Planning your Disneyland trip and feeling overwhelmed by all the options? I’ve been there…multiple times. I’ve stood at the hub, park map in hand, trying to figure out what’s actually worth the time and what can wait. So I put together this personal, strategic, and tested list of all the rides at Disneyland – from thrilling must-dos to the ones I now pass up unless I’m with a first-timer.
If you're looking for a complete, yet thoughtful, list of all the rides at Disneyland that includes what to prioritize and what to skip, this guide is for you.
Key Tips
- Start with Genie+ and virtual queue rides early in the day or book them through the app ASAP.
- Don’t sleep on Fantasyland, especially if you’re into classic Disney nostalgia-just go early to avoid long lines.
- Some rides are worth skipping, especially during peak hours or if you’re short on time (I'll share which ones below).
My Personalized List of All the Rides at Disneyland
This list is based on personal experience, multiple visits, and years of figuring out what’s worth it for different types of Disney days – whether you're visiting with kids, teens, adults, or just doing a solo day like I love to do. I’m only listing the rides that are the most worth it so you make the most of your time at Disneyland.
Indiana Jones Adventure (Adventureland)
This one is at the top of my list. It’s fast-paced, immersive, and has that signature Disney magic with real sets, fire effects, and a thrilling ride vehicle. The queue alone is an experience. If it’s your first time, don’t miss it. I recommend riding early or booking it with Genie+ – the line gets brutal by mid-morning.
Pirates of the Caribbean (New Orleans Square)
A classic. It's long, it’s cool (literally and figuratively), and the theming is top-notch. I like riding this during the hottest part of the day. It’s also usually one of the faster-moving lines in the park, so you get a lot of bang for your buck time-wise.
Haunted Mansion (New Orleans Square)

Another must. It's creepy but fun, and the seasonal overlays (especially the Nightmare Before Christmas version) are worth planning around. The queue moves fast, and I always ride this at least once per visit.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Frontierland)

This is the ride I always recommend for first-time thrill-seekers who aren’t quite ready for Space Mountain. It’s got charm, speed, and some great views of the park if you ride it at night. It’s especially fun in the dark when you can’t quite see the turns coming.
Space Mountain (Tomorrowland)
This one’s intense and awesome. I always feel like I’ve been launched into space (and I guess that’s the point). It's loud and dark and fast – but so worth it. If you only do one thrill ride, make it this one. It gets long lines early, so rope drop it or Genie+ it.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (Galaxy’s Edge)

Okay, this isn’t just a ride – it’s an experience. You’re actually in a Star Wars story, and it uses multiple ride systems in one. It’s hard to explain until you’ve done it. But it’s 100% worth the virtual queue hustle. If you’re only visiting for a day, make this a top priority.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (Toontown)
This one surprised me. I wasn’t expecting to love it as much as I did. It’s family-friendly, but it’s also visually wild in a way that feels fresh. The screen technology is impressive, but there are also some really clever physical sets that make it pop.
Peter Pan’s Flight (Fantasyland)
Honestly? It’s kind of overrated, but it’s a rite of passage. The ride itself is beautiful and charming, but the line moves so slowly. If you want to ride, do it first thing when the park opens. I usually skip it unless I'm with someone who’s never been.
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters (Tomorrowland)

Interactive rides are always a win in my book, and this one adds a little competition. I always try to max out my score using this strategy. The line is usually manageable and it's fun even for non-gamers.
Jungle Cruise (Adventureland)

I usually hit up Jungle Cruise at night for the best atmosphere. After riding it so much during the day and finally trying it at night, it feels like a completely different experience. I recommend immediately following it up with Indiana Jones and then Pirates of the Caribbean. The Jungle Cruise will never get old for me. The corny jokes and the more than fake animals, this ride has a nostalgic charm. By the way, the movie is really great too.
Rides I Skip (Usually)
These rides aren’t bad – they’re just not the best use of time if your visit is limited.
- Autopia – The line takes forever, and the ride smells like gasoline. Fun for kids, but one-and-done for me.
- Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage – Slow load times and claustrophobic. The visuals are cute, but I always feel stuck.
- Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin – Great theming, but the wait rarely feels worth it unless you're already in Toontown.
- Snow White’s Enchanted Wish – I love the updated effects, but it's short and the line can still get long. I usually only ride it if there’s no wait.
- Pinocchio’s Daring Journey – A little too dated and dark (in tone and lighting). Skip it unless you’re a Disney animation completist.
- Storybook Land Canal Boats – Charming, sure… but slow loading and not worth the time unless you’re with little ones.
- King Arthur Carrousel – Beautiful and classic, but I’d rather ride something with more storytelling or thrill.
- Casey Jr. Circus Train – Like Storybook Land, it’s cute for kids but not essential.
- Astro Orbiter – One of the most awkward load/unload processes in the park and not much of a thrill. I’ll take Dumbo over this any day.
Want to add an extra layer of fun to your park day? Keep an eye out for Hidden Mickeys while you're exploring the rides. These clever little nods to Mickey Mouse are tucked into attraction queues, murals, and scenery all around the park. Here's our guide to spotting Hidden Mickeys at Disneyland – it’s like a secret scavenger hunt woven into your day.
How many rides are at Disneyland in total?
Disneyland has over 40 attractions, including dark rides, thrill rides, shows, and walk-through experiences. Not all are traditional “rides,” but they’re all considered attractions in Disney lingo.
What's the most intense ride at Disneyland?
Space Mountain and Indiana Jones Adventure are probably tied for intensity. If you include Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, it’s intense in a different, more immersive way rather than physically.





