Welcome to the enchanting realm of the Magic Kingdom attractions!
As much as we adore the magic and wonder that permeates every corner of this beloved park, let’s face it: time at Disney World is precious, and sometimes tough choices must be made.
With over 65 attractions at Magic Kingdom, you probably won’t be able to check them all out in one day.
But chances are, not all of these attractions will be your idea of fun.
Whether you’re visiting for a single day or simply looking to make the most of your time, this list should help you experience the absolute best rides at Magic Kingdom.
Let’s dive into this adventure together, armed with knowledge and a touch of pixie dust, as we explore the seven Magic Kingdom attractions you might consider bypassing to make room for even more enchantment and joy during your visit.
This post is all about the 7 worst Magic Kingdom attractions you might want to skip during your one-day visit.
The 7 Most Skippable Magic Kingdom Attractions List
1. Jungle Cruise
Highlights: Slow boat ride with animatronic animals
Location: Adventureland
This classic attraction takes you on a boat tour along the exotic rivers of Asia, Africa, and South America, offering a delightful blend of humour, adventure, and stunning scenery.
As you board your trusty jungle boat, you’ll be greeted by a witty and pun-loving skipper who will guide you through this entertaining expedition.
The journey begins with a tranquil glide through lush landscapes, where you’ll encounter a variety of animatronic wildlife, from playful elephants to mischievous monkeys.
Perhaps best of all, it was an opening day attraction at Disneyland (on July 17th, 1955) and was also an opening day attraction at Disney World (on October 1st, 1971). It is incredible to experience an attraction that is so many decades old.
However, despite its extreme popularity, there are better boat-style attractions than Jungle Cruise (in my unpopular opinion).
If you were choosing between this and Pirates of the Caribbean, for example (another “boat-style attraction”), I choose Pirates. It has a more gripping storyline and more impressive animatronics.
If you choose to ride Jungle Cruise, be aware of the long wait times. Or, you can purchase Genie+, but be mindful that Jungle Cruise books up FAST!
2. Astro Orbiter
Highlights: Spinning, high, slower ride
Location: Tomorrowland
For those with dreams of intergalactic travel and a longing to explore the cosmos, Disney World’s Astro Orbiter offers the perfect opportunity to take flight among the stars (as long as you’re riding this attraction in the evening).
As you approach Astro Orbiter, you’ll notice a towering rocket structure beckoning you to embark on a celestial journey.
The ride’s premise is simple – you’ll sit inside one of the sleek rocket ships, each equipped with a control lever that allows you to determine the height of your flight.
As you rise higher and higher, the breathtaking views of Tomorrowland and the Magic Kingdom unfold below you.
Although this attraction can be fun, it isn’t the most unique ride.
Similar attractions include Dumbo the Flying Elephant and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin (another skippable ride).
Unless you want to try more variations of these rides, Astro Orbiter is a Magic Kingdom attraction that can be skipped.
RELATED POST: One Day at Magic Kingdom: The Top 7 Disney World Magic Kingdom Attractions to Prioritise
3. The Barnstormer
Height Restriction: 35in (89cm) +
Highlights: Minimal speed, small drops
Location: Fantasyland
The Barnstormer is a family-friendly junior coaster in the heart of Fantasyland.
The Barnstormer invites you to step into the world of Goofy. The ride’s theme is centred around Goofy’s daredevil aspirations as a stunt pilot.
What sets The Barnstormer apart is its accessibility for younger riders. While it provides a taste of the excitement of a roller coaster, it’s designed to be less intense than some of the park’s more thrilling rides, making it perfect for children who want to experience their first coaster.
Unless you are travelling with younger kids, The Barnstormer is easily missable. It is a short junior coaster, which doesn’t compare to roller coasters at Magic Kingdom – like Big Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain (geared to a slightly older audience).
4. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Highlights: Slow rides, some spinning (optional & controlled by you to help you find other targets)
Location: Tomorrowland
On Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, you have been enlisted as a Space Ranger in the epic battle against the evil Emperor Zurg.
The premise is simple: you are recruited to join Buzz Lightyear and his Space Rangers to defeat Emperor Zurg, who is intent on stealing batteries from other toys.
Once aboard your Space Cruiser, you’ll be armed with a laser blaster, ready to take on Zurg’s minions and thwart his sinister plans. The ride vehicle is mounted on a rotating platform, allowing you to spin a full 360 degrees, ensuring that no target is out of reach.
