First-time visitors often race to the biggest rides in Magic Kingdom, but in doing so, they could be missing some of the park’s most underrated attractions!
Magic Kingdom
When you’re planning your first day at Disney World’s opening day park, it’s easy to focus on the headliners with the longest wait times or the most hype online. But that can lead you to overlooking classic rides that offer air conditioning, shorter lines, and charm. These are the kinds of attractions that don’t always make the “must-do” lists, but end up being guest favorites once experienced.
1. Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
The PeopleMover is one of those attractions that first-timers often walk right past. Either because it’s tucked away in Tomorrowland or because they assume it’s “just a slow ride.” But this elevated cruise is actually one of the best ways to take a break while still seeing the park, offering fantastic views of Tomorrowland and even sneak peeks inside attractions like Space Mountain. It’s a relaxing, continuously loading ride with, at times, short waits. Making it a great stop when the crowds start to feel overwhelming, and your feet need a break!
PeopleMover — a must-do!
2. Dumbo the Flying Elephant
If you’re visiting without little kids, Dumbo is an easy one to skip. After all, it looks like a classic kid ride, but this is one of Magic Kingdom’s most iconic attractions. Flying high above Fantasyland is just as magical for adults as it is for kids. Plus, the indoor queue (that has an air-conditioned play area) and the double-sided ride system help keep waits moving. It’s a feel-good experience that’s worth making time for. If you’re like me, the kid inside of you will be grinning ear to ear!
EVERY Magic Kingdom Ride and Attraction — 2025 Guide
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
3. Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
Many first-timers skip Carousel of Progress simply because they don’t know what it is, or they worry about committing 20 minutes to a show-style attraction. But this rotating theater is a piece of Disney history created by Walt Disney himself, and it’s one of the best places in the park to cool off, sit down, and enjoy some classic storytelling. Even better? Updates are coming to the attraction, giving longtime fans and first-time guests alike a reason to experience it now before the changes take effect. Soon, the Carousel of Progress in Magic Kingdom will be updated with an animatronic figure of Walt Disney himself!
©Disney
4. Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid
This attraction is surprisingly easy to miss, thanks to its tucked-away location in Fantasyland. Hidden between Gaston’s Tavern and Storybook Circus, it can be easy to miss if you don’t know your way around the park just yet. Journey of the Little Mermaid is a charming, colorful dark ride with animatronics, music from the film, and usually manageable wait times. It’s a great option when nearby rides have long lines, and it offers a relaxing experience that first-timers often wish they hadn’t skipped.
I’ve Tried Every Ride Hack in Magic Kingdom, And I’m Sharing the 3 That Work Every Time
Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid
Honorable Mention: Enchanted Tales with Belle
While it’s technically a show, Enchanted Tales with Belle deserves a mention because many guests skip it without realizing how interactive and special it is. The details, impressive effects, and personalized storytelling make it such a fun and unique experience. It’s a great way to slow down and enjoy some immersive Disney magic without a massive time commitment.
Enchanted Tales with Belle
Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Magic Kingdom has plenty of hidden gems that are easy to miss if you don’t know where to look. Before your next visit, make sure to check DisneyFoodBlog for the latest ride updates, tips, and insider tricks to help you make the most of your Disney vacation.
Why We’re Anxious About the New Big Thunder Mountain CHANGES
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What is a ride at Magic Kingdom that you believe is underrated and overlooked? Tell us in the comments below!
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
The Little Mermaid ride is VERY easy to miss. The mermaid meet and greet is next door and much easier to spot. In the old days of Fastpass+, on one occasion, our Magicbands wouldn’t let us through to the ride. A cast member then pointed out we were trying to get in the queue for the meet and greet. Oops! And we’re not first timers.