Best Disneyland Attractions & Ride Guide
Our Disneyland ride guide contains short reviews of our top picks, as well as numerical scores for every attraction in Disneyland. If you’re planning a Disneyland trip, you need to know which attractions are must-dos, and which you can skip. (Updated March 28, 2022.)
This list is broken down into three categories: Star Wars rides, iconic must-do attractions, and everything else. The first group is all of the recent additions in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Tomorrowland. The top Disneyland attractions grouping includes plenty of recognizable names, along with a few sleeper-picks that many people overlook–but are actually really enjoyable. Finally, there’s everything else–the filler, more or less.
While we don’t recommend skipping any attractions based upon the advice of others if you have the time to experience them all, if your time is limited, here are the must-see rides and attractions in Disneyland. Note that this list only covers Disneyland, the park. We have a separate review of attractions at Disney California Adventure.
Not every attraction at Disneyland is a blockbuster, “E-Ticket” attraction that draws huge crowds. While we love these big-name attractions, we feel a day at Disneyland is about variety, and some of the lesser-known attractions are also very well done, just not in a ‘knock-your-socks-off’ way. The list of “top attractions” includes everything we feel makes for a well-rounded day at Disneyland.
Ideally, you’ll have more than one day to explore Disneyland and have a separate day for Disney California Adventure (read our Disneyland Ticket Guide to determine which tickets are best), so you will be able to experience everything, not just our top picks. If you are stretched for time and only have one day for both parks, you won’t be able to experience everything on this “top attractions” list.
Numerical scores are on a scale of 1 to 10, and only take into consideration overall quality relative to that specific type of attraction. In other words, dark rides are judged against other dark rides, coasters are judged against other coasters, etc., to create a relatively level playing field. We do not take into account how different demographics will like the attraction.
Obviously, if an attraction has a height restriction that precludes kids from riding it, its “score” for them wouldn’t be as high as what we’ve listed. Likewise on attractions that are geared towards kids but may not appeal as much to adults. Here, we only consider how well done the attraction is, overall, within its category.
Star Wars Rides at Disneyland
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (10/10) – The blockbuster of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, this is a revolutionary feat of Imagineering that redefines what a theme park attraction can be. It blurs the boundaries of queue, pre-show, attraction, and puts guests in the middle of an intergalactic adventure. We could go on and on about this mind-blowing experience and its nonstop barrage of wow-moments. For that, you can read our spoiler-free Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Review.
However, the purpose of this post is to offer ratings, reviews, and practical advice for best experiencing the attractions in an efficient manner. Without question, this is the most difficult to do ride at Disneyland. Due to its unreliability and downtime, it involves jumping through some hoops–which are all worth it. Reading our Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Ride Guide & FAQ before your trip is essential.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run (9/10) – The ‘supporting’ attraction for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is currently the only one open, which has perhaps resulted in unfairly elevated expectations for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. It’s definitely not a perfect attraction, with the interactivity being a mixed bag and a gameplay-centric ride not being everyone’s cup of tea. Moreover, not all of the roles are of equal enjoyment. In terms of “wish fulfillment,” pilot is definitely the best option.
However, there’s a lot to like about Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run beyond the game/ride experience. The queue is beautiful, the pre-show is impressive, and stepping foot into the Millennium Falcon while waiting to board the ride is arguably the highlight of the attraction as a whole. Read our Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run Review for more feedback on the attraction.
Hyperspace Mountain (9/10) – Hyperspace Mountain is a dark rollercoaster through space, themed (lightly) to Star Wars. There are some cool details here, a blast-off tunnel, space battle, and on-board music to spice up the experience. Hyperspace Mountain is a Genie+ Lightning Lane attraction, and it’s highly recommended that you utilize it. This is basically a “Star Wars consolation prize” if lines are too long for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.
Star Tours: The Adventures Continue (8.5/10) – Star Tours is a flight-motion simulator into the Star Wars world with digital 3D video, Audio Animatronics characters, and in-vehicle effects. Star Tours features multiple storylines, with some 64 different experience combinations, making it an attraction you can experience again and again. It’s even been updated to fit within the ‘universe’ of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (one of the destinations is now Batuu!) Star Tours is a must-do.
