Planning a trip to the happiest place on earth? Make sure you hit the best rides at Disneyland on your vacation! With so many attractions to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start! To help you make the most of your magical day, I’ve rounded up the top 10 must-do rides at Disneyland — all based on fan favorites. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Disney regular, these rides capture the heart, history, and magic of Disneyland Park

Rides At Disneyland

Here’s the list of must do rides at Disneyland! I have a full Disneyland ride guide for every attraction in the park with height requirements, Lightning lane info and more that will be helpful too!

1. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

An absolute game-changer in theme park attractions, Rise of the Resistance is often called the best ride Disney has ever created. It’s an immersive, multi-phase experience that puts you in the middle of a Star Wars battle. Even non-Star Wars fans are blown away by the cutting-edge technology and storytelling.

Tip: This ride often has long waits are longest early in the day because everyone goes there first! Check out this video for info about the best time to ride Rise of the Resistance for the shortest waits.

2. Haunted Mansion

A spooky, silly classic that’s beloved by fans of all ages. The Haunted Mansion blends incredible special effects with Disney’s signature storytelling, making it a can’t-miss. From the chilling “stretching room” to the ghostly ballroom scene, every moment is packed with detail.

Bonus: During Halloween time and the holidays, it transforms into Haunted Mansion Holiday featuring The Nightmare Before Christmas!

3. Pirates of the Caribbean

This original Disneyland ride set the standard for theme park attractions around the world. Pirates of the Caribbean is a leisurely boat ride through scenes of pirate mischief, packed with stunning sets, catchy music, and impressive animatronics.

Fun Fact: Walt Disney himself had a hand in designing this ride — and it shows!

4. Indiana Jones Adventure

Looking for thrills? Indiana Jones Adventure delivers with high-speed turns, boulder chases, and unexpected surprises around every corner. It’s one of the most detailed and thrilling rides in Disneyland, and a must for any adventure seeker.

Tip: This ride is especially popular in the afternoons, so ride early if you can or use Lightning Lane Multipass to skip the long lines!

5. Space Mountain

A Disneyland icon! Space Mountain combines speed, darkness, and an epic soundtrack into an unforgettable indoor roller coaster experience. It’s thrilling without being too intense, making it a fan-favorite for teens and adults alike.

Pro Tip: Ask a cat member if you can sit in the front row! It’s the best seat in the house!

6. Peter Pan’s Flight

One of the most beloved Fantasyland rides, Peter Pan’s Flight takes you soaring over London and Neverland in a pirate ship. Though it’s a short ride, the enchanting scenes and nostalgic charm make it well worth the wait.

Tip: Lines for this attraction are always long. Ride it during Early entry if you’re staying on property or ride it in the evening. Avoid it during the first part of the day when lines are longest.

7. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Known as “the wildest ride in the wilderness,” Big Thunder Mountain is a family-friendly roller coaster that speeds through a haunted gold mine. Fans love its perfect mix of thrills and theme — and the nighttime ride experience is even better!

Tip: The farther back you sit on this attraction, the wilder the ride!

8. Matterhorn Bobsleds

The Matterhorn was the world’s first tubular steel roller coaster and remains a Disneyland staple. Racing through icy caverns and past the Abominable Snowman, it’s a thrilling and historic experience you can only have at Disneyland Park.

Fun Fact: There’s a basketball hoop hidden inside the mountain for cast members!

9. It’s a Small World

No trip to Disneyland is complete without a ride through It’s a Small World. This charming boat ride celebrates cultures around the globe with colorful sets and the iconic (and catchy) theme song. It’s classic Disney magic at its finest.

Holiday Bonus: During the holiday season, the ride transforms into It’s a Small World Holiday with festive decorations and music.

10. Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Simple? Yes. Iconic? Absolutely. Dumbo the Flying Elephant holds a special place in Disneyland history — and in many fans’ hearts. It’s one of Walt Disney’s original ideas for Fantasyland and continues to delight guests young and old.

Tip: For a magical moment, ride Dumbo during sunset!

---

Take the Stress Out of Your Trip With a Touring Plan!

Want to make sure you experience all of these incredible rides — without spending your whole day waiting in long lines? I’ve created custom Disneyland touring plans that take the guesswork out of your day! My plans are easy to follow and designed to help you maximize your time, skip the long waits, and hit all the must-do attractions. Whether you’re visiting with little ones, thrill seekers, or a multi-generational group, I’ve got a plan that fits your needs.
Click here to check out my Disneyland touring plans!

Trust me, a good plan can be the difference between a stressful day and a truly magical one.

Save Money on Disneyland Tickets!

Before you go, make sure you’re getting the best deal on your Disneyland tickets! I always recommend booking through my trusted travel partners. You’ll not only save money on park tickets and hotel stays, but you’ll also get access to extra perks like free nights and discounted rates.
You can click here to check current deals or call 855-GET-AWAY and be sure to tell them Mix In Some Magic sent you for the very best pricing!

---

Final Thoughts

While every Disneyland ride has its own magic, these ten attractions are consistently voted fan favorites — and for good reason! Whether you’re seeking thrills, nostalgia, or pure Disney storytelling, this list of the best rides at Disneyland will help you experience the very best that Disneyland has to offer.

Make sure to check out my YouTube videos for helpful info and my podcast for lots of Disney planning information! You can find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Just search for “Mix In Some Magic” Follow me on Instagram or Facebook for lots of Disney tips and fun and make sure you join my Disney planning Facebook group! It’s a great place to ask all your Disneyland planning questions and get expert help.

What’s your favorite Disneyland ride? Let me know in the comments — and happy park hopping!