While I can’t handle spinning rides anymore, I still love thrill rides. If you are like me and are planning a trip to Disneyland, check out this list of the best rides at Disneyland for adults. Keep in mind that we believe that all of the rides at Disneyland are great for adults. While some thrill rides offer more excitement, some of the most nostalgic attractions can still be so much fun.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, an outdoor, mine-train-themed roller coaster, has always been one of my favorites. It isn’t necessarily a scary ride, but it’s still exciting, with traditional drops and fast speeds. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is located in Frontierland and offers Genie+.
Haunted Mansion (this ride is currently closed for refurbishment and will reopen later this year)
This classic ride is a mainstay at Disney parks. The actual ride mechanism isn’t scary at all, but the theme can be a little frightening. It takes place mostly in the dark and has spooky music and characters throughout the journey. I feel that the Haunted Mansion is both a nostalgic and exciting ride, and I always want to experience it when I go to Disneyland. While this version is similar to the one at Walt Disney World, the exterior of the building is entirely different.
Indiana Jones Adventure
One of my favorite unique rides at Disneyland is the Indiana Jones Adventure. This attraction is completely different from the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! show that is located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida. Instead, it has a similar ride mechanism to the DINOSAUR ride at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Matterhorn Bobsleds
The Matterhorn Bobsleds is often a divisive topic among Disneyland fans. It’s a classic, unique coaster, featuring the Abominable Snowman, and is a big part of the skyscape of Disneyland. However, the actual ride can be a little jerky and isn’t nearly as smooth as the other, new Disney coasters.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance premiered shortly after the opening of Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland. It’s a unique attraction experience – so much more than just a ride. Running for about 15 minutes, it includes a walk-through, a motion simulator, a traditional ride, and character interactions.
Space Mountain
As a kid, Space Mountain was one of my favorite thrill rides. I’m happy to say that it’s still one of my favorites as an adult. In this ride, you’ll board a “spaceship” vehicle on a launch to space. It’s a dark roller coaster, so while it doesn’t go upside down or backward, it’s still thrilling because you won’t be able to see what is next.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout
In 2017, Disney revealed the first Marvel-themed ride at Disneyland – Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout. While the theme changed, the ride mechanism stayed the same as the original attraction – the Tower of Terror. While some Disney fans debate which of the two rides is best, I have a difficult time choosing. The Guardians of the Galaxy ride is very fun and exciting, while the Tower of Terror version is spooky. I think it’s one of the best rides at Disneyland for adults – although older kids will love it too.
Incredicoaster
One of my favorite Disney rides is the Incredicoaster, a Pixar’s Incredibles-themed attraction located in Pixar Pier. The Incredicoaster is mostly outdoors with some indoor tunnels, and it takes you through a fun, upside-down adventure where you’ll chase Jack Jack around.
Radiator Springs Racers
One attraction that is unique to Disneyland Resort is Radiator Springs Racers, located at Cars Land in Disney California Adventure. While it is similar to Test Track at EPCOT, it’s got an entirely new theme and feels like a completely different experience. Radiator Springs Racers isn’t too scary but does go very fast at the end. Read more about Cars Land here.
Soarin’
Soarin’, located in Grizzly Peak, is the same attraction as the version at Walt Disney World. During some times (currently during the Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival), the show switches from the newer Soarin’ Over the World to the original Soarin’ Over California.
Grizzly River Run
While Southern California isn’t typically as hot as Central Florida, it can still be pretty warm. Cool down with a ride down Grizzly River. Board one of the river rafts and you’ll be sent down the rapids. Keep in mind that you’ll get wet on this ride, so you’ll want to be prepared.
Pirates of the Caribbean
Like the Haunted Mansion, the Pirates of the Caribbean is a classic Disney ride that is always a must-do for me. I prefer this version at Disneyland because of the bigger drop and the nice indoor queue. There’s also a restaurant, Blue Bayou, located adjacent to the ride with views of the indoor part of the attraction. Save money on your Disneyland tickets and your Southern California vacation by booking through Get Away Today.