Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World is a magical place with an endless array of rides that cater to everyone, no matter their age or thrill-seeking level. With so many options to choose from, it’s no surprise that everyone has their own list of favorite rides. That’s why I’m sharing our family’s go-to attractions: my picks as someone who prefers calmer rides, my husband’s thrill-seeker choices, and the favorites of our two boys, LP (8) and BP (13). Whether you’re a fan of high-speed thrills or slow, enchanting journeys, there’s something for everyone in our lineup!
My Favorites: Calm and Enchanting Rides
I’ll be honest—I’m not a fan of roller coasters. I’ve been on a few in the past and while I tolerate them, they don’t bring me much joy. I prefer the quieter, more immersive experiences where I can relax, enjoy the surroundings, and appreciate the creativity behind Disney’s rides. Here are a few of my all-time favorites:
Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
One of my absolute favorite rides is the PeopleMover in Tomorrowland. It’s not just because it’s a fun ride (although it certainly is!) but also because of the nostalgia it holds for me. This ride is a classic, offering a peaceful journey around Tomorrowland with some of the best views of the park. I’ve ridden it so many times, and each time brings back fond memories of previous visits.
I vividly remember riding it with the family when BP was 10 years old, back when he wasn’t a teenager prone to drama and LP was still just a little bundle of joy at 6. There’s something magical about cruising past Cinderella’s Castle, with the gentle hum of the ride and the excitement of seeing everything from above. It’s a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the park, and it’s one of those rides that always feels timeless.
Top Tip: Make sure to have your camera or phone ready when riding. As you pass by Cinderella’s Castle and other iconic landmarks, you’ll have a chance to grab some fantastic photos (though it can be tricky to snap the perfect shot while the ride is moving!).
Carousel of Progress
Another ride that holds a special place in my heart is Carousel of Progress. This attraction is perfect for a break from the heat and crowds, as it offers a cool, air-conditioned respite with comfy seating. The ride itself is a rotating theater that takes you through different eras of American progress, from the early 20th century to the future. The song “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” is incredibly catchy, and we always find ourselves humming it long after we’ve left the ride.
What I love about Carousel of Progress is how relaxing it is. It’s a nice, calm experience where you can sit back, take in the story, and escape the chaos of the park for a few minutes. It’s also one of those rides that doesn’t usually have a long wait, making it a great option when you need a break.
Top Tip: Don’t rush through it—take your time to appreciate the history and the nostalgia behind the attraction. It’s a fun, educational experience for the whole family!
Splash Mountain
Now, I know I said I don’t love roller coasters, but Splash Mountain is a different story. While it does have some drops, it’s not as intense as some of the bigger coasters, and the fun of getting drenched at the bottom of the drop makes it all worthwhile. Plus, the theme of the ride is so charming—based on the movie Song of the South, it follows the adventures of Br’er Rabbit as he tries to escape the clutches of Br’er Fox and Br’er Bear.
What makes Splash Mountain stand out for me is the combination of fun and humor. You’re not just focusing on the drops, you’re also enjoying the whimsical characters and the catchy tunes. The final plunge might get your heart racing, but once you’re soaked, the fear quickly fades into laughter.
Top Tip: Since this ride tends to get busy, I highly recommend booking a FastPass+ for Splash Mountain. It’s one of those rides that fills up quickly, so securing a spot will save you a lot of time in line.
Hubby’s Favorites: The Thrill-Seeker’s Picks
My husband is a true thrill-seeker—he’s the type who loves high-speed rides and big drops. His list is a bit more daring than mine, but there’s no denying the excitement he gets from these attractions. Here are his top picks:
Space Mountain
For my husband, Space Mountain is the ultimate adrenaline rush. This indoor roller coaster is fast, dark, and full of surprises, making it one of the most thrilling rides at Magic Kingdom. As someone who enjoys the rush of roller coasters, my husband is all about the twists and turns that happen in complete darkness, adding an element of mystery and suspense to the ride.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Another favorite for my husband is Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. This roller coaster through the wild west is fast, bumpy, and full of thrills. The theming is excellent, and the ride offers a fun mix of speed and excitement, without being as intense as Space Mountain. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who enjoys roller coasters but isn’t quite ready for something extreme.
LP & BP’s Favorites: Kid and Teen Thrills
Both of our boys have their own favorite rides, though their preferences are a bit different based on their ages and personalities. LP, at 8 years old, loves fun, whimsical rides with a touch of excitement, while BP, at 13, is more into high-energy thrill rides.
LP’s Favorite: The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
LP’s favorite ride is The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. This gentle ride through the Hundred Acre Wood is a perfect fit for him. With its bright colors, fun characters, and engaging storyline, LP finds this ride both magical and fun. He loves seeing Pooh and his friends interact with him on the ride, and it’s a great choice for families with younger children.
BP’s Favorite: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
BP, on the other hand, has a bit more of a taste for speed and excitement. His top pick is the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, a family-friendly roller coaster that delivers thrills with a fun twist. The ride’s gentle swaying and the breathtaking views of the mine make it a unique and exciting experience for BP, who loves roller coasters but enjoys them when they come with a bit of magic and storytelling.
Magic Kingdom truly has something for everyone, whether you’re into calm, immersive experiences or high-speed thrills. From the nostalgic PeopleMover to the exhilarating Splash Mountain, each ride offers its own kind of magic. The key is finding what works best for your family, whether you’re like me and prefer a bit of peace, or you’re chasing thrills like my husband and kids. Whatever your preference, one thing is for sure: Magic Kingdom is a place where unforgettable memories are made, and every ride is an adventure waiting to be had.