Iconic Disneyland Rides & Attractions
Pirates of the Caribbean (10/10) – Pirates of the Caribbean is a boat-ride back in time to the days when pirates ruled the Caribbean. The attractions features Audio Animatronics pirates engaging in swashbuckling mayhem. This is one of our favorite attractions at Disneyland.
Pirates of the Caribbean is considerably longer than the Walt Disney World attraction by the same name. It contains a considerable amount of detail (we recommend experiencing it more than once to take in everything), a catchy song, and lines usually aren’t too long due to its high capacity.
Indiana Jones Adventure (10/10) – Indiana Jones Adventure is a thrilling ride aboard a transport vehicle deep into the Temple of the Forbidden Eye on a daring journey in search of unimaginable rewards. Along the way you’ll incur the wrath of Mara, who will force you to encounter caverns of bubbling death, screaming undead mummies, erupting lava, evil wraiths, and giant snakes.
Everything about this attraction is excellent–it’s our favorite attraction at Disneyland. From the incredible queue to the humorous pre-show to the special effects-laden attraction itself, Indiana Jones Adventure is perfect and still cutting edge. As Sallah would (and does) say, “it is unlike anything you have ever experienced, I assure you!” This attraction is incredibly popular and routinely has long waits, making it a great use of the Lightning Lane.
Haunted Mansion (10/10) – The Haunted Mansion is a slow-moving dark ride that is home to 999 happy haunts that are dying to meet you. No further explanation should be necessary; if you aren’t familiar with the premise of the Haunted Mansion, you’re probably living under a rock. I have no interest in rock-dwellers reading this website.
For those familiar with the Walt Disney World version, a lot in the Disneyland version is the same or similar. Die-hard Haunted Mansion fans will disagree, but the vast majority of guests won’t notice many differences. If you visit between early September and the end of the year, you’ll see “Haunted Mansion Holiday,” which features a Nightmare Before Christmas overlay. It’s awesome.
Matterhorn (8/10) – The Matterhorn was Expedition Everest decades before Expedition Everest was even conceived. This rollercoaster through the yeti-guarded mountain is a thrilling attraction that most guests will enjoy. The Matterhorn received some new show scenes that are fairly cool. Genie+ is available at the Matterhorn, and it’s a good use of the Lightning Lane to avoid long waits.
Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage (8/10) – A relatively new attraction at Disneyland, the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage takes guests aboard actual submarines to find Nemo. It’s a relatively long attraction with some awesome sets and detail. The wait times can be long, the queue is incredibly boring, and there’s no Lightning Lane, but the payoff is well worth the boring wait, especially for Finding Nemo fans.
Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln (8/10) – Another Disneyland classic. This attraction is a hybrid film and Audio Animatronics performance by the famous U.S. President. It incorporates some of the best elements of Hall of Presidents and the American Adventure at Walt Disney World, including my personal favorite, the song “Golden Dreams.” Many guests, mostly communists, find this attraction boring.
We absolutely love Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. It’s not a thrill-ride, to be sure, but it is an incredibly well-done glimpse into the history of this great nation. If you have time beforehand, check out the Steve Martin (and Donald Duck) video in the lobby created for Disneyland’s 50th anniversary.
Storybook Land Canal Boats (8.5/10) – The Storybook Land Canal Boats are a Disneyland classic. Cast Member-led boats of guests float past miniaturized versions of villages, castles, and homes of Disney characters. It’s a cute, “peaceful” attraction, not a big-budget ride that will knock your socks off.
Our favorite scene is Pinocchio’s village, because the Imagineers have designed this scene so the Matterhorn appears as another mountain towering over the village in the background. This attraction may seem simple, and it is, but that’s part of the charm. Storybook Land Canal Boats isn’t especially popular, but long lines can form because it has very low hourly capacity. We recommend hitting it early in the morning or late at night.
Casey Jr. Circus Train (8/10) – Another Fantasyland staple, the Casey Jr. Circus Train offers a scenic view of Fantasyland as guests ride aboard cars or in cages (now is your chance to finally put the kids in a cage!). It’s simple, but has a lot of appeal thanks to the great views it offers of Fantasyland, the fun music, and the whimsy of the train, itself. Even as adults, it’s a favorite attraction of ours (and we have no childhood nostalgia towards it) that is difficult to articulate the appeal of. It has a real kinetic energy and is just good, clean fun.
