Attractions for People who Hate Rides – Magic Kingdom

In this new series I suggest attractions at Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Resort that will appeal to those Guests who dislike traditional amusement park rides. There may be many reasons why someone can’t or won’t get on a ride. They may be too short, too heavy, or too big. They may have medical problems or be pregnant. Or they may just dislike fast rides and long lines. No matter the reason everyone deserves to have a happy time at the Disney parks. The following attractions can be enjoyed by everyone and may even bring a smile to the most reluctant Guest. Today we will explore the Magic Kingdom.

I was pleasantly surprised at the number of attractions at the Magic Kingdom that could be enjoyed by anyone. Too often it is the fast rides that are first mentioned when describing this park. While Space Mountain and Splash Mountain are great fun for some Guests if you only enjoyed the following 10 attractions you would have a wonderful day at the Magic Kingdom

5 Magic Kingdom attractions for people who hate rides:

1) Mickey’s Philharmagic. This 3-D movie is fun for the whole family. In it Donald tries to use Mickey’s Sorcerers hat and chaos ensues. This show includes everyone’s favorite Disney characters from a variety of movies. You’ll be laughing at Donald’s antics and singing along with memorable songs. I never miss this attraction.

2) Jungle Cruise. This attraction is wildly popular for a good reason. It isn’t just because it is an enjoyable ride through the rivers of the world. No, guests stand in line for this ride over and over because the river guides are gut-busting funny. Each of the guides adds different jokes and gags to the basic script so no two trips are the same.  It is perfectly silly.

3) Carousel of Progress. This is a unique ride that has it roots at the 1964 World’s Fair. The attraction tells the story of how technology has changed one family over the last century. The auditorium rotates between scenes with a catchy tune carrying you into the next era. If you are with someone who hates to stand in line then this ride should not be missed. The lines are usually shorter when an attraction has auditorium seating.

4) Enchanted Tiki Room. When this ride was “under new management” I didn’t care if I missed it or not. But since they have restored it to its original story I recommend that everyone catch this birdbrained show. To get the full show line up outside ten or fifteen minutes early and watch the Tiki gods preshow. After enjoying the show head over to Aloha Isle and pick up a Dole Whip. You’ll feel like you traveled with the birds down to the tropics.

5) Walt Disney World Railroad. Few rides are more connected to Walt Disney than the railroad. He was so into trains that he had a miniature one at his home that ran all over his backyard. These trains are pulled by real steam engines and are a great way to relax and get a view of the entire park. The busiest place to pick up the train is at the Main Street Station so if you don’t like lines consider one of the other stations in the park, such as at Frontierland.

5 more attractions that anyone will enjoy:

6) it’s a small world. This enchanting ride gets knocked as being just a kids ride, but if you get past the kitschy song and look at the many dolls you’ll notice the detail that went into each scene. It is a fun ride that often has a long line which proves how loved this ride is.

7) The parades and fireworks shows. The afternoon parades are a great way to take a break from a busy day. Get a snack and find a place to watch the show. The Cast Members often entertain the Guests before the parade so it is worth it to find a good seat early. Check the event schedule when you enter the park to see what time the parades and fireworks will be showing. A day in the park is incomplete with out these traditional shows.

8) Country Bear Jamboree. Clap your hands and stomp your feet as the bears show you how to have a howlin’ good time. This attraction is fun to watch and rarely has a line. It is a great place to relax on a hot day.

9) Hall of Presidents. Get to this show early enough to look at the waiting area. It is filled with memorabilia from different presidents. The show is an honorable tribute to our great presidents and a wonderful way to show pride in our amazing country.

10) Liberty Square Riverboat. Nothing is more relaxing than a ride on the Rivers of America aboard the proud riverboat, the Liberty Square. If you can get a seat on the bow you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the surrounding area. Close your eyes and you might just feel like Mark Twain traveling down the Mississippi.

If you don’t have a smile on your face after trying out these attractions I’ll eat my Mickey ears. Happiness Squared.

Goofy Tip: Most of these attractions do not have FastPass options because they are not that busy. Jungle Cruise is the exception and it has FastPass because it is so popular. For the more busy rides that don’t have FastPass,  like it’s a small world, try to ride them first thing in the morning.