At the end of a long day at Walt Disney World, you’re often left with aching feet, sweaty clothes, and a limited reservoir of patience. If you’re looking for manageable lines and great last-minute rides on your way out of the park, try these attractions.
1. The Magic Kingdom: Haunted Mansion
The Haunted Mansion is a great pick at the end of the night for several reasons. This attraction often has a shorter wait time late at night. Even if you do have a moderate wait, Haunted Mansion has an excellent interactive queue that will keep you entertained for at least a portion of the wait. Finally, this a must-see after dark for some very special effects. You’ll experience lightning and thunder that you don’t see during the day, and may even catch a glimpse of a ghostly figure walking through the greenhouse.
2. The Magic Kingdom: Splash Mountain
Splash Mountain
The appeal of Splash Mountain’s cool spray diminishes greatly once the hot peak of the day has passed, so you can often enjoy a relative walk-on after dark. Wear a poncho if you’re worried about getting wet, but keep in mind that this ride won’t drench you quite as much as a ride like Kali River Rapids. Another great perk of riding Splash Mountain at night is the unparalleled view of Cinderella Castle glowing against the dark sky, that you’ll enjoy at the top of the big drop. Keep your eyes on the castle as you go down, instead of the briar patch, and you’ll experience this particular part of the ride in a whole new way.
3. Magic Kingdom: Pirates of the Caribbean
The line for Pirates of the Caribbean dwindles significantly at night. This is a classic attraction that’s worth fitting into your day if at all possible, so consider making this one of your last stops if you’re in the area. You’re sure to head home whistling a very iconic tune.
4. Magic Kingdom: Jungle Cruise
Jungle Cruise is another Adventureland attraction that you can get on quickly late at night. Even a moderate wait is worth it, however, for the chance to take the cruise after dark. Since this is an outdoor attraction, you’ll find that things take on a whole new light once the sun goes down.
5. Magic Kingdom: Mickey Mouse in the Town Square Theater
The Mickey Mouse meet and greet is one of the last things you’ll pass on your way out of the Magic Kingdom. Keep in mind, however, that the hours for Mickey can vary and may end a bit before the park closes. If you’re not staying through the very last minute of park operation and Mickey’s still in when you walk by, this is a great time to stop in and say goodbye. Getting a photo with the mouse himself is a fun way to close your day, and an easy last-minute stop on Main Street, just before you head out of the park.
6. Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Star Tours
Star ToursImage via Flickr by Sam Howzit
Star Tours is a smart stop at the end of the night because the line often gets a little shorter for this attraction. Just remember not to visit right after dinner if you’re susceptible to motion sickness. This 3-D simulator can leave some guests feeling a bit queasy.
7. Animal Kingdom: Dinosaur
Set back in Dinoland, Dinosaur’s line really dwindles at the end of the day. If you’re looking for a great last ride before you head out, this is a smart option. Since you don’t walk right past it on any main pathways, it’s easy to overlook. Just head away from the glaring lights of Dinorama to find this gem.
8. Epcot: Spaceship Earth
Spaceship EarthImage via Flickr by Sam Howzit
Spaceship Earth rarely has a very long wait. Even if the queue looks long outside, keep in mind that this is an omni-mover and the line can dwindle very quickly. Spaceship Earth is also a great option for the end of the day because it’s the last attraction you pass on the way out of the park. Pop in just before you leave for a relaxing way to end your visit.
9. Epcot: The Seas with Nemo and Friends
The Seas with Nemo and Friends typically has a short wait at the end of night. The queue takes a couple minutes to walk through even when it’s empty, so even if the ride posts a ten or 15 minute wait, you may never stop moving through the queue and essentially walk right on. This is a cute, easy ride for the end of the night when you want to sit back in your seashell and relax. It’s a winner for all ages, too, so you don’t have to worry about splitting the party up.
Try one of these rides for an easy evening experience to end your day at Disney on the right note.
