The Best Thrill Rides at Disney World

I am a huge thrill seeker! Some of my favorite experiences in Orlando are rollercoasters, like The Hulk and Gringotts at Universal Orlando. However, when we talk about Disney, there’s more to the conversation than just putting an “off-the-shelf” coaster on a plot of land and attaching a comic book character to it.

Disney is all about the theme! In fact, I would argue that the elements that the Imagineers took into account for the following attractions actually added to the “Thrill Factor”.

SPLASH MOUNTAIN

When you put iconic characters like Br’er Bear and Br’er Rabbit into a flume ride and send guests down a 5 storey drop, all while getting the most catchy song on the planet stuck in their heads for the rest of the day…well you get Splash Mountain.

The thrill comes in from the build of the thematic elements. Queue line props and signage in addition to seeing other folks come off the ride SOAKED is part of the anticipation of one of the most photographed Disney Mountains.

Oh, and the photo as you’re plummeting to the Briar Patch is always memorable!

Related Article – Top Magic Kingdom Attractions to do BEFORE 10am


Article Continues Below

TEST TRACK

Researching online, you may think that you’re just getting into a basic car ride…like the Tomorrowland Speedway. Little do you know that the screams of guests being driven around the “SIM Track” overhead of the attraction’s entrance will add to the butterflies.

I used to find this attraction to be more exciting when the cohesive storyline was present, but it’s still an absolute blast when you get to see the technology put into action as you’re sent from the comfort of the show-building and out onto the outdoor track to reach a top speed of 64.9 miles per hour.

SPACE MOUNTAIN

Let’s talk about Space Mountain in the context of added thrills. First off, it’s a coaster where you know that you’re going to be going through space. Sure…we’ve seen the photos and videos of ‘Space Mountain with Lights On’, but it’s a completely different story when you sit down in that ride vehicle.

You will scream.
You will be completely in the dark.
You will scream LOUDLY.

Just accept that fact, and you’ll be fine!


Article Continues Below

EXPEDITION EVEREST

The story of the Forbidden Mountain is so incredibly well done in the queue line that it’s actually a shame that you don’t get the same experience when you have a FastPass.

Imagineering is proud of the detail that they put into the full attraction, and it all builds to the excitement of your eventual meeting with the protector of the mountain. The steam that shows up when the coaster arrives in the loading dock is breathtaking! The sounds that follow you around the track are as memorable as the feeling of the seats themselves. It’s just a well-designed attraction.

The cat’s out of the bag…the coaster goes backwards for around 8 seconds. It’s the BEST 8 seconds that you’ll have on a coaster, knowing that the excitement is building for your photo opportunity and coming

FACE TO FACE with the Yeti!

DINOSAUR

“…besides, what could go wrong?” is the best way to start your prehistoric joyride back to the cretaceous period and pick up a dinosaur for Dr Seeker. I’m not going to spoil any more of the pre-show elements, but it’s pretty iconic.

The ride itself is great due to the thrill factor of the Time Rover. In 3 minutes and 5 seconds, you are transported back in time to come face to face with a number of dinosaurs, escape almost certain annihilation from a meteor impact and back to collect your belongings for the rest of your day in the Animal Kingdom.

What puts the attraction formerly known as Countdown to Extinction on the list are the technological advances of the vehicle. Not only are you in the complete darkness for a period of time, but it actually feels like you’re driving for your life!


Article Continues Below

TOWER OF TERROR

This is kinda a gimmie on the list, but let’s go into the details as to why it’s ‘Thrilling’.

Imagine going into a hotel, through the lobby and into the boiler room before boarding your elevator to go to your “room”. The details of this queue are amazing, but very deceiving. Always remember to go straight and not to turn right…you’ll thank me later;)

  • 13 Stories: The number of floors that your elevator sends you plummeting down.
  • 39 miles per hour: The drop speed
  • G-Forces: 1.3!

Yea, this is a thrilling experience just by the numbers alone, but when you put that together with the fact that the Tower of Terror is actually on a randomized drop sequence. This means that every ride is unique!

Related Article – Top 10 Things To Do at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

ROCK ‘N ROLLER COASTER

0-57mph in 2.8 seconds in a ride vehicle that’s launched by linear induction motors, which utilizes a mix of hydrolic and pneumatic power to send you into Disney’s only attraction that actually has a loop.

Thrilling is a word that just can’t fully describe this experience, as it’s so much more. The story, the queue details, the cameos and the load & unload areas are all adding to one of the most exhilarating experience at a Disney Park!


So that’s my list! Do you agree or disagree? Should I add anything on that you think is worthy of being labeled as one of the Best Thrill Rides at Disney? Let me know in the comments below!

Dustin Fuhshttp://www.stepstomagic.com
I’m Dustin Fuhs, a theme park fanatic that has created this platform to showcase my passion, tools and opinions to create a fun and interactive experience for everyone who visits. My goal is to help you and your family have the most magical experience at Walt Disney World. In reading my articles and ideas, I hope that you can find some fantastic ways to bring your dreams into reality!

Related articles

The Rip-offs of Disney World

As the 'Vacation Kingdom' continues to shift from a place for everyone to catering to a select few, there is still a discussion to be had around getting to experience Walt Disney World without being subjected to being priced-out.

Walt Disney World Golf: A Comprehensive Overview

Explore Walt Disney World Resort Golf's four championship courses, renowned amenities, and storied hosting legacy.

Introduction to Disney Funko Pop! Vinyl

If you're like me, a Disney fan and collector of obscure stuff that looks great on your office bookshelf, this is the post for you. Let's look at the magical world of Disney Funko Pop! Vinyls.

Underrated Attractions at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal has some amazing attractions that folks may undervalue, underestimate and flat out sell short...so let's take a look at them!

How to Help Friends Plan a Trip to Disney World

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is fun, but there's something to be said about the joy...

Top 10 Characters We Want to Meet Again in Disney World

Share magical moments with beloved Disney characters you'd love to see return.

Strategies for Getting Popular Fastpass Reservations

One of the most underrated free tools that Disney has implemented for guest satisfaction is the FastPass+ system. If...

Enhanced Disney World Souvenirs

Merchandise at Disney World can be exciting or boring, but there is a category of souvenirs that can be enhanced into something that is unique.

Top Ten Disney Advance Dining Reservations to get ASAP

Discover the essential Disney advance dining reservations for an awesome Walt Disney World experience.

Top 10 Hilarious Jungle Cruise Puns

Embark on a pun-filled adventure! Discover the top 10 Jungle Cruise puns that will make you laugh, groan, and fall in love with Disney humor.

10 Things We Will Never Do Again at Disney World

Learn from our mistakes! Uncover the 10 things we vow never to do again at Disney World for a smoother, happier vacation experience.

Where To Get Free Stuff On Your Birthday In Orlando

Celebrating your birthday in Orlando is better when you can get free stuff.
394 Shares
Pin394
Share
Reddit