There are a few attractions at Walt Disney World that offer completely different experiences at night. Plan on riding these both in the daylight and in the dark and decide which one you enjoy the best.
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – The wildest ride in the wilderness gets faster at night! My guess is that the tracks are more lubed after having the carts on it all day. The drops are more intense especially since you can’t see them coming. I actually won’t ride this one at night because I am a chicken, but during the day I can ride it 50 times.
- Splash Mountain – As you come out of the drop, you can see Cinderella’s Castle lit up in all of her glory. Time your drop during the fireworks (make sure you are on the boat about 5-10 minutes before Happily Ever After is scheduled to start) and it will take your breath away before you even drop!
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train – Oh how I love this ride and it is even more fun in the dark. My absolute most magical time to ride this is during Happily Ever After. Since you are almost directly behind the castle, you will feel like your ride is part of the show.
- Haunted Mansion – When the sun goes down, your eyes naturally start to dilate so that you can see in the dark. Since Haunted Mansion is a dark ride, you can actually see more details in the evening hours. So if this is one of your favorites, plan a go at night. You might notice something you’ve never seen before!
- Dumbo – It is such a magical experience to fly above Fantasyland when it is lit up in all its magical glory. I also love how the attraction itself is lit especially with the fountain cascading at the bottom.
- Test Track – When the doors fly open and you drive down the track, it feels faster than it does during the day. Seeing the lights of Epcot on the car also makes for a beautiful ride.
- Expedition Everest – Now that Animal Kingdom is open later in the evening, this attraction can now be experienced in the dark. It makes for a faster ride and a breathtaking view as you climb the mountain and as you dive back down.
If you are going during the heat of the summer, all of the outdoor attractions are better to ride at night so you aren’t burning up. ;)
Learn more tips and tricks for your next Walt Disney World vacation. Destinations in Florida can also help you add tips and tricks to your next vacation.
maggie says
Hey Kristen,
How does the Seven Dwarfs Mine train compare to Pirates as far as scary drops? Pirates of the Caribbean ride is the most roller-coaster I can do. In other words, I’m too chicken to do the Thunder Mountain Railroad or Splash Mountain, but I wondered if the Mine Train is tamer like Pirates? What is your opinion? Thanks!
Jason says
I haven’t done the Safari at night yet but I bet that would intereting to do when it’s dark as well