Welcome to the ultimate enchanted guide to the best Disneyland rides in 2025! As a Disneyland annual passholder, I’ve spent countless days weaving through the magic of Anaheim’s iconic park, and I’m here to spill the pixie dust on the must-ride attractions for your next visit. Whether you’re a first-timer chasing the classics or a seasoned visitor hunting new thrills, this 2025 guide has you covered with insider tips, enchanted moments, and everything you need to make your Disneyland trip spellbinding.
Disneyland Resort in 2025 is buzzing with excitement—new overlays, anniversary remnants for the park’s 70th celebration that happened on July 17, 2024, and timeless favorites keep it the happiest place on Earth. But with so many rides, how do you choose? I’ve ranked the top 10 Disneyland rides for 2025 based on thrills, nostalgia, and that extra sprinkle of magic only an insider can spot. From roller coasters that make your heart race to dark rides that whisk you into fairy tales, here’s your enchanted roadmap to ride the best of Disneyland this year.
Why 2025 Is the Year to Ride Disneyland’s Best
Before we jump into the list, let’s talk about why 2025 is extra magical. Disneyland’s 70th anniversary brings fresh surprises—think special ride overlays, exclusive merchandise, and a wave of nostalgia honoring Walt Disney’s legacy. Posts on X from Disney Parks (February 12, 2025) tease new Main Street experiences, and rumors swirl about tech upgrades to fan-favorite rides. Plus, as an annual passholder, I’ve seen the park evolve firsthand—2025 promises a blend of classic charm and modern enchantment that’s tough to beat.
So, grab your Mickey ears, charge your Genie+ app, and let’s explore the best Disneyland rides for 2025. Each entry includes what makes it magical, insider tips to skip the lines, and why it’s a must-ride this year. Ready? Let’s soar!
1. Space Mountain – The Most Enchanted Thrill Ride
Location: Tomorrowland
Height Requirement: 40 inches
Why It’s Top: Space Mountain isn’t just a roller coaster—it’s a cosmic journey through the stars, and in 2025, it’s still Disneyland’s most enchanted thrill ride. The dark, starry queue sets the mood, and the high-speed drops in pitch-black space feel like a hyperspace jump.
Height Requirement: 40 inches
Why It’s Top: Space Mountain isn’t just a roller coaster—it’s a cosmic journey through the stars, and in 2025, it’s still Disneyland’s most enchanted thrill ride. The dark, starry queue sets the mood, and the high-speed drops in pitch-black space feel like a hyperspace jump.
What’s New in 2025: Rumors on X (e.g., @MiceChat, February 17) hint at minor tech tweaks post-refurb, though no major overlay is confirmed. The 70th anniversary might bring a special soundtrack twist—stay tuned!
Insider Tip: Use the single rider line (if available) to cut wait times from 60+ minutes to under 20. Passholders like me swear by hitting it at rope drop for a near walk-on.
Enchanted Moment: That first drop when the stars explode around you—pure magic.
Space Mountain’s blend of nostalgia (it opened in 1977) and adrenaline keeps it at #1. It’s a rite of passage for any Disneyland trip, and its futuristic vibe feels fresher than ever in 2025.
2. Pirates of the Caribbean – A Spellbinding Classic
Location: New Orleans Square
Height Requirement: None
Why It’s a Must: This boat ride through pirate-infested waters is Disneyland’s storytelling masterpiece. From the eerie bayou to the rowdy pirate town, it’s a 15-minute escape into a swashbuckling world.
Height Requirement: None
Why It’s a Must: This boat ride through pirate-infested waters is Disneyland’s storytelling masterpiece. From the eerie bayou to the rowdy pirate town, it’s a 15-minute escape into a swashbuckling world.
What’s New in 2025: No major updates, but the 70th anniversary could add subtle nods to Walt’s vision—X chatter suggests a possible artifact display nearby. The ride’s flawless animatronics and catchy “Yo Ho” tune keep it timeless.
Insider Tip: Ride after dark for an extra eerie vibe. Passholders know the line drops post-fireworks—aim for 9 PM.
Enchanted Moment: The burning town scene—smoke, fire, and pirate chaos—it’s like stepping into a movie. With no height restriction, it’s perfect for all ages, making it a family favorite and a top pick for 2025.
