When you are planning your Disney day, you’ve probably got a list of attractions in mind that are must-dos. With so many amazing rides and shows to choose from, a priority list is essential to ensure you check off those must-see experiences. Once you start marking off those E-Ticket attractions, you might think you’ve made some progress, but there’s a whole other side to the Disney Parks after dark, and some of those attractions need to be experienced in both day and night to fully appreciate their worth. Here are five Disney Parks attractions across both coasts that hit differently after the sun sets.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (Disneyland / Magic Kingdom)
Whether you’ve enjoyed the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure version of this attraction or remember the Splash Mountain of olden days, once you’ve done this one at night, it’s hard to compare the daytime experience. Catching a glimpse of the fireworks while the park shimmers with fairylights before your big drop is an indescribable experience, and truly captures that magical moment we are all chasing.
Expedition Everest (Animal Kingdom)
Up the fear factor by doing this one in the dark. If you are lucky enough to catch Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park after dark, which can be rare, don’t miss taking a ride on Expedition Everest as you are pulled backwards through the darkness. The change in lighting quickly intensifies the thrill factor and is a must-do for those seeking excitement in their Disney day.
Expedition Everest At Night
Matterhorn Bobsleds (Disneyland Park)
Similar to Expedition Everest, Disneyland has its own version of this nighttime thrill ride. Once the sun has set and everyone is ready for the projection show, sneak on over to Matterhorn Bobsleds, where thrill-seekers will be lining up to race through the mountain with the added intensity of darkness. That instability of the jerky corners turns up in the dark when it’s harder to get your bearings at high speed.
Radiator Springs Racers (Disney California Adventure)
Once you’ve zoomed through the valley on Radiator Springs Racers, taking in the sights in the sunlight, don’t miss a redo after the sun goes down and the park begins to sparkle. The winding turns as you race around the track have never felt more spectacular than with the twinkling lights of the park in the distance, adding to the immersion of this attraction.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Disneyland & Magic Kingdom)
This might be the original best after-dark ride! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has long been known as a sneaky delight after sunset. The special effects, the speed, that unbeatable feeling with your hands in the air as you barrel ’round the track, dodging goats and dynamic; this might be my favorite nighttime ride.
If you’ve enjoyed these attractions at both times of day, let us know which you prefer. Would you add any others to our list?
