Magic Kingdom Roller Coasters: Ultimate Guide for Thrill Seekers
Visiting Disney theme parks and want to get the scoop on all the Magic Kingdom roller coasters?
You are in the right place!
Key Takeaways:
If you’re anything like me, just hearing the words “Magic Kingdom” sends shivers down your spine, right? It’s where you can chomp on a Mickey-shaped pretzel without a care in the world.
So, why Magic Kingdom, you ask? Well, I’ve been to Disney World over 20 times, and let me tell you, Magic Kingdom is my all-time favorite park.
It’s like stepping into a different universe where reality just, poof, vanishes!
Magic Kingdom is not just about fairy tales and pixie dust – it’s also home to some of the most exhilarating roller coasters you’ll ever experience. 🎢 ✨
Picking your favorite roller coasters at Magic Kingdom is a lot like choosing your favorite child!
Don’t worry, that’s what this blog post is for.
We’re gonna dissect each coaster, spill some secrets, and find out which one truly deserves the crown of “Best Roller Coaster in the Magic Kingdom!”
Magic Kingdom Roller Coasters
Step into the Magic Kingdom theme park and you’ve got five show-stopping roller coasters waiting to sweep you off your feet—literally!
Plus, there’s the much-anticipated opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure coming at the end of 2024 (taking the place of the beloved Splash Mountain).
Ready? Let’s jump into some of the best rides you’ll encounter!
1. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
First, let’s talk about a personal favorite of mine – Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
This rip-roaring roller coaster is a real gem at Magic Kingdom, and it’s easy to see why it’s beloved by so many.
Picture this: You’re on a runaway mine train, careening through the rugged wilderness of the Old West.
The wind is whipping through your hair as you speed around sharp bends, zoom over thrilling drops, and even plunge into a darkened tunnel. It’s a wild ride full of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Last time we were at Disney World, my daughter and I rode this as our last ride of the evening at 11:00 p.m. The darkness added another level of exhilaration that I didn’t think was possible.
Obviously, they don’t call this the “Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” for nothing!
The best part? Even though it’s a roller coaster, it’s relatively mild compared to some of the more intense options at the park, making it a fantastic choice for those who want a taste of thrill without going overboard.
Here’s a little tip – Big Thunder Mountain Railroad isn’t typically open during Magic Kingdom’s early entry, so plan your day accordingly. It’s a crowd-pleaser, so be prepared for a bit of a wait, but trust me, the adventure that awaits is well worth it.
- Location: Frontierland
- Genie Plus: Yes
- Individual Lightning Lane: No
- Single Rider Line: No
- Height Requirement: 40″ (102 cm)
2. Space Mountain
If you’ve ever dreamt of rocketing through the stars, this iconic roller coaster is your ticket to an out-of-this-world adventure.
Here, you’re in the dark, surrounded by a sea of twinkling stars. Then, your sleek rocket-style ride vehicle catapults you into the abyss of space.
The darkness adds an element of surprise, as you twist and turn through a cosmic landscape, feeling like you’re hurtling through the galaxy at warp speed.
The combination of the darkness and sharp turns, the immersive soundtrack, and the sensation of flying through the universe creates a ride that’s as thrilling as it is enchanting.
However, while this is my daughter’s favorite ride, it is not one I go on all the time.
To me, it’s a dark ride that is jerky and the experience is just not as fun as other Disney roller coasters. I have learned the front seats definitely eliminate some of the head-jerking that the back seats are so good at providing!
If you’re prone to motion sickness, maybe skip Space Mountain. Trust me, been there, done that. Not fun!
The first time I went on Space Mountain, let’s just say, it was not a ‘walk in the park’! But you know what? That’s what makes it memorable!
If you are wondering if Space Mountain is scary, I’m going to say it’s more intense for youngsters than some of the other Magic Kingdom roller coasters on this list.
- Location: Tomorrowland
- Genie Plus: Yes
- Individual Lightning Lane: No
- Single Rider Line: Technically, no, but once inside, there is a sign to let a cast member know you are by yourself and they will take you to a special area at the front.
- Height Requirement: 44″ (112 cm)
3. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
This delightful roller coaster is a true testament to the magic of Disney, offering an experience that’s perfect for families with little adventurers in tow.