Your mission is to aim your blaster at various targets throughout the attraction, each adorned with point values. By hitting these targets, you’ll accumulate points, and your cruiser’s onboard computer will keep track of your score. The more precise your aim, the higher your score will climb.
But the real magic of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is the competitive element – to see who can earn the highest score.
Disclaimer: I am absolutely not speaking negatively about this ride because I’ve never won. I would definitely not be bitter about something trivial like that …
Although an interactive ride can be fun, there are better attractions at Magic Kingdom.
It’s a good ride, but not exactly a novel concept in the 2020s.
5. Mad Tea Party
Height Restriction: Any height
Highlights: Spinning teacups
Location: Fantasyland
On this classic Disneyland and Disney World Opening Day attraction, you can step into the world of Alice in Wonderland by taking a spin in oversized teacups.
The cluster of oversized teacups are adorned with unique patterns and colours. Once seated, you’ll find a giant spinning wheel in the centre of the cup. This wheel lets you control the speed and intensity of your teacup’s spin.
Chances are we’ve all been on some version of “the teacups” at a theme park – owned and operated by Disney or not.
If you like these types of attractions, you’ll love it! But if you find these types of attractions boring, riding Mad Tea Party probably won’t change your mind.
RELATED POST: The Ultimate Magic Kingdom Ride List for Attractions without Height Requirements
6. Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
Height Restriction: Any height
Highlights: Slow spinning, traditional carrousel – but inspired by Cinderella
Location: Fantasyland
This timeless, classic carousel ride invites you to take a spin on beautifully adorned horses and creatures straight out of your favourite Disney stories.
Once again, we have probably all gone on a carousel attraction before, so it isn’t overly special.
However, if you want to ride it, I recommend waiting until it’s dark, as Fantasyland looks so pretty at night.
7. Tomorrowland Speedway
Highlights: You get to “drive”! 🚗
Location: Tomorrowland
This family-friendly ride allows all guests who meet the height requirements to “drive” a car.
Once you’re seated and ready to roll, the real adventure begins. You’ll navigate your race car along a winding track.
While the speed of the cars is controlled, you can accelerate and decelerate, giving you a sense of autonomy as you manoeuvre through the course.
The Tomorrowland Speedway attraction offers a unique perspective of Tomorrowland, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of the land as you race around the track.
You’ll pass under bridges, zip past water features, and catch glimpses of Tomorrowland attractions like Space Mountain and the PeopleMover.
One of the ride’s highlights is the feeling of wind in your hair as you pick up speed and the sensation of being in control of your own vehicle (though these cars are almost impossible to “steer”! Of course, this has nothing to do with my driving skills).
It’s a particularly enjoyable experience for younger guests who may not have had the opportunity to drive a car before.
However, this probably won’t be that exciting to you if you have a driver’s licence.
From experience, this attraction was a lot more fun as a kid. As an adult, this isn’t quite as exciting.
Honorable Mention: TRON Lightcycle / Run
Height Restriction: 48in (122cm) +
Highlights: Fast, thrilling, dark with drops
Location: Tomorrowland
I know, this may be surprising, as TRON was the long-awaited, supposedly innovative roller coaster coming to make Tomorrowland feel futuristic again.
In my experience, this isn’t true. Sure, the bike-style seats are certainly unique (and they make the experience feel strange – in comparison to other roller coasters at Disney World).
But other than that, it’s just a generic roller coaster. And, if you ask me, does not take the “best attraction in Tomorrowland” label away from Space Mountain.
Ta Ta For Now
While the Magic Kingdom is filled with enchanting and memorable attractions, only certain rides are a perfect fit for some guests.
We’ve explored some of the Magic Kingdom rides and attractions that, while they might have their own unique charm, can be skipped if you’re looking to make the most of your day at this beloved park.
Remember, Magic Kingdom offers diverse experiences, and what might not be your cup of tea could be someone else’s favourite. Your Disney World adventure is all about personal preferences and creating magical moments that resonate with you.
So, embrace the magic, prioritise your favourites, and let the wonder of the Magic Kingdom fill your day with joy and unforgettable memories.
This post was a Magic Kingdom list of attractions you might want to skip during your one-day visit.
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Hi there! I'm an English 🏴 Disney fan who drinks a lot of iced green tea ☕️ with lemon 🍋 and spends most of my time missing the Disney parks! ✨