A Disneyland vacation is all about the rides. Whether you want something relaxing and gentle or fast-paced and thrilling, the Disney California parks have got you covered. Here are some of our picks for the Disneyland rides.
Matterhorn Bobsleds – Disneyland, Fantasyland
Visit Switzerland via California on the Matterhorn Bobsleds. Marvel at the use of clever forced perspective to create a huge replica of the mighty Matterhorn Mountain. The ride is one for thrill-seekers over 42” tall. With drops, splash zones, and speedy corners, you’ll feel like you’re at the Winter Olympics as you hurtle through Disney Anaheim’s version of The Alps.
Pirates of the Caribbean – Disneyland, New Orleans Square
If it’s a pirate’s life for you, hop aboard your ship and enjoy Disney’s most famous attraction. For over 50 years, the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland has been delighting swashbucklers of all ages. Hoist the colors and board your barge for a journey across the high seas.
After a busy morning’s plundering, head over to the Blue Bayou Restaurant. Next to the Pirates of the Caribbean, the restaurant is a Disneyland highlight for enjoying a delicious themed meal. The menu includes delicious New Orleans-inspired dishes such as gumbo and kid-friendly options. You can watch as guests embark on their own Pirates of the Caribbean adventure as they ride past the restaurant.
Space Mountain – Disneyland, Tomorrowland
Reach for the stars on a thrilling journey through the cosmos on Space Mountain. Explore nebulas, galaxies, and star fields on the interstellar voyage of a lifetime as you zoom through the universe. The park’s well-loved Space Mountain ride is located in Disneyland’s Tomorrowland zone. Space cadets need to be over 40” to board what is arguably the most famous of the Disneyland rides.
Indiana Jones Adventure – Disneyland, Adventureland
Grab your fedora and leather jacket for an expedition in the footsteps of Dr. Jones in the Indiana Jones Adventure. The ride is not really a rollercoaster, more of an off-road experience. Explorers over 46” tall clamber aboard troop transport vehicles for a high-speed ride through The Temple of the Forbidden Eye. Dodge angry mummies, swarms of insects, and furious serpents as you careen through the crumbling temple.
Of course, it wouldn’t be an Indiana Jones adventure without an appearance from the man himself, and a big rolling boulder. The Indiana Jones ride at Disneyland is one of the most popular in the parks. We recommend getting there early to avoid long waits. In the line, make sure to enjoy the interactive features and hidden details from the movies in the queuing area. Indiana Jones Adventure is currently undergoing a refurbishment but is sure to be back, and better-than-ever, very soon.
Alice in Wonderland – Disneyland, Fantasyland
Don’t be late for a very important date with Alice, the Mad Hatter, et al, on the family-friendly Alice in Wonderland Disneyland attraction. Suitable for young riders of any height, this gentle, surreal ride follows a magical pathway through Wonderland. You’ll drift past all your favorite characters, so keep your eyes open for unexpected delights. The Alice in Wonderland ride in Disneyland’s Fantasyland area is one of the best in the park for very young riders, as the speed is slow and the experience is enjoyable and calm.
Splash Mountain – Disneyland, Critter Country
Pack a change of clothes for when you tackle one of the wettest Disneyland rides; Splash Mountain. This thrilling log flume ride is for riders over 40” tall. Logs drift past whimsical singing animatronic characters, before plummeting down a 5 story drop. The ride has over 950000 gallons of water, so it’s safe to say that you’ll get a good soaking before the end. Splash Mountain is Disneyland California’s most famous water thrill ride, so get there early to avoid long lines.
Radiator Springs – Disney California Adventure, Cars Land
Start your ignition and rev your engines for a fun-filled joy ride through the wonderful world of Pixar’s Cars on the Radiator Springs at Disneyland California. Buckle up as you race along tracks through a beautifully designed landscape. Look out for all of your favorite characters. Lightning McQueen, Mater, and also Doc Hudson are all there to cheer you on from the side of the track. You need to be 40” to join the race.
Incredicoaster – Disneyland California Adventure, Pixar Pier
One for the thrill-seekers, strap in for the ride of your life on Disneyland’s Incredicoaster. With tunnels, special effects, and an incredible musical score by Incredibles composer Michael Giacchino, this is a must-ride for fans of the movies. This is one of the most thrilling roller coasters in Disney California. Riders need to be taller than 48” to ride.
Haunted Mansion – Disneyland, New Orleans Square
One of the resort’s most famous attractions is the Haunted Mansion ride at Disneyland. Chills and thrills are guaranteed on this creepy adventure in Walt Disney California’s very own haunted house. Riders of all ages can climb aboard a dastardly Doom Buggy and get to know the mansion’s ghoulish inhabitants. It’s suitable for young ghostbusters, although there are some areas of the house that could be frightening.
With a starring role in spooky seasonal celebrations, Haunted Mansion is Disneyland Halloween’s centerpiece. The ride is decked out in creepy set dressings as the supernatural inhabitants come out to celebrate. If you visit just before the event, the ride may be closed as it gets its Halloween costume on, so check the opening schedule beforehand.
Ariel’s Undersea Adventure – Paradise Gardens Park, Disney California Adventure
Find out if life really is ‘better down where it’s wetter’ on a watery, whimsical ride with Ariel, Sebastian, and Flounder. Great for riders of all ages, this gentle adventure is full of animatronics and is also soundtracked by some of the best-loved songs from The Little Mermaid.
Book your vacation home for Disney California with Top Villas
We have a fantastic selection of family villas in California, in and nearby Anaheim. If you’re going on a Disneyland vacation, stay in one of our incredible villas to experience the wonders of Disneyland parks from a luxury home away from home. Facilities in our beautiful vacation homes include private pools, games rooms, and private movie theatres.
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