Looking for a Disneyland attraction guide? You’ve come to the right place! When it comes to rides and attractions, Disneyland park in California has you covered. It is, after all, the original Disney theme park! Here is everything you need to know (and more) about the Disneyland attractions as you plan your vacation! *This post may contain affiliate links. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. Planning a Disneyland vacation in 2024? Be sure to check out our guide to all that the Disneyland Resort has to offer this year including the return of the Disneyland Half Marathon, the grand opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and more!
In This PostUpdate… Disney has replaced FastPass and MaxPass with the brand new Disney Genie and Disney Genie+. The new system is very similar to Disneyland’s MaxPass as it is an add-on purchase allowing you to make “Lightning Lane” reservations throughout your day in the parks. There is also the option to purchase Individual Attraction reservations for select top-tier attractions. For more information, be sure to visit our guide. Happy Planning!
If you’re seeking an exciting and thrilling experience, look no further than Adventureland at the Disneyland Resort. This iconic land is designed to transport guests to captivating and exotic locations, where adventure and exploration await at every turn. With its rich history as one of the original areas in Disneyland, Adventureland is home to some of Disney’s most beloved rides that have been delighting visitors for countless years. Among its notable attractions are the Indiana Jones Adventure and the Jungle Cruise, both of which ignite the explorer within all of us.
Climb aboard a rugged ride vehicle for a thrilling journey through a perilous temple. Brace yourself for encounters with dart shooters, lava pits, and creepy crawlers. Prepare for heart-pounding moments as a gigantic boulder looms overhead. With cutting-edge ride technology and elaborate sets, this unforgettable experience offers multiple ride variations, ensuring endless excitement for repeat adventurers.
Jungle CruiseThe iconic Jungle Cruise ride in Disneyland offers a relaxing boat tour of some of the most remote rivers around the world. Passengers are entertained by a knowledgeable skipper guide who provides humorous narration and lighthearted (often corny) jokes throughout the journey.
Get ready to be enchanted by one of Disney’s timeless classics! This show boasts a remarkable cast of 225 Audio-Animatronics, guaranteed to have you singing in no time. (Just a heads up, you might find yourself humming them throughout your entire vacation!)
**Be sure to visit our full guide to Adventureland for more information about dining and entertainment!
Critter Country at the Disneyland Resort is home to the iconic Splash Mountain attraction… soon to be Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (opening late 2024). This smaller land has experienced significant changes throughout the years. Despite these transformations, Critter Country has retained its enchanting Pacific Northwest ambiance, even with the noteworthy addition of The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Even though it’s smaller in size compared to other “lands” in Disneyland, Critter Country is a must-see. And this will become even more true once Tiana’s Bayou Aventure opens.
Paddle in a canoe down the Rivers of America. This ride is only open seasonally and when the weather permits.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the PoohTake a ride in a giant beehive through the hundred-acre wood in this slow-moving, dark ride.
It was announced some time ago that the iconic Splash Mountain would be reimagined, and Splash Mountain closed permanently on May 30, 2023, to begin work on this project. This rethemed water flume ride will open in late 2024 and will be welcoming Tiana and her friends for a brand new Princess and the Frog theme.
**Be sure to visit our full guide to Critter Country for more information about dining and entertainment!
Perhaps one of the most iconic lands in all of the Disney parks, Fantasyland takes you to a time and place when you were a child and magic was real. And even though this section of the park seems to be a bit more “kid-oriented” than the rest, it’s easily one of the most popular areas. From Dumbo the Flying Elephant to Peter Pan’s Flight, these rides were designed to spark the kid inside us all. It’s also one of the best sections of the park to visit first when you have small children and are wanting to introduce them to the Disney ride experience.
It’s worth noting that many of the attractions in Fantasyland are open during Early Entry. Also, keep in mind that a few of the rides need to close during the fireworks each night as well.
A colorful caterpillar takes you through Wonderland. It is a slow-moving, dark ride accommodating 4-6 people per caterpillar.
This slow-moving ride allows you to travel in a circus train behind Casey Jr.
Dumbo the Flying ElephantThis extremely famous slow-moving, spinning attraction allows you to soar around and around inside Dumbo the flying elephant!
“it’s a small world”Sail around the world in this slow-moving boat ride as you listen to dolls from around the world singing in harmony. (Yes, this song will be stuck in your head for the rest of the day!)
Enjoy a beautiful old-fashioned carousel ride that is original to the park.
Mad Tea PartyMad Tea Party is one of the most iconic rides at Disneyland. Climb into a brightly-colored teacup and spin under a canopy of colorful lanterns. Try not to get dizzy!
Take a ride in a bobsled on either the Tomorrowland or Fantasyland side. This attraction can be a bit rough and bumpy, and you should also be prepared for sharp turns!
This quick (and sometimes scary) dark ride is only found at Disneyland Park. It is worth noting that this attraction can be a bit scary for younger children as you make your way through scary scenes taking you literally through hell and back.
