 minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: All
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin puts guests into an arcade game. You get to help Buzz defeat Zurg by using your laser to score points. Try to get the max score of 999,999 and become a Galactic Hero!
When to ride: The lines are hit or miss for this, but it usually is fairly easy to get use Lightning Lane later in the day or catch it under 40 minute wait time.
Should you ride: While I wouldn’t wait hours to ride this, I highly recommend fitting it into your Disneyland day. It is a great time for kids and adults! I actually like Disneyland’s version a bit better too!
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
Height: 40″ or taller | Duration: 7 Minutes | Lightning Lane: Yes | Ages: All
Star Tours is a 3D flight simulator that brings the world of Star Wars to life. Each ride tells a different story, so if you can ride it more than once, definitely go! It now includes new adventures and characters from Star Wars: The Last Jedi!
When to ride: You don’t have to head here right after rope drop, but the line varies from walk on to a long wait seemingly randomly. Grab a Lightning Lane the day of if you can. However, if you do have to wait, the queue inside is pretty cool!
Should you ride: Absolutely. Anyone who meets the height requirement and likes a little more of a thrill will be happy with this ride. The fact that each ride is different makes it fun to keep riding if your kid falls in love with the far far away galaxy.
Want to know more about the rides at Disneyland? Check out some of these posts:
- California Adventure Ride Guide
- Disneyland Height Requirements
- Disneyland Park Map
- 5 Things I Absolutely Loved About Disneyland
Are you ready to keep planning? Check out everything you need to know before you go when planning for Disney.
2 Comments
Jenna
Do you have this list in PDF form without the ads? Going solo with my ASD child and would love this since…I was told app only for maps. I need paper lol.
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