What makes the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train so special is its unique blend of storytelling and ride experience.
The attention to detail within the mine is astonishing, with dazzling gems and the familiar faces of Doc, Grumpy, and the gang making you feel like you’ve stepped right into the classic tale.
Now, here’s the thing. The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is definitely on the gentler side of roller coasters.
If you’re a thrill-seeker like me and my daughter, you might find it a tad too tame. However, for families with younger children or those who prefer a more relaxed pace, it’s an absolute must-do.
The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train operates a bit differently from some of the other rides in the park.
It’s not included in Genie Plus but rather has its own Individual Lightning Lane. This means you can reserve access and skip the regular line, a handy option to consider, especially during busy times at the park.
So, while it might not deliver the same thrills as some of the park’s more intense coasters, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train has a unique charm all its own.
It’s a delightful way to introduce your little ones to the world of roller coasters, and a must-visit for any Disney enthusiast looking to relive the magic of Snow White’s timeless story.
It’s definitely one of the best Disney World roller coasters.
- Location: Fantasyland
- Genie Plus: No
- Individual Lightning Lane: Yes
- Single Rider Line: No
- Height Requirement: 38″ (97 cm)
4. The Barnstormer
If you’ve got little tykes in tow, this one’s a must for their Disney experience.
Let your kids embark on a whimsical journey with the Great Goofini himself.
The Barnstormer is a charming roller coaster that’s tailor-made for our pint-sized thrill-seekers. It’s all about fun, laughter, and just the right amount of excitement for younger riders.
What makes the Barnstormer so special is its perfect balance of adventure and accessibility.
The coaster may be small in size, but it’s big on fun. Seriously, my daughter still wants to go on this and she is 12!
Kids will love the sensation of speeding through the air in their very own “airplane,” all while taking in enchanting views of Fantasyland.
And here’s the great news – the Barnstormer is part of Genie Plus. This means you can use the lightning lane to hop on with minimal wait times. In fact, the lines are typically quite short, making it a breeze to squeeze into your Disney day.
So, if you’re looking to introduce your little ones to the magic of roller coasters, the Barnstormer is the perfect starting point.
It’s a gentle, joyful ride that will have your kids squealing with delight and begging for one more go. It’s one of the best rides at Magic Kingdom for toddlers!
- Location: Fantasyland, Storybook Circus
- Genie Plus: Yes
- Individual Lightning Lane: No
- Single Rider Line: No
- Height Requirement: 35″ (89 cm)
5. TRON Lightcycle Run
If you’re like my daughter and can’t resist the siren call of an exhilarating roller coaster, then the Tron Lightcycle Power Run should be right at the top of your must-do list.
After its Magic Kingdom opening in April 2023 (previously, Tron only existed at Shanghai Disneyland), my 12-year-old described it as ‘breathtaking and amazing and not at all like I pictured it.’
On the ride, you’re straddling a sleek, neon-lit light cycle, just like the ones from the iconic Tron films.
You are launched into a neon-soaked digital world, and suddenly, you’re soaring through a maze of high-speed twists, turns, and drops. It’s an adrenaline rush like no other, and it’s pure coaster magic.
But is it intense? Oh, you bet it is!
The Tron Lightcycle Power Run isn’t for the faint of heart. Heart-pounding maneuvers make it a true thrill-seeker’s dream. It’s a coaster that’ll have you gripping those handlebars and holding your breath as you dive into the heart of the digital grid.
And it’s top speed? How about a mere 59 mph, making it one of the fastest roller coasters at Disney World.
If you’re a coaster enthusiast who craves that rush of adrenaline and doesn’t mind a bit of intensity, this newest roller coaster at Disney is a no-brainer.
So, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for an unforgettable adventure in the digital world of Tron, this coaster is an absolute must-do. Trust me, Disney’s newest ride that’ll leave you breathless, exhilarated, and grinning from ear to ear.
Tron’s Virtual Queue
➡️ Note: Due to this being new and one of the most popular rides, Disney World enabled their virtual queue.
No matter your hotel, request to enter the virtual queue at 7:00 am.
If you receive a boarding position, you’ll be notified through the My Disney Experience app when it’s your turn to board.
