Best Family Disneyland Rides for a Hot Afternoon
By mid-afternoon on a summer day, the park is at its busiest and the sun is at its strongest. Instead of pushing through the heat, use this stretch of the day to sit down, cool off, and let the rides do the work. Here are the five our family heads to when it gets hot.
Pirates of the Caribbean. A slow boat ride through dimly lit caves and shaded waterways is one of the best heat breaks in the park. You're seated, the air feels cooler, and the little drops add a bit of thrill without being too much for most kids. The ride moves a lot of boats, so lines tend to look worse than they are.
Haunted Mansion. The ride is indoors and gives you a real break from the sun. It's spooky but silly, and most families can enjoy it together. If you have a sensitive little one, tell them ahead of time that the ghosts are friendly.
"it's a small world." Our go-to cool-down. Settle into the boat, enjoy the air conditioning, and make a game of finding all the Disney characters. Whoever spots the most picks the next snack.
Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway. A cool stop in Toontown with a detailed, themed line and a story kids can follow. Warn your little ones that it moves more than you'd think.
Disneyland Railroad. The train isn't indoors, but it's shaded and breezy, and the seats give tired feet a rest. A full loop is a nice way to cool down, take in the sights, and get from one part of the park to another without walking in the sun. Grab a snack for the ride!
Ready to plan your next trip? Try WishPath and plan the rides your whole party can do.