The Best 20 Attractions in Disneyland for Any Disney World Fan
Any fan of Walt Disney World would undoubtedly appreciate a visit to Disneyland, the original Disney park that started it all. Disneyland has a unique historic charm, designed and overseen by Walt Disney himself.
The park offers several exclusive attractions such as “Alice in Wonderland,” “Matterhorn Bobsleds,” and “Indiana Jones Adventure” that you won’t find in Disney World. Moreover, Disneyland’s smaller size than Disney World creates a more intimate and nostalgic atmosphere, allowing visitors to cover more attractions in a single day.
The spirit of Walt Disney is also felt more palpably at Disneyland, making it a must-visit for every Disney World fan.
In this article, we list the top attractions that Walt Disney World goers should expect to love in Disneyland.
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
- Location: Fantasyland.
- Rider requirements: All are welcome.
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room is a delightful immersive experience that Disney World fans should not miss. While there is a similar attraction inside Walt Disney Word, this Enchanted Tiki Room is the original attraction that Walt Disney created- a first of it’s kind, tropical serenade and lively showcase of audio-animatronic technology.
As you enter the room, you are greeted by a chorus of singing birds, flowers, and tiki poles, each with its own unique character. The show is a harmonious blend of music, color, and comic relief, all in a Polynesian-themed setting.
The songs, composed by the renowned Sherman Brothers (Disney Legends), are catchy and enchanting. The Enchanted Tiki Room is a testament to the ingenious creativity of Walt Disney and a refreshing change of pace from the thrill rides. It’s a charming attraction that takes you to a tropical oasis right in the heart of Disneyland.
Snow White’s Enchanted Wish
- Location: Fantasyland.
- Rider requirements: All are welcome.
Snow White’s Enchanted Wish is another classic Disneyland attraction, recently reimagined and updated with new magic.
This ride takes you through the well-loved tale of Snow White and her journey from a humble maid to a princess. As you glide through the ride in your mine cart, you’ll encounter familiar characters like the Evil Queen, Seven Dwarfs, and Snow White herself.
The attraction’s new enhancements bring the story to life with vibrant colors, sparkling effects, and delightful animations. From the dwarfs’ diamond mine to the Queen’s sorcery chamber, every corner is filled with immersive details.
The ride’s charming and nostalgic appeal and new enchanting touches make Snow White’s Enchanted Wish a must-visit on your Disneyland trip.
Alice in Wonderland
- Location: Adventureland
- Rider requirements: All welcome
In Disneyland, the Alice in Wonderland attraction is a real treat for Disney World fans. This unique ‘dark ride’ allows you to tumble down the rabbit hole into Wonderland, just as Alice did. You’ll navigate through a series of whimsical, brightly colored scenes featuring beloved characters from the animated film, like the Cheshire Cat, the Queen of Hearts, and the Mad Hatter.
This ride goes beyond the classic Disney World attractions, offering a more immersive and fantastical ride experience. Its unique outdoor segment delivers a stunning panoramic view of Fantasyland that you won’t find at any Disney World attraction. The Alice in Wonderland ride will surely delight Disney enthusiasts of all ages with its captivating storytelling and vibrant visuals.
Autopia
- Location: Adventureland
- Rider requirements: All welcome
Autopia is another Disneyland-exclusive attraction that Disney World fans should experience. This futuristic driving adventure lets visitors take the wheel of their own miniature car and navigate a winding road full of twists, turns, and scenic views.
A Disneyland classic since 1955, Autopia combines the excitement of driving with a fun-filled exploration of a lush outdoor setting. This ride is especially popular among younger visitors still young enough to drive. The only one of its kind in any Disney park, Autopia offers a fun, interactive experience that captures the spirit of Disneyland’s vision for the future.
It is a must-ride for anyone seeking the true Disneyland experience.
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Toads Wild Ride
- Location: Adventureland
- Rider requirements: All welcome
Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride is a classic Disneyland attraction that is a must-visit for avid Disney park fans. Based on Disney’s 1949 adaptation of “The Wind in the Willows,” this imaginative ‘dark ride’ takes passengers on a chaotic journey through the English countryside from a motorcar’s perspective.