Peter Pan’s Flight (9/10) – Peter Pan’s Flight was re-imagined a few years ago to modernize it and add some great new effects. It’s considered a Fantasyland classic, as it takes guests in “flying” ships above London and Neverland, but really, it’s not as impressive as it sounds, especially given the hour-plus waits it regularly attracts. Flying over London is cool (and small children might actually “buy” the flying part), but that’s its big draw. We enjoy Peter Pan’s Flight, but I wouldn’t wait more than 30 minutes in line for it. If you arrive right at park opening, this is the attraction to hit first.
Splash Mountain (9/10) – Splash Mountain is a log flume ride that features a story from Disney’s Song of the South film, and climaxes with a big drop into the briar patch. There are a ton of Audio Animatronics here, and those plus the detailed environments make the attraction. The only downside is that the pacing is a bit too fast, guests get too wet, and the story is a bit disjointed. Still, it’s a must-see, and one of Disneyland’s best attractions.
Jungle Cruise (9/10) – Jungle Cruise is a boat ride through the rivers of Adventureland that encounters hippos, lions, and piranhas, among other animals and natives, along the way. However, the real highlight here is the non-stop zingers of the skippers who pilot the boats. If you don’t appreciate dry, intentionally corny, or self-aware humor, you may not like Jungle Cruise.
We’ve seen a number of guests exit the Jungle Cruise with confused looks on their faces. Jungle Cruise skippers often break the carefully-crafted illusion of Disneyland (example: pointing out the “p” breed of snake is not a python, but instead, “plastic”). Most kids won’t get these jokes, so don’t worry about that. We love the Jungle Cruise, as do most guests, but some are not fans. It’s also an attraction that is highly skipper-dependent. If you get a poor skipper, your ride will be sub-par.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (9/10) – A guest favorite, Big Thunder Mountain a rollercoaster themed as a runaway mine train on a ride through the barren landscape of the Old West. Hang onto your hats and glasses, because Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is “the wildest ride in the wilderness!”
It was refurbished a couple of years ago to add some cool new effects, plus a smoother track. Big Thunder Mountain is a Genie+ Lightning Lane attraction, and it might behoove you to use that if lines are over 40 minutes for it. There are differences between this Big Thunder and Walt Disney World’s, notably the town of Rainbow Ridge (a remnant from the classic Mine Train Thru Nature’s Wonderland attraction).
Disneyland Railroad (8.5/10) – The Disneyland Railroad is, quite simply, a normal railroad that circles Disneyland in a scenic manner. However, the Disneyland Railroad is dramatically different. Not only does it have a scene with real, live (okay, Audio Animatronics) dinosaurs called Primeval World, but it has the history of being Walt Disney’s railroad. We covered the changes to the Disneyland Railroad post-refurbishment in our Grand Circle Tour of Disneyland post. By and large, we are fans of the more engaging scenery on the new route.
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room (8/10) – Enchanted Tiki Room is a 15-minute musical serenade from Audio Animatronics birds and offers a celebration of island romance and wonder performed in a theater-in-the-round. You’ve probably heard these catchy songs before; the fun music of this attraction, and its history, makes it an attraction not to be missed.
Snow White’s Enchanted Wish (9/10) – With the recent reimagining, Imagineers took the weakest of the Fantasyland dark rides and turned it from something dated and disjointed into something with fun flow, impressive effects, and a few magical moments. Relatively simple, but shockingly effective, improvements cause it to jump up the list.
‘it’s a small world’ (9/10) – ‘it’s a small world’ is the iconic attraction featuring the children of the world and that oh-so divisive song. Again, unless you live under a rock, you’re familiar with it. ‘it’s a small world’ at Disneyland differs substantially from the Walt Disney World version; it features Disney characters tastefully inserted into several show-scenes, an outdoor queue and facade, and other scene differences. If visiting at Christmas, ‘it’s a small world’ holiday is not to be missed.
Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride (7.5/10) – Another Fantasyland dark ride favorite, this attraction goes into the irreverent world of Mr. Toad from the Wind and the Willows. Worth experiencing for the irreverence alone. On what other Disney attraction do you go to bar, crash into a truck, and go to hell?! It would never be built in today’s politically correct era, and is worth experiencing for that alone, although the attraction itself is woefully outdated.