3. Haunted Mansion – A Ghostly Enchanted Gem
Location: New Orleans Square
Height Requirement: None
Why It’s Spooky Good: This dark ride’s 999 happy haunts deliver chills and grins in equal measure. The stretching room, ballroom waltz, and graveyard jam are iconic, and its quirky charm shines in 2025.
Height Requirement: None
Why It’s Spooky Good: This dark ride’s 999 happy haunts deliver chills and grins in equal measure. The stretching room, ballroom waltz, and graveyard jam are iconic, and its quirky charm shines in 2025.
What’s New in 2025: The Haunted Mansion Holiday overlay (Jack Skellington’s takeover) might extend earlier for the 70th—check Disneyland’s schedule. X posts hint at smoother animatronics post-refurb.
Insider Tip: Hit it mid-morning when lines dip (30-40 minutes vs. 60+). Passholders use AP early entry for a quick ride.
Enchanted Moment: The hitchhiking ghosts joining you—look in the mirror for a spectral surprise. Its blend of spooky and silly makes it a standout, especially with potential anniversary flair.
4. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – Wild West Magic
Location: Frontierland
Height Requirement: 40 inches
Why It’s a Blast: This runaway mine train races through a rugged landscape with sharp turns and sudden drops. It’s Disneyland’s wildest outdoor coaster, dripping with enchanted Western charm.
Height Requirement: 40 inches
Why It’s a Blast: This runaway mine train races through a rugged landscape with sharp turns and sudden drops. It’s Disneyland’s wildest outdoor coaster, dripping with enchanted Western charm.
What’s New in 2025: No confirmed updates, but the 70th might bring a special overlay or lighting effects— fans speculate a nighttime glow-up.
Insider Tip: Ride at sunset for jaw-dropping views. Passholders hit it post-parade when lines thin out.
Enchanted Moment: The final tunnel drop with dynamite explosions—heart-pounding fun. Big Thunder’s immersive theming and moderate thrills make it a 2025 must-ride.
5. Indiana Jones Adventure – An Enchanted Expedition
Location: Adventureland
Height Requirement: 46 inches
Why It’s Epic: This rugged jeep ride through a cursed temple is a thrill-seeker’s dream—boulders, snakes, and Indy himself bring the action to life.
Height Requirement: 46 inches
Why It’s Epic: This rugged jeep ride through a cursed temple is a thrill-seeker’s dream—boulders, snakes, and Indy himself bring the action to life.
What’s New in 2025: X posts (e.g., @MiceChat, February 17) note an upcoming refurb, but it’ll reopen by spring with smoother effects. Anniversary tie-ins could nod to Indy’s legacy.
Insider Tip: Use Genie+ to skip the 60+ minute wait—passholders snag it early. Single rider is a backup.
Enchanted Moment: The boulder chase—hold your breath as it rolls toward you! Its cinematic scale keeps it in the top 5 for 2025.
6. Matterhorn Bobsleds – A Snowy Enchanted Classic
Location: Fantasyland
Height Requirement: 42 inches
Why It’s Iconic: The Matterhorn’s dual-track bobsleds zip through icy caves past the Abominable Snowman. It’s Disneyland’s first coaster (1959) and still packs a punch.
Height Requirement: 42 inches
Why It’s Iconic: The Matterhorn’s dual-track bobsleds zip through icy caves past the Abominable Snowman. It’s Disneyland’s first coaster (1959) and still packs a punch.
What’s New in 2025: Post-refurb tweaks keep it running smooth—X buzz suggests sharper yeti effects for the 70th anniversary celebration.
Insider Tip: Pick the left track for a wilder ride. Passholders ride late morning when lines ease.
Enchanted Moment: The yeti’s roar as you speed by—chilling and thrilling. A historic gem with a modern edge, it’s a 2025 essential.
7. Peter Pan’s Flight – Timeless Enchanted Magic
Location: Fantasyland
Height Requirement: None
Why It’s a Classic: Soar over London and Neverland in a pirate ship—it’s short but sweet, with fairy-tale charm that hooks every age.
Height Requirement: None
Why It’s a Classic: Soar over London and Neverland in a pirate ship—it’s short but sweet, with fairy-tale charm that hooks every age.
What’s New in 2025: No big changes, but the 70th might add subtle anniversary sparkle—think pixie dust effects.