You’ll navigate through a myriad of precarious situations, including dodging a speeding train, avoiding a fiery end, and even a brief detour through a judge’s courtroom.
This ride is a blend of humor, surprise, and a dash of British charm absent from Disney World. Its distinct storytelling and whimsical architecture make it a Disneyland-exclusive attraction worth experiencing.
Pro Tip: To make the most out of your visit to Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, try to go during the less crowded times, typically early morning or late evening. Not only will you enjoy the ride with fewer crowds, but the atmospheric lighting during these times enhances the ride’s whimsical charm. Remember, Disneyland is all about the experience, so take your time and soak in all the details of this unique ride.
Mad Tea Party
- Location: Adventureland
- Rider requirements: All welcome
Mad Tea Party, an ever-popular attraction, holds a unique place in Disneyland’s line-up of experiences. Unlike its counterpart in Disney World, Disneyland’s version intensifies the whimsical and interactive nature of the ride.
The central spinning mechanism at Disneyland is not under a roof, allowing riders to spin their teacups under the great open sky freely. This small difference contributes to a more immersive experience, giving riders the feeling of partaking in the Mad Hatter’s uninhibited outdoor tea party.
Disneyland’s version features lanterns that light up at night, adding an enchanting charm to the ride. When the lanterns flicker to life, it’s as if the Mad Hatter himself has thrown a switch, extending an invitation to an evening of revelry in Wonderland.
The magical ambiance of Disneyland’s Mad Tea Party makes it a must-try for visitors seeking the quintessential Disneyland experience.
Pro Tip: To truly experience the magic of the Mad Tea Party, try to ride it at night when the lanterns are all lit up. The entire area transforms into a magical wonderland, making the ride more exciting and visually stunning. Be prepared for some spinning, so save that giant turkey leg after the ride!
Peter Pan’s Flight
- Location: Adventureland
- Rider requirements: All welcome
Peter Pan’s Flight is a ride that transports visitors straight into the heart of Neverland.
The ride begins in the Darling children’s nursery, where you board a pirate ship and take flight over London’s moonlit skyline. As your ship soars through the star-studded sky, you’ll find yourself immersed in the magical world of Peter Pan — flying over mermaid lagoons, skimming past pirate ships, and narrowly escaping the clutches of the notorious Captain Hook.
Unlike the Walt Disney World version, Disneyland’s iteration features an array of enhanced special effects and intricate detailing, making the ride even more enchanting. Whether you’re a child or a child at heart, Peter Pan’s Flight offers a timeless adventure, making it an essential part of the Disneyland experience.
Pro Tip: Ride it at night to maximize your experience on Peter Pan’s Flight. The darkness outside enhances the glow and sparkle of the stars and moonlight in the ride, making you feel like you’re genuinely soaring through the night sky over London and Neverland. Also, lines for this ride can get long, so try to ride early in the morning or utilize the Disneyland app’s virtual queue if available.
It’s A Small World
- Location: Adventureland
- Rider requirements: All welcome
It’s A Small World,” also known as “Small World,” is one of Disneyland’s most iconic and enduring attractions. Walt Disney first introduced this ride at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, designed initially as a tribute to UNICEF and the world’s children. Its overwhelming popularity led to its incorporation into Disneyland in 1966.
The magic of “Small World” lies in its depiction of children from around the globe living in peace and harmony, portrayed through vibrant scenes and the catchy, repetitive anthem composed by the Sherman Brothers. Disneyland’s version of “Small World” boasts a unique holiday overlay not found in Disney World, transforming the ride into a festive spectacle during the holiday season.
Additionally, Disneyland’s “Small World” is the only one among Disney parks that incorporates Disney characters into its scenes, subtly placed in their respective countries. This delightful twist enhances the immersive experience, making “Small World” at Disneyland a unique and magical journey that transcends generations.
Pro Tip: To optimize your experience on It’s a Small World, aim to ride it first thing in the morning when the park opens or later in the evening when wait times are typically lower. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, check out the holiday overlay – it’s a charming addition that adds an extra layer of magic to the ride. Don’t forget to watch for the subtly incorporated Disney characters in each scene – they add a fun element of ‘spot the character’ to the ride!