Alice in Wonderland (8.5/10) – Another Fantasyland dark ride that was recently re-imagined and updated, this one takes guests into the world of Alice in Wonderland. This is our favorite Fantasyland dark ride, and we’re not even fans of Alice in Wonderland. Best hit early in the morning on a fast-paced tour of the Fantasyland dark rides, as lines can get long for it later in the day due to its lower capacity.
Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin (8.5/10) – Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin takes guests aboard a dark ride voyage into Toontown in interactive vehicles (guests can spin them). Lines are often long for Car Toon Spin, making it a good Genie+ Lightning Lane attraction. It’s the only attraction worth experiencing in the Toontown land of Disneyland. (TOONTOWN IS CLOSED UNTIL MARCH 2023.)
Sleeping Beauty Castle Walk-Through (8/10) – A simple, but fun walk-through of Sleeping Beauty Castle featuring interactive “window” scenes from the film. An often overlooked, but very cool attraction that takes little time to experience and should not be missed.
Disneyland Forever Fireworks (10/10) – Fun visuals from animated films and a memorable soundtrack coupled with a few original songs and nods to Disneyland’s past plus founder Walt Disney make this a well-balanced nighttime spectacular that appeals to locals and first-timers alike. The effects are dazzling, from the colorful bursts that fit the music to the flying Nemo and Matterhorn ‘eruption’ that induce plenty of ‘wows’ from the audience at various points. The movies featured are a diverse group, from Disney classics to Pixar to even Frozen, which does not feel shoehorned into the show.
Although the core of the show is “only” a montage, this works perfectly well. This fireworks show is pure Disney magic. My sentimentality aside, I think Disneyland Forever is far and away the best fireworks show to ever be shown in a castle park. Not only should you not miss it, but you should not miss it from a variety of vantage points. See our Disneyland Fireworks Viewing Guide for recommended locations (and where to avoid).
Fantasmic! (10/10) – Fantasmic! is a musical battle between the forces of good and evil set in Mickey’s dreams (and on the Rivers of America) with stunning effects, including pyrotechnics, water, lasers, fire, and a huge dragon. If you’ve seen Fantasmic! at Walt Disney World, you haven’t actually seen Fantasmic!
The Disneyland version is infinitely better, and features a Pirates of the Caribbean battle scene (on the Sailing Ship Columbia) replacing the Pocahontas scene, huge Maleficent dragon, and other things. The new version of Fantasmic debuted last summer–here’s our review of Fantasmic 2.0. Here are our other tips for the best places to view Fantasmic, and tips for photographing it.
The Rest
Astro Orbitor (4/10) – Spinner ride similar to Dumbo, except not iconic.
Autopia (7/10) – Kids might like it as it gives them a chance to drive; lush environments and large track. The addition of ASIMO and Bird to the attraction give it new life, and really improve the experience.
Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters (7/10) – An interactive and competitive game-attraction to save the universe in this blast-em-up, ride-through adventure. It’s like a ride-through video game, and is a lot of fun. We often find ourselves riding re-riding late at night when there’s no line to see who can get the highest score. This attraction is far superior to the Walt Disney World version of the attraction.
Disneyland Monorail (7/10) – A relaxing trip around Disneyland Resort, but with a lot of glimpses of the outside world. We love monorails, but in this case, we prefer the Disneyland Railroad.
Sailing Ship Columbia (7/10) – Another relaxing float around the Rivers of America.
Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes (7/10) – Paddle an actual canoe on the Rivers of America. Not for everyone, but a lot of fun for those who enjoy this sort of thing. Definitely not an attraction you’d expect in a modern theme park.
Tom Sawyer Island (6.5/10) – Fun and highly immersive play area for kids, now featuring pirates.
Mark Twain Riverboat (8/10) – Relaxing way to float around the Rivers of America. Great way to spend a peaceful afternoon, but we recommend the Disneyland Railroad over it if you’re limited in time.
King Arthur Carrousel (4.5/10) – Garden variety carousel.
Mad Tea Party (6/10) – Gets points because it’s iconic and somewhat fun if you have the time.
Pinocchio’s Daring Journey (6/10) – Decent dark ride based on Pinocchio. Very dated, but charming.
Tarzan’s Treehouse (7/10) – Fun area that can be quickly explored as a nice change of pace from doing rides.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (6/10) – A newer Fantasyland-style dark ride located in Critter Country that’s enjoyable, but still feels dated.
