Top Rides at the Magic Kingdom in 2023 Based on Average Wait Times

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As we wave goodbye to 2023 and welcome the new adventures of 2024, let’s take a nostalgic look back at the rides that captured the hearts and excitement of visitors at the Magic Kingdom this past year. Armed with data from queuetimes.com, we’ve identified the top 10 rides that had guests lining up for a magical experience. From thrilling roller coasters to enchanting encounters, these attractions defined the year’s fun and fantasy at the most magical place on Earth.

Related: Magic Kingdom Making Changes to its Parade Schedule in January 2024

Mine Train

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

Topping the list is the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, with thrill-seekers waiting an average of 77 minutes! On peak days, you might wait up to 110 minutes, but fans say it’s worth every second for this rollicking ride through the dwarfs’ diamond mine. The innovative, smooth ride combined with the beloved characters and scenes makes it a top pick for visitors of all ages.

Peter Pan's Flight Fight

Peter Pan’s Flight


Flying in at second is Peter Pan’s Flight, whisking guests to Neverland with an average wait of 66 minutes and soaring up to 93 minutes at its busiest. This magical flight continues to be a fan favorite, soaring over London and into Neverland. The enchanting experience of flying in a pirate ship, combined with the timeless story of Peter Pan, Wendy, and the Lost Boys, creates a sense of wonder that keeps fans coming back for more.

Splash Mountain

Splash Mountain (Now closed for transformation into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure)

Splash Mountain made a splash as the third most popular ride with an average wait time of 54 minutes and up to 93 minutes at its peak. Currently closed for transformation into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, it’s set to bring a whole new experience soon!

Scaffolding Removed from TOP of Space Mountain Ahead of Opening of Tron

Space Mountain

Blasting to number four, Space Mountain offers an intergalactic adventure with an average wait time of 51 minutes and a max of 81 minutes. This iconic indoor roller coaster takes you on a high-speed journey through outer space. The darkness and unexpected twists and turns create an exhilarating experience that’s different every time. It’s a rite of passage for thrill-seekers and a testament to Disney’s innovative ride technology.

Top Rides at the Magic Kingdom in 2023 Based on Average Wait Times

Jungle Cruise

Jungle Cruise sails into fifth place with an average queue of 50 minutes and up to 78 minutes during busy times. The Jungle Cruise offers a humorous and scenic boat tour guided by witty skippers. As you navigate the rivers of Asia, Africa, and South America, you’ll encounter animatronic animals and playful gags. The holiday transformation into Jingle Cruise adds an additional layer of fun to this Walt Disney World opening day classic.

Haunted Mansion Magic Kingdom

Haunted Mansion

The Haunted Mansion is sixth with spirits drawing guests for an average wait of 41 minutes, rising to 67 minutes for a glimpse of its ghostly residents. This beloved spooky ride takes guests into a manor inhabited by 999 happy haunts. From the stretching room to the grand ballroom and the hitchhiking ghosts, the Haunted Mansion combines eerie thrills with ghostly fun. The recent addition of the Hatbox Ghost will likely drive wait times higher as we head into 2024.

Ariel-Grotto

Meet Ariel at Her Grotto

In seventh place, fans flock to meet Ariel at her Grotto, waiting an average of 37 minutes and up to 59 minutes. At Ariel’s Grotto, guests have the chance to meet the Little Mermaid herself in her very own undersea setting. The attraction offers an immersive experience into Ariel’s world, complete with treasures and gadgets aplenty. It’s a must-visit for fans wishing to dive into the ocean of their favorite mermaid tale.

Banners have Returned to Princess Fairytale Hall in the Magic Kingdom

Meet Cinderella and a Visiting Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall

Eighth place goes to meeting royalty at Princess Fairytale Hall with an average wait of 37 minutes and a max of 60 minutes. Here, guests are invited to the royal court to meet Cinderella and a visiting princess in an elegantly themed hall. This is another Disney Right of Passage for guests visiting with young children.

Related: Everything You Need To Know About the Magic Kingdom’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular

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Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Hold onto your hats for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in ninth place! This wild ride through a haunted gold mine has an average wait of 36 minutes and a max of 60 minutes. Known as the “wildest ride in the wilderness,” this roller coaster takes riders through a haunted gold mine. The rattling carts and scenic desert landscapes provide a thrilling experience, while the attention to detail and backstory add depth to this runaway train adventure.

Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin Mural

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

Rounding out the top 10 is Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, with an average wait of 35 minutes and up to 65 minutes during peak times. Join Buzz in this interactive quest to defeat Emperor Zurg! Guests pilot their own spacecraft, firing lasers to earn points and defeat the enemy. It’s an engaging and competitive experience that brings out the galactic hero in everyone.

Do any of the attractions on this top 10 list surprise you? Leave us a comment to let us know!


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Chris is a Pennsylvania native who escaped the cold and relocated to the Orlando area. Our resident Universal expert, Chris has been visiting the Universal Orlando Resort since the 1990s. Chris is a Universal and Walt Disney World Passholder, and can often be found exploring the parks taking in the sites (and finding new things to write about!).
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