Jungle Cruise
- Location: Adventureland
- Rider requirements: All are welcome
Jungle Cruise is a classic Disneyland adventure that offers guests a whimsical journey through the world’s most exotic rivers. The attraction, first opened in 1955, is one of the original rides conceived by Walt Disney.
On this expedition, guests board a 1930s British explorers’ lodge-style boat and embark on a guided tour of charm and humor led by a skilled and entertaining skipper.
The journey encompasses a variety of landscapes, from the dense African Congo to the mighty Amazon River, populated by realistic audio-animatronic wildlife.
The Disneyland version of the “Jungle Cruise” also features the unique spectacle of the backside of water, known as the Schweitzer Falls, a memorable highlight of the ride.
Full of surprises, laughter, and natural wonder, the “Jungle Cruise” is an enduring Disneyland attraction that continues to captivate audiences of all ages with its blend of adventure and humor.
Pro Tip: To get the most out of your “Jungle Cruise” experience, try to ride it at different times of the day. The ambiance of the ride changes from day to night, offering a completely unique experience after sunset. The queue line is part of the adventure, with hidden details and gags adding to the storyline. Make sure to listen to the radio broadcast playing in the queue — it’s full of amusing puns and jokes that set the tone for the humorous journey ahead.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Location: Frontierland
- Rider requirements: 40″ or taller
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is one of Disneyland’s iconic roller coasters, providing a thrilling journey through an abandoned gold mine in the Old West. Its rich backstory, meticulously detailed environment, and unique track layout set the Disneyland version of the ride apart.
The story of Big Thunder revolves around the eponymous mountain being rich in gold and plagued by supernatural events after gold was discovered there. This tale is brought to life with carefully crafted scenes and sound effects that enhance the thrill of the ride.
The Disneyland version is also unique in its exterior and interior design, featuring a prominent Rainbow Ridge, a small Western town, at the ride’s entrance, which adds to the overall ambiance.
As for the track layout, Disneyland’s version features a distinctive double lift hill system, unlike other Disney parks, providing an exhilarating experience of gravity-defying drops and tight turns throughout the ride. This, combined with the immersive narrative and atmospheric setting, makes “Big Thunder Mountain Railroad” at Disneyland a standout attraction in its own right.
Pro Tip: For a truly immersive experience on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, try to ride it at different times of the day. The ride’s detailed environment and lighting take on a new dimension at sunset and after dark. Also, take advantage of the opportunity to sit in the back of the coaster. The train’s last car tends to whip around the bends, enhancing the thrill of the ride. Lastly, be sure to explore the queue line, as it’s full of hidden gems that reveal more about the ride’s backstory.
Matterhorn Bobsleds
- Location: Fantasyland.
- Rider requirements: All riders must be at least 42 inches tall.
“Matterhorn Bobsleds” is a unique roller coaster that takes riders on an exciting journey through the mythical Swiss mountain. Widely celebrated as the first tubular steel continuous track roller coaster, the Matterhorn Bobsleds ride is a testament to Disneyland’s pioneering spirit in theme park innovation.
The ride’s storyline is centered around a thrilling bobsled run down the Matterhorn mountain, interspersed with encounters with the legendary Yeti. The keen attention to detail, from the authentic Swiss chalet at the entrance to the icy caverns within the mountain, enhances the immersive experience.
The ride’s high-speed drops, sharp turns, and the added thrill of the Yeti’s looming presence make “Matterhorn Bobsleds” an unforgettable Disneyland adventure.
Pro Tip: For an exhilarating experience on Matterhorn Bobsleds, aim to secure a seat in the back of the bobsled. The last seat offers a more intense ride as you’re pulled over the drops. Also, be aware that this ride can be rough, so brace yourself for the exciting journey. Remember to look out for the Yeti during your descent – it might be closer than you think! Lastly, explore the area around the mountain. It’s rich in detail and offers a few hidden surprises for keen-eyed explorers.
Pirates of the Caribbean
- Location: New Orleans Square.
- Rider requirements: All are welcome.
