Top 11 Best Magic Kingdom Rides for 2025

Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is a vibrant place filled with joy, where the sparkle of Cinderella Castle and exhilarating roller coasters create wonderful memories. If you’re planning a trip in 2025, you’ll find that the best rides at Magic Kingdom combine iconic classics, exciting new adventures, and family-friendly fun across six themed lands: Main Street, U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland.

This guide counts down my favorite Magic Kingdom rides to fuel your Disney dream. Spoiler: the #1 ride is a spooky classic you’ll never forget! Get ready for a thrilling journey through the park’s must-dos.

Disney has been my obsession since childhood, and now I cherish the tradition of sharing that magic with my wife, Jaimie, and our kids, Ben and Ava. Their excited gasps on thrilling rides and cheers during wild twists remind me why this place brings such pure joy. As a lifelong fan, I’ve dedicated myself to ranking the best Magic Kingdom rides for 2025.

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11. Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover

Category: Slow Ride
Height Requirement: None
Good for: All Ages
Journey: A relaxing tram tour through a futuristic cityscape

The Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover kicks off our countdown with its chill, futuristic charm. This 10-minute tram ride glides above Tomorrowland, offering unique views of Space Mountain and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. The narration shares fun facts about the land’s attractions, tying to Walt Disney’s vision of progress.

I love kicking back to soak in the park’s energy—it’s the perfect way to recharge. The relaxed pace makes it a favorite for everyone, especially older visitors like my wife and me, who appreciate some downtime from Disney’s thrilling rides. The retro design feels like a tribute to Disney’s optimistic vision for the future.

Ride at night when Tomorrowland’s lights pop. This scenic gem is a low-key delight. Pair it with a snack for a quick break.

10. Jungle Cruise

Category: Slow Ride
Height Requirement: None
Good for: All Ages
Journey: A humorous boat ride through an animatronic jungle expedition

Jungle Cruise in Adventureland sails into the best Magic Kingdom rides with its mix of exotic sights and skipper humor. Refreshed in 2021 with scenes like a stranded boat, this 10-minute ride navigates rivers from the Amazon to the Nile. Hippos, headhunters, and groan-worthy puns keep the fun rolling.

The comedic storytelling is a riot. I’m always cracking up at those cheesy jokes—they’re so bad they’re awesome. It’s a hit for all ages.

Ride in the afternoon when lines ease. A Lightning Lane pass helps on busy days. This classic delivers laughs and adventure.

9. “it’s a small world”

Category: Slow Boat Ride
Height Requirement: None
Good for: All Ages
Journey: A gentle boat ride through colorful animatronic global unity scenes

“it’s a small world” in Fantasyland is a joyful classic among Disney World rides. This iconic boat ride sails through vibrant scenes of animatronic dolls representing global cultures. They sing the Sherman Brothers’ catchy tune in different languages, spreading unity.

From Polynesian dancers to European castles, the colorful sets dazzle. I love the heartfelt message—it hits me every time. It’s ideal for cooling off or soothing younger guests.

The cheerful vibe suits all ages. Ride during midday for a relaxing break. This gem is pure Disney soul.

8. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Category: Thrill Ride, Small Drops
Height Requirement: 40in (102cm) or taller
Good for: Kids, Teens, Adults
Journey: A family-friendly coaster through a haunted Wild West mining town

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad may not be the flashiest or fastest roller coaster at Disney World, but it’s an attraction everyone should experience. It’s been one of my favorite rides in Magic Kingdom since I was a kid, and I always look forward to riding it whenever I visit.

Set in the 1850s-era Gold Rush ghost town of Tumbleweed, you’ll start your adventure by entering an abandoned mine shaft and stepping aboard a train that has lost its marbles.

As the train speeds along rickety old tracks, it catapults you through tunnels, swoops around sharp turns, and drops into deep canyons. Along the way, you’ll narrowly avoid falling boulders and dodge exploding dynamite.

The theming of the ride is fantastic, and it truly shines at night. Although it can be a bumpy ride with some dark sections, my son loves the bumpiness more than my daughter and wife do. Regardless, it remains one of those classic Disney World attractions that stands the test of time.

7. Peter Pan’s Flight

Category: Slow Ride, Small Drops
Height Requirement: None
Good for: All Ages
Journey: A whimsical dark ride soaring through an animatronic Never Land tale

Peter Pan’s Flight in Fantasyland soars as one of the best Magic Kingdom rides. Since 1971, this suspended dark ride flies you over London’s twinkling skyline and Never Land’s pirate cove, inspired by Disney’s 1953 film. Tinker Bell’s pixie dust and whimsical sets enchant all ages. Even in 2025, it remains one of Walt Disney World Resort’s most popular attractions (and tops our list of the best Disney rides for toddlers and preschoolers).

