Must-Do Classic Attractions For A First Timer



Are you planning your first ever Disney vacation? Being a first timer at the Disney parks might feel a bit intimidating, but it certainly doesn’t have to be! First time guests at Disney World should focus on research, planning, and having fun. All Disney attractions are magical and thrilling experiences but a few classic attractions stand out as being extra special. If you are planning your first trip to Disney World then be sure to experience these classic must-do attractions!

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

When you imagine your family at Disney World you probably have an image of this classic attraction in your mind. Dumbo the Flying Elephant was an original Disneyland attraction from 1955 and was an opening day attraction for Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in 1971. This attraction is gentle and slow-moving and allows guests to set their own height for their Dumbo making it the perfect attraction for families. Dumbo the Flying Elephant is quintessential Disney and should not be skipped for first timers!

Dumbo
Dumbo the Flying Elephant. Photo: Emily Murray.

Haunted Mansion

A classic Disney dark ride that showcases incredible Imagineering is Haunted Mansion. Located in Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square, Haunted Mansion is a slow-moving dark ride through the dwelling of 999 happy haunts. This eerie and incredibly thematic attraction was an opening day attraction for Magic Kingdom and quickly became a fan favorite. After you disembark the attraction be sure to stop by Memento Mori for all of your Haunted Mansion merchandise and souvenirs.

Disney World Haunted Mansion
Haunted Mansion is located in Liberty Square. Photo: Emily Murray

“it’s a small world”

This attraction might have you and your family singing for the rest of your visit. “it’s a small world” is a classic Disney attraction that Walt Disney created for the 1964 World’s Fair; it was a smash hit and made a permanent home in both Disneyland and Disney World. This boat ride through the world showcases the artistry of the Imagineers and the creativity of Walt Disney himself. This attraction is slow-moving and suitable for guests of all ages.

"it's a small world"
“it’s a small world”. Photo: Disney.

Mad Tea Party

Another classic Disney attraction that you have certainly seen before is Mad Tea Party. These spinning teacups are iconic and any first timer must have a go! Guests control the speed of their cup so you can spin as fast or slow as you desire.

Mad Tea Party.
Mad Tea Party. Photo: Disney.

Space Mountain

This classic Disney coater will have you wanting to ride again and again. Space Mountain is a roller coaster that zips through darkness and uses lighting and other effects to embody a ride through outer space. Space Mountain is an iconic Disney World attraction and is suitable for guests 44 inches or taller.

Space Mountain
Space Mountain. Photo: Disney.

Pirates of the Caribbean

Another Disney dark ride that shouldn’t be skipped for first timers is Pirates of the Caribbean. This boat ride attraction explores the life of pirates through music, scenery, and audio-animatronics. Pirates of the Caribbean takes guests through both classic scenes and new scenes. This attraction does have a very small drop and some children might be frightened by some dark areas, but there is no height requirement for this attraction.

Pirates of the caribbean
Pirates of the Caribbean is in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom. Photo: Emily Murray

What are your favorite classic Disney attractions? Let us know which attractions you can’t skip in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Emily Murray.

Written by

Megan Woodard


Contributing Writer

Megan was born into a Disney family. Her first trip to Disney World was when she was only 18 months old. Now as an adult, Megan loves to share the magic of Disney with her two toddlers. Keeping up with Disney news and Disney World knowledge is a fun hobby for Megan. Disney World is her favorite place to be and continuously brings back her childhood joy.

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