Pirates of the Caribbean is a renowned boat ride at Disneyland, offering visitors a journey into the Golden Age of Piracy. What sets the Disneyland version apart is its adherence to the original concept envisioned by Walt Disney himself.
Unlike its counterparts in other parks worldwide, the Disneyland version takes riders into a unique underground segment, constituting a large part of the ride, that depicts the buccaneer lifestyle with striking detail. Furthermore, the ride at Disneyland stands out for its exclusive scenes.
It’s also the last attraction overseen by Walt Disney, making it a historical landmark within the park. The intricate set designs, lifelike animatronics, and immersive storytelling render “Pirates of the Caribbean” at Disneyland a unique and captivating experience.
Pro Tip: Timing is key when planning your Pirates of the Caribbean adventure. The ride tends to have shorter lines during the evening, particularly during the fireworks display, as many guests are occupied elsewhere. Also, pay attention to the details as you meander through the queue. Several hidden gems, including a fun chess game in stalemate, add richness to the experience. Lastly, watch for Captain Jack Sparrow, who makes multiple appearances throughout the ride!
Space Mountain
- Location: Tomorrowland.
- Rider requirements: All riders must be at least 40 inches tall.
Space Mountain is renowned for its thrilling journey through the cosmos. Unlike other versions of this ride across Disney parks globally, Disneyland’s Space Mountain stands apart due to its distinctive features.
The ride at Disneyland is singularly equipped with a synchronized soundtrack played through speakers in each seat, enhancing the overall sensory experience. Instead of the typically sharp and abrupt turns seen in other parks, Disneyland’s Space Mountain offers a smoother ride, with its track layout boasting more sweeping turns and drops.
Furthermore, including unique themes and overlays during special events, such as the “Ghost Galaxy” during the Halloween season and “Hyperspace Mountain” featuring Star Wars elements, keeps the experience fresh and exciting. This attention to detail and commitment to enhancing visitor immersion makes Space Mountain at Disneyland a truly standout interstellar adventure.
Pro Tip: For an extra thrill on Space Mountain, request to sit in the last row. Riders in the rear experience a more heightened sensation of speed and sudden drops due to the pull of the cars in front. Remember, availability can depend on crowd levels and cast member discretion, so be sure to ask kindly!
Haunted Mansion
- Location: New Orleans Square.
- Rider requirements: All are welcome.
The Haunted Mansion is an attraction that draws crowds with its blend of the eerie and the extravagant. Telling the story of 999 happy haunts within its walls, this dark ride takes guests on a chilling yet charming tour of an old, antebellum-style manor. Unlike its Disney World counterpart, the Disneyland version of the Haunted Mansion boasts a unique façade inspired by the Shipley-Lydecker House in Baltimore. Additionally, Disneyland’s version includes an exclusive changing portrait hallway, offering a different sensory experience.
Unlike Disney World, Disneyland holds the historical significance of being Walt Disney’s original vision, with several attractions, such as the Pirates of the Caribbean and the Haunted Mansion, featuring exclusive scenes or elements. Conversely, while larger and encompassing more theme parks, Disney World often incorporates variations of the original Disneyland rides, sometimes omitting some aspects due to space or design considerations. But, it’s worth noting that the larger size of Disney World allows for a greater variety of experiences and more expansive renditions of some themes. Despite these differences, both parks consistently deliver Disney magic, each in their unique, enchanting way.
Indiana Jones
- Location: Adventureland.
- Rider requirements: All riders must be at least 46 inches tall.
Indiana Jones Adventure is another uniquely thrilling experience that Disneyland offers. This fast-paced, dark ride adventure takes you on a heart-racing journey through the forbidden temple where Indiana Jones himself is said to have disappeared. As you navigate treacherous terrain, avoid deadly traps, and escape supernatural forces, the immersive storytelling and cutting-edge technology genuinely make you feel a part of the Indiana Jones universe. Despite the inherent thrills, the ride’s humor remains true to the spirit of the beloved film franchise. Notably, Disneyland’s version of the Indiana Jones Adventure ride offers certain elements exclusive to the park, further enhancing the overall visitor experience.