Scariest Rides in Disney World in 2024
Walt Disney World is often synonymous with family-friendly fun, but there's a thrilling, spookier side to the Disney parks that might just get your heart racing (and might be too much for some kids or adults).
Disney World offers a variety of rides that could be described as the scariest in the park. From plummeting drops to dark, twisting realms, these attractions are designed to deliver a rush of adrenaline amidst the magic.
Defining 'Scary' in Disney Terms
In Disney terms, "scary" can range from dark rides and gentle surprises to intense thrill elements designed to deliver a high fear factor. For instance, It's Tough to Be a Bug! might startle with its sudden 3D effects, while rides like The Haunted Mansion play on dark and eerie ambiance without high-speed thrills. Then there are adrenaline-pumping rides such as Space Mountain and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, which combine darkness and speed to raise the fear stakes.
Scariest Rides in Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom may be renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, but it also offers rides that challenge your bravery. From the high-speed thrills of futuristic adventures to the ghostly encounters of spooky mansions, you'll find a variety of experiences that may send shivers down your spine.
Tron
Tron Lightcycle Run
Prepare to be launched into the digital frontier on Tron Lightcycle Run, Magic Kingdom's newest addition. You'll mount a lightcycle and race through the Grid in this fast-paced coaster. The speed and sudden turns in the enveloping darkness are sure to excite thrill-seekers.
This ride combines speed, dark lighting and a unique ride vehicle that can all cause different levels of anxiousness for riders.
The Haunted Mansion
Dare to explore the Haunted Mansion, where friendly ghosts bring spooky fun. This beloved attraction takes you on a supernatural journey filled with eerie sights and sounds. The combination of dark humor and chilling specters gives this ride its enduring appeal.
Space Mountain
Embark on an interstellar journey aboard Space Mountain, a classic roller coaster that shoots you through space in near-total darkness. Dodge asteroids and zoom past stars as you navigate the cosmic twists and turns. It's a must-ride for adventure lovers and one of Magic Kingdom's scariest attractions due to its unexpected drops and turns.
Space Mountain presents unique challenges for parents. You can’t sit next to your child (only in front or behind). The ride combines dark thrills with old-school jerking roller coaster feels.
Space Mountain
Scariest Rides in Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios boasts some of the most spine-tingling rides at Disney World, inviting you to face fearsome drops and rapid loops set to a background of chilling narratives and heart-pounding music.
Tower of Terror
Prepare to scream on the Tower of Terror, a ride notorious for its sudden, unpredictable plunges. Your journey through this haunted hotel concludes with a random sequence of drops that ensure each ride is a unique, terror-filled experience.
It's not just a drop ride; it's a thrilling descent into the Twilight Zone that will make your stomach lurch. Tower of Terror is arguably the scariest ride at Walt Disney World.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
Aerosmith's blaring hits accompany you on the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, where high-speed loops and turns give life to the term "scream-inducing." As you launch from 0 to 57 mph in under three seconds, you'll encounter several inversions that make for an adrenaline-pumping indoor roller coaster experience.
Similar to Space Mountain, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is a dark roller coaster, but let’s riders sit next to each other. The ride is smoother than Space Mountain, but still combines speed, inversions and the dark for what can be a scary thrill ride.
Rise of the Resistance
Join an epic battle against the First Order on Rise of the Resistance. This immersive attraction is more than just a ride—it's a cinematic event. You'll find yourself in the middle of blaster fire, face-to-face with Kylo Ren, and racing to escape a Star Destroyer, providing for an intensity unique from the more traditional thrill rides.
Each ride immerses you into its own dark tale, complete with high octane thrills and chilling adventures that put you squarely in the middle of the action. Hollywood Studios doesn't just offer rides; it offers experiences that linger long after you've exited through the gift shop.
For kids, RIse of the Resistance can be scary because of the Star Wars and battle elements. If your kids are scared of Kylo Ren or First Order Storm Troopers in Galaxy’s Edge, this may be a bit much for them.
Scariest Rides at EPCOT
Within EPCOT, your quest for futuristic thrills leads you to rides that blend innovation with adrenaline. Hold tight as we zero in on the standout experiences that offer twists and G-forces simulating the astonishments of outer space.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is a newcomer to EPCOT's landscape, offering an exhilarating experience set against the backdrop of space. As one of the scariest rides at Disney World, it's not just a roller coaster; it elevates the experience with a reverse-launch into the cosmos. Your adventure alongside the Guardians brings high-speed turns and an impressive display of G-forces that are bound to satisfy your crave for an adrenaline rush.
Guardians of the Galaxy
Scariest Rides at Animal Kingdom
If you're seeking thrills that are a bit more on the wild side, Disney's Animal Kingdom has attractions that will satisfy the thrill-seeker in you. From the prehistoric chills of dark rides to scaling the heights of the Himalayas, be prepared for heart-racing adventures.
Expedition Everest
Expedition Everest
Dare to board Expedition Everest and immerse yourself in a chilling Himalayan adventure. As you ascend the misty peaks on a rickety train, keep your eyes peeled for the infamous Yeti said to guard the mountain. This roller coaster is not just a journey but a confrontation with the unexpected; it's a high-speed escape from the fabled creature, complete with harrowing drops and a track that appears to lead nowhere.
Expedition Everest is one part legend, one part thrill, catapulting you through a series of twists and turns that will leave your heart pounding long after the ride comes to a halt. Remember, this experience is not for the faint-hearted. It's one of the pinnacle attractions for thrill-seekers visiting Animal Kingdom and embodies what it means to have a wild experience.
Tips for Conquering Disney’s Scariest Rides
Embarking on Disney World's thrilling rides can be a monumental step if you struggle with ride anxiety. Below, you'll find tried-and-true strategies to help you face those fears head-on.
Strategies for Overcoming Ride Anxiety
Know the Ride: Familiarize yourself with the scary rides before your visit. Watching ride-through videos can help reduce fear of the unknown.
Use Genie+: Take advantage of Disney World's Genie+ system to minimize wait times, reducing the anxiety that can build up in lines.
Pace Yourself: Start with less intense rides and gradually work your way up to the more thrilling attractions.
Breathe and Relax: Deep breathing exercises can calm your nerves. Inhale deeply, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly to manage adrenaline.
Focus on Fun: Remember that the rides are designed for enjoyment. Try to shift your focus from fear to the excitement and storytelling that Disney is known for.
Bring a Buddy: Ride with a friend or family member. A familiar face next to you can be incredibly reassuring.
Talk to Cast Members: If you have specific concerns such as claustrophobia or the nature of jump scares, don't hesitate to ask a Disney cast member for guidance.
Limitations for Children: Height restrictions are in place for safety. Check the requirements ahead of time and prepare children for what to expect.
Remember, it's perfectly okay to skip a ride if you're not comfortable. Disney World is about creating happy memories, so focus on the experiences that bring you joy.
