Walt Disney World is home to four incredible theme parks, each offering a variety of thrilling, family-friendly, and classic attractions. While daytime is a magical experience in its own right, some of the park’s attractions shine brightest after the sun sets.
From dazzling light displays to added thrills, experiencing these attractions at night is essential for any guest. Here are the top 10 must-do nighttime attractions at Walt Disney World that will make your vacation even more unforgettable.
10. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – Magic Kingdom
Located in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad offers guests a wild ride through the mining town of Tumbleweed. During the day, this thrilling roller coaster whips riders through caves and ghost towns, but it transforms into an even more exciting adventure at night.
With the eerie glow of the moonlight and the darkened sky, the attraction takes on a completely different feel. It’s one of the must-ride experiences at night.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is under refurbishment and expected to reopen in 2026.
9. Dumbo the Flying Elephant – Magic Kingdom
A beloved classic, Dumbo the Flying Elephant in Storybook Circus at Magic Kingdom lets guests soar high above the park. This attraction offers beautiful views, but it becomes even more magical at night.
The vibrant lights around Storybook Circus, including the whimsical popcorn lights and the illuminated fountains at the base of each Dumbo spinner, create a colorful, enchanting atmosphere. It’s perfect for a nighttime adventure.
8. Astro Orbiter – Magic Kingdom
For a truly stellar experience, head to Tomorrowland and ride the Astro Orbiter, located at the top of Rocket Tower Plaza. To board this attraction, guests must take an elevator to reach the launch area.
Once up there, guests can board rocket ships that fly around various celestial objects. Once night falls, the view of Tomorrowland from above is even more breathtaking, with the neon lights and stars twinkling brightly.
Astro Orbiter is temporarily closed for refurbishment and is planned to reopen in the summer of 2025.
7. Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover – Magic Kingdom
Also located in Tomorrowland, the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover offers a relaxing ride that gives guests incredible views of the area. During the day, it’s a great way to get a view of the area, but once the sun sets, the vibrant neon lights of Tomorrowland come to life.
The ride offers the perfect vantage point to take in the colorful lights and glowing atmosphere below. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to experience Tomorrowland at night.
6. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure – Magic Kingdom
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is a must-ride attraction at Magic Kingdom, and it’s even better at night. The ride takes guests through a lively bayou adventure with Tiana, and while the indoor portions are fun, the outdoor portions shine when the sun sets.
The final splashdown, featuring a re-themed drop, is even more exhilarating at night. It’s a perfect combination of thrills and nighttime magic.
5. The Magic Carpets of Aladdin – Magic Kingdom
Located in Adventureland, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin lets guests take to the skies on their very own flying carpet. The views are beautiful during the day, but at night, the lighting throughout Adventureland enhances the experience.
The exotic torch lighting and illuminated surroundings make the attraction even more magical at night. It offers a truly immersive experience perfect for guests of all ages.
4. Test Track Presented by Chevrolet – EPCOT
At Epcot, Test Track, Presented by Chevrolet, offers an exciting ride where guests can design their own SIM car and put it through rigorous tests. The ride features several indoor tests, but the thrilling high-speed outdoor loop becomes even more exciting at night.
The outdoor portion, illuminated under the night sky, adds an extra thrill to the ride. Guests race through the course at top speed, making it a must-do after dark.
Test Track is currently under refurbishment and is set to reopen on July 22.
3. Kali River Rapids – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
In Asia at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Kali River Rapids is a water ride that becomes even more thrilling at night. The ride’s twists, turns, and drops are harder to anticipate when the sun sets, heightening the excitement as guests float through darkened rapids.
The nighttime setting enhances the attraction’s atmosphere, making it feel even more intense and thrilling. It’s the perfect mix of thrills and natural beauty.
2. Kilimanjaro Safaris – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Kilimanjaro Safaris in the Africa section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers guests the opportunity to experience a safari adventure through the Harambe Reserve. While the daytime safari provides up-close encounters with animals like giraffes and lions, the nighttime safari offers a quieter, more mysterious experience.
The calming atmosphere and the chance to see nocturnal animals in action make this a must-do after dark. It’s a different experience at night.
1. Expedition Everest – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
One of the most thrilling attractions at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Expedition Everest takes guests on an exhilarating roller coaster ride through the Forbidden Mountain. Guests encounter the mythical Yeti as they race through dark tunnels and high peaks.
The outdoor portions of this ride are especially thrilling at night. The darkness and the illuminated surroundings add to the excitement, making this attraction a top choice for after-dark thrills.
Embrace the Magic of Walt Disney World After Dark
While Walt Disney World offers many excellent attractions during the day, there’s something truly special about experiencing them at night. The added lighting, new thrills, and unique atmospheres make these top 10 nighttime attractions a must for guests looking to make the most of their Disney vacation.
Whether you’re racing through the mountains, soaring through space, or embarking on a nighttime safari, these experiences will create memories that last a lifetime. Make sure to check them out during your next trip to Walt Disney World!