Hop aboard a pirate ship and “fly” above Neverland in this slow-moving dark ride!
Experience the thrilling adventure of Pinocchio as he embarks on a captivating journey after his strings are cut at Stromboli’s Puppet Theatre. This dark ride includes a lively carnival, a nerve-wracking encounter with Monstro the Whale, and a heartwarming relief when the Blue Fairy makes her appearance.
Sleeping Beauty Castle WalkthroughThis is not a ride, but rather a walkthrough journey through Princess Aurora’s castle. (Be aware that the corridors can be narrow and there are stairs to climb.)
Step into Snow White’s adventures with the Evil Queen keeping a close eye. The revamped attraction, renamed in 2021, is now much less scary for kids and features a happy ending that they will love.
Sail in a slow-moving boat enjoying scenes of miniature fairy tales.
This open-air medieval-style tent features some of your favorite Disney fairytales reenacted live on stage. The entire show is about 25 minutes long.
Celebrate The Lion King with this uplifting 24-minute live show.
**Be sure to visit our full guide to Fantasyland for more information about dining and entertainment!
Frontierland at the Disneyland Resort is truly special. As one of the original lands at Disneyland Park, visitors are immersed in the spirit of the American West during the 1800s. Here, guests can experience the adventurous atmosphere of riverboats, stagecoaches, and railroads, reminiscent of a time when cowboys, farmers, and miners journeyed westward to chase their dreams of finding gold. The attractions in Frontierland capture the essence of this era, including the renowned Mark Twain Riverboat, the Sailing Ship Columbia, and the iconic Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
Big Thunder Mountain RailroadThe family coaster offers an exhilarating experience as guests race through caves and an old mine shaft on a runaway train.
This shooting arcade-like game allows guests to take aim at nearly 100 targets. *You must purchase credits to play, and one credit will get you approximately 25 shots.
Step aboard a magnificent steam-powered paddler, where you’ll be transported to a time over a hundred years ago to marvel at the breathtaking landscapes and serenity of frontier living. Embark on a round trip cruise along the Rivers of America, encircling Pirates Lair on Tom Sawyer Island.
Take a log raft across the Rivers of America to retrace the steps of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn when they ran away to live as pirates. Once on the island, everything is self-guided.
Sail into the wilderness on this full-scale replica of an 18th-century ship. (This boat ride doesn’t always operate on days with lower attendance.)
**Be sure to visit our full guide to Frontierland for more information about dining and entertainment!
Nothing says Disney like Main Street, U.S.A. at the Disneyland Resort. As you step foot into the park, it is this charming street that warmly welcomes you, whether it is your first visit or your hundredth. Offering a delightful array of restaurants, shops, and nostalgic entertainment, Main Street, U.S.A. captivates with its abundance of things to see and do. And as you stroll along, it eventually leads you to the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle in the distance. Additionally, throughout the year, Main Street, U.S.A. hosts seasonal spectacles such as fireworks, entertainers, and parades, adding even more enchantment to the experience.
View Disney-inspired artwork along with rare or historic theme park concept models and memorabilia.
This 18-minute train ride makes stops at Main Street, U.S.A., New Orleans Square, Mickey’s Toontown, and Tomorrowland. Not only is it fun (and relaxing) to ride, but it may save you some walking if you are heading to any of these destinations within the park.
This is actually two attractions in one with the Disneyland Story in the lobby area of the Opera House and Great Moments playing in the theater. Enjoy a 15-minute show starring an audio-animatronic Abraham Lincoln.
Enjoy classic shorts such as Steamboat Willie and Mickey’s Polo Team.
Main Street VehiclesRide from one end of Main Street to the other in a horse-drawn streetcar, a Jitney, a vintage fire engine, or an omnibus.
**Be sure to visit our full guide to Main Street, U.S.A. for more information about dining and entertainment!
Mickey’s Toontown at the Disneyland Resort, which originally opened in January 1993, offers a whimsical and vibrant land to discover. Although it features a few rides, the majority of the attractions are not traditional rides, but rather immersive areas to wander and explore. Visitors can venture through Minnie’s house, frolic in the newly added CenTOONial Park, and even meet and capture photos with the iconic Mickey Mouse. It truly is a delightful place to leisurely stroll, embrace your inner child, and enjoy the magical atmosphere. And recently, Mickey’s Toontown underwent a revitalization, introducing exciting new experiences such as the Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway!
*Be aware that Toontown typically closes for fireworks.
This new area is the first space guests encounter when they enter Mickey’s Toontown, and it is a natural space “anchored by two interactive play experiences.” It features a fountain (designed for play) and water tables for some additional fun. The fountain also transforms at night into a “unique spectacle.” Nearby, there is a “dreaming tree” inspired by the tree Walt Disney would daydream under as a child. The sculpted tree roots also provide children with an opportunity for play.
Experience the thrills of Chip ‘n’ Dale’s GADGETcoaster, a unique and exciting roller coaster designed by Toontown’s beloved inventor, Gadget Hackwrench, specifically for the little ones.
