The Scents Of Disney Resorts And Attractions



Spaceship Earth

We have a few million nerve cells in our nose that detect tiny molecules in the air. That is how we smell an odor. Why is this important?

When we visit a Disney Park or resort, our nose helps us remember the trip through the aromas we smell. In this article, I will be discussing the specific scents of Disney resorts and attractions. We will also describe the distinct food smells that make Disney an unforgettable destination. Let’s get started!

Attractions

Pirates of the Caribbean

Aboard this swashbuckling adventure ride, most Disney devotees love the ride’s bromine smell, a chemical used to keep things sanitary. However, the fragrance notes used to describe Pirates of the Caribbean are seen below.

Scent: damp ocean air, fresh rain, and salty sea breeze.  

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

Soarin’ Around the World

This beloved ride has many smells added to enhance the experience. Some fan favorite scents are Tanzania’s African Elephants, India’s Taj Mahal, and Fiji’s Lau Islands. On Soarin’ over California, there is a particular scent that is adored by audiences which are the orange groves. These odors make Soarin’ a memorable ride!

African Elephants: fresh grass. Taj Mahal: Lilac, rose, jasmine.  Fijian Islands: Apple, melon, orange, and bergamot.  Orange groves: Tangerine citrus and fresh florals.

Soarin' Around the World
Soarin’ Around the World returned for a limited time for the the 100th celebration. Photo: Emily Murray.

Avatar Flight of Passage

This new yet very loved attraction is found in Animal Kingdom Park. We are part of a Na’vi voyage on a Banshee that exposes us to a new world and unique scents. In a particular scene, we are taken into a cave where a pleasant smell is released. Below are the exact notes used on Flight of Passage.

Scent: Apple, melon, bergamot, orange, lavender, bois de rose, woody violet, and musk.

Flight of Passage
Flight of Passage Ride Vehicle. Photos: Emily Murray.

Spaceship Earth

Located at the entrance of EPCOT, this ride details the beginning of human life to our complex future. Spaceship Earth has many animatronic scenes that emit unusual, yet appealing smells. One example is the burning of Rome, which has confused many guests as to why it is a favorite ride smell.

Scent (Rome’s fall): clove, amber and sandalwood.

Animatronic in Spaceship Earth
Animatronic in Spaceship Earth. Photo: Emily Murray.

Resorts

We have compiled a list of DVC resorts that have enjoyable smells as you enter their respective lobbies.

  • Polynesian Village resort: citrus, hibiscus, teakwood, island fruit and musk.
  • Wilderness lodge: sandalwood, amber, musk and jasmine, lavender, and orange.
  • Yacht & Beach club: green clover, aloe, water florals.
  • Grand Floridian resort and spa: green clover, aloe, jasmine, lily, ylang and cedar.
Disney Polynesian Resort
Polynesian Lobby. Photo: Emily Murray

Food (Honorable mentions)

Although Disney rides and resorts were important features of this article, we did want to add some iconic snacks and foods that add to the nostalgia of Disney smells.

  • Churros – cinnamon and glazed sugar.
  • Magic Kingdom confectionary – cotton candy and raspberry.
  • Popcorn – toasted corn and sweet butter.
  • Mickey waffles – maple syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, and sweet butter.
Mickey Halloween Popcorn Bucket
Mickey Mouse Skeleton Popcorn Bucket.

After reading this article, we hope that you, dear reader, will appreciate these scents the next time you visit Disney World or Disneyland. Remember these scents as they will remind you of the wonderful memories you made!

What are your favorite Disney scents? Let us know in the comments!

Featured Photo: Emily Murray.

Written by

Maria Mora


For as long as Maria can remember, there was always a Disney movie playing in her house. Whether it was The Little Mermaid, Dumbo, or Tarzan, she became enthralled with all things Disney. She has visited the Disney Parks over 100 times and on different continents! Her love of Disney goes hand in hand with her love of reading, which has motivated her through the years to become a zealous writer. She hopes that whatever she does helps her community. After all, with a little faith, trust, and pixie dust, anything is possible!

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