Let’s be honest—when planning a Disney trip, Lightning Lane can feel like one more thing to budget for or stress over. But in the heat of summer, skipping it could mean the difference between making memories and sweating in line for 90 minutes with cranky kids.
So which rides should absolutely be on your Lightning Lane radar right now? Not the ones you might expect.
The Surprise Summer Standouts
Believe it or not, the rides putting the biggest pressure on Lightning Lane availability aren’t the usual thrill rides. They’re Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Frozen Ever After, and Kali River Rapids—three attractions that all have one thing in common: they help guests cool down.
Tiana’s is Disney’s newest ride and the splashdown at the end makes it even more appealing on a sweltering day. Frozen’s popularity never dipped, but now it’s also appreciated as a cold, dark ride in the middle of the day. And Kali River Rapids? You’re not walking away dry—so of course it’s drawing big midday crowds looking for a soak.
Why Lightning Lane Is Worth It
These rides are filling up quickly, and standby waits are often pushing past an hour—sometimes much longer for Tiana’s and Frozen. That’s why a solid Lightning Lane strategy is critical in the summer.
You can reserve three attractions in advance using Disney’s Multi Pass. The window opens at 7 a.m. each day, and resort guests get a few extra days of priority booking. If you don’t move fast, you might miss your shot altogether.
The My Disney Experience app makes it easier to track availability throughout the day, but the best move is locking in these rides early and staying flexible with everything else.
Don’t Want to Pay? Here’s What You Can Do Instead
Not ready to shell out for Lightning Lane? That’s fair—and there are still ways to outsmart the crowds.
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Rope drop: Get to the park early and make a beeline for one of these three rides before the rest of the crowd catches on.
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After Hours events: A separate ticket, but worth it for shorter lines and cooler weather.
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Plan your rain game: If a quick Florida storm rolls in, most guests run for cover. That’s your chance to ride Kali with minimal wait.
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Take a midday break: It might sound counterproductive, but leaving during peak heat and crowds can help you recharge and hit the parks again when they’re quieter in the evening.
Final Thought: Plan Smart or Sweat Later
These three rides used to be relatively manageable. But in the heat of summer, everyone wants the same thing: to cool down. Whether it’s a slow cruise through Arendelle or a wild, wet trip through the jungle, don’t underestimate just how long the lines can get.
Skip the prep, and you may spend your day sweating in line for something that used to be a breeze.
