Walt Disney World comes alive at night. We’re convinced that the parks were made to experienced at nighttime, because there’s something entirely magical about the parks when the lights come on, and everything starts twinkling, which is one reason we think the Magic Kingdom is better at night. All my favorite Walt Disney World memories have happened at night. To anyone that’s not a Walt Disney World fan, I challenge them to sit on the hub grass, watching the lights of Main Street U.S.A at night, and not find themselves utterly charmed. Plenty of classic rides at Disney World are far better experienced at night. Here’s our list for you to know which rides to make sure to experience at nighttime on your next trip.
-Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
The ‘Wildest Ride in the Wilderness’ becomes a completely different experience when it’s dark outside. The dramatic lighting effects on the mountain make the ride more thrilling and enchanting (and one of our favorites in the parks!) once nighttime falls. This is a not-to-be-missed Disney experience.
-Dumbo
Speaking of Dumbo, this ride becomes even more magical when the sun goes down. Dumbo has fantastic lighting, great views, and is an amazing classic Disney ride. We’re fans of anything in Fantasyland, and Dumbo is no exception. Make your next trip to the big top a night-time twirl.
-Splash Mountain
For a solid two years, Splash Mountain was my favorite ride. Although I’m incredibly indecisive when it comes to Disney parks (my favorite ride seems to switch from trip to trip!), I still think that Splash Mountain is much better at night, when you can see beautiful views of Cinderella’s Castle, and you drop down a water slide without really being able to see the end.
-Expedition Everest
We love Expedition Everest, especially since the Animal Kingdom has extended its operating hours, so you can face the Yeti of Everest at night anytime you want. We love the ride during the day, but there’s something exhilarating about hurdling through the mountains and escaping the Yeti in the darkness.
-Mine Train
Mine Train might not be the most thrilling ride, but it’s so well themed, and at night, you have even better views of The Magic Kingdom.
-Tower of Terror
Tower of Terror is without a doubt the creepiest ride at Walt Disney World, and if you really want to up the spooky factor, taking a ride when it’s dark, will really leave you scared. The Tower of Terror is so intricately themed, that it needs to be experienced like it’s supposed to be: when it’s dark outside.