This leaves out random pieces of entertainment, character meet & greets, and a few other seasonal offerings, but it should cover every attraction listed on a Disneyland park map. We’d strongly encourage you to try everything for yourself, as your opinions might differ from ours, but if time is an issue, skip the attractions on the lower list.
Planning a Southern California vacation? For park admission deals, read Tips for Saving Money on Disneyland Tickets. Learn about on-site and off-site hotels in our Anaheim Hotel Reviews & Rankings. For where to eat, check out our Disneyland Restaurant Reviews. For unique ideas of things that’ll improve your trip, check out What to Pack for Disney. For comprehensive advice, consult our Disneyland Vacation Planning Guide. Finally, for guides beyond Disney, check out our Southern California Itineraries for day trips to Los Angeles, Laguna Beach, and tons of other places!
Your Thoughts…
Which Disneyland attractions are your favorites and which do you skip? If you haven’t visited Disneyland yet, which ones are you most excited about? If you have any questions about what else you should do at Disneyland, let us know! Share your questions and thoughts in the comments!
Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters (7/10)
Why only 7/10? for me and my wife it’s a 10/10!
I regularly score a million or more points.
We finally went into Innoventions during our trip in February 2014 and myself and the kids really enjoyed it! (Ages 8,5, and 3 if that matters)
they have a few fun interactive games, xbox and playstation setups (which we didn’t play the game systems because you can do that anywhere. ..I mean come on its Disneyland no one needs an xbox marathon)
An iron man interactive armor station for kids that you can have put on your photopass card, plus a huge display area of all phases of iron man’s armor. But most awesome of all was the Thor Meet and greet. They made it really interesting and special.
From what I just recently read on another page is Captain America is now going to have. Meet and greet in innoventions too!
Great site. Lots of useful information here.
I’m sending it to several friends ans additionally sharing
in delicious. And of course, thank you in your sweat!
Splash mtn is the best.
Highly recommend doing Casey Jr. at night. Storybook Land is all lit up and it is absolutely beautiful.
Thanks so much for giving a comparison to WDW rides. I have been there more than a dozen times, and finally get to go to Disneyland after a conference. I want to make sure I see the things that are different, and skip things that are the same if I do not have time. This moved Pirates to the top of my list – I love that ride at WDW and love the idea of an extended one!
spot on for most, but I think you were a bit generous for Innoventions.
My family and I are visiting Disneyland for the first time. We have heard that the Fantasmic show is amazing, and I wondered if registering for the premium viewing area and desert sampler program is worthwhile. Thanks for your advice.
We loved Mickey and the Magical Map!!! It’s way better than the Princess show they had there before. I know the DL dark rides aren’t that great by WDW standards, but they’re neat for the nostalgia of being original park rides. I really disagree with your rating of the Submarines. There really isn’t much difference from its original set up. They just added the Finding Nemo effects to spruce it up a bit, and now it consistently has one of the longest waits in the park. If we ride them at all, we typically go at the very end of the day before we hop on the Monorail to head back to the hotel. I would give Captain Eo a negative number if I could. Don’t get me wrong, words can’t describe how much I loved that show as a kid, but now it’s just dated and the shaking seats left over from Honey, I Shrunk the Audience are obnoxious.
We really enjoy Mickey and the Magical Lamp, too. It has great production value and talent (just goes to show the quality of performers you can get with LA right there). The only thing holding it back is the odd storyline. It would be better, I think, if it were more honest about just being a series of unrelated songs with a very loose structure to hold it all together. The map and ink blot thing are way overdone, I think.
I wouldn’t disagree with anyone who gave Captain EO a negative number. I hate that attraction. It only earns points here because it does have appeal to select audiences. I think it’s insulting to have that dated of a show in TOMORROWLAND, of all places.
I’ll take Snow White, Pinocchio and Tea Cups over Small World, Tiki Room and the Circus Train any day. Probably over the Canal Boats, too. Seriously — the Circus Train???
I only disagree with 2 of the ratings. Splash Mountain is 10/10! The speed thing and wet thing are different based on the crowd level at the park. We have had a leisurely trip and stayed mostly dry during slower times when they aren’t trying to increase ride capacity.
Remember…dreams come true! has to be a 11/10. It’s gotta have the highest rating of everything in the park. Truly the best experience in Disneyland.
