Best rides for summertime

Best Rides for Summertime at Walt Disney World

Dark rides, relaxing shows, and exciting water attractions are all weapons that guests can wield against the blistering sun. Let’s take a look at some of the fun ways you can cool off.

Splash Mountain at Magic Kingdom

This classic thrill ride is all about the big finish. This log flume ride takes visitors on a relatively tame journey through a world inspired by the Disney film Song of the South, before sending them down a breathtaking 5-story drop into the Briar Patch. This speedy descent ends with a mighty splash that should leave riders – especially those towards the front of the log – satisfyingly soaked.

The American Adventure at Epcot

Unlike Magic Kingdom, Epcot doesn’t offer a thrilling water ride. However, shows are always a good way to escape the heat and rest your feet during a packed day at Walt Disney World. The 30-minute American Adventure takes guests on an animatronic journey through American history, in the comfort of an air-conditioned theater. It’s both patriotic and cool!

The American Adventure is a great place to spend as summer afternoon.
The American Adventure is a great place to spend as summer afternoon.

Avoiding the parks during the hottest hours of the day can be a good way to re-energize for the later, cooler parts of the day. Fantasmic! is an outdoor show, but it takes place at night after the sun has disappeared and the temperatures have cooled. Opt for a mid-afternoon nap so that the whole family is well-rested and ready to enjoy this incredible after-dark extravaganza.

Kali River Rapids at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Make your way to the wilds of Asia to enjoy the Kali River Rapids whitewater adventure. Board a circular raft and head down the surging Chakrandi River, through roaring rapids, past a blazing forest fire, and over a 30-foot waterfall. This thrilling ride guarantees that you will leave dripping wet.

Summit Plummet at Blizzard Beach

The two water parks at Walt Disney World have no shortage of refreshing rides, but a few manage to stand out. This frosty water ride at the top of Mt. Gushmore is one of the most thrilling experiences at the resort. If Splash Mountain left you breathless then watch out – the drop at Summit Plummet is twice as high! You’re on your own in a rushing log flume as the water slide whips you around various twists and turns before sending you down the steep 120-foot drop in a free-falling slide.

Summit Plummet is one of the most thrilling rides at Disney World.
Summit Plummet is one of the most thrilling rides at Disney World.

Shark Reef at Typhoon Lagoon

Less thrilling than Summit Plummet but equally refreshing is the beautiful Shark Reef at the Typhoon Lagoon water park. This attraction gives guests the chance to snorkel through a living salt water habitat, spotting sting rays, bright tropical fish, and sharks.

And don’t forget, Disney World isn’t just about the theme parks. The hottest part of the day is the perfect time to take a break from the crowds and kick back at your resort. Whether you catch a few winks in your hotel room or explore one of the incredible resort pools, your resort can provide all the relief you need. Then, you can return to the parks refreshed in the evening when temperatures are lower and often crowds are thinner.