I can’t help but smile at those charming scenes—they’re pure magic. The innovative ride system feels like true flight. The interactive queue adds fun to the wait.

Lines can swell, so grab a Lightning Lane Multi Pass. This beloved classic is a Disney treasure. Ride it to feel like a kid again.

6. Space Mountain

Category: Thrill Ride, Big Drops, Dark
Height Requirement: 44in (112cm) or taller
Good for: Older Kids, Teens, Adults
Journey: A high-speed coaster through an animatronic starry space odyssey

Space Mountain in Tomorrowland is a galactic icon among Magic Kingdom rides. Since 1975, this indoor coaster rockets you through a pitch-black cosmos with sharp turns and drops. The starry queue sets an epic sci-fi mood.

I love the chaos of not knowing what’s next—it’s a cosmic party. The 44-inch height requirement suits older kids and adults. The retro-futuristic theming feels timeless.

Ride in the morning for shorter waits. This thrilling classic is a park must. The dark twists keep you guessing.

5. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Category: Thrill Ride, Water Ride, Big Drops
Height Requirement: 40in (102cm) or taller
Good for: Kids, Teens, Adults
Journey: A splashy flume ride through a lively, animatronic New Orleans fest

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Frontierland is a star among Disney World rides. Launched in 2024, it reimagines Splash Mountain with The Princess and the Frog flair, gliding through a Louisiana bayou. Audio-animatronics critters and jazz tunes lead to a 5-story waterfall drop. Be warned: riders can expect to get wet, especially those seated in the front of the ride.

I’m hooked on Tiana’s uplifting story—it’s so lively. Three smaller dips add family-friendly thrills, and the 40-inch height requirement suits kids and adults.

As of 2025, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure operates with a traditional standby queue, replacing the initial Virtual Queue used during its 2024 debut. Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for current queue procedures, as they can change depending on crowd levels.

2025 Tip: Keep an eye out for Princess Tiana in the Adventure Friends Cavalcade on Main Street, U.S.A.—a great way to catch more of the bayou magic without a long wait!

4. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

Category: Thrill Ride, Small Drops
Height Requirement: 38in (102cm) or taller
Good for: Younger Kids, Teens, Adults
Journey: A gentle coaster through an animatronic fairy-tale dwarf mining village

The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in Fantasyland is a standout attraction at Magic Kingdom. Opened in 2014, this coaster features a swaying ride through a diamond mine inspired by “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” Animatronic dwarfs sing “Heigh-Ho” as riders experience gentle drops along the way.

One of my daughter’s favorite things about the ride is the charming dwarfs. She lights up every time we spot them. The view from the summit overlooking Fantasyland is breathtaking, and with a height requirement of just 38 inches, it’s an excellent choice for younger kids who want a “grown-up” thrill ride.

Long wait times are common, so I recommend securing a Lightning Lane Single Pass. This family-friendly ride appeals to everyone, and the swaying carts add an exciting twist. The ride truly represents Disney at its finest.

3. Pirates of the Caribbean

Category: Slow Boat Ride, Small Drops, Dark
Height Requirement: None
Good for: All Ages
Journey: A family-friendly boat ride through animatronic pirate battles

Pirates of the Caribbean in Adventureland is a storytelling titan among Magic Kingdom rides. Since 1971, this boat ride dives into a pirate-plundered Caribbean with fiery towns and cannon battles. Buccaneers belt “Yo Ho, A Pirate’s Life for Me.”

I love the misty caverns and the big drop; they truly draw me in for an adventure and excite me. The immersive sound effects and atmospheric music continue to be fantastic, making scenes like the cannon battle feel vivid and real. Spotting Captain Jack Sparrow has always been a fun game for my wife and me, and now that our kids are old enough, we can all enjoy the experience together.

The single drop is gentle and safe for all ages. The queue outside the Spanish fort fully immerses you in the theme. This ride is truly a classic and a Disney masterpiece.

2. TRON Lightcycle Run

Category: Thrill Ride
Height Requirement: 48in (122cm) or taller
Good for: Older Kids, Teens, Adults
Journey: A thrilling coaster race through a glowing, high-tech digital universe

TRON Lightcycle / Run is an exhilarating ride and one of the best attractions at Magic Kingdom. Launched in 2023, this Tomorrowland coaster straps you into a Lightcycle for a thrilling race through the neon-lit Grid, inspired by Disney’s TRON films. The motorbike-style vehicles make the launch feel like a rocket.