If you didn’t receive a position, try again at the 1:00 pm virtual queue. However, you must be in the Magic Kingdom at that time.
The virtual queue sometimes has a long wait – we’ve been in the queue for 90 before.
If you prefer not to wait that long, you may want to purchase an Individual Lightning Lane reservation for it.
Staying at a Disney Deluxe Resort or Villa or the Disney Dolphin, Swan or Reserve? There is another virtual queue at 6 p.m. on nights with extended hours for deluxe resorts.
- Location: Tomorrowland
- Genie Plus: No
- Individual Lightning Lane: Yes
- Single Rider Line: No
- Height Requirement: 48″ (122 cm)
Coming Soon – Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, an upcoming water coaster based on Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, will make a welcome addition to the Magic Kingdom lineup.
I’m excited to see how this new attraction combines the rich storytelling of the movie with an exhilarating ride through Tiana’s Louisiana bayou world.
The new adventure ride takes the place of the classic Splash Mountain – a water flume ride that barrels you down a hill going 50mph.
More details forthcoming in 2024!
Other Disney World Roller Coasters
Besides the amazing roller coasters at Magic Kingdom, there are other thrilling coasters in Florida’s Disney World theme parks. Located in Lake Buena Vista, near Orlando, Disney World is home to four parks – Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, in addition to Magic Kingdom.
Epcot Roller Coasters
At Epcot, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, is the newest thrill ride to open there. Be prepared for an exhilarating adventure through space along with some of our favorite Marvel heroes and an amazing soundtrack.
What’s different about this coaster is that the vehicle spins on the track! My 12-year-old loves this ride, but I chickened out.
Just a note this roller coaster also uses a virtual queue and has an Individual Lightning Lane – there is no standby queue.
Let’s not forget Test Track! While not technically a roller coaster, it can reach a top speed of 65 mph on the ‘performance’ section of the track.
This is a fun ride and it has an interactive standby queue to keep you entertained. Lines are quite long, so be prepared.
Hollywood Studio’s Roller Coasters
Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, there’s no shortage of excitement. The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith is a family favorite.
The high-speed launch, cool music, and themed elements make it a must-ride for any coaster enthusiast.
Additionally, the Slinky Dog Dash in Toy Story Land is a family-friendly coaster that offers fun and excitement for everyone.
Animal Kingdom Roller Coasters
Lastly, in Animal Kingdom, you’ll find Expedition Everest, a roller coaster that truly challenges the limits of speed and thrill.
The ride takes you on a high-speed trek through the snowy peaks of the Himalayas while avoiding the mythical Yeti. It’s not only an adrenaline-pumping experience, but also a beautifully themed one.
One thing to note about Expedition Everest. I found this Disney World roller coaster to be the wildest coaster in all of Disney.
Once you are at the top of the mountain, you descend it… backwards… in the dark. This was not something my stomach appreciated. However, my daughter and niece rode it over and over while I sat and ate ice cream!
So there you have it, a quick overview of some of the other roller coasters I love in Disney World’s Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
Tips and Additional Information
Planning a trip to Magic Kingdom can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when you consider all the amazing roller coasters available! To help, I’ve collected some tips and information that I believe will make your roller coaster experience more enjoyable.
➡️ First, determine if you want to purchase Genie Plus, any individual Lightning Lanes or both.
I hear a lot of people ask ‘Is Disney Genie Plus Worth It‘.
That depends on you. Do you mind waiting in longer lines? Do you want to ride all the rollercoasters in The Magic Kingdom?
Genie Plus allows you to reserve access to select attractions in advance, saving you time and energy. If you want, be sure to take advantage of this feature for the best roller coasters, as wait times can often exceed an hour.
➡️ Second, don’t forget to prioritize your own comfort and preferences. Some guests enjoy the high-speed thrills of roller coasters, while others might prefer slower, more scenic rides.
Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and make lasting memories during your visit to Walt Disney World Resort.
➡️ Lastly, Magic Kingdom has amazing rides even if they are not roller coasters.
Attractions such as The Haunted Mansion, It’s a Small World and Pirates of the Caribbean are definite Magic Kingdom attractions that my family and I always ride.