We’ve zipped through Splash Mountain enough times early in the morning that, although I’m sure speed can be controlled, it’s not consistent enough to warrant a perfect score from me. This is one of the few cases where the Walt Disney World version of an attraction is clearly superior to the Disneyland version.
We are planning trip in 2014 with 4 kids 8 and under and 6 adults. If we can only do one day, what would you list to do from best on down.
I am planning to visit the Disney Paris on 30th March 2013 Saturday. Our total team is 16 people including 6 adults and 7 children. Could you please advise me on the selection for one day
Sorry, but this guide concerns Disneyland, not Disneyland Paris.
Our favorite Disneyland Paris attractions are:
1. Phantom Manor
2. Pirates of the Caribbean
3. Space Mountain
4. Casey Jr.
5. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
6. Sleeping Beauty Castle Dragon (walk-through)
7. Disney Dreams!
8. Le Pays des Contes de Fees
…in no particular order. Hope that helps!
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I’m not so keen on the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage – it’s just so long (weird because I love Great Moments with Mr Lincoln and The Enchanted Tiki Room).
Matterhorn is my all-time favourite ride in any Disney park. While I love Expedition Everest too, Matterhorn beats it largely because of charm and history (every time I ride I can’t stop thinking about that Basketball court at the top!).
The first time I visited Disneyland last year I went on Mr Toad’s Wild Ride and was left pretty speechless after the experience. Definitely worth going on just because there is nothing else like it! The Storybook Canal Boats in the evening are beautiful. My dream job has always been to work as a skipper on the Jungle Cruise but now I would love to work on the Canal Boats!
The Mission-Impossible-esque music on Space Mountain makes for an thrilling experience, but I don’t think it will ever take the place of the clunky yet charming Walt Disney World version.
Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion – enough said!
I love Captain EO, but I am a massive Michael Jackson fan. I think it should stay until they have an idea for something better to put in its place!
Haven’t visited Walt Disney World’s Enchanted Tiki Room since the change, but seeing Disneyland’s version has made me really excited about seeing it! But I think Disneyland’s will still come out on top largely because of the cool pre-show and the fact that you’re allowed to take your dole whips in with you!
Thanks for the list. Since I found this website 2 days ago I have learned so much. Piloting the Mark Twain, Lillybell as well as some of the dining. I am a season passholder and have been for years. My Father was one of the original builders of Disneyland and thus very special to our family. Your photograpy is amazing! Thanks again for such a fabulous site for Disney Fans. PS Your wife is really beautiful.
Thanks for the kind words–I hope you find the site helpful!
You pretty much captured our favorites, starting with Peter Pan (always our first attraction of our visit). The only ones that I would add as must-dos for us would be Dumbo and King Arthur’s Carrousel, not for the experience as much as for the nostalgia (my first visit to Disneyland was 1957, my wife in 1955).
And we completely agree with the opinion of Innoventions as a “must-avoid” attraction. The only time we have gone into that attraction recently was to get points for the Gumball Rally.
One last point … not only have we ridden on the Lily Belle, I have also piloted the Mark Twain (successfully, I might add — didn’t run into any boulders).
The Mark Twain Wheelhouse is on our list of things to do. Glad you’ve had the chance to experience it!
Finding Nemo Subs isn’t exactly a new attraction. Newly re-imagined maybe.
With all due respect, I don’t think Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln is a good recommendation for the average first-time guest in 2012 (1972, maybe…). This attraction has not aged well and does not have the scope of similar attractions at WDW (which, honestly, wouldn’t be on my recommend list either).
A better option in the same building is the Disneyland film starring Steve Martin and Donald Duck, which you mentioned briefly. That film provides some wonderful historical context and is still really hilarious for kids of all ages.
Lily Belle tickets are obtained in the train station, not city hall (as of our Feb 2012 trip…).
The recent changes to the outdoor portion might mean that Alice has dropped a bit from the previously well-earned “must do” status. It’s just so sad now.
Otherwise, I can’t complain about your list. You definitely hit the broad set of highlights for most families. Glad you skipped Autopia, Pooh, and Innoventions.
Classifying Nemo as anything other than new is a stretch, I think. The show scenes are new, the plot is new, etc. Conceptually, it’s a totally different attraction, even moreso than Star Tours: the Adventures Continue, which I would also classify as a new attraction. At some point, you cross the line from reimagining to creating something different. Where you draw the line is subjective, though.