Insider Tip: Ride at park opening—lines hit 45+ minutes fast. Passholders use early entry here.
Enchanted Moment: Flying over Big Ben—pure nostalgia kicks in. Its simplicity and magic secure its spot.
8. Incredicoaster – Pixar’s Enchanted Thrill
Location: Pixar Pier (Disney California Adventure)
Height Requirement: 48 inches
Why It’s a Rush: This high-speed coaster with loops and launches chases the Incredibles across Pixar Pier. It’s DCA’s crown jewel.
Height Requirement: 48 inches
Why It’s a Rush: This high-speed coaster with loops and launches chases the Incredibles across Pixar Pier. It’s DCA’s crown jewel.
What’s New in 2025: No updates confirmed, but the 70th could tie in Pixar-themed surprises nearby.
Insider Tip: Genie+ cuts the 50+ minute wait. Passholders ride at night for neon-lit thrills.
Enchanted Moment: The loop with Jack-Jack’s chaos— Pixar magic meets coaster adrenaline. A cross-park star, it’s unmissable in 2025.
9. Radiator Springs Racers – An Enchanted Road Trip
Location: Cars Land (Disney California Adventure)
Height Requirement: 40 inches
Why It’s a Winner: Race through Radiator Springs with Lightning McQueen—it’s a scenic ride turned thrilling showdown.
Height Requirement: 40 inches
Why It’s a Winner: Race through Radiator Springs with Lightning McQueen—it’s a scenic ride turned thrilling showdown.
What’s New in 2025: Steady as is, but anniversary crowds might spike demand—book Genie+ early.
Insider Tip: Single rider slashes waits from 70+ minutes to 20. Passholders hit it at rope drop.
Enchanted Moment: The final race—cheer as you speed to the finish! Cars Land’s immersive vibe makes it a top pick.
10. It’s a Small World – A Global Enchanted Journey
Location: Fantasyland
Height Requirement: None
Why It’s Special: This boat ride’s cheerful dolls and earworm song celebrate unity with enchanted whimsy. It’s pure Walt Disney magic.
Height Requirement: None
Why It’s Special: This boat ride’s cheerful dolls and earworm song celebrate unity with enchanted whimsy. It’s pure Walt Disney magic.
What’s New in 2025: The holiday overlay might start earlier for the 70th—check dates. X hints at sharper visuals.
Insider Tip: Ride mid-afternoon when lines drop to 15-20 minutes. Passholders love the outdoor queue’s charm.
Enchanted Moment: The finale’s rainbow of cultures—heartwarming and hypnotic. A family-friendly classic, it rounds out our 2025 list.
Honorable Mentions: More Enchanted Rides to Explore
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Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! (DCA): Drops and Marvel humor—Genie+ it for 2025 thrills.
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Jungle Cruise: Pun-filled fun—ride post-refurb for updated jokes.
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Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride: Quirky Fantasyland chaos—short but enchanting.
How to Ride the Best of Disneyland in 2025
Maximize your day with these passholder-proven strategies:
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Genie+: Book Space Mountain, Indy, and Racers early—slots vanish fast.
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Rope Drop: Hit Peter Pan or Space Mountain at opening—lines are nil.
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Single Rider: Use it for Space, Indy, and Racers—saves hours.
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Timing: Ride during parades or fireworks—crowds thin out.
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Passholder Perks: Early entry (select days) gets you ahead—check your AP calendar.
Why These Rides Make 2025 Magical
Disneyland’s best rides in 2025 blend nostalgia, innovation, and that enchanted spark only Walt’s park can deliver. The 70th anniversary elevates the experience—whether it’s a subtle overlay on Pirates or a tech boost for Space Mountain, this year’s lineup is a love letter to Disney fans. As a passholder, I’ve ridden these dozens of times, and they still cast a spell every visit.
FAQs About Disneyland Rides in 2025
What’s the best ride for kids at Disneyland in 2025?
Peter Pan’s Flight and It’s a Small World top the list—no height restrictions and tons of charm.
Which Disneyland ride has the longest wait in 2025?
Radiator Springs Racers often hits 70+ minutes—use single rider or Genie+.
Are there new rides at Disneyland in 2025?
No confirmed new rides, but anniversary overlays and tech upgrades refresh the classics.