Magic Kingdom Roller Coasters Technologies and Effects
I absolutely love the roller coaster technologies and effects at Magic Kingdom. From moments of darkness to impressive effects, these thrill rides are truly memorable experiences.
One of the best examples of roller coaster technology at Magic Kingdom is Space Mountain. This exciting indoor coaster thrills riders by surrounding them in complete darkness. The lack of visual cues makes every twist and turn feel extra intense, which adds to the overall exhilaration.
Another ride that features fantastic effects is the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. While I ride through the dwarfs’ mine, the combination of darkness and dazzling lighting creates an immersive experience.
The animatronics in the mine, like the singing dwarfs and impressive gem visuals, make me feel like I’ve stepped into a Disney-animated classic.
What I find amazing about Magic Kingdom’s roller coasters is how they blend the thrill of the ride with the magic of Disney storytelling. The combination of advanced technologies and carefully crafted effects turn each roller coaster into a one-of-a-kind adventure that I can’t wait to experience again and again.
Disney World Roller Coasters FAQs
What are the top roller coasters at Magic Kingdom?
Magic Kingdom has a variety of exciting roller coasters to choose from. Fan favorites include Space Mountain, which is a thrilling journey through the darkness of outer space; Big Thunder Mountain (my personal favorite), a wild ride through mine shafts and mountains; and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, which combines a roller coaster with swaying cars and colorful animatronics from the classic Snow White film.
The addition of Tron Lightcycle just solidifies the fact that Magic Kingdom has the best rollercoasters at Disney World.
How intense are Magic Kingdom’s roller coasters?
The roller coasters at Magic Kingdom cater to various thrill-seeking levels. While some rides, like Space Mountain, can be intense with its high speeds and dark surroundings, others like The Barnstormer and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train provide a more family-friendly experience.
Which roller coaster is the most popular in Magic Kingdom?
It’s hard for me to pick just one most popular roller coasters in Magic Kingdom, as it often depends on individual preferences. However, Space Mountain and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train tend to have long lines, which could indicate their popularity among park guests.
Right now, Tron only has the virtual queue and Individual Lightning Lane. But, I’m sure when they do put a standby queue in it, we’ll see this line the longest. Especially at night when the coaster is all lit up.
Which Disney World park has the most roller coasters?
Magic Kingdom boasts the highest number of roller coasters among Disney World parks, with a total of five.
Epcot has two roller coasters, Hollywood Studios has two, and Animal Kingdom has one. If you’re looking to experience a variety of roller coasters, visiting the Magic Kingdom is your best choice.
Are there any single-rider lines for the roller coasters?
Unfortunately, Magic Kingdom does not typically offer single-rider lines for its roller coasters. For more complete information, check out all the Disney World single-rider lines here.
Are there height restrictions for the roller coasters at Magic Kingdom?
Yes, each roller coaster has specific height requirements for safety reasons.
Make sure to check the height restrictions before queuing for a ride to ensure everyone in your party meets the requirements. See each ride above for its specific height requirement.
Are there any age or health restrictions for riding the roller coasters?
While there are no specific age restrictions (except for height requirements), certain health conditions, such as heart problems or pregnancy, may prevent individuals from riding certain roller coasters.
It’s advisable to review the health and safety guidelines provided by Disney World or consult with a medical professional if you have any concerns.
Can I bring personal belongings on the roller coasters?
Most rides have front pockets to store loose articles like bags, cameras and glasses. Backpacks can usually be stored at your feet. In addition, Tron Lightcycle Run offers riders storage lockers once inside the ride building.
Disney World Roller Coasters Summary
So, there you have it! A rundown of all the roller coaster awesomeness and some of the best Magic Kingdom rides there are.
From a classic attraction such as Big Thunder Mountain to the futuristic special effects of Tron Lightcycle Power Run, there’s a coaster for every thrill level.
Got kiddos? Don’t sweat it! Between The Barnstormer and the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, they’ll get their fill of thrills without feeling overwhelmed.
Now, here’s the million-dollar question: Which one deserves the title of “Best Magic Kingdom Roller Coasters”?
My take is that each one offers a unique blend of storytelling and excitement that makes it special in its own right. So why choose? Hit them all and let your heart decide!
