With more and more Disneyland fans flying across the country to Walt Disney World for the first time to get their Disney fix, many will learn that not all rides are not created equal. There is so much to see and do at Walt Disney World in Florida that it can be overwhelming. But just because Disneyland and the Magic Kingdom both have some of the same rides doesn’t mean they’re equally memorable (or even worth riding in some cases).
So here’s my list of the five attractions Disneyland does much better than Walt Disney World (in no particular order).
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin (WDW)
Vs. Astro Blasters (Disneyland)
Though the two rides have slightly different names, they have a very similar look. But there’s one noticeable difference: the blaster guns. The Magic Kingdom was the originator of this ride, opening in 1998. The blasters on the original version are affixed to the vehicle, creating all sorts of range of motion issues.
Seven years later, Disneyland got its own version with laser blasters that are removable from their holsters, allowing guests to shoot their lasers at targets anywhere around them, even ones behind them. The Florida version makes it so difficult to shoot exactly where you want that it’s just less fun than the Disneyland version.
Mad Tea Party
If you’ve ever ridden on the Tea Cups ride in Disneyland after dark with those colorful lanterns hanging above you, you know how magical it is. In fact, the Southern California version is the only one in any Disney Park that isn’t covered overhead with some type of roof. Although Magic Kingdom’s ride does have the adorable Dormouse that pops his head in and out of a giant teapot in the middle of the ride, you lose a bit of that special Disney magic when the ride is all covered up, even if it does provide shelter from the elements.
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
The actual indoor show portion of this attraction is ALMOST identical at both parks. However, it’s the exterior pre-shows that couldn’t be more different. In the Magic Kingdom, two tropical birds, Clyde and Claude (one with a Southern accent and the other with a British accent, of all things), are the stars of the preshow, performing for guests as they wait in line. These two birdies are annoying and have none of the charm of the Rolly Crump designed tiki gods in the garden in front of Disneyland’s version. All they do is make me long for a Dole Whip and the chance to sit under a large animatronic tree while watching the Tiki God, Ngendei, struggle just to hang on back at Disneyland.
And don’t even get me started on the loss of the Enchanted Fountain inside the attraction itself. The original is best on this attraction!
it’s a small world
Some may say they hate this ride no matter where it exists, but there’s no denying the grandeur of the version at Disneyland. The facade of the ride features its famous eternally smiley 30-foot clock face that rocks back and forth, along with a little children of the world parade at the foot of the clocktower every 15 minutes. Inside, there are over 300 animatronic dolls representing over 100 countries.
The Florida version’s take on Disneyland’s castle-like exterior is actually crammed inside a building! There is a miniature version of the clocktower, but it doesn’t even come close to Disneyland’s, no motion and no little show. The ride itself is also shorter at the Magic Kingdom, which may actually be a plus for some guests. . . but not for me! AND, Disneyland’s version transforms for the holidays, with all new costumes for the dolls, holiday music, and lots of added details. Magical.
Pirates of the Caribbean
I don’t think there is any other ride that disappoints me more at the Magic Kingdom than this one. At Disneyland, no trip is complete without riding this 15 minute masterpiece. It’s quite simply a marvel in animatronic storytelling.
But clocking in at just over 7 minutes, Florida’s version is literally half the ride Disneyland’s is, leaving much to be desired. The end of the Walt Disney World ride seems so abrupt that I remember being confused when we were told to get out of the boat once it was over. It feels terribly incomplete and makes me long for a ride for the magic of the original. Perhaps ye knows too much!
OH . . . and did I mention that Disneyland’s version has a restaurant inside?! Game over!
Let’s Hear From You!
What rides do you think are better at Disneyland than at Walt Disney World? But it isn’t always that way, here’s our look at 5 rides Disney World does better than Disneyland. Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
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