This splash area allows guests to look inside the boat through the portholes, where they can interact with favorite ducklings Huey, Dewey, Louie, and Webby.
This new, elevated clubhouse features a delightful sound garden where children can explore unique methods of creating fun and silly sounds.
Embark on a captivating, self-guided tour of Mickey Mouse’s home for an exclusive peek into his life. After the tour, you’ll have the chance to meet Mickey himself, offering an unforgettable experience to capture photos, exchange hugs, and simply enjoy quality time with the iconic character.
Minnie’s charming house stands out as the most adorable residence in Toontown. Visitors have the chance to explore the interior through a self-guided tour and might even have the opportunity to encounter Minnie herself! Check the Disneyland Mobile App for her meet-and-greet schedule.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway RailwayJoin Minnie and Mickey for a picnic in the park only for everything to suddenly go wrong! This trackless ride will take you through multiple scenes featuring all of your favorite Disney characters. Visit a carnival, go under the sea, and even take a dance class with Daisy!
Take a “spin” in a runaway taxi through the streets of Toontown as you follow the adventures of Roger Rabbit.
**Be sure to visit our full guide to Mickey’s Toontown for more information about dining and entertainment!
Loosely based on 19th-century New Orleans, Louisiana, New Orleans Square at the Disneyland Resort is truly unique. In fact, it can’t be found in any other Disney theme park. Its first major ride was Pirates of the Caribbean, followed by the Haunted Mansion two years later. Needless to say, these rides are still considered to be favorites among park-goers young and old. And it’s also worth mentioning the restaurants… the most famous being the Blue Bayou Restaurant located within the Pirates of the Caribbean ride itself.
Climb aboard your Doom Buggy for Disney’s version of a haunted house!
Pirates of the CaribbeanThis slow-moving boat ride (with the exception of a couple of small drops) takes you right into the middle of an epic pirate battle. You may even catch a glimpse of Captain Jack Sparrow!
**Be sure to visit our full guide to New Orleans Square for more information about dining and entertainment!
Whether you love Star Wars or not, this area of Disneyland is a must-visit. It features notable attractions like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. These rides offer fully immersive experiences that can be enjoyed by both fans and non-fans of the franchise.
This simulator attraction allows you to fly the Millennium Falcon, a dream come true for many Star Wars fans! There are three “jobs” onboard – pilot, gunner, and engineer. The pilot definitely has the best view yet the most difficult job. I highly recommend that younger children be gunners as it’s the easiest job. Engineers sit in the back, but unlike the gunners, they get to do more than simply hit a couple of buttons.
Star Wars: Rise of the ResistanceYou don’t have to be a Star Wars fan to appreciate the level of detail on this attraction. From start to finish, this ride is quite an immersive experience. While Disney rides are known for their storylines, this ride takes it a step further. You become a prisoner of the First Order. The cast members running the ride never break character making the experience unlike any other.
As far as the ride itself, be prepared for a trackless ride as you escape from the clutches of Kylo Ren and the First Order. Also, be aware that there is a small drop near the end of the ride. This ride uses a similar mechanism as Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! in California Adventure, but it is a much smaller drop.
**Be sure to visit our full guide to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for more information about dining and entertainment!
It’s no secret that Tomorrowland at the Disneyland Resort was one of Walt Disney’s favorite sections of the park. He was fascinated by space travel and all that the future could bring. Over the years, Tomorrowland has had to undergo some major renovations as the things of tomorrow quickly became the things of today. And presently, it looks quite a bit different than it once did as it now embraces more science fiction in an effort to remain current. Regardless of how it has changed over the years, there really is something for everybody including submarine voyages, a roller coaster in “space,” and even the chance for kids to drive their own gas-powered car.
Climb aboard to fly your own rocket ship high above Tomorrowland in this iconic high-flying, spinning attraction.
Experience driving a real gas-powered vehicle through a miniature speedway in Tomorrowland.
In this slow-moving, dark ride, take aim as you fight off the Evil Emperor Zurg! This video-game-like attraction is a lot of fun and very interactive for young and not-so-young alike.
No trip to Disneyland would be complete without a ride on the classic Disneyland Monorail!
Finding Nemo Submarine VoyageIn this slow-moving, submarine ride, you will take a journey into the world of Nemo and his friends. It is worth noting that this ride is somewhat enclosed in a tighter-than-usual space.
What’s not to love about a space-themed roller coaster in the dark?? (Seasonally, this ride is given a Star Wars overlay and is renamed “Hyperspace Mountain.”)
Featuring some of your favorite Star Wars characters both past and present, this 3D simulator ride is one you definitely don’t want to skip… especially if you’re a fan of Star Wars!
**Be sure to visit our full guide to Tomorrowland for more information about dining and entertainment!
Print out our free checklist below to keep track of all your must-see rides at Disneyland! And be sure to visit our resource library for more free printables to simplify your Disney vacation planning!
And be sure to visit the official Disneyland website for more information about your favorite rides and attractions!
