The Best Attractions at Night

Every day in Walt Disney World is packed with fun, but things become even more magical as the sun sets each evening. As the skies darken, beautiful lighting comes to life throughout the four Disney Parks and beyond, making each area even more immersive and interesting. The darkness and special lighting also add another layer of fun to some attractions, making them feel like new experiences at night. Let’s look at some of the best attractions to enjoy once the sun has set each day in Walt Disney World!

Jungle Cruise

Kicking off the list of attractions that are better at night is the Jungle Cruise found in the Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland. This exotic trip down various rivers around the world becomes even more mysterious and exciting at night, when darkness in the jungle sets in. While there is still set lighting and lights from the boat to guide Guests, the Jungle Cruise at night really does feel like Guests have been transported across the world for a daring journey.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Frontierland in the Magic Kingdom is home to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, a thrilling attraction that brings Guests through the mining town of Tumbleweed on a runaway train. Most of the attraction occurs outside, and once the sun sets the experience becomes even more thrilling as each twist and turn is harder to see. Guests who time it right can even enjoy the nightly fireworks from Big Thunder Mountain Railroad for a truly unforgettable experience.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Right next to Big Thunder Mountain is Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, a water-based attraction that brings Guests into the bayou in search of musicians for Tiana’s party. Several portions of the attraction are outside, and once the sun sets beautiful bright lighting appears creating reflections off the water. The best nighttime view from Tiana’s Bayou Adventure comes just before the final drop when Guests are treated to a sweeping view of the entire Magic Kingdom lit up for the evening.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Dumbo the Flying Elephant is a classic attraction found in the Magic Kingdom’s Storybook Circus where Guests can take to the skies with their favorite elephant. Once nighttime falls, the two spinners light up with vibrant colors that reflect off the fountains below. In addition to the attraction’s own lighting, Guests can enjoy beautiful views of Storybook Circus from above as they soar.

Tomorrowland Speedway

Over in Tomorrowland in the Magic Kingdom the Tomorrowland Speedway becomes an entirely different attraction at night. While it features the same course and views as during the day, Guests feel as though they are moving so much faster at nighttime as they cruise around taking in the beautiful views of surrounding Tomorrowland!

TRON Lightcycle / Run

The newest attraction in Tomorrowland in the Magic Kingdom is TRON Lightcycle / Run which has Guests board innovative ride vehicles and set off on a wild race inside of the grid. While most of the attraction occurs inside in the dark regularly, there is one unforgettable moment just after the main launch that is infinitely better at night. Guests briefly emerge outside the attraction underneath a massive canopy that lights up in vibrant colors once the sun sets. It’s a beautiful sight to see, especially from the ride itself!

Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover

Also found in Tomorrowland is the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover which brings Guests on a scenic tour of the area. Since most of the attraction is outside, a nighttime ride offers Guests the chance to really enjoy the lighting of both Tomorrowland and Cinderella Castle along the way. Add in the cool night breezes and the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover is a must do at night.

Test Track Presented by Chevrolet

Hopping over to EPCOT, Guests should not miss out on a ride on Test Track Presented by Chevrolet once the sun sets. After enjoying a series of tests inside, the SIM cars accelerate with a burst of speed before emerging outside for a final joy ride. The massive outdoor loop whips Guests around World Discovery offering the chance to take in beautiful lighting and ambiance from high speeds.

Slinky Dog Dash

Slinky Dog Dash in Toy Story Land in Disney’s Hollywood Studios was designed by Andy himself and offers Guests the chance to take a ride on a beloved character. The attraction is entirely outside and features lots of charming details including Jessie and Rex perched on wooden blocks. Guests who enjoy a ride on Slinky Dog Dash at night can check out the beautiful lighting of Toy Story Land and even spot some other areas of the Disney Park!

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

The best nighttime view in Disney’s Hollywood Studios can be found on Sunset Boulevard on The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. This thrilling and eerie attraction brings Guests into their own episode of the television series and features a randomized drop sequence. During the drop sequence, the elevator briefly pauses at the top of the tower and the shaft doors open to reveal a stunning view of all of Disney’s Hollywood Studios lit for the evening.

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of the most popular attractions in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and it becomes an even more unforgettable experience once the sun sets. Nighttime safaris bring Guests into the savannahs and jungles, but there is an added element of adventure with limited visibility. The animals also tend to be more active at night thanks to cooler temperatures, making nighttime safaris even more special!

Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

The final attraction that Guests should not miss at nighttime is Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This thrilling roller coaster brings face to face with the Yeti with plenty of high speeds twists and turns and one massive drop. Much of the attraction occurs outside, making it even more thrilling once the sun sets. Guests especially will love the panoramic views of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and beyond from the large lift hill!