I am obsessed with speeding through those glowing gates—it truly feels like you are part of the film. The nighttime canopy adds a spectacular sci-fi ambiance. With a height requirement of 48 inches, this ride is suitable for older kids and adults only.

Lines can be very long, so consider using a Lightning Lane Single Pass to minimize wait times. This ride is a game-changer, and I recommend aiming for an evening ride to fully enjoy the dazzling experience.

1. The Haunted Mansion

Category: Slow, Dark Ride
Height Requirement: None
Good for: All Ages
Journey: A family-friendly dark ride through a whimsical, animatronic ghost-filled manor

Topping the list of the best Magic Kingdom rides for 2025 is a fan-favorite that’s equal parts eerie and enchanting—The Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square. This timeless dark ride invites you into a mysterious estate filled with 999 happy haunts, each brought to life with stunning effects, clever illusions, and legendary Disney storytelling.

Every scene is packed with atmosphere and detail, from the stretching room to the ballroom of dancing ghosts. Even after dozens of rides, I still find something new to appreciate. My kids love the Hitchhiking Ghosts at the end—Ben always tries to guess which one will “follow” us home.

While the ride is dark and a little spooky, it’s never too scary for most kids. In fact, it strikes that perfect balance between fun and fright. The Doom Buggy’s smooth ride and the ghostly soundtrack are unforgettable. If you love immersive theming, this ride is a must.

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The Vacationeer’s Favorite Magic Kingdom Rides

It’s always helpful to check in with our favorite Disney World YouTubers and see what they say about the topic.

Here is a great video from The Vacationeer revealing their favorite rides at Magic Kingdom and the reasons why they picked them. Some of these will surprise you!

Be sure to subscribe to her channel and hit the bell icon so you don’t miss out on their new ride videos.

Expert Tips for Conquering Magic Kingdom in 2025

Peter Pan's Flight ride at Magic Kingdom

With over 30 attractions across six themed lands, it’s impossible to experience everything in one day at Magic Kingdom. Smart planning is key to making the most of your visit and avoiding long lines.

2025 Lightning Lane Strategy (Multi Pass & Single Pass)

As of 2025, Disney has updated the Lightning Lane system. Genie+ is now called Multi Pass, and Individual Lightning Lane is now Single Pass.

Top Priorities for Lightning Lane:

Single Pass (à la carte):
- TRON Lightcycle / Run
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
Multi Pass (formerly Genie+):
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
- Space Mountain
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Other rides to consider reserving during busy times:

Jungle Cruise
Pirates of the Caribbean
Haunted Mansion
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Tomorrowland Speedway

Best Times to Ride at Magic Kingdom

Rope Drop:
Arrive early to experience rides like Pirates of the Caribbean or Big Thunder Mountain with minimal waits.
Afternoon:
Haunted Mansion typically has shorter waits in the late afternoon.
During Fireworks:
TRON Lightcycle / Run often has shorter waits during the evening fireworks.

Family-Friendly Magic Kingdom Rides

Best for Young Kids:
Peter Pan’s Flight, “it’s a small world,” The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid.
Mild Thrills:
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train are perfect for most ages with light thrills.

Scariest Rides at Magic Kingdom

While Magic Kingdom is generally family-friendly, there are some attractions that can be a bit scarier for younger or more sensitive riders. Here are the scariest rides:

Space Mountain:
A high-speed indoor roller coaster in the dark with sudden drops and sharp turns.
The Haunted Mansion:
While it’s not overly intense, the spooky atmosphere and creepy characters can be unsettling for younger guests.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad:
A wild, fast roller coaster with sharp drops and turns set in a mining town.
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train:
A mild roller coaster with some darker scenes and swift drops.
Pirates of the Caribbean:
Though mostly mellow, it features a drop and some dark, eerie scenes that may be intense for younger riders.

Accessibility at Magic Kingdom

Many rides are wheelchair accessible, including:

Haunted Mansion
Pirates of the Caribbean
“it’s a small world”
PeopleMover

Stay Updated

As of mid-2025, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure utilizes a standby queue, although virtual queues may be reinstated during peak periods.

Always check the My Disney Experience app for real-time updates, Lightning Lane availability, and mobile ordering options. For dining recommendations, refer to our Magic Kingdom Dining Guide or consult an expert Disney-specialized travel agency like The Vacationeer.

How Many Rides Does Magic Kingdom Have?

Magic Kingdom spans 107 acres and is divided into six lands: Adventureland, Fantasyland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, Main Street, U.S.A., and Tomorrowland. The park features over 30 rides and attractions. See our Magic Kingdom Map, Disney World Map, and List of Magic Kingdom Rides.