8 Disney World Attractions Fans Are Quietly Second-Guessing in 2025
For decades, Disney World has delivered unforgettable moments—sparkling nights, timeless music, and rides that families adore. But this year, something feels a bit different. Guests are pausing before hopping onto certain attractions, and the shift is catching longtime fans off guard. The nostalgia remains strong, yet there’s a noticeable change in the way visitors prioritize their days.
How Disney’s Growth Changed Guest Habits
New lands, high-tech rides, and evolving storytelling have dramatically reshaped expectations. As Disney continues expanding, older attractions naturally face more scrutiny from guests who want the most significant return on their time.
None of the eight rides below are failures—not even close—but fans say the excitement around them has dimmed compared to just a few years ago. Some still bring in steady crowds, but the energy and urgency simply aren’t the same.
Astro Orbiter – Magic Kingdom
Astro Orbiter promises thrilling views from high above Tomorrowland, and the sensation of lifting off in spinning rockets still appeals to many. However, the long loading process and elevator bottleneck make the experience feel more tedious than magical.
Guests often compare it to simpler spinners like Dumbo or Magic Carpets and decide this one just isn’t worth the extra steps. The ride still has charm, but it’s sliding off more must-do lists every year.
Journey of the Little Mermaid – Magic Kingdom
The Little Mermaid’s storytelling is timeless, but the attraction’s dated effects are hard to ignore. Fans often comment on dim scenes, stiff animatronics, and overall wear that makes the ride feel frozen in time. Parents with young kids still find it adorable, but adults who’ve seen it dozens of times are opting for newer, more polished options. It’s sweet, but it no longer competes with modern dark rides.
Carousel of Progress – Magic Kingdom
Carousel of Progress is a true classic and an essential piece of Disney history, and many guests still adore its rotating theater format. Yet the show’s pace and old-fashioned finale leave some visitors wanting more when compared with nearby attractions.
Fans appreciate its charm but feel it could use a gentle update to better reflect modern life. It remains iconic, though it’s not the go-to stop for most first-timers anymore.
The Seas with Nemo & Friends – EPCOT
This clamshell ride blends digital projections with real marine life, offering a gentle journey through Nemo’s world. Still, EPCOT’s rapidly expanding ride lineup makes it harder for this slow-moving attraction to stand out.
Many guests enjoy the pavilion but skip the ride because it doesn’t pack the same punch as the park’s newer additions. It’s cute, but more dynamic experiences often overshadow it.
Mission: SPACE – EPCOT
Mission: SPACE continues to offer intense thrills through its Orange and Green missions, but that intensity can be a double-edged sword. Many guests avoid the ride due to concerns about motion sickness or simply because the capsule setup feels claustrophobic.
Families frequently split up here, with some riding and others staying behind entirely. As the park leans more into experiences for all ages, this attraction feels less universally appealing.
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue – Hollywood Studios
Star Tours still delivers fun, randomized adventures in the Star Wars universe, and fans appreciate its ability to blend classic and new trilogy elements. But when guests compare it to the hyper-immersive experiences in Galaxy’s Edge, the simulator struggles to hold its ground. The ride film and movement don’t feel as smooth or cutting-edge as they once did. Fans still ride it, but the draw is no longer as strong.
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular – Hollywood Studios
The stunt show remains impressive with its pyrotechnics and massive sets, continuing to wow first-time visitors. However, modern parkgoers tend to seek out rides that offer quicker thrills and more repeat value. A 30-minute seated show can feel like a significant time investment, especially when compared to Hollywood Studios’ many high-energy attractions. Guests still admire it, but many save it for slower days.
Kali River Rapids – Animal Kingdom
Kali River Rapids offers a refreshing splash and stunning scenery, making it perfect for a hot day. The challenge? Guests don’t love the idea of getting drenched at random, especially if temperatures dip or they don’t have a change of clothes. The ride is short, and the soaking potential makes it hit-or-miss depending on the weather. It’s fun, but not universally appealing throughout the year.
How Disney Can Turn the Tide
Disney can breathe new life into each of these attractions with relatively small enhancements. Updated effects, smoother operations, or refreshed story scenes could instantly make these rides more enticing. These improvements wouldn’t require massive overhauls but could still create excitement and help distribute crowds more evenly across the parks.
Looking Ahead
Disney World thrives on reinvention, and fan opinions naturally evolve along with it. These attractions still hold plenty of charm, even if they’re not top priorities in 2025. With a few smart updates, they could easily reclaim their former glory and remind fans why they became fan favorites in the first place.