If I ever do a list of Walt Disney World attractions, rest assured that Hall of Presidents and American Adventure will be on it. Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln is a wonderful attraction, and if present day guests are too dense for it, that’s their issue.
When we last tried to ride the Lilly Belle in December 2011, you could make reservations for the Lilly Belle at City Hall, and tickets were given to you at the Train Station. You could also try to “catch a ride” directly at the Train Station, but your chances of success (in our experience) are dramatically reduced. I haven’t heard of any changes to that policy, so I’d be curious to know whether you just tried going directly to the Train Station, or whether City Hall turned you away.
Agreed about the outdoor portion of Alice. Screw you, Cal OSHA! 😉 I still think the attraction is a must-do, but the end is not nearly as special.
When we rode the Lily Belle in August, 2011 I went directly to the Main Street station. The station master took my name and number of guests and gave me a return time.
The ride was magical. Not only were we riding in Walts private car, but the Cast Member accompanying us was full of additional trivia (for example, my granddaughter was sitting in Johnny Depp’s favorite chair).
It was definitely a unique way to experience the trip around Disneyland, and one that was over much, MUCH too soon.
We leave for Disneyland next Tuesday! I just wanted to let you know that this list was so helpful. Thanks for posting it. 🙂
I think you’ve covered all the bases! I think of Disneyland as my “home” park – I’ve been visiting it sixteen years longer than I’ve been visiting Walt Disney World. It’s so interesting how things are “the same, but different” when you compare it to the Magic Kingdom. It’s like the Magic Kingdom is Gus Van Sant’s remake of PSYCHO: it’s very much like the original, but just a little off.
I definitely recommend Indiana Jones to anyone visiting Disneyland. It’s a really fun, unique ride. Unfortunately, it seems to always be either closed when we visit or the ride breaks down while we’re in line. If I didn’t have memories of the ride, I’d suspect the whole thing was an elaborate hoax and that Cast Members use the building to have Adventurer’s Club-style parties while the guests queue up outside waiting for nothing. I don’t think I’ve been on the ride since 2008.
I prefer Disneyland’s flagship boat rides to the Magic Kingdom’s as well. I know some think this is sacrilegious, but I think that “it’s a small world” has really benefited from the Mary Blair-esque Disney characters that have been, as you said, tastefully integrated into the ride. It’s just a masterful inclusion. I enjoy the longer, more detailed Pirates of the Caribbean as well.
Space Mountain in Disneyland is, frankly, the best roller coaster ever. The speakers in the headrests and pitch-black darkness make it incredibly immersive.
Saving the best for last, the Alice in Wonderland dark ride is perfect. The 1951 classic is my favorite Disney animated feature and I’m glad it gets lots of love in Fantasyland.
I wouldn’t say Alice in Wonderland is perfect…anymore at least, but it sure is great!
Indiana Jones does seem to breakdown ALL. THE. TIME. It broke down twice once while we were on it. Being walked through the attraction was a cool experience, but I wouldn’t have been as thrilled if it happened after waiting 40 minutes in standby. They need to give it a nice 6 month refurb (Al Lutz has indicated that one is coming, so who knows!).
I couldn’t find this on your website so sorry if I missed it. Are the Disneyland and Disney CA adventure fast passes linked?
No, in fact DCA fast passes are only linked within their own lands, so you can have multiple DCA fast passes at one time. Disneyland has one system for most of the park so you will have to wait about 2 hours in between picking up fast passes.
We were thinking of taking our 4 grandchildren to Disneyland in June 2016. They’ll be 2,4,5, and 7. Will there be plenty for then to enjoy (and not scary) or should we put it off for a year?
No, it isn’t that dark, but maybe no Indiana jones or space mountain. But the rest are okay. The 7 year old will be okay, but the 2 year old would most likely like to stay in fantasyland or toon town.
For the kids who are under 40″ which is the height requirement for most of the roller coasters and thrill rides there is typically a ride of all ages within a short distance from their entrance (IE Indiana Jones 46″ is right next to jungle crusie ) You will want to take advantage of the “Child Swap” passes which allow you to wait in line for the ride then once you ride you can swap out who is watching the small children and the second adult can go on through the fastpass line. The passes are good for up to 3 so the big kids can ride twice! That is what me and my family do except that our little one just hit 40″